Company News: Happy 100th Birthday NIVEA!

When I heard that NIVEA was turning 100 this year, I couldn't believe it. It's one of those brands I always saw growing up and always took for granted.


To celebrate this huge milestone, I'm learning more about NIVEA and hope to share some really cool product news and reviews with you soon, but in the meantime, here are some fun facts about NIVEA and their flagshop product, the NIVEA Creme:

- NIVEA Creme was introduced in 1911 and became the first stable skin cream based on a water-in-oil emulsion thanks to an invention by Dr. Isaac Lifchultz - a chemist who originally developed the emulsifier, Eucerit, for medical uses

- the name NIVEA means 'the snow white one' and is derived from the Latin word nix, nivis (meaning snow)

- the Creme's blue tin was introduced in 1925

- In 1936 NIVEA scientists conducted in-depth research into the effects of the sun's rays on the skin and develop the first sunscreen products, NIVEA Nut Oil and Ultra Oil

- every year more than 100 million tins of classic NIVEA Creme are sold in over 200 countries around the world

- if you lined up all the tins of NIVEA that have been sold up to the present day, they would almost reach the moon! In fact, the blue tin was the first skin cream to enter orbit in the year 1983 - on board the Space Shuttle Challenger

Check out this extremely cool and interesting timeline of the NIVEA history.

images: nivea.ca

Company News: June 4-5 = Wax Weekend at European Wax Center

I dread getting waxed. But I love the results. It's really a love-hate relationship.

So, for those lucky gals that live in Los Angeles, they can make their waxing experience just a little more pleasant at the European Wax Center.

Known for a unique and thorough four-step waxing process that not only cleanses and protects the skin, but rejuvenates the skin and allows for proper re-growth of the hair. European Wax Center boasts a proprietary, non-strip wax formula developed in Paris and impeccable service from their specially trained wax experts.

The exclusive Parisian wax made with the world’s finest elastomers and polymers features 100% natural beeswax that is applied at a comfortable bath-water temperature, which allows wax to be applied in larger sections compared to other waxes and our proprietary wax does not include alcohol which can often result in drying, cracking and irritation. Hair removal is also much more comfortable because the specialty wax only sticks to hair and not skin.

But aside from the technical wax points, European Wax Center’s wax pass program, afforadable pricing and operating hours make it easier than ever for everyone to enjoy the benefits of waxing.


European Wax Centers in Redondo Beach, Westlake Village and Woodland Hills
Saturday and Sunday, June 4 and 5, 2011
9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (reservation time required)

During the inaugural Los Angeles “Wax Weekend” event, first-time guests are invited to enjoy a complimentary wax service, gift bags, coffee bar, delicious hors d’oeuvres and live music for a day of personal refreshment with friends or family. Reservations are recommended and walk-ins will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

First-time guests interested in scheduling a complimentary reservation during “Wax Weekend” should call each location directly:
- Redondo Beach: (310) 937-2929
- Westlake Village: (805) 248-7060
- Woodland Hills: (818) 746-2683
- Manhattan Beach will celebrate its grand opening in July and dates for their “Wax Weekend” will be announced soon. Guests interested in attending the Manhattan Beach opening can reserve a space by calling (310) 297-9291.

Click on the postcard for a larger image:


images: press release

Beauty shopping online, Australian edition

One of the best things, to a beauty addict anyway, about the internet is the wealth of information out there, but also the chance to be introduced to new brands from around the world AND to have a chance to try these products out for ourselves!

One lovely site that I've just been introduced to that's based in Australia is Catwalk.


Starting out as a chain of hair salons in Sydney and Brisbane (where, I'm told they are pretty popular, Catwalk eventually expanded into an online retail store and fashion brand. It's the retail online store that got me. They have lots of great brands, including ones that I'm quite familiar with and others that are less well known on this side of the globe.

The best thing is that Catwalk ships to pretty much all major countries, which means I get to try out some previously unkonwn-to-me brands! Yay!

So, watch for product reviews soon, but in the meantime, why not take a quick walk down the Catwalk and see what catches your eye?

CARGO's new-look website

Adorably pretty brand, CARGO Cosmetics has re-launched their website for the new year. For the first time, you can now buy your favourite CARGO products online, straight from the source.

Check out www.cargocosmetics.com to see the new look!

As a "thank-you” for being a supporter of the brand, CARGO invites each of its fans to become a CARGO Insider. When you subscribe, you'll get 20% off of your first online order plus CARGO’s quarterly e-newsletter, keeping you up-to-date on the brand’s latest product innovations and upcoming events and sales.

