Makeup Mondays With Mario: Best Facial Sunscreen

Celebrity makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic is answering your burning beauty questions!!! Every Monday, he will answer a beauty/skin care question as part of a weekly column on Spoiled Pretty, Makeup Mondays with Mario.

Hi Mario,

I'm in North Carolina where it is hot AND humid frequently. I've been searching for the perfect facial sunscreen that doesn't make me look chalky and doesn't melt off in the humidity. Any suggestions?

Thank you,
Jamie

Hi Jamie,

If your question about sunscreen came to me about a year ago, I probably would not have answered because until recently, I was not a fan of the SPF products on the market. Like you said, they tend to make you look chalky and I feel that makeup doesn’t sit or blend well over it. I am not suggesting that you shouldn't use an SPF. In fact, I strongly recommend that women apply sunscreen daily to protect the skin and prevent skin damage.

I’ve found an amazing product by Josie Maran Cosmetics that I love! It will not make you look chalky and your makeup will blend nicely and stay true to its color. Argan Oil Daily Moisturizer with SPF 40 blocks all the harmful UVA and UVB rays - but this product is different as it contains Argan Oil which repairs and reverses damage caused by the sun, fights signs of aging and improves skin tone for a radiant, renewed complexion. Oh, and one more thing - you can use it as a primer as well! Need I say more?

Thanks for visiting Makeup Mondays with Mario!

xo,

Mario

 Got a question for Mario? Email your makeup and skin care queries to spoiledprettyquestions@gmail.com, and check back next Monday to read Mario's expert advice!

Hawaiian Tropic Shimmer Effect Lotions Giveaway!

Unless you want to look like Magda from There’s Something About Mary in 30 years, sunscreen is a necessity – especially in the summertime. But who actually applies it on the regular? Problem is that we ladies spend lots of time and oodles of money protecting our pretty faces, yet neglect the rest of our bodies. Sunscreen becomes an afterthought because it’s utilitarian. It's boring. It’s not sexy. Well, until now, that is...

I just discovered a new line of products that gives new meaning to “hot fun in the summertime.” Hawaiian Tropic Shimmer Effect Lotion Sunscreens, available in SPF 20 and 40, contain prestige minerals that add a soft, subtle sheen to enhance and highlight skin tone while providing broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. The rich and creamy formula features skin-nourishing antioxidants and Hawaiian Tropic’s signature coconut scent. The Shimmer Effect Coconut Papaya After Sun Lotion is infused with Aloe Vera and Cocoa, Shea and Mango butters, and is great for everyday use.

The shimmer that these products leave on your skin looks so good that, last week, I applied the After Sun Lotion post-shower…and I had absolutely nowhere to go. Seriously, I just sat on the sofa marveling at my shimmery skin.

On a level of 1 to 10 (1 being blah, bare skin and 10 being J.Lo), the Shimmer Effect Lotions deliver a level 6 shimmer. They’re workplace and weekend appropriate. And - as if you needed one more reason to open your wallet - they’re only $8 each!

When a product blows me away, I can’t keep it to myself. Which is why I’m posting this glowing review…and hooking one Spoiled Pretty reader up! Sharing is caring, as they say. One of you will receive all three products, plus a gold Hawaiian Tropic tote bag to, er, tote your beauty booty.

To enter, follow me on Twitter (I'm @spoiledpretty), then tweet this message:

Follow @spoiledpretty & RT to enter to win Hawaiian Tropic Shimmer Effect Lotions & gift bag! http://tinyurl.com/42y7ksx

#giveaway #freebie

The deadline is Tuesday, June 14 at noon ET. I'll choose one winner- and will DM them to contact me with their mailing address. Contest is open to U.S. residents only. Good luck!

Lavanila Healthy Sunscreen SPF 40 For Face Giveaway Winners!

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and I know four Spoiled Pretty readers who are ready to have some (safe) fun in the sun. I'm talking about fireball1212, Minchi, ruthing73, Sarah D. -  because they've just won Lavanila's new Healthy Sunscreen SPF 40 For Face!

Traditional sunscreens use harsh chemicals like PABA, oxybenzone, parabens, nanoparticles, synthetic fragrance and phthalates, which can accumulate in the bloodstream and cause irritation or allergic reactions. Lavanila’s Healthy Sunscreen is 100% natural, completely free of chemicals and infused with a superior complex of skin-saving vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Plus, it's perfect for sensitive skin, this fragrance-free, ultra-sheer formula glides on smoothly with no white residue for the ultimate in natural SPF protection.

