On-the-go

Get Undone

Changing of seasons brings a changing of trends. My favorite for fall? The 90s grunge look shown by designers like Alexander Wang (Fall 2010) and worn by celebrities including Emma Roberts and Drew Barrymore. The undone-on-purpose look is classic and edgy; that’s exactly what I love about it! Unlike most extravagant styles done on the runway, this one is doable at home (and is super-easy to execute after a workout).  To get this look you’ll need a brown eye shadow with orangey tones, like Urban Decay Deluxe Eye Shadow in Heat, and an eyeliner that smudges easy, like Maybelline Line Express Eyeliner in Ebony Black, which comes with a built in smudging end. Dust a bit of tawny bronzer on cheekbones and finish with a matte lip balm. Bonus: This is a perfect opportunity to give your hair a break and let it dry naturally. Would you try the messy-chic look?

-Kari LaPrade, beauty intern

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Fall for Soft Skin

Fall is just around the corner, and that means dryer air—and skin. Time to bolster your defenses by making a few small tweaks to your body care routine. In the shower, switch to a creamy hydrating body wash, like  Aveeno Positively Nourishing Hydrating Body Wash, which moisturizes as it cleanses.aveeno pic

When you step out, pat dry with a terrycloth towel. Patting dry, rather than vigorously rubbing, helps your skin retain more moisture. Then wrap your hair up in a terrycloth towel to keep it out of the way (and reduce drying time). Apply a thick lotion all over to lock in hydration, like Lubriderm Advanced Therapy Lotion. Extra credit: To get a subtle tan while you moisturize, try Jergens Natural Glow Express Body Lotion, which is laced with self-tanner that builds up over a few days. Sayonara, scaly skin!

-Kari LaPrade, Beauty Intern


Miracle Manicure

This past summer, after what seemed to be endless trips to the nail salon, my manicurist pleaded for me to give a gel manicure a try. She guaranteed it would last two weeks, with no chips or scratches. I reluctantly agreed, and could not be more satisfied with my decision. After two weeks, my gel manicure was not only chip-free, but shiny as well. Although pricier than traditional manicures ($20 at my salon), the long-lasting results pay for themselves! It is recommended to have the gels soaked off by a nail professional during your next visit to the salon.

OPI Axxium is the most popular gel brand used in salons, and offers over 30 shade options. Just be sure to choose wisely; you’re going to be wearing the color for a while!

Have you tried a gel manicure? If so, what did you think of it?

-Nina Ramadan, beauty intern


Fun-Sized Finds

ss_101553168_8Phone. Check.
Lip Gloss. Check
Curling iron. Check?

Trying to cram your favorite beauty products into your gym bag? Now you don’t have to! From shimmery shadows to dry shampoos, your makeup must-haves now come in portable packaging. Our beauty director, Eleanor, shared her picks with Better TV. What are your favorite on-the-go products?

(Click on the image to see Eleanor’s interview!)