Other great, new features on the CARGO site:
- Elite-Artist conversations: Learn the beauty philosophies of Oscar-Winning makeup artists and red carpet masters. Get inside tips or find out what it takes to make it in the business
- Ask an Artist: Write-in with your make-up questions and receive feedback from CARGO’s artists
- CARGO Blog: Features news and updates from CARGO’s CEO and founder Hana Zalzal

Introducing Glowing Beauty

One of the biggest complaints that many of my fellow Canadians have is that there are a lot of lovely beauty products on the market that we don't have access to. In recent years, it's been getting better (remember when Sephora first came north of the border?) and there are more options than ever.

A new site that I've just been introduced to recently is Glowing Beauty at www.glowingbeauty.ca. A Canadian owned and operated website, Glowing Beauty carries some of my favourite brands such as California Mango, Clarisonic, Joici, Revitalash, Fusion Beauty, China Glaze, Essie and OPI. They ship from Vancouver, BC and with over 2,000 products in stock, Glowing Beauty offers Canadians the chance to purchase exclusive spa and salon products, and physician-strength, dermatologist tested products.

Glowing Beauty also offers free shipping on orders over $50 in Canada and a rewards points system.

Watch Cinnamon Kitten because I'm going to have a gift certificate from Glowing Beauty to give away to one lucky reader very soon!

Wave Goodbye to Shu Uemura if you live in the USA

Stock up on those eyelash curlers while you can!

I've been reading all over the blogosphere that L’Oreal USA is closing all US operations of Shu Uemura Cosmetics. I haven't been able to find an official press release of the news yet, but I know this is probably going to put Shu Uemura fans in the US into a spin.

The move was apparently made in order for L'Oreal to focus on growing the larger brands in the division's portfolio. Besides Shu Uemura, the Luxury Division contains the Lancôme, Yves Saint Laurent, Giorgio Armani, Ralph Lauren and Kiehl’s brands, as well as a number of fragrance licenses, including Viktor & Rolf and Diesel.

Shu Uemura is available in 18 countries (including Canada) and the decision won't affect any other market. Shu Uemura is said to do about 80% of its business in Asia. Of course, American customers looking for a Shu Uemura fix can still order products online.

I love my Shu Uemura eyelash curler (which I grabbed from Sephora) - I remember it instantly made a difference in my lashes compared to my previous curler (which, ironically, I think was L'Oreal).

For those who like to travel light...or try out lots of new products...

I love to travel, but I really dislike all the new travel restrictions (although I understand the need for them, I still don't have to like it!) - especially the ones regarding liquids.

So I was really interested in a new e-commerce site, 3floz.com.

From the press release: "Co-founders Kate Duff and Alexi Mintz wondered for years why they couldn’t find all of their favorite beauty products in travel-friendly sizes to take along on their frequent travels for both work and pleasure - so they took their combined 11 years in the beauty industry and launched 3floz.com to carry name brand, high end beauty, grooming and personal care items that are all 3 fl oz or less. Convenient services include international shipping, even direct to hotels, and same-day delivery within Manhattan via courier. Customers can receive an upgrade to overnight shipping for the price of ground by including a flight itinerary showing travel within three days."

3floz.com is perfect for those who travel frequently, or people who want smaller sizes to carry around in their regular day (gym bag, work, etc. Or, if you've ever wanted to try out a product but didn't want to buy the full-size version, this is a perfect place to satisfy your curiosity.

Items on 3floz.com range from $3-$110 and new brands are constantly being added. There are lots of big plans for the future too including the addition of baby products, cosmetics, travel-friendly beauty and grooming tools, and accessories.

Helping Haiti: Hairdressers Helping Haiti (Toronto Alert)

If you live in Toronto, this may be a great time to get a hair cut and help a great cause. Hair Dressers for Haiti is a 3-day event during which hair dressers from over 25 salons around Toronto will donate their time and services with all proceeds going to the Red Cross in support the relief efforts happening in Haiti.

From Sunday, January 24 through Tuesday, January 2, John Donato of Donato Salons and Artist Choice has reached out to all the salons across the GTA to have a Cut-a-thon to benefit the Haiti relief effort.

WHAT: Hairdressers Helping Haiti is a Cut-a-Thon hosted at the Artist Choice Studio, with hairstylist and colourists from salons across the city donating their time in an effort to raise as much money as possible for the Haiti relief effort.

WHO: Toronto’s best hairstylists and colorists join forces in an effort to raise money for the Red Cross in support of the relief efforts happening in Haiti. Every dollar raised at the Cut-a-Thon will be directly donated to the Red Cross.