Merci to Lavanila for sponsoring this green giveaway.

Lavanila Healthy Sunscreen SPF 40 For Face Giveaway!

Today is Earth Day and next month is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month. So to celebrate the present and prepare you for the future, Spoiled Pretty is partnering with Lavanila for a giveaway.

Four readers will win Lavanila's new Healthy Sunscreen SPF 40 For Face, a highly nourishing and safe alternative to chemical-laden formulas. Developed with a new generation of natural mineral sunscreens that offer superior protection from harmful UVA/UVB rays, this multi-tasking formula is packed with youth-promoting antioxidants and immune supporting botanicals for daily protection and nourishment. Perfect for sensitive skin, this fragrance-free, ultra-sheer formula glides on smoothly with no white residue for the ultimate in natural SPF protection.

Traditional sunscreens use harsh chemicals like PABA, oxybenzone, parabens, nanoparticles, synthetic fragrance and phthalates, which can accumulate in the bloodstream and cause irritation or allergic reactions. Lavanila’s Healthy Sunscreen is 100% natural, completely free of chemicals and infused with a superior complex of skin-saving vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

The Healthy Sunscreen SPF 40 For Face contains:

• Titanium Dioxide: This FDA-approved natural broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) physical sunscreen is derived from white earth minerals that reflect, block and scatter sunlight
• Zinc Oxide: This FDA approved sunscreen is nature’s broadest spectrum UVA and UVB absorber
• Shea Butter: Derived from the shea nut tree, this butter moisturizes, softens and protects dry, damaged skin
• Green Tea: A powerful antioxidant, Green Tea is known to help fight free radical damage

From nourishing botanicals and healing minerals to chemical-free UV protection, Lavanila Healthy Sunscreen offers an array of skin-healthy benefits:

• Protection against harmful UVA & UVB rays that can cause sunburn, cell damage, dryness, roughness, and premature signs of age such as fine lines
• Youth-promoting antioxidants, botanicals and amino acids that hydrate and replenish delicate skin
• Non-coated minerals that maximize healing and provide antibacterial, anti-microbial protection
• Non-comedogenic
• Clinically tested
• Biodegradable
• No animal testing
• NO: Oxybenzone, Nanoparticles, Fragrance, Parabens, PABA or Phthalates

The Healthy Sunscreen SPF 40 For Face ($28) is available at Sephora and lavanila.com.

To enter the giveaway, leave a message in the comments section; make sure to leave your email or another way for me to get in touch, just in case you get lucky. Contest is open to U.S. residents only. The giveaway ends at noon (EST) on Thursday, April 29, 2010. Good luck!

And don't forget to enter Spoiled Pretty's other Earth Day-inspired beauty giveaways!

Five Ways To Sneak SPF Into Your Beauty Routine This Winter

Winter is almost upon us. By now, you’ve likely packed away your swimsuits, shorts and tank tops. But I hope that your sunscreen didn’t go into hibernation with your summer clothes.

UV radiation doesn’t take a vacation – and while not as intense in the wintertime, it still poses a threat. In fact, the reflection of the sun’s rays off of snow, sand, water, concrete and buildings can still cause damage to your skin.

Luckily for you, I’ve found five products that make it easy to sneak sun protection into your beauty routine:

Hissyfit Saving Face Anti-Aging Foundation provides flawless foundation coverage with a SPF 50+, broad spectrum protection from the sun’s damaging UVA/UVB rays. Water-resistant, Saving Face is perfect for protecting skin after exfoliation, dermabrasion or chemical peels. And it gets major props for its wide range of shades. Brown skinned beauties, rejoice!

L’Oreal Skin Genesis SPF 15 Lotion is one of the rare facial moisturizers I can use during the summer and winter. I love how my skin literally drinks it in. When I apply the lotion after exfoliating, better shield your eyes because my skin is positively luminescent.

My favorite bronzer is LORAC TANtalizer Baked Matte Satin Bronzer SPF15, which has a mineral-based, baked formula that goes on silky-smooth for a glow that lasts. It can be used wet or dry, depending on the intensity you desire, and is great for contouring and highlighting. It might just be the best bronzer I've ever used – and now that the summer glow has faded from your face, I suggest you invest in it too.

