Do You Buy Buy BB Cream And Skip The Foundation?

BB cream.

It stands for beauty balm or blemish balm. And it's big across Asia, and has been for a number of years now.

Korean women, especially, will not leave home without their BB cream.

So, let's learn a little more...

BB cream has now made its way into our American beauty market. Think of it as a tinted moisturizer with better coverage, an spf, a skin tone balancer, and a dewy glow.

BB cream was originally recommended by dermatologists for patients who had undergone plastic surgery or laser treatment to soothe, protect and help rejuvenate irritated skin.

Korean cosmetic brands then picked up on the trend and brought it into the mainstream, by adding skin whitening and sun protection to the BB cream. A porcelain, smooth complexion is something Asian women admire in their culture.

Now, here in the U.S., BB creams have arrived in large numbers:
from Estee Lauder, Dior, Dr. Brandt, 3Lab, Clinique, Bobbi Brown, Skin79, and even drugstore brand- Garnier, which is calling their cream Miracle Skin Perfector, for $12.99.

Some women love to put on BB cream instead of foundation. Others use the cream as a primer BEFORE applying their base.

We're not saying the BB cream will hide every complexion issue, but if you're looking for better coverage than a sheer tinted moisturizer, and one that doesn't feel as heavy as a foundation, then BB might be great for you.

Jumpsuit Is Fine But CatSuit Is Extremely Unforgiving!

We don't want to go there again, but we bravely will.

Let's take a close look at the photos of 3 sensational, talented singers:

Jennifer Lopez, 2010, Dick Clark's Rockin' New Year's Eve Party.
Fantasia Barrino, last night, American Idol Finale.
Chaka Khan, last night, American Idol Finale.

All three ladies are wearing skin-tight and unforgiving catsuits. And as famous and celebrated as they are with stylists and makeup/hair pros always with them, a major fashion faux pas can still happen for the entire world to see.

American Idol judge Jennifer Lopez has one of the fittest, curviest bodies in Hollywood, but just 2 years ago at age 40, even she could not pull off the bronze-colored diamante-studded catsuit! Meow!

And you couldn't tell this was a woman with one of the sexiest rear ends around. The head-to-toe spandex made her butt look flat and sagging, her belly appear flabby, and we know that isn't the case.

If you're gonna don a skintight, see-through catsuit, and perform on live TV under harsh stage lighting, you better pray your body is in the best shape it can be, because people will be watching and talking, and blogging about it the next day.

This brings us to Fantasia and Chaka. Even their incredible vocals could not hide the fabric they were performing in on the stage. The catsuits were distracting and too darn tight!

A jumpsuit would have been a much smarter and more stylish choice for these lovely women. Instead, Fantasia and Chaka 'painted' themselves into these unattractive head-to-toe spandex onesies.

Fantasia is 27 and Chaka is almost 60.

Okay, we are going to give props to Chaka for looking so fab at 59, and she has since dropped a lot of weight. Congratulations!

Still, a catsuit is really only meant for the super tall, super slim body. Period. Someone like country star Taylor Swift could rock this unforgiving style and fabric.

What do you think?

Would a jumpsuit have been a better option here?

Yes, Dear Lindsay, You Do Need A Bra With This Outfit!

No, we are not the bra police. We as women always have the power to choose. And if you do not wish to wear any support, then so be it.

We will add, however, that if you are small-chested, it is easier to get away walking around braless. It just looks better. Period.

And when you are a famous person, like Lindsay Lohan, and you are tapped to portray movie screen icon Elizabeth Taylor in the upcoming biopic Liz & Dick, well, you would think she would know better.

So, there stands Lindsay Lohan on her way to a photo shoot in West Hollywood on Monday. She looks glam, except for the one, major fashion faux pas. She forgot to wear a bra.

Yes, dear Lindsay, you do NEED a bra with this outfit. First, it's pretty sheer and second, the fabric and flowy bodice make your breasts seem as if they are sagging.

A great, supportive bra would have beautifully completed the picture, and that brings us to the Victoria's Secret Showstopper Bra ($49.50). The Multi-Way Bra is versatile for someone in Lilo's situation. Look what this little, sexy number can do:

Provides no-show coverage right where you need it.
Completely smooth and seamless, this multi-way sensation transforms to hide under curve-hugging styles.
You can wear it classic, cross-back, one-strap or strapless.
With a supersoft cup lining for wear-all-day comfort and brushed fabric for a touch of sexy shine.

Plus, the VS Showstopper comes in lots of pretty shades, and in Lindsay's case, nude would be perfect.

Maybe we're being a bit harsh on the talented actress, because she's been trying hard to get on the straight and narrow, but these are style mistakes that make Lindsay appear unpolished and not-ready-for-prime-time.

What do you think? Is the no-bra a big fashion misstep for a celebrity? Or not a major deal?

Brighten Your Complexion: New OptiLight Tone Corrector By Exuviance

We have had the pleasure to try a number of skin care products over the years by the science-forward NeoStrata company.