WHEN:
- Sunday, January 24, 10am – 7pm
- Monday, January 25, 10am – 9pm
- Tuesday, January 26, 10am – 9pm

WHERE:
Artist Choice Studio
3253 Lake Shore Blvd West,
Toronto ON M8V 1M2
(Lakeshore, one block west of Kipling)

Pricing is as follows:
Haircut Level 1- $30 Level 2- $60
Colour Level 1- $40 Level 2- $60
Highlights Level 1- $75 Level 2- $150

Shiseido buying Bare Escentuals

Today, Tokyo-based Shiseido Co. announced that it's buying San Francisco-based Bare Escentuals Inc. in a $1.7-billion USD deal that is Shiseido's biggest purchase since its founding in 1872.

Bare Escentuals will operate as a separate division of Shiseido.

Both Shiseido and Bare Escentuals are looking for ways to increase their sales to a global audience, so this business move makes sense for both groups. Another bonus for Shiseido is the addition of a popular mineral line to their business.

Product News: Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal rolls out 8 new products

Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal, a 100% natural alternative to conventional deodorants, has just rolled out 8 new products in 4 fresh scents.

The new lineup includes the Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal Roll-On and Spray Mist formulas in Ocean Breeze, Honeydew Mellon, Lavender and Papaya Fusion.

"Our new scented products offer yet another option for those seeking a more natural, healthy lifestyle or for those allergic to conventional deodorants," said Ted Alflen, CEO and founder of Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal. "Like all of our product line, the new scented Roll-On and Spray Mist formulas are extremely gentle, yet amazingly effective with 24-hour protection."

Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal has long been the top recommended deodorant choice of allergists, dermatologists and oncologists. Unlike most deodorant brands, Naturally Fresh Deodorant contains no harmful aluminums or parabens.

The products function as natural deodorants that kill odor-causing bacteria while permitting the pores to excrete toxins naturally. This is vital to maintain healthy, axillary lymph nodes located in the underarm area.

All Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal products can be purchased online at or at select locations, including Walmart, CVS, GNC, Kroger, Publix, Whole Foods Market and Amazon.com. For a complete list of retailers, visit Naturally Fresh Deodorant online.

image: www.tccd.ca

NEW Product: benefit crescent row

Brand:benefit
Name: Crescent Row
Size: 30 ml / 1 us fl oz
Price: approx. $36 USD

A new collection of 3 fun eau de toilettes which are packaged in benefit's signature fun packaging design.

laugh with me LeeLee
A woody floral with a light blend of citrus, jasmine and lily blossoms. A naturally light scent with a classic feminine style.
- top notes: cassis, melon, citrus
- middle notes: black violet, lily, jasmine
- bottom notes: blonde wood, amber, santal

something about Sofia
An oriental flora that's a dream of oriental blossoms, mango and vanilla. An intriguing and mysterious scent with a free spirit.
- top notes: mango, freesia
- middle notes: sheer lily, jasmine sambac, peony petal
- bottom notes: musk, white caramel, vanilla bean

my place or yours Gina
A woody oriental scent that's an alluring affair of pink pepper, wild raspberry and patchouli.A seductively provocative scent with a "flaunt it if you've got it" attitude.
- top notes: pink pepper, bergamot, tangerine
- middle notes: peony, wild raspberry, white lily
- bottom notes: patchouli, tonka bean, vanilla bean

image: http://www.benefitcosmetics.com

ATTN: American Max Factor fans

Canadians have already been missing Max Factor as the brand was discontinued here awhile ago, but if you're in the USA and you're a fan of Max Factor, you better stock up on your favourites now (or find a friend overseas).

Procter & Gamble, which owns the Max Factor brand, announced yesterday (June 4) that it plans to phase out US distribution of the century-old makeup brand, with all sales ending early 2010.

Max Factor will continue to be sold overseas, where its sales have been strongest.

Bath & Body Works Coming to Canada!

I was first introduced to Bath & Body Works by a good friend, who would rave about the great products and amazing deals they had at this store in the US, but I had never been to one myself until last year. When I first stepped into a B&BW I went crazy! Everything smelled so good and of course, who can resist those pump-bottle soaps at 5 for $15 USD???

I was super excited to read that B&BW is going to open stores in Canada!!!

Limited Brands Inc., the company that owns B&BW has unveiled the locations for six Canadian B&BW stores set to open this fall.

Three of the stories will be in the GTA: at Yorkdale, Fairview and Erin Mills Town Centre. The other locations include Stone Road mall in Guelph, Whiteoaks in London and the West Edmonton Mall.

NEW Product: MAC Slimshine Lipstick

Brand: M.A.C.

