Washing Face With Virgin Olive Oil Seems Wrong But DHC Works

It does seem rather bizarre to think, that you could effectively wash your face with virgin olive oil, and be left with a healthy, clear complexion. But the folks at DHC company have the rave reviews to prove it.

In fact, the skin care company based in Japan, and popular worldwide, says DHC Deep Cleansing Oil is their number #1 best seller. And it doesn't come cheap. A 6.7 oz. bottle will cost you $25.

So, you ask, how could a facial cleanser containing of all things, virgin olive oil, make your face feel really clean and, er, not oily?

According to DHC, their Deep Cleansing Oil is made of a unique water-soluble formula. The ingredients will never leave behind a greasy residue, but are able to lift and easily dissolve dirt, excess oil, makeup—even waterproof mascara—and other pore-cloggers.

And if you have dry skin, your complexion will fall in love with this golden-colored cleanser. It leaves faces soft and moisture-balanced.

We have tried DHC's Deep Cleansing Oil at least three times, after receiving samples in their mail catalogue.

Yes...this stuff really removes several coats of mascara, liquid eyeliner, foundation, the whole nine yards, as they say. All you do is massage a little of it in, and watch grime dissolve. The only thing you have to be alert about, is not getting the cleanser into your eyes, or you will end up with a filmy glaze, which is uncomfortable.

We also followed up with our regular glycolic acid cleanser, which ultimately gave us a very clean complexion. We felt we actually needed another step in our face washing routine. The DHC cleanser is enough for removing makeup and effectively cleaning your skin. But old habits die hard for us, and because our face is very oily, it didn't feel enough for us. So we took it the extra step with our other cleanser.

But we aren't alone, we've been hunting down lots of users of the DHC Deep Cleansing Oil, and many women love the product and also there are a number who, like us, add an extra step to their face washing routine. These reviewers, all 1,053 of them, have also given the product high grades---a 4.2 out of 5, and 77% say they would buy the cleanser again. To see those reviews, visit: MakeupAlley.

By the way, DHC does more than just virgin olive oil deep cleansers. There are so many beauty items to explore.....there are rose toners, makeup, mineral mask, milk lotion, mild soap, tocophero E cream, imperial green tea shower gel, after bath hair treatments, etc. And there are FREE samples with every order.

DHC skin care company has been around for quite some time now and has evolved into the #1 direct mail skin care company in Japan.
"With a legacy of over 25 years in Japan creating high-quality products based on the natural benefits of olive oil, DHC is here to help you achieve more radiant skin. We use effective ingredients that are tested and true, without adding unnecessary coloring agents or irritating fragrances. Our line achieves an ideal balance to help bring harmony to any skin type."

Jessica Simpson New SwimWear Line Rolls Into Macy's Sunday

Jessica Simpson is one sharp businesswoman. The haters can hate, but the curvy blonde singer is now hitting the beach with a new line of swimwear launching at Macy's in NYC's Herald Square tomorrow!

Jess is teaming up with swimwear pro Red Carter for an amazing collection of itsy-bitsy bikinis. We all know the Texas beauty loves her big handbags and sexy boots. But Jess also likes relaxing at the beach, and thought a new line of swimwear would be the nice warm touch to a crazy winter on the way(especially with blizzard warnings for the east coast today).

"We are delighted to have found the right partner to continue to position Jessica Simpson Collection as a lifestyle brand,” added Camuto Group president Bob Galvin. “Red Carter is known as a leader in both the design and distribution of quality women’s swimwear and we are looking forward to a long, successful partnership.”

The line will be called the Jessica Simpson Swim Collection, and will be available in Macy's department stores nationwide on December 30th.

The line will include swimwear separates and some cover-ups. There will be traditional triangle tops, cute ruffle bandeaux and tie-side and scoop bottoms, all in animal and floral prints and colorful solids. Even a 'Daisy Duke'-inspired bikini, as you can see from the photo here. Prices will range from $35 to $120. And you will also be able to buy her swimwear collection from her Jessica Simpson Collection Website.