And once again, the complexion experts have NOT disappointed!

The Exuviance line's newest baby is the OptiLight Tone Corrector ($62, at Ulta). And its beauty mission is simple:

1. Lighten up sun spots and discolorations.
2. Balance skin tone.
3. Prevent new spots from forming.
4. Create instant brightness.

And accomplish all of that WITHOUT the harsh, bleaching agents that so many other correcting creams contain.

We've been applying the Exuviance OptiLight Tone Corrector for almost 2 weeks now----on the face, neck, and decolletage. Our hands are next.

We LOVE the light, smooth formula, and we must confess, when you rub in the OptiLight, your skin is bathed in silk! This has to be one of the most softening serums we've ever come across. And yes---your facial skin brightens up immediately, even the neck, where you wouldn't expect to see a big difference.

It's hard to say whether our sun spots sprinkled across the upper chest area have truly faded away in 2 short weeks, but we will continue using the OptiLight Tone Corrector and give the product a real chance to do its work. And any lightening would be a plus.

Remember: It takes time and effort to attack the damage done from excessive sun exposure over the years. And it's foolish to believe that any skin care product out there could zap the spots just after several days of use.

We are thrilled that the Exuviance tone corrector prevents new spots from showing up on your skin, and that is major--because it signifies that the formula is powerful and protective. In fact, turmeric and alpine plants are in the serum to successfully block the enzyme that triggers new melanin production.

Blend in some Retinol, Vitamin C, and NeoGlucosamine, and these strong properties help exfoliate and break apart pigment clusters, and promote cell turnover.

All in all, your complexion looks radiant and bright. We say this one's a keeper, and with summer on our heels, you might want to toss this in your beach bag.

Jennifer Aniston Adores This Cheap Drugstore Shampoo: We Can See Why

Mane 'n Tail Shampoo and conditioner products by Straight Arrow have been around for some 40 years now!

And yes, these items were indeed initally intended for horses. The micro-enriched protein formulas delivered healthy, glossy manes and tails, and that's when horse owners and groomers began trying the shampoo/conditioners on themselves.

You can call that consumer cross-over use.

We used the Original Mane 'n Tail Shampoo and its conditoner back in our college years to grow out our damaged, long locks. And the stuff worked like a charm.

Actress Jennifer Aniston has also been quoted as a being fan of the same, original formula that is still used on equines all over the world, even on Kentucky Derby racehorses.

So, if you're looking to revitalize your dry, damaged, split-end hair, do NOT pass up the Mane 'n Tail hair care line, just because it is cheap, comes in generous portions and can be found in your neighborhood drugstore. The company has expanded their collection in a major way, and there are products that detangle, shine, are herbal grow sprays, leave-in conditioners, dandruff zappers, pomades, etc.

We also like Mane 'n Tail Hair Strengthener Daily Leave-In Conditioning Treatment ($5.49 at BeautyofNewYork). It improves elasticity and strength and protects locks from chemical/heat damage. Spray this on BEFORE you 'abuse' your hair with blow-drying, flat-ironing, etc.

Mane 'n Tail suggests you use the triple step plan to grow long, healthy hair this summer:

Step 1....Use Original Mane 'n Tail Shampoo ($5.99, at HarmonDiscount).
Step 2.......Use Original Mane 'n Tail Conditioner ($5.99, at HarmonDiscount).
Step 3.......Spray towel-dried hair with Mane 'n Tail Hair Strengthener. Style as usual.

This sounds like a great plan and we are going to get back on the Mane 'n Tail routine!

New Mama Beyonce's Favorite L'Oreal Lip Gloss

Look at proud, stunning Mama Beyonce posing with 4-month-old baby Blue Ivy!

The 30-year-old 16-time Grammy winner and People magazine's 'Most Beautiful Woman 2012,' is on a roll these days. Everything she touches turns to gold, from music to movies to directing her concert films, and more. And being married to hip-hop star, Jay-Z, isn't bad, either.

The couple is so in love with their most important delivery to date---adorable Blue Ivy. As Beyonce tells People----"I just stare at her all day."

Meanwhile, curvy Beyonce has regained her post-pregnancy body very quickly, and has dropped almost all of the 50 lbs. she had gained while she was expecting.

And the lovely star has a beauty tip for all the single ladies, and married ones and Mama ones out there, when you need a little lift:

"Lip gloss---I love L'Oreal's Infallible 8H Le Gloss in Coral Sands---and a little bit of blush."

Great choice, Beyonce! Coral Sands is a soft shade that gives you a nice beauty boost beyond the nude lips we see so many celebrities boring us with.

We found some at Walgreens ($10.49, and Buy 1, Get 50% Off!)

Shiseido Sunscreen 60 SPF---Really Works Without Break-Outs

Are you looking for a strong, effective sunscreen that can be applied to both the face and body that doesn't make you break-out?