It’s Hissyfit to the rescue, again. Their Handy Work Anti-Aging Hand Cream is a luxuriously moisturizing cream that offers SPF 30+ UVA/UVB protection, and smells of orange and mint.

Carmex Moisture Plus Ultra Hydrating Lip Balm has nourishing emollients that penetrate to soothe, heal and prevent dry lips. It has SPF 15, but you’d never know because it doesn’t taste or smell sunscreeny. The satin gloss looks great by itself or as a final finish over your lip color.

This post is sponsored by Carmex Moisture Plus ultra hydrating lip balm. More than lip balm, learn Carmex secrets, tips, & ideas here.

Hissyfit Giveaway

Not much makes me happier than giving away my favorite beauty products. So without further ado, I present another Spoiled Pretty giveaway!

This week, I'm partnering with Hissyfit, an Australian line that straddles makeup and skincare. The products deliver 3-in-1 treatment benefits in the form of powerful anti-aging, advanced sun protection and luxurious formulations that wear comfortably and smell divine!

Two lucky readers will win:

Lip Service Anti-Aging Lip Balm: This feather-light lip balm with SPF 50+ broad spectrum protection is the perfect skincare and cosmetic product in one. Wear it alone for gorgeous, glossy, natural lips. Or layer over your favorite lipstick for a soft, supple kissable finish.

Body Double Anti-Aging Body Moisturizer: This advanced natural body lotion provides intense hydration, beautiful fragrance (think a delicate blend of vanilla, almond, orange and grapefruit) and SPF 30+ broad spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection.

To enter the giveaway, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read "Hissyfit Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Tuesday, August 11th. Two winners will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Wednesday, August 12th, I'll announce the winners' names. Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. residents.

Good luck!

Stranded On A Deserted Island: Make Sure To Have A Hissyfit

As a beauty aficionado, I get asked a plethora of product-related questions. The most common query being which products I'd want with me if a three-hour tour turned into an episode of Lost. As my beauty faves change, so do my 'stranded on a deserted island' picks. Well, now I'm adding Hissyfit to the list.

Hissyfit is a new range from Australia that straddles makeup and skincare. The line delivers 3-in-1 treatment benefits in the form of powerful anti-aging, advanced sun protection and luxurious formulations that wear comfortably and smell divine!

Products include:

Saving Face Anti-Aging Foundation: This natural anti-aging foundation provides flawless foundation coverage with a SPF 50+, broad spectrum protection from the sun’s damaging UVA/UVB rays. Water-resistant, Saving Face is perfect for protecting skin after exfoliation, dermabrasion or chemical peels.

Body Double Anti-Aging Body Moisturizer: This advanced natural body lotion provides intense hydration, beautiful fragrance (think a delicate blend of vanilla, almond, orange and grapefruit) and SPF 30+ broad spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection.

Handy Work Anti-Aging Hand Cream: This luxuriously moisturizing anti-aging hand cream offers SPF 30+ UVA/UVB protection, and smells of orange and mint.

Lip Service Anti-Aging Lip Balm: This feather-light lip balm with SPF 50+ broad spectrum protection is the perfect skincare and cosmetic product in one. Wear it alone for gorgeous, glossy, natural lips. Or layer over your favorite lipstick for a soft, supple kissable finish.

I'm particularly impressed by how delightful and un-sunscreeny these skin savers smell. And the Saving Face Foundation gets major props for its wide range of shades. Brown skinned beauties, rejoice!

Hissyfit is sold at dermstore.com and hissyfit.com.

Summer Beauty Staples Giveaway Winner

Drumroll please...the winner of Spoiled Pretty's Summer Beauty Staples Giveaway is Andrea Lurie. Yay!

Andrea will receive Clinique Sun with SolarSmart line of sunscreens, ModelCo Body Meringue and Shimmer Airbrush Illuminiser, Philosophy's Never Let Them See You Shine oil-control products, Secret Clinical Waterproof Antiperspirant and Deodorant, and Fresh Citron de Vigne Eau de Parfum. Whew...that was a mouthful.

Many, many thanks to Clinique, ModelCo, Philosophy, Secret and Fresh for providing products for my latest NBC 10! Show appearance - and for generously donating an extra set of everything to offer this giveaway to Spoiled Pretty readers!

This was one of the most highly coveted prizes yet - but, alas, there could be only one winner (lucky Andrea). But if you didn't win, don't despair. Every week, there's another amazing weekly giveaway...so there's always another chance to get spoiled pretty.