Jessica Simpson is certainly no fool. The young, stylish woman is building a Jessica world of her own, with a vast empire of goodies she sells like travel luggage, handbags, shoes, hair extensions through Ken Paves, lingerie, accessories, clothing and jewelry. And her merchandise is smart, chic, and always affordably priced.

Who needs Tony Romo, ha!

By the way, Jess's new jewelry line will bloom this spring at Macy's, of course. It will be called the Cactus Flower Collection and sources say the jewelry will be dressed in charms and Swarovski crystals.

Many of us might be shoveling some snow tomorrow, and the temperatures sure are nasty cold, but we can look forward to warmer days ahead. And it looks like Jessica Simpson is riding the waves for us. Now, if we only had a pair of her boots!

Lil Kardashian Sis Kendall Jenner Poses For Forever21 New Twist Collection

There are a lot of Kardashian women in the spotlight these days, and now---- another young girl whose name starts with the letter 'K,' is on her way!

L'il Kardashian sis Kendall Jenner is already modeling at age 14. Is she too young? Maybe, but certainly not in the world of fashion and makeup.

The dark-haired, pretty teen is the half-sister to well-known, reality-television stars Kim, Khloe, and Kourtney.

And Kendall Jenner is appearing in a new clothing collection for Forever21's 'Twist.' The limited edition will debut in stores and online at the end of January 2010. The theme is called Rocker Babes with a Twist.

The dark-eyed, wide-eyed teen is modeling a bunch of polka-dots and animal prints in the popular red and black rockabilly style for the junior size collection. And Kendall also had a camera crew in tow when she went to the shoot. Chances are, we will be seeing the Forever21 modeling session on a future Keeping up with the Kardashians television episode.

Forever21 has branched out in many fashionable ways with a recent cosmetics line, swimwear line, clothing for plus sizes, some styles with a more modest fit, and many new items.

And we wish we could find the quote Eva Longoria Parker gave to InStyle magazine a couple of years ago, when she said that shopping at Forever 21 was a guilty pleasure. Every gal loves a bargain, and Miss Eva is no exception.

Of course, Eva Longoria Parker is petite and very tiny and can easily fit into the junior-sized fashions at Forever 21, but there are also lots of no-size, super accessories there on the cheap-cheap. Like trendy scarves and sunglasses, and of course, fun jewelry at rock bottom prices.

For more information, visit: Forever21. And be on the lookout in January for the newest 'K' girl, Kendall, on the block.

Stacy London Says Pencil Skirts Are Sexy And Classic

We adore Stacy London, everyone's favorite stylist from TV's popular What Not to Wear makeover show.

The perky, raven-haired stylist, recently told People magazine this:

"It's funny, though, because in fashion, even though the trend is skirts all the way up to your pupik, I feel sexier when I wear a pencil skirt."

And we happen to agree. Pencil skirts are flattering to all women, if the proper length, cut, and color are chosen wisely. For instance, a black pencil skirt is your best friend. It can hide several flaws and still give you a long, curvy silhouette. Buy a pencil skirt with a high waist, and your legs will look a mile long and your tummy will look flat.

Check out the photo of Marilyn Monroe. If anyone knew how to wear a pencil skirt, it was the blonde bombshell herself. The style remains a classic and it certainly is sexy.

And trust us, you can find pencil skirts just about everywhere. The traditional pencil skirt would fall around the knees or just below. But today, there are pencil skirts riding above the knee and some even several inches below the knee. We believe the most flattering length is the traditonal style, and if it can fall just a smidgen below the knee, you've got yourself a flattering skirt.

Today we are looking at two pencil skirts in two very different fabrics:

1. Newport News Lace Print Leather Pencil Skirt (on sale now for $69, at Newport News). This one comes with a lovely glazed finish with a slit in the back, and fully lined. The pattern features an elegant floral lace.