Try this cult fave in the ocean blue container--Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion for Face & Body SPF 60 PA+++ ($39, at Nordstrom's).

Yes, a bit pricey for a sunscreen, but you're getting superior protection in a sand and perspiration-resistant, very water-resistant, and PABA-free formula.

The Shiseido sunscreen has quite the loyal following. Just at MakeupAlley alone, we found lots of fans:

"I find this an entirely effective sunscreen. I wore this to the Boston Marathon this year (as an observer, not a runner), and it was one of the hottest, sunniest days in Boston Marathon history. Not a cloud in the sky, the sun was beating down, and I came home without any red or even browning on my hands or arms."

"The most amazing thing about this sunscreen is that it's actually what has been keeping my foundation looking shine-free and fresh ALL. DAY. LONG. No seriously, the times I've used this, my foundation looks matte for AT LEAST 12 hours, with maybe a couple of blots, and this is in Miami weather..."

"I love this sunscreen. Being extremely pale with freckles, I have to wear sunscreen everyday and this is the only one yet to break me out. I used to use Neutrogeona Ultra-Sheer, and like every other sunscreen it felt like I had liquid saran-wrap on my face. This sinks right in and I can't even feel it at all. Perfect sunscreen!"

"My favorite sunscreen. It's light and non-greasy formula makes it a breeze to put on before makeup. I use it after moisturizer and before primer. The scent is light and pleasant. Best of all, I've definitely noticed a reduction in expression lines now that I use sunscreens daily."

There you have it. This is one super sunscreen to consider if you've been disappointed with all the others.

All Eyes On Elegant Eyelet Fabric For Summer 2012

Ralph Lauren and Michael Kors have included several pieces in it, so we know it's a hot, all-American trend for Summer 2012.

We're talking about eyelet, one of the most elegant, sophisticated fashion fabric-making statements around.

Just look---everywhere. Eyelet is taking a peek at you.

So, what exactly makes it eyelet?

We did a little research:
"Eyelet is a lightweight fabric pierced by small holes finished with stitching and often laid out in flowerlike designs."

We could not have said it better ourselves. But the eyelet we've seen on the runways and in the stores is not your grandmother's eyelet. There's nothing doily about it now.

Eyelet is always tres chic in white, of course, as you can see in our photo of a Lauren by Ralph Lauren belted Shirt Dress. But it's also pretty glam in bright colors, too!

The next 3 photos are excellent eyelet pieces from Forever21. And these won't bust your fashionista budget:

Eyelet Lace Blazer ($24.80). (We want this one!)
Textured Eyelet Skirt ($19.80).
Sheer Eyelet Cami ($19.80).

You Bought Skechers And Expected To Develop A Kim Kardashian Butt?

There are just so many things a beauty or fashion product can do, even when the advertising appears to be so sincere and scientifcally-proven.

We'll get to the big Skechers toning shoes $40 Million FTC settlement in a moment.

For instance, you purchase an over-the-counter brand of anti-aging cream because the television commercial shows you that the skin care item will erase fine lines and wrinkles in 30 days. Even prescription Retin-A can't deliver on that promise 100%.

Now, wouldn't it be lovely if the OTC product actually did give you back a wrinkle-free complexion?! But let's be realistic, if there's truth in advertising, well, it's hard to find these days.

Through trial and error, many of us settle on wonderful beauty and fashion products. Many of these DO what the items are advertised to do, but if the claims seem so unbelievable, then they probably are.

Reality mega-star Kim Kardashian was proud to walk around in her Skechers back in a 2011 Super Bowl ad in which she said, "Bye-bye, trainer. Hello, Shape-ups.".

The beloved toning shoes had also claimed these amazing feats in popular TV and print ads:

"Get in shape without ever setting foot in a gym."
"Shape up while you walk."
"The newest move in fitness is tying your shoelaces."

And a number of Skechers fans told us that the shoes REALLY do deliver results, when you wear them and stay active.

But seriously, folks, do you really believe you could develop a curvy Kim Kardashian butt just with a pair of fancy sneakers?!

According to the FTC or Federal Trade Commission, Skechers toning shoes cannot tone your body as the company claims. But Skechers chief financial officer David Weinberg denies that the company made false claims about its shoes and said it settled with the FTC to avoid a protracted legal battle, says the Los Angeles Times.

So, if you've got a pair of Skechers toning shoes and feel you've been snowed, you can visit the Skechers Refund Page.

And if you still LOVE your Skechers, then keep them and enjoy them.

New Goody Quick Style Paddle Brush: Smooth Sailing?

Goody hairstyling accessories and tools.

We think they are a good thing.

We've bought lots of hair clips, pins, and pony tail holders from the company for years.

But this unique styling hair brush looks like something we've never seen before:

The Goody Quik Style Paddle Brush $11.99, at drugstores). It contains bright blue microfiber water-absorbing bristles---the same color of the Sesame Street Cookie Monster---kinda resembles his hair, fur?!