Name: Slimshine Lipstick

Size: 2.3 g / 0.08 oz
Price: $17.50 CAD

"Don't speak. Lips are in danger of all manner of delicious indiscretion. Seductive in colour, shine and staying power. Seven new Slimshine Lipsick shades and 13 bring-back shades invite colourful, ultra-glossy conversations. People will talk." (description from MAC site)

Product Notes:
A new lipstick combining creamy emolliency with a unique sheer colour pay-off. Finishes include cream, sparkling pearl and metallic. Provides the shine and moisturizing comfort of a gloss but with a smooth, non-sticky finish. Distinctive on and off. Comes packaged in its own stylish extra-long lipstick case.

Shades Available:
- Think Tan (frost): deep reddish brown with gold
- Assertive (frost): rusty brown with gold pearl
- Voile (frost): canary yellow with gold pearl
- Missy (cream): creamy pastel coral
- Grenadine (cream): creamy deep blue red
- Rock Out (frost): clean bright blue pink with gold pearl
- Intimidate (cream): creamy plummy pink
- Bare (frost): light neutral pink with subtle gold pearl
- Pleasing (frost): mid-tone violet with red and gold pearl
- Long Stem Rose (frost): light baby pink with subtle gold pearl
- Scant (frost): mid-tone dirty plum with gold pearl
- Mousse (cream): mid-tone caramel brown
- Lovey-Dove (frost): mid-tone terracotta with bronze pearl
- Prudeaux (cream): dark rich burgundy plum
- Ultra-Elegant (cream): light neutral beige
- Funshine (frost): shimmery soft apricot pink
- Urgent! (frost): classic mid-tone red
- Cocoamour (frost): neutral cool brown with matching pearl
- Most Wanted (frost): intense purplish red with metallic golden shimmer
- Gaily (frost): soft mid-tone berry pink with pearl

images: maccosmetics.com

The World Loses a Pioneer

Today the world lost a pioneer in the beauty industry - Dame Anita Roddick, the founder of The Body Shop, has died after suffering a major brain haemorrhage at St. Richards Hospital in Chichester at the age of 64.

Her husband, Gordon, and daughters Sam and Justine were all with her.

John Sauven, executive director of Greenpeace, said Dame Anita was an "incredible woman" who would be "sorely missed". He said: "She was a amazing inspiration to those around her, not just in environmental and human rights issues, which were two of her passions.

"She was so ahead of her time when it came to issues of how business could be done in different ways, not just profit motivated but taking into account environmental issues. She was a true pioneer."

Prime Minister Gordon Brown paid his own tribute to Dame Anita. In a statement he said: "I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Anita Roddick, one of this country's true pioneers.

"She campaigned for green issues for many years before it became fashionable to do so and inspired millions to the cause by bringing sustainable products to a mass market. She will be remembered not only as a great campaigner but also as a great entrepreneur."

As an avid user of Body Shop products, I really appreciated being able to purchase amazing beauty products that were environmentally conscious and supported a variety of worthwhile causes, from the environment to abused women. The Body Shop taught us all that beauty should not come at the price of the environment or animals.

Let's hope that Dame Roddick's vision carries on as we continue to navigate our way through the world of beauty.

Don't Believe the Hype...the Mascara Hype

One of the reasons I started this blog was because I was EXTREMELY tired of seeing slick ads that made products look great and then being disappointed when I purchased the product and it didn't live up to expectations - ie. smooth skin, long-lasting lipstick, instant curl mascara...

Speaking of mascara...hasn't every girl searched far and wide for that perfect mascara? Dries quick, curls, lengthens, darkens, thickens, babysits, cooks, does the laundry...oh wait, that's me, getting carried away.

Anyhow, Britain's advertising watching group, the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA), has criticised L'Oreal today for its Telescopic mascara commercial featuring Penelope Cruz that "exaggerated" the product's effects.

The ASA said L'Oreal misled consumers by failiny to make it clear that Cruz was wearing fake lashes in the commercial. What? Fake lashes in a commercial that's advertising the benefits of mascara??? Why does that sound so wrong?


The ASA also criticised L'Oreal for claiming that their Telescopic Mascara made lashse "60% longer", since some people may "take that to mean their lashes would actually increase in length, rather than just look longer" (by the way, I've read that statement several times and it still confuses me - if lashes LOOK longer, shouldn't that mean that they ARE longer?...wait, does this mascara perform optical illusions?)

In the future, L'Oreal must make it clear in ads if models are wearing fake lashes.

By the way, if you look at Penelope in these ads...umm...would anyone actually believe that their lashes will look like hers if they use this mascara? Who can't tell that she's wearing falsies?