2. Banana Republic High-Waisted Lightweight Wool Pencil Skirt ($80, at Banana Republic). This beauty hits above the knee and gives you a smooth, sleek shape. It includes a vent and rear welt pocket, all in a wool stretch blend.

Pencil skirts can be paired with many different looks....with a blouse tucked in.....with a sweater set......with a bolero jacket.......or suit jacket. The possibilities are endless. If you want a slender, long look below the waist, the pencil skirt is the perfect silhouette shaper.

Making A Big Hair Color Change Like Nicole Richie Going Brunette?!

Look at lovely Nicole Richie. Do you love it or hate it? The petite beauty has been known for her trademark golden locks, and now suddenly this:

Nicole Richie has gone brunette!!

We must be honest here, we were blown away. She looks like two different women. We prefer Nicole as a blonde. However, we don't think she looks bad with darker hair. She's pretty either way.

If you're going to make a big hair color change, then please visit a professional colorist. Our favorite would be Kim Vo, who happens to be located west coast in sunny California. We have never met the celebrity stylist, but we have seen his work and the results are brilliant.

A pro like Kim Vo, would probably tell you, that the most important factor when making a dramatic color change, like blonde to brunette, or brunette to blonde, or auburn to pale blonde, and so on, is considering your skin tone. Are you in the warm category or the cool category?

We believe that any woman could make a big hair color change, as long as she remains in the sensible realm of complementing shades. Your skin tone is essential in selecting what brunette hue you can pull off, for instance. The wrong shade, and you look washed out, too olive, too ashen, too ruddy, etc.

And our favorite hair rule: Remember....it's always easier to go darker, than to go lighter.

Lighter hair generally means, more upkeep, and more chances for damage to the hair cuticle. You can hide some less than perfect locks with a darker shade of hair color.

And don't forget your eyebrows when making a big hair color change. You might need to gently tone them down a bit, especially if changing from brunette to blonde. You want to blend in the new color with your features, as naturally as possible.

Let's not forget the investment. If you're a dark brunette, and have gone drastic into a head of blonde hair (Kim Kardashian did this for about a month or so), you will get socked in the wallet. Re-touching roots and extra highlights equal lots of money over a period of time.

And what about reversing a dramatic hair color change? That's more complex than you would think. We know a light blonde woman with fair skin, who went for bold red hair a few months ago. She had quickly decided it wasn't the best move, and then went through a lengthy process to get back her trademark blonde look.

Or ask anyone who has colored their hair black. Lifting the hair even a few shades lighter equals part magic and a very good colorist. Many women have suffered through many months of too dark hair, and have had to patiently grow it all out.

Our advice: Stay within your natural hair color range, for beautiful results. And if you want to make a big hair color change, then an excellent professional colorist is your best friend.

Let's not forget, though, how important the right hair color is for women......color can do amazing things for us. Model Cindy Crawford was asked in an interview with Allure magazine last March, how she stays looking so young at 43:

CINDY CRAWFORD: Color is the most important factor. You can get any plastic surgery in the world, but hair color is what enables women to look younger longer. I've also become more aware of hair health. I stay away from razor cuts because they can make my hair look frizzy, and I give myself a hair treatment while I'm in my sauna to keep it conditioned.

Cashmere Robes For Ultimate In Wealth And Softness

Cashmere. Just the sound of the word seems to signify a sign of wealth and sense of softness.

And yes, cashmere seems to surface around the holidays, because it is a classy gift to give and receive. And this time again, cashmere is hot, especially when it comes to robes. Nothing feels cozier and softer than a cashmere robe.

So, exactly where does cashmere come from? A cashmere goat, silly. And according to some digging, we learned that these goats can be found hanging out in the high plateau regions of Asia, including India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and China. And a few still live in the Cashmere region of India where the name originated from. Make sure you are getting real Cashmere when shopping for a robe. The label will state that the item is made from 100% pure Cashmere.