Goody says it's like a towel and hair brush-all-in-one. And the hairstyling aid promises to cut your drying time by 30%!

It looks like a cumbersome styling tool but it is actually quite lightweight, even though it is a sizable brush. And just a reminder: Only use the brush on WET hair. The Goody Quik Style can be used during blow-drying. It is also designed for detangling locks and to mop up excess water.

No, we haven't tried it yet, although we would like to. We had a minor hair tangling mishap back in late February. We took a small round brush to add some waves to our thick, straight hair and could NOT remove the round brush. Oh, yeah----the brush was wrapped tightly. We panicked, and lost about a 1/4" width of hair in front when we finally were able to untangle our locks. Thank goodness, it is not noticable, except to a hair professional.

So, needless to say, we are wary. Just be gentle with this new paddle brush. Always be alert when using styling tools on wet strands.

Check out this How-To Video.

Duck Feet-Shaped Nails?! Would You Get A Mani Like This?

We don't even know where to begin.

Someone's gotta be into this growing trend.

We're talking about duck feet-shaped nails. Look at the top and middle photos. Those are the proud hands of the Jersey Shore's own Snooki. The pint-size celeb was ahead of the trend already last October, sporting alternating black/white stripes with flashy rhinestones.

The pic below is just one of the many examples out on the internet showing off the latest in artifical nails. Let's face it....There's a party going on with this odd mani. It looks very Niki Minaj to us, but hey, we're not even sure the glam rap singer would be into this beauty trend. And we know how much Nicki loves her bad-a** Barbie nails, but the duck feet mani is a bit extreme.

We found some available on Ebay. Oh yeah, you can pick up a set for about $12.

Would you put on duck feet nails?

As long as you don't have to consume food or do much of anything else while you have them on, the duck feet-shaped nails are a piece of art, for the very bold.

We think Snooki can rock 'em. Not sure she'll be investing in a duck mani following the birth of her baby, but you never know.

Ralph Lauren's New Big Pony Body Mists Give You The Royal Treatment

Not just for the boys anymore!

Ralph Lauren is getting rave reviews for his new Big Pony fragrance collection for women.

We love the Big Pony Refreshing Body Mists ($23, each, at Nordstrom's). Gotta LOVE the colorful, chic bottles and the air of wealth and royalty the smart RL marketing strategy gives off.

Now, you, too, can pretend you are living the royal life with Duchess Kate and polo-loving Princes William and Harry.

RL Purple---wild cherry and purple amber blends for a soft, oriental floral scent.

RL Blue-----fresh, invigorating mix of sparkling grapefruit and cool blue lotus.

RL Yellow---natural radiance of pear notes and mimosa for a dazzling floral scent.

RL Pink-----cranberry and tonka mousse infusion create a sensual, fruity scent.

All 4 Big Pony Scents are quite lovely. We tried on each one, and went side-saddle for RL Purple---exotic and sophisticated.

We've been looking for a body mist that really refreshes and lingers on the skin, and Ralph Lauren does not disappoint. But if you would still prefer a stronger Big Pony scent, don't worry, the iconic designer has got you covered.

Big Pony is also available as a fragrance in a 1.7 oz. bottle, $55, 3.4 oz. bottle, $70 and rollerball, $19.

Having Hair Emergency? Try Messy Sexy Top Knot Bun

Gwen Stefani---you look gorgeous!

Is it the messy, sexy top-knot bun that is so-oooo trendy this Spring/Summer?

We think the casual up-do is doing a lot for the stylish songstress. When you pull your hair away from your face, you show off your bone structure. And granted, Gwen has been gifted in this area, but we can say that ALL women look pretty with their hair pulled back.

We like the top-knot bun because it isn't severe or old-lady-like.

It's basically a twisted loop bun. You are gathering locks up into a high ponytail and then teasing a bit for volume, and looping tail around the base and forming a knot secured with a few bobbie pins. Add a little hairspray for lasting power, and you're out the door!

We know, easier said than done, but trust us----there are tons of How-To Top-Knot Buns on You-Tube. We found this one from MakeupbyAlli.

Don't look for utter perfection. Just go for it!!

A Little Louboutin Lipstick, Perhaps? Designer Tries Makeup Line

Nothing beats the scarlet soles of a pair of Christian Louboutins. Just ask AI judge Jennifer Lopez. She rocks that luxury shoe every time she can.

And now, 49-year-old Christian Louboutin the shoe icon, is ready to launch a women's beauty line!

So, has he taken his global label 'a step too far?!'

Who knows. Look at Giorgio Armani----grand fashion designer, and very successful beauty line creator, too.

We LOVE makeup and skin care. The more the merrier. We salute Mr. Louboutin and we can bet that the color red will be incorporated into his new beauty line logo in some fashion.

The French shoe designer is said to be collaborating with Batallure Beauty on the cosmetic/skin care venture.

