A few weeks ago, I was invited to attend an exclusive preview of Dove Canada’s new creative campaign. Always a fan of Dove’s realistic, empowering – and even therapeutic – approach to beauty and beauty advertising, I was excited to be learn about their latest media outreach, sure to be dynamic, informative… revolutionary.

Dove did not disappoint.

A campaign centered around the manipulation of beauty images and how they can affect the way women feel, we were presented with a variety of seemingly harmless photos. For example, take the photo on the right. A model poses for the camera, and even though the picture is upside down, our eyes register an aesthetically-pleasing woman. But what we don’t see is the work of tiny manipulative elves - changing the photo in subtle ways so that our perception of beauty is altered. Want to see what the model looks like right side up?

It’s time to turn your perception upside down.  (more…)

I’m filing this one under: HOW LOVELY.

A few weeks ago, I was given the chance to try Lancôme’s NEW Teint Idole Ultra 24H Foundation. This new ultra-comfort formula promises 24 hour retouch-free wear – giving you a flawless, even complexion that lasts all day. Available in 20 shades, you’re sure to find your perfect (or near-perfect) match.

I’m normally not the foundation type, but I can’t deny there are just some days when flawless skin is a “nice-to-have”. Initially wooed by the opportunity to try what promised to be an industry-leading formula, I was floored to see what Lancôme really had in store for six (6) Canadian beauty bloggers – including yours truly! Check it out:

Did you catch me at the 1:30 mark? Aren’t the portraits simply SUPERB?

I was also overjoyed when the actual portrait arrived in the mail last week – I’ve never personally owned a commissioned portrait of myself, you know :) After I lamented on my Facebook fan page where I should hang it in my house, reader Natalie so wisely suggested in the bathroom, because that’s where the beautifying takes place. LOVE it!

You can find my testimonial of the foundation on Lancôme’s website -

“TEINT IDOLE CHANGED MY MIND ABOUT FOUNDATION FOR GOOD. THE PRODUCT APPLIED FLAWLESSLY AND STAYED FRESH-LOOKING FOR HOURS OF CONTINUOUS WEAR.”

Lena Almeida
Beauty Blogger, Toronto
BISQUE 320W

Lancôme’s NEW Teint Idole Ultra 24H Foundation is my Best Beauty Bet for Spring 2012. With its satiny, weightless coverage and formula that literally melts into the skin, get ready to put your best face forward.

Visit Lancôme.ca to grab your FREE sample.

I shouldn’t have to tell you that I have a thing for lip balm… must I bring out my stash again?

(Amazingly, my collection has grown since that photo was taken. Time to purge again.)

Now as much as I love slathering on a delicious-smelling, sparkly or delicately shaded lip balm, often I need a little TLC in the form of repairing, re-balancing moisture and restoring comfort to my lips. And that’s when I reach for CERALIP by La Roche-Posay.

Before I go about pitching the product to you, I want to share my history of use with this lip balm. It’s a personal story about depression, anxiety and self-loathing. Sounds cheery, no?

Here goes: Just over 10 years ago, I woke up one morning to feel my lips red, burning and horribly chapped. Thinking it had something to do with the grapefruit I ate the night before, I chalked it up to citrus irritation and slapped on a generic lip balm. However, even after multiple applications throughout the day, I felt no relief. Within days, my lips were constantly crusting over and were an angry, blistering red.

It took about two weeks of intense discomfort for me to pop in to see my doctor. He shrugged off my concerns, claiming it was simply chapped lips, and told me to smear on some petroleum jelly a few times per day. I left his office feeling a little better about my condition, but it only took about two days for me to realize that the petroleum jelly was making my mouth worse. (more…)

You know that awesome feeling of finding a $20 bill in the pocket of an old jacket? Kind of like how I felt this past Saturday morning.

We were attending my dear friend’s wedding, and as much as I love my kids, I don’t love them as wedding attendees. (You know – Sit! Be quiet! Don’t take off your vest! etc, etc). And since my husband and I were due for a night out together – especially one that comes with an open bar – I thought it best to have grandma watch over the young’uns for the night. (Ryder had ring boy duties, but we hastily got rid of him once his role was fulfilled.)

So, Saturday morning.

I was rooting around in Ryder’s closet, trying to uncover some old toys that could be made new again through the magic of elapsed time. Way at the back, I saw a box… and when I pulled it out, I was amazed to see a brand new, unopened Sephora Collector’s Edition Premium Brush Set. The little rascal must have confiscated it without my knowledge – GRRR!

Now the product is no longer available for purchase, as it was Holiday 2011 special edition. I must have received it as a review item, but as any beauty blogger will tell you, we receive a LOT of make-up, and sometimes products slip away unnoticed. Still, many thanks to Sephora who obviously knew I desperately needed new brushes! (more…)

Okay, so this is my first Nail of the Day (NOTD)… ever.