As we all know, pure cashmere is expensive. A robe can cost you thousands of dollars! Often times, cashmere is blended with silk for robes and sweaters. Pricey, but cheaper than 100%. Still, a very luxurious fabric. And there are also cottons that are soft and smooth and feel like cashmere and won't break your wallet. We will call those items, cashmere-inspired. And just as pretty.

Today, we are looking at three cashmere robes, from high end to low end:

1. Loro Piana Classica Cashmere Robe ($3,495, Neiman Marcus). Absolutely gorgeous. Need we say more?! And the robe comes in pink or white. Shawl collar with tie waist. Long sleeves. Pure cashmere. Made in Italy. Take a 'zoom' look at this one.....a really stunning cashmere robe. Hey, you are definitely worth it!

2. Black Cashmere Knit Robe ($152.15,on sale now at Bluefly). This robe is a great deal, because it, too, is 100% cashmere. And it comes in black, grey, pink, or natural. It features a lightweight, soft cashmere knit style with a wrap front and self-tie. It measures 37½" from base of collar to hem.

3. Victoria's Secret Soft Sweater Robe ($58, Victoria's Secret). These cashmere-inspired robes are really lovely and warm, and come in burgundy, heather oatmeal, and heather grey. Loose, drapey shape with cashmere-like softness. Three-quarter kimono sleeves. Wrap tie. Knee-length. Imported cotton. A great budget buy!

Cashmere robes are really the ultimate in luxury. We are all looking to lounge around in something beautiful, uber-soft, and comfortable. And these three selections hit the mark on all counts.

LexLi Skin Care Line Developed By Plastic Surgeon Features Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has been around for a very long time. In fact, the plant from the lily family dates back to biblical times. People around the globe have used aloe for dozens of reasons...like treating a bad sunburn, for instance.


But this bright green plant with the thick, tapered, fleshy leaves has been shown to do so much more. At least that's what one popular plastic surgeon from North Dakota says.

Dr. Ahmed Abdullah believes so strongly in the properties of aloe vera, that he has an entire skin care line, LexLi, based on this succulent plant. And he is proud to say that his treatments are true aloe-based products. All you need to do, is look at the back of the jar for the ingredients. The first ingredient listed in the LexLi Skin Care AloeGlyC collection is ALOE.

We thought we would take a look at AloeGlyC and how these topical beauty products work.

Dr. Abdullah explains at his website, that aloe vera is featured in his skin care line, because the plant performs two key actions: 1. heals the skin. 2. repairs the skin. But to be extremely effective, aloe must be carefully blended with other ingredients to sustain its power. "When Aloe Vera gel is mixed with either propylene glycol or glycerin, it has a synergistic action as a humectant. This synergistic, augmentative ability to retain water is the basis for the use of Aloe in cosmetics as a skin moisturizer and smoothener."

The most popular beauty treatment in the LexLi line is AloeGlyC ($75, 1 oz.). And this is what Dr. Abdullah says the rejuvenator does:
"This patented aloe based exfoliant combines aloe vera, glycolic acid and L-ascorbic acid beads (Vitamin C) into one unique formula. This remarkable combination aids in the removal of dead skin cells while activating the production of collagen-the skin’s natural rejuvenation process. The result is a reduction of fine lines and wrinkles, while improving the texture and clarity of the skin. As an added benefit, the tine vitamin C beads function as biological cofactors and antioxidants, protecting the skin from damage caused by the environment. After just a few weeks you will begin to see remarkable improvement in how your skin looks and feels."

There are also a cleanser and day moisturizer that go with the AloeGlyC. "At LexLi we use bio-active, pharmaceutical grade Aloe Vera as the base for our products instead of water. This Aloe Vera base makes our products much more effective than our competition's products," Dr Abdullah explains.

To learn more about the LexLi AloeGlycC skin care line, and other aloe-based products, like their shampoo, conditioner, makeup remover, toner, and more, visit aloeglyc.