We're not sure exactly when the Louboutin beauty collection will be available in fine department stores, but we are hoping the label won't be too out of reach for most women. Let's be honest, a great pair of Louboutins can run you up at least $1,000. Check out this sexy pair of platform sandals at BergdorfGoodman.

Chairman and Co-Founder of the New York-based firm, Robin Burns, stated: "Wearing a pair of Christian Louboutin shoes completely transforms a woman and Christian will bring that same transformative quality to women through his beauty products."

Very nicely written. We look forward to beauty in a box by the red lacquered sole genius.

Suzanne Somers Organics Cream Puts Undereye Bags Away

Suzanne Somers will turn 65-years-old this year. That's amazing in itself. And the blonde beauty keeps moving----writing health books and peddling her anti-aging lifestyle and skin care products.

The ever-youthful celebrity was on the Rachel Ray Show this morning to give one lucky viewer an age-defying makeover. And boy, was it ever! The magic came in a little jar from Suzanne's organic beauty line.

Jennifer at age 39 was always being mistaken for her mother's sister. And her mom is 65. But not anymore!

Suzanne Somers used an excellent eye cream to say bye-bye to Jennifer's dark circles and bags. It's called Suzanne Organics Eye Cream ($29.15, at SuzanneSomers.com).

So, what's in this eye cream, because the AFTER from this makeover is stunning! Jennifer's eyes looked like she walked out of a dermatologist's office following an expensive treatment. Check out the Rachel Ray Show.

Here's how Suzanne describes it:

"This nutrient-dense formula is loaded with some of the world's most expensive and targeted ingredients, such as Swiss apple stem cells and sea algae extracts. Diminishes the appearance of wrinkles and improved microcirculation, decreasing the appearance of dark under-eye circles.

"Use twice daily. Apply around delicate eye area. may also beused for lines around the lips."

We hope everyone who reads this, is putting on an eye cream in their daily/nightly beauty routine. Even those without any eye skin imperfections should be applying a cream or serum that specifically targets this area of the face.

As we have stressed here at BeautyTip Today, over and over again, the skin around the eyes is thin and dry, and quite delicate. The eye area shows aging very quickly, unfortunately. But eye creams have come a long way and the beauty science is much stronger. Now there are formulas that lift, tighten, and help to fade or soften existing fine lines and wrinkles, and de-puff tired undereyes.

Suzanne says that the undereye cream is one of the most popular products in her skin care line.

Do We All Really Need To Wear Makeup Every Day?

Please, dear Secretary of State, forgive us. We are not trying to make you the poster child for the harsh, cold results of NOT wearing makeup.

Yes, this is Hillary Clinton looking au naturale, with just a smidgen of berry lip gloss on during a recent working trip to India and Bangladesh. The naked face photos went viral.

In her defense, she is 64-years-old. And certainly, any woman at that age would have more wrinkles and/or sagging than a 24-year-old.

The good news----Hillary Clinton has nice volume and fullness in her face and thick eyebrows. That's a plus in our book.

And this how the Secretary of State rsponded to CNN:

"I feel so relieved to be at the stage I'm at in my life right now. Because you know if I want to wear my glasses I'm wearing my glasses. If I want to wear my hair back I'm pulling my hair back. You know at some point it's just not something that deserves a lot of time and attention. And if others want to worry about it, I let them do the worrying for a change."

Gotta love this woman! But, sorry, we think the makeup is essential. No, Mrs. Clinton doesn't have to plaster it on, BUT, she needs the basics. She has an extremely important public government position, so all eyes are upon her.

We've all heard, 'Less is more,' when it comes to makeup for older women.

Legendary makeup artist Sandy Linter says otherwise:

"No, that translates into using nothing. I see a lot of older women in their 50s, 60s and 70s with no makeup on. That just makes you look old and washed out".

Here's some makeup advice for women OVER 50 from Sandy:

1. DO Go For The Glow!!!
Sandy says that a deeper foundation color and blush "warm up the skin and make you look younger."

2. DO Wear Natural Eye Makeup
Sandy advises that you keep eyes fresh-looking with brown eyeliner, instead of black, And don't overdose on the mascara. Don't go more than one or two coats.

3. DON'T Stop Wearing Makeup
Sandy says we all could benefit by putting on a little glamour. "A lot of women have it drilled into them, that less is more, but no! You still need makeup, just with a lighter touch."

4. DON'T Powder Your Cheeks
Sandy says you don't need to go there, or it can look weird. "It makes you look like you're wearing a mask."

Now, if only the Secretary of State could have a traveling makeup artist like Sandy Linter, then we wouldn't be having this cosmetics conversation.

Long Party Night For Rihanna: Benefit Lemon-Aid Can Hide Tired Eyes

Rihanna looked super-glam in her sleek floor-length crocodile Tom Ford gown with sexy back slit at the recent Met Ball. And she must have had a really fun time because her long evening landed her in the hospital Monday night with exhaustion!

Check out her Twitter photos. Those are legit pics and those were Rihanna's long fingernails that night. And that is obviously the singer's arm hooked up to an IV for fluids.