With good reason! My nails suck – they’re stubby, have massive cuticles and haven’t seen a manicurist in oh… let’s say two years. Maybe three.

(My fault, of course – I never seem to make time for the small things. Need to change that this year.)

Anyhoo, I happened to be sporting “Thanks a Windmillion” from OPI’s Holland Collection when I came across the photo on the right – a beautiful sea-green saree complemented with ultra romantic pink detailing. And then, of course, I remembered the Deborah Lippmann “Some Enchanted Evening” nail lacquer I had included in my Topbox review from earlier today. (more…)

If you’ve been on the fence about the new trend in beauty – monthly subscriptions for deluxe samples delivered right to your door – you’re not alone. Last year I profiled Luxe Box, one of the pioneering companies of this service in Canada – and my review was met with mixed feedback. While many of y’all loved the element of surprise, and the ability to try products you wouldn’t normally have access to (without paying full price, that is), just as many readers were concerned about the lack of relevance and fit, and the absence of consistency from month to month. Since I was only given the opportunity to review one box – which was admittedly a “deluxe” version that subscribers wouldn’t necessarily receive – I had no basis for comparison to comment on fit or consistency. I’ll admit it – it was a #reviewfail

So when the makers of Topbox approached me to review their service, I was quite insistent that I would need to receive a minimum of two regular boxes – at a 3-month interval – to adequately appraise the quality and consistency of their products. The company had absolutely no problem with that, which is not only a testimony to their confidence in the service, but the realization that regularly impressing customers is the cornerstone of their business.

My first Topbox for review was November 2011 – which included a Cake Velveteen Hand Creme (full size), Deborah Lippman “Some Enchanted Evening” Nail Lacquer (full size), Dr. Brandt Time Arrest Eye Serum and Stila Lip Glaze in Raspberry, all packaged in a reusable cardboard cylinder (LOVE the reduced packaging. I have no use for all the frills; it’s about the beauty, not the beautiful container!).

My first reaction to the contents was “Now THIS I can use!” I don’t have to tell you that I’ve been a long-time fan of Cake products, and any time I can get my hands on Deborah Lippman nail lacquer – which normally retails for $20 a pop – let’s just say I do a happy dance. Plus, I adore the mini Stila Lip Glaze; the mini tube is the perfect size for popping in a purse or pocket. And finally, Dr. Brandt… HELLO! The eye serum retails for $85.00, so what better way to put it to the test before doing major damage to my wallet?

The November 2011 had an average retail value of $69.00 – not bad for a $10 monthly service fee! Overall I was thoroughly impressed and can truly say that I’ve used EVERY product in the Topbox. I couldn’t wait to receive the next one!  (more…)

I wanted to send out a HUGE thank you to everyone who participated in the the Schick Hydro Silk Razor testing program. A razor was sent out to 50 awesome readers, and the ladies took the time to shave their legs – in the winter, gasp! – in order to put the razor to the test.

Now y’all know that I’ve been singing the praises of the razor, and why not?

Schick says: Schick Hydro Silk hydrates skin like no other razor can. This uniquely designed razor goes beyond an incredibly close shave to actually care for your skin. With Water-Activated Moisturizing Serum & 5 Curve-Sensing blades with skin guards to help protect skin from irritation, the Hydro Silk razor leaves skin feeling silky smooth! And it’s preferred over the leading 5 blade razor.

Lena says: Shaving with the NEW Schick Hydro Silk razor was likely the BEST shaving experience I’ve ever had. Two hours later, my skin is silky smooth and incredibly soft. The razor lives up to its claim of giving back moisture, because my all-too-frequent alligator skin is currently in check. LOVE this razor!

But don’t take our word for it – here’s just a sample of reader feedback:

Of course, it’s not all roses – some readers did have the following concerns:

- “The razor itself is rather large and bulky.”
- “Experienced clumping of the serum near the top of the razor that had to be wiped off.”
- “I wish the product had a plastic “cap” to cover the blade when not in use and for travel.”

I am happy to share all of the feedback – good and not-so-good – with Schick. Overall, the majority of the testers gave the razor two thumbs WAY up. Curious to see what they said? All of the reader feedback can be found in the comments section of this post. If you’ve tried the razor yourself and would love to weigh in, I encourage you to leave your own testimonial!

Spring is just around the corner and I’m very much looking forward to breaking out my smooth, silky legs courtesy of the new Schick Hydro Silk razor. Be sure to like Schick Hydro Silk Canada on Facebook – you’ll gain exclusive access to the latest news, tips and tricks for keeping skin smooth, and incredible coupons!

And drumroll please… congratulations to Karina R., winner of the $100 Visa Gift Card!