Pretty Nifty: Do My Back

Add this to your list of summer beauty essentials...

Do My Back ($22) is designed for you to easily and thoroughly apply sunscreen, self tanner, moisturizer or shower gel to your own back with ease. Simply pour your product onto the pad and do your back! The ergonomic feel, extendable handle, and unique swivel movement of the head make it easy and comfortable to reach every part of your back...and your arms and legs too! Do My Back has been designed to use folded and unfolded, giving you the easiest, most thorough, fluid and clean application. It's the perfect addition to your beach, pool, spa or bath experience.

Do My Back is available at domyback.com, and will make its HSN debut on June 8, 2009.

Summer Beauty Staples on the NBC 10! Show

Watch my latest NBC 10! Show appearance to hear about my favorite summer beauty staples!

Every member of the studio audience went home with a few product samples. But before you get all "where can I get me a 10! show ticket?" - just relax. How could you think I would forget about my online amigas?

If you don't know me by now, you will never never never know me...

This week, I'm gifting one of you with a plethora of products that will help you beat the heat and keep you looking hot all summer long!

Clinique Sun with SolarSmart is a new line of sunscreens that protect against both UVA and UVB rays. The formula is non-greasy, oil-free, water and sweat resistant, yet appropriate for sensitive skin. The range includes: SPF 30 Face Cream, SPF 50 Face Cream, SPF 30 Body Cream, SPF 50 Body Cream, SPF 15 Face/Body Cream, SPF 25 Body Spray, SPF 45 Targeted Protection Stick, and Rescue Balm with Aloe.

ModelCo Body Meringue Bronze Glow is an instant bronze shimmer and gradual self-tanner, in a mousse formula. This weightless foam firms the skin while offering a light buildable, natural tan. After smoothing the foam on, a light instant bronze appears so you can see exactly where you've applied. And over the next few hours, your tan gradually deepens. The best thing about Body Meringue, IMO, is it's skin firming properties; it contains an ingredient that helps minimize the appearance of cellulite. Can you even? And if you want to kick your tan up a notch, mist on ModelCo’s Shimmer Airbrush Illuminiser over tanned skin for a sparkly effect. My little secret tip is to spray it in your hair, which looks beyond amazing on all hair colors!

If the Philadelphia heat and humidity turn your face into an oil slick, I feel you. I get shiny too, and it’s very embarrassing and it’s a high-maintenance situation. Philosophy’s Never Let Them See You Shine line of skincare products are specifically designed to control oil. The Cleanser deep cleans pores and the Scrub gently exfoliates. The Primer creates a matte finish, and can be applied on bare skin or mixed with foundation.

Secret Clinical Waterproof Antiperspirant and Deodorant offers all-day protection through heat and humidity, or after being in the water. So it’s ideal in the city, at the pool, or at the shore. The formula is skin soothing, and Secret Clinical Waterproof is designed with two-click applicator to ensure that the right amount of product is delivered to the underarm area with each use.

In the summertime, you want to choose a lighter fragrance because heavier winter scents can become cloying in the warmer months. I’ve found the perfect summer scent: Citron de Vigne Eau de Parfum by Fresh. Inspired by France’s Champagne region, the fragrance has crisp, lemony top notes, a heart of pinot noir and an earthy base. Citron de Vigne is unisex, so buy a bottle and your entire household can share!

This prize is worth over $360!

To enter, send an email to spoiledprettycontests@gmail.com. Be sure to include your full name and mailing address. The subject line should read "Summer Beauty Staples Giveaway." The contest ends at midnight (EST) on Monday, June 1st. One winner will be chosen at random from among the entrants. On Tuesday, June 2nd, I'll announce the winner's name. Please, only one entry per person; duplicate entries will not increase your chances of winning. Contest is open to U.S. and Canadian residents.

Good luck!

Recessionista's Fabuless Pick of the Week: Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Moisturizing Gel Oil

Palmer's new Cocoa Butter Formula Moisturizing Gel Oil with SPF 15 is an all-over-body gel with a unique, fast-absorbing formula that can be used on dry skin or after a shower or bath. It not only leaves skin with a hydrating sheen, but aids in protecting against sun’s most harmful rays, every day, with an SPF 15 formula.

For more video product reviews and tips, click here for Spoiled Pretty TV.