Sources claim it's exhaustion and/or the flu. It seems like the Barbadian beauty is out and about everywhere these days.

The good news----Rihanna is going to be just fine.

In the meantime, maybe the superstar could have put on a little of this wonderful beauty aid by the folks at Benefit Cosmetics:

Lemon-Aid ($20, at Sephora).

In plain and simple beauty terms, Lemon-Aid is an eyelid primer. And yes, it's really yellow---nothing garish or wild, just a clever trick to make you look rested and alert.

"Benefit Lemon-Aid is a miracle-working soft-yellow correcting cream that instantly hides redness and discoloration on your eyelids."

And it's a quick, fixer-upper----Just pat a little on your eyelids with your fingertip and blend. You can wear it alone or UNDER your makeup. Ladies, this stuff really works. Don't be afraid of the yellowness----the corrective color is there for a reason.

Look at it this way, we found 934 customer reviews of Benefit's Lemon-Aid and the score at the moment is 4.2 stars out of 5 stars. Go read the reviews for yourself.

If you've had a long night of partying and you need a beauty eye boost, give this a whirl. You'll be bright-eyed and dynamite in sheer seconds. Rihanna could have put a little on after the Met Ball....Just sayin'.

Maria Menounos And Her Rock-Hard Abs: Flattest Tummy In Hollywood

Popular entertainment reporter Maria Menounos is a dancing sensation and could be on her way to the finals with partner Derek Hough on DWTS! At least we hope so.

The girl looks amazing.....not that she's ever looked less than that. But even more so, since those multi-hour days of dance practice and careful dieting, Maria remains curvy and toned. And we would bet that she has THE flattest abs on the DWTS set.

Have you seen Maria's belly?

Incredible!

So, how does the brunette Mediterranean beauty get such FAB Abs?!

Well, you're not going to believe this, but her secret allegedly involves a few punches. Read on.....

Maria Menounos says it all started in a village in Greece where her dad grew up. Mr. Menounos would have people throw rocks at his stomach to keep his abs tight.

"People would come, and it would almost be like a circus act. Everybody would huddle around him," Maria once said to Shape Magazine. "Of course, being a crazy Greek daughter interpreted it differently. I was like, I don’t want people to throw rocks at me! How about people punch me? So I’ve had many people punch me in the stomach over the years." And this she claims, is her beauty secret to keeping her abs rock-hard.

"I’d rather have people punch me than do sit ups. Sitting there, just squeezing your abs and bracing yourself for the punch—that is an ab workout." she adds. "Houdini died like that apparently. My family gets very upset when I do that so I do it less and less these days."

Is she for real?? We like to think that a sound diet and challenging work-out regimen along with some good DNA, has enabled the personable celebrity to keep a super flat tummy at age 33.

In case you aren't buying Maria Menounos' secret fab ab tip, we did find a great quick ab exercise you can do, courtesy of personal trainer Nick Tumminello. No crunching involved:

Combination Swiss Pike and Roll-Out.

Vogue Mag Says Yes To 'Fatter' Fashion Models?!

Fashion models who DON'T look like they are all starving 14-year-olds?!

Well, ladies, DON'T get too excited yet, but maybe change IS on the way?

Let us applaud the 'bible' of the fashion industry and it's recent statement that Vogue magazine will now ban models either under the age of 16 or suffering from an eating disorder from appearing in 19 international editions of Vogue. And that includes Anna Wintour’s U.S Vogue mag).

The announcement also mentions this:

"We will be ambassadors for the message of a healthy body image," and, "We will work with models who, in our view, are healthy and help to promote a healthy body image."

Okay then.....What is U.S. Vogue's physical ideal?

Excellent question. Please stay tuned, because what may be your vision of a healthy body might not be that of the magazine's model standards.

Frankly, we miss the days of the real supermodels. You know who we're talking about----Naomi Campbell, Christy Turlington, Cindy Crawford, and Linda Evangelista, who wouldn't roll out of bed for less than $10,000 a day, etc. Those fashion icons were healthy-skinny and somewhat curvy girls. None of them were size zeroes---mainly 4's and 6's, and maybe a few were size 2's. But no one had ever accused Cindy or the other supermodels of being anorexic. Those models brought sexy back to the cat-walk.

Let's face it....professional models are very tall and very thin, and that's just how the modeling industry is set up. Clothes just look better on that kind of body. We all get that. But it would be so refreshing to return to the supermodel physique.

Cindy Crawford spoke to Parade magazine in 2011 about model sizing:

The modeling industry has changed since Cindy’s reign.
"I do feel like an outsider now, but I just saw the CoverGirl commercial with Taylor Swift and I thought, 'Wow, it is so hard for models to get a job these days.' You have to sing and act, too. There doesn’t seem to be as much work specifically just for models. And I also think when I was modeling, size 6 was a normal size and now it’s like 2 or 0."

We will surely be checking out the pages of Vogue in the coming months just to see exactly how models have changed and what 'healthy' looks like.