It’s been a pleasure shaving, reviewing and partying with y’all… Viva la Schick Hydro Silk!

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

I don’t think there’s a single person out there who doesn’t believe that natural is better.

(Unless you work for the petroleum industry, of course, in which case – rock on with those chemicals, dude – just keep them away from me… and my skin.)

This post is rather timely: although Toronto has been spared from much of Old Man Winter’s wrath, the weather network is calling for about 10cm of the white stuff tomorrow (insert sad face). And while snow really looks pretty from a window when you’re snuggled by the fireplace, outside, the elements can wreak havoc on your skin.

Dry, cracked skin. Brittle nails. Chapped lips. Flaky, red patches. Oh my!

Of course, if our skin is vulnerable to frigid weather, imagine what it can do to the soft, sensitive skin of a baby! Thank goodness we have access to high quality products which nourish and protect, including Weleda’s Calendula Baby Care. I’ve had a chance to dabble in a few of the products, which include all-natural ingredients that are compatible with the skin’s natural lipid layer, helping to maintain the skin’s protective barrier and prevent skin from reacting. In short, let’s just say that I. Am. Impressed.

But fist, why Calendula?

“Calendula is known for aiding the healing process of small wounds, red, inflamed skin and skin infections. As a natural antiseptic, calendula is renowned for soothing irritated skin. The flowers blossom under warm sunlight. This vitality is captured in our formulas, wrapping your little one in a layer of warmth and protection.”

(Trust me, this isn’t just any old calendula. The medicinal plant is grown biodynamically in the Weleda’s own gardens in Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany! So let’s just say they have a handle on the quality of the ingredients.)

I’ve been using Weleda’s NEW Calendula Weather Protection Cream for the last few days, and I’m quite loving everything about the formula. The 100% natural product shields skin from the damage caused by exposure to outdoor elements such as wind, cold and rain, and since it contains pure beeswax, it protects skin while allowing it to breathe, unlike products which contain petroleum-based ingredients like mineral oils. (more…)

Even though summer – ergo, short shorts weather – is still a few months away, we’ve got smooth, supple skin on our minds, and want to turn you on to the NEW Schick Hydro Silk Razor!

Why it’s AWESOME:

The Schick Hydro Silk hydrates skin like no other razor can. This uniquely designed razor goes beyond an incredibly close shave to actually care for your skin. With Water-Activated Moisturizing Serum & 5 Curve-Sensing blades with skin guards to help protect skin from irritation, the Hydro Silk razor leaves skin feeling silky smooth!

Join us for a super fun Twitter Party, where we’ll chat about your favourite shaving tips, those pesky shaving myths, and how to get those gams super smooth!

WHEN: Wednesday, February 15th from 8:30 – 10:00pm EST.

WHO: All are invited to party, but prizing is open to Canadians only.

HOSTS: Join @Listen2Lena, @MyChaos, @SassyModernMom and @TeacherMomofTwo using the hashtag #HydroSilkCanada

PRIZES: Over $500 in Prizing, including Hydro Silk Spa Gift Sets, $75 Visa Gift Cards and Hydro Silk Razors!

Don’t forget to RSVP below for your chance to win a fabulous prize! Then, mark your calendars, and we’ll see you on Wednesday night!

*Please be sure to enter your Twitter Handle “@yourTwitterhandle” in the Link/Blog Title field, and your Twitter URL “www.twitter.com/yourtwitterhandle” in the Link Field*

Last night, during a tug-of-war with the kids and the blanket (I’ve really got to banish this whole “family bed” phenomena) I began to think about random things – whether there’s enough snow on the ground to shovel, if one can gain weight through osmosis while watching Paula Deen on television, and blogging. I thought about blogging.

And for some reason, my first post came to mind. The very first time I hit publish back in October 2008. And what motivated me to start a blog in the first place.

So I checked my archives this morning; let’s just say it’s not a complete shock that the subject of my first post is makeup. Does Rimmel still make this little gem? I’m still using the same pencil from 2008 :) Here’s the post -

I LOVE THIS EYELINER!

It’s a “soft” kohl, which means ~

1) It goes on smoothly, almost like a liquid
2) There’s no tugging or faded lines
3) The colour is INTENSE

And here’s the kicker… it’s a pencil! That’s right ladies, the boldness of a liquid liner with the convenience of a pencil. Absolutely heavenly for those who have a less-than-steady hand while applying liquid lines.

The product also lasts all day long with NO FADING whatsoever. Did I mention I LOVE this eyeliner?

I stumbled across these gems while waiting for a prescription at Shoppers Drug Mart. They’re retailing them for $6.99 which is a steal in itself. I normally wouldn’t have even thought of Rimmel, but the cosmetician looked fab and I asked her what she was using. Surprise!

Try it! You’ll love it!