Lindsay Lohan Looking Lovely: Alleged Cosmetic Filler Finally Settled

The proof is in the pudding as the old saying goes. So, let's closely examine the photos we have of actress Lindsay Lohan to see if cosmetic filler were actually used to enhance her great bone structure.

Look at the 3rd bottom pic. There's Lindsay back in March of 2011, 1 year ago. Now, fix your eyes on the middle photo #2. There she is this past March 2012.

As we recall, the 25-year-old star was being tormented by the media for suddenly looking like a cabbage patch doll with her very swollen cheeks and rounder, pillow-like face.

Tabloid reports were accusing the embattled actress of overdoing the plastic surgery or becoming bloated from too much partying, etc.

The smart money was on the assumption that Lindsay had merely gotten cosmetic filler like Restylane, Juvederm, or Perlane, all designed to add major volume to the face.

Now, take a look at the top pic of Lindsay Lohan, just 8 days ago at the D.C. Correspondents' Dinner(April 28). She looks stunning! The alleged fillers have finally settled.

We cannot prove the actress did indeed receive cosmetic filler, but it seems the only intelligent reason for the dramatic changes.

Fillers like Restylane or Juvederm can cause swelling, bruising, and redness for a few weeks before 'settling' into the skin layers.

These dermal fillers with their smooth, gel-like consistencies are injected into the deeper layers of the skin beneath the fold/crease. The result---instant volume and smooth lines. There is no "down time" and the filler lasts about 9 months. And results can be quite amazing, depending on the skill of the pro injecting the filler and 'designing' beautiful facial contours.

The only real tell-tale sign of any cosmetic work appears to be with the celebrity's fuller lips as you can see in bold red gloss.

We think that Lindsay Lohan looks great with her back-to-natural auburn hair and her back-to-normal-sized facial proportions.

Would you agree?

Vanessa Williams Believes In Microcurrent Facials For Ageless Beauty

Vanessa Williams, a guest on E'!s 'Fashion Police last evening, dished to host Joan Rivers about the cosmetic enhancements she enjoys using to stay ageless.

One of these beauty weapons is Botox, which we've heard Vanessa mention several times before. The other is microcurrent facials.

Now, we were intrigued.

At age 49, we think the talented singer/actress looks fab! So, let's examine the microcurrent facial, a non-invasive procedure that Vanessa swears by to tighten up facial skin, rather than heading in for a surgical facelift.

Firming the facial contour. That's what microcurrent technology aims for as the wand hooked up to this beauty machine glides over the face to strengthen tired, aging facial muscles. A painless, safe impulse or zap is sent through the wand, revving up circulation and stimulating collagen/elastin production.

Results are instant at about $120 per treatment. And the more sessions you attend, the better results you can achieve.

Many celebrities opt for the microcurrent facial BEFORE a red carpet event, because they look refreshed, skin is plumped up and pores look invisible.

So, is this trendy facial as good as a real facelift?

Most plastic surgeons would say, of course NOT. And here's why, according to the experts who weighed in on microcurrent technology at RealSelf.com:

"Unfortunately, as in most advertising, the hype does not live up to the reality. Microcurrent has been tested and shown to help with wound healing but there is nothing in the medical literature about microcurrent reversing the signs of aging."--D.J. Verret, MD
Dallas Facial Plastic Surgeon

"Microcurrent treatments will not yield results simular to that of a facelift because the energy applied will not result in elevation of the structural components of the face - namely fascia, muscles and fat. Only the very superficial layer of skin and dermis would have any response to microcurrent and I suspect that would be modest at best."--
Douglas Stevens, MD
Fort Myers Facial Plastic Surgeon

"A facelift is the procedure of choice to make permanent and extensive changes in the face for rejuvenation. Microcurrent therapy has some benefits, however modest. It can improve skin tone and slightly change the shape of the structures. It can easily be oversold. Buyer beware. All the best, Tal Raine MD FACS."--
Chicago Plastic Surgeon.

We can say that Vanessa Williams looks naturally beautiful. In other words, her face does NOT look tightly pulled back and artifical, so it's possible that she is happy with what plastic surgeons would call 'modest' results.

What do you think?

Kelly Osbourne: The Color Purple. Great Movie Not The Hair?

Let us first state that we are a Kelly Osbourne fan!

From the soft, playful British accent to the extreme love of all things fashion and beauty to the amazing collection of shoes, she is a breath of fresh air.

And now, er, Kelly's hair. Back in January, we noticed the dyed grey locks the daughter of rock legend Ozzie was sporting. Then slowly, those tresses turned lilac/lavender/purple!

The Fashion Police star showed up Monday evening rockin' the striking hair color at E'!s Upfront Party in New York City. That, along with purple lip color, a pretty tartan plaid frock, and a pair of sky-high pink open-toe pumps.

It isn't easy getting away with purple hair color or lips in the same shade.

So, we have to ask....Can Kelly Osbourne Rock the Color Purple?!

Well, yes. She looks quite lovely here in the photos. And because she is UNDER age 30, we give her a free pass. When you're in your 20s, it's okay to play around with the wilder shades of makeup and hair color.

Kelly said this about her grey-to-purple locks back in February:

"To me, I'm 27, I've got three years left, the way I look at it, to have fun with it, because once you're 30, you look like a right idiot walking around with like rainbow, bright color hair and all different things like that.

"I don't exactly come from the most normal family. I don't get why anyone expects anything different from me.

"So I think, for me, I'm just having fun with it as much as I can until it's not appropriate anymore."

We also read recently somewhere, that Kelly said she wanted to give her over-processed blonde hair a rest, and that is why she had turned to a softer, less damaging hair dye process, a la purple.

Want to copy Kelly's purple look?

Try Mac's Sheen Supreme Lipstick in Asian Lavender ($14.50, at Macy's). As for the hair, please visit a professional. And get ready to be noticed!

Jersey Mom Takes Extreme Tanning To Scary Limit: We Can All Learn Something

We certainly don't wish to make Jersey mom Patricia Krentcil the poster child for extreme tanning. But maybe, we can all learn something from this.

The 44-year-old New Jersey woman was hauled into court yesterday for allegedly sneaking her 5-year-old daughter into a tanning salon. Her attorney denies the charges.

As you can tell by the photo, Patricia Krentcil likes to tan-- a lot! In fact, she hits the indoor tanning booth 5 days a week at the maximum and spends $100 a month there.

This poor woman has now become the butt of many late night TV jokes, and yeah, we DO feel sorry for her and her family.

We don't wish her any ill will. We only wish she would take better care of her skin, because at age 44, time is running out.

We all know about the dangers of too much sun and the indoor tanning booths that help you achieve that golden glow no matter what the weather is doing all-year-long.

And BeautyTipToday is certainly not here to judge. We did our own sun damage years ago, when we spent our childhood/adolescence EVERY summer at our grandparents' house-by-the-beach We are paying for it now.

We have friends and relatives who worship the tanning rays of the sun, both indoors and outdoors. And they look healthy and golden brown.

We can't help but shudder though, when we read this in the NY Daily News:

...."Going to a tanning salon even just one time is dangerous. Tanning booths are considered a Class 1 carcinogen by the World Health Organization. This is the same category that plutonium is put in!"

Those words by Dr. Joshua Zeichner, director of cosmetic and clinical research in the dermatology department at Mount Sinai Medical Center.

And here's a bit more information from another respected NYC plastic surgeon, Robert Tornambe, M.D.:

"The primary culprit causing melanoma(skin cancer) is UV light from the sun or tanning beds," he explains. "Research shows indoor tanning increases a person's melanoma risk by 75 percent! Anyone can get melanoma, but there is a higher incidence in people with fair skin, sun-sensitive skin (tends to burn rather than tan) and a family history of the disease. Five or more sunburns during your lifetime double your risk of developing skin cancer. 80 percent of lifetime sun damage occurs during childhood."

Are You About To Turn 30? Remember This Word: Exfoliation

We all know Angie Harmon, the gorgeous former model and star of the TNT drama 'Rizzoli & Isles.'

She celebrates her 40th birthday in August.

But did you know that Angie was not crazy about the time she left her 20's?

"I'm not gonna lie: I was scared to turn 30," she says.

Angie Harmon is just one of the contributors of a wonderful new book called, 'Thirty Things Every Woman Should Have and Should Know by the Time She's 30,' by the editors of Glamour magazine.

We were reading through a few of these nuggets of advice in the May issue of Glamour, when we stumbled on to Angie's thoughts for the gal turning 30.

Here is one of the key pieces of advice the actress mentioned:

"You HAVE to exfoliate for young-looking skin. End of discussion."

Big deal, you say? Yeah, it IS a big deal.

Let's look at what exfoliation really is. According to Wikipedia, it's all about 'shedding.' Out with the old--in with the new:

...."Exfoliation involves the removal of the oldest dead skin cells on the skin's outermost surface, and has been used for many years to help maintain skin. Exfoliation is involved in the process of all facials, during microdermabrasion or chemical peels at medical spas. Exfoliation can be achieved through mechanical or chemical means."

In other words, you have to work at maintaining good-looking skin AFTER age 30. It is not a given. And exfoliation delivers a softer, clearer and more glowing complexion. Your anti-aging products can penetrate more effectively because pores become un-clogged when you routinely exfoliate.

Start off with a decent facial cleanser, one that contains exfoliating properties---like Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Salicylic Acid, or Beta Hydroxy Acid. These help loosen up the dead skin cells.

From mechanical exfoliation, you can then proceed to chemical exfoliation, which includes facial peels and the like. You will notice a difference---your skin becomes so soft and your complexion becomes radiant.

If you're new to all things exfoliation, a dermatologist can guide you in the right direction.