Today is January 20, 2012… and I still fully endorse (and love) this product! 

Saying I have an addiction to lip gloss and lip balm is putting it lightly. VERY lightly.

In fact, after spending last Sunday afternoon decluttering my makeup bins – a chore that took most of the afternoon and tested all of my husband’s patience – I was able to whittle down the pile to the “bare essentials”… you know, the stuff I need on a daily basis.

My name is Lena and I’m addicted to lip stuff.

You’ll notice that I don’t actually own any lipstick (sooo 1994) but instead, have hoarded every shiny, sparkly, goopy, glorious lip gloss and lip balm known to mankind (I have a separate drawer for my 32 Lip Smackers and “occasional” glosses). It actually took all my strength to dispose of about 20 additional products, but as my husband so eloquently put it: “Either they go or I go. Get all that sh*t out of here NOW.” (more…)

Note: The following giveaway open to Canadian residents only.

Update: Thanks to everyone who requested a sample of the NEW Hydro Silk razor – all 50 have been allocated. BUT, here’s your chance to win a $100 Visa Gift Card!

Since us Northern gals love our leggings, stockings, knee-high boots and various other cold weather add-ons, I feel completely justified in asking this question: how many of y’all have shaved your legs this year?

(What? It’s WINTER, and we’re only 23 days into 2012… so… nobody?)

Frost season is definitely a good time to skip the razor and slack on beauty routines. So when I was contacted by Schick to test out their NEW Hydro Silk razor, I felt good that the product would indeed be reviewed under rigorous conditions… as in, my legs haven’t seen a razor since the quote “Luke, I am your father” was uttered. Well, not quite that long, but you get my drift. (more…)

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

You know how some posts write themselves? Here we go: Chocolate.

(And I’m out.)

Seriously though, if there’s one thing every gal desires, it’s the decadent, sensuous and indulgent taste of chocolate. In fact, given the choice of eating chocolate or doing the deed, 70% of women responded that they’d rather curl up with Mr. Lindt than Mr. Right. Since my husband sometimes reads my blog, I won’t tell you which side I’m on. And the fact that I’m not telling you is very telling, isn’t it?

The Body Shop must be very in tune with our love for the sweet stuff, because just in time for Valentine’s Day and Easter, their new Chocomania bath and body range is here! The products will be available February 6th, so consider this your sneak peek!

(more…)

Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Goedenavond! (That’s “Good Evening” in Dutch! …. I think.)

So why do I have Holland on my mind? It’s all thanks to OPI’s NEW Holland Collection for Spring/Summer 2012. And since it won’t be in stores until February 8th, consider this your sneak peek!

Now I don’t know about you, but winter has barely begun and I’m already OVER it. Instead of dull blues and bleak grays, I’d much rather dream about electric brights, pretty pinks and glistening purples. And it just so happens that all these luscious hues appear in OPI’s Holland Collection.

Also très cool: the colours were inspired by the country’s range of stunning shades – vivid tulips, windmill-dotted hillsides and bustling canals. (There’s even a shade named after their famous clogs!) The collection’s twelve (12) shades offer a mixture of sophisticated neutrals and highly-pigmented brights. In two words: zeer ontzagwekkend (super awesome).

“Holland has a very unique, vibrant beauty to match its open-minded nature,” explains Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director. “Spring is the season of color, and the Holland Collection provides an array of pink, coral and orange hues that capture this energy. The bright lacquers are married with neutrals in new variations like red clay and sea green.” (more…)

Before the holidays, I had the enviable opportunity to check out some of the hottest products from Sephora’s Holiday 2011 Collection. Besides the Sephora by OPI Holiday Mini Blockbuster Set, which I labelled my most favourite stocking stuffer of the season, I also was able to get my hands on:

Sephora Color Wand for Lips
Sephora Collector’s Edition I.T. Brush Set 
NARS Danmari All About Cheeks Palette
… and more.

I’ll try to squeeze in a few reviews before long – especially the NARS palette (heaven!!!) – but for the moment, I want you to run to your nearest Sephora for the Ultra Shine Mini Lip Gloss Set. A $67 value, it’s on sale for just $11.00! (Online; in-store $17)

So why exactly do I love this set? Simply put, it marries the best of sparkle, shine and moisturizing goodness, all in convenient, easy to tote packaging. Think of it as “lip balm meets dazzle gloss”.

And while the set is obviously suited to holiday soirees, I can easily picture myself wearing these shades all year round, especially since I tend to prefer shiny puckers over matte or creme shades (sooo boring).

Here’s what you need to know:
This collection of mini lip glosses (four of which are only available in this set) makes lips shiny, moist, and soft. Its range of gloss effects includes multi-holigraphic shimmer, sheer high-shine, smooth shimmer, and creamy comfort. (more…)