When I was given the chance to write a post about Neutrogena Naturals, an eco-friendly skincare line, I was extremely excited. I am very much an advocate for being eco-conscious, and I love everything outdoors. When it comes to my skin, going as natural as possible is one of my biggest concerns. Our skin is delicate, and often times skincare with harsh chemicals and preservatives in them can irritate our skin with or without us knowing it. This Neutrogena Naturals line is a fabulous alternative to products with harsh dyes, chemicals, and preservatives in them, and the line has something for every skincare need. I am going to be taking you through seven of the products in this line, giving you my thoughts on each. Also, these products came in an amazing goodie bag, and I want to share the other pieces that came with it, and my thoughts on those, too. For plenty of eco-friendly yummy goodness, read more…

I typically don’t blog on the weekends, not because I don’t have plenty to blog about, but because I enjoy clearing my brain during the weekend and tapping into my creativity through relaxation. I end up feeling really refreshed and ready to start the week by Sunday night because I miss posting on here! I decided to start a “Weekend Style,” column where I post random musings, as well as what I did that weekend, and even recent style purchases. I know this is a beauty website but it seems like fashion and beauty sing perfect harmonies together so I figured I’d include it. This morning, I woke up early to attend a self-defense class at a martial arts center with a few other ladies. I’ve never been to one before, or even considered it, but it was incredibly educational, and I walked away feeling even more confident than usual. To read more about my self-defense class, two recent style purchases (neon, of course!), and my new hair color, read more…

Talk about high-tech beauty! Salma Hayek’s beauty line, Nuance, contains this neat little lip quad. This little pod, and yes, I want to call it a pod, contains four lip colors. I decided to go with Warm since my complexion typically does better with warm shades. What I like about the Nuance brand is that everything is made with wonderful ingredients such as Vitamin E and Macadamia Seed Oil. Also, everything is paraben-free and not tested on animals, so it is perfect for those who are searching for a cruelty-free brand. To take a peek into this cool lip contraption, and see swatches, read more…

Another incredibly fun new launch from OPI Nail Lacquer, this time inspired by The Amazing Spider-man movie, set to open July 3rd, 2012 in theaters. I actually saw the preview for this movie while I was waiting to see The Hunger Games, and I have to tell you, I absolutely love Emma Stone. I think she is perfect for the role of Gwen with her girl-next-door likeability. Whether you’re a fan of superhero movies, or you just love nail polish, I think this collection has a little somethin’ somethin’ for everyone.

“OPI is so excited to work with Sony Pictures in welcoming Spider-Man back on the big screen,” explains Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director.  “This film explores a new chapter in the Spider-Man legacy that’s going to be both dark and sexy. The colors created for this promotion capture the movie’s exciting atmosphere, with standout shades like the deep shimmering blue Into the Night and the metallic golden green Just Spotted the Lizard.”

To see photographs and swatches of the full collection, read more…

I was so excited when I received this collection, because who doesn’t love Disney? It’s like hating butterflies, babies, and rainbows! Four shades in playful, pretty hues of red and pink, and you’ve got bold yet feminine nail lacquers.

“OPI is so excited to collaborate with Disney and draw inspiration from one of the world’s most popular characters,” explains Suzi Weiss-Fischmann, OPI Executive VP & Artistic Director.  “This collection brings together the expertise of OPI and the iconic style of Minnie Mouse to inspire the distinct palette of vibrant, feminine shades for summer Nails will pop against summer skin in these classic, saturated hues – holding their own alongside the bold prints of the season.”

With that being said, let’s go ahead and take a look at these four gorgeous shades of nail polish, read more…

Milani Cosmetics has released five new Crystal Gloss shades! The pinks and peach in this collection make me really excited because they’re so sweet and forever classic for the spring and summer, however, there is a surprise stunner in this collection! To see photographs and swatches of the full collection, read more…

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Earth Day 2012, Sensible Six Beauty Products: Makeup

This slideshow shows my top six favorite makeup products that are considered sensible for Earth Day. Some of them are natural and some of them are eco-friendly, but all of them are just plain smart. Click through the photographs to see each product and learn more about them!

The Organic Mascara: Physician's Formula Organic Wear Lash Boosting Mascara

If you've got sensitive eyes, or you wear contact lenses, there is hope for you! Physician's Formula Organic Wear Lash Boosting Mascara is 100% free of harsh chemicals, synthetic preservatives, dyes, and parabens. It also happens to be 100% cruelty-free.

Physician's Formula Organic Wear Lash Boosting Mascara

This mascara is the perfect example of a product where you don't need to sacrifice big lashes for natural ingredients. The large mascara wand enhances your eyelashes, making them look thicker and longer, without damaging them.

The All-in-One Concealer: Miracle Skin Transformer

The Miracle Skin Transformer is a treat and conceal product for your skin that includes natural plant complex and loads of antioxidants for your skin. You can treat, cover, and correct, all at the same time!

Miracle Skin Transformer

The Miracle Skin Transformer comes in shades from light to dark, as well as translucent. It glides over your skin like a concealer, only it feels extremely lightweight. The product covers dark circles, and any pigmentation spots you may have. It feels super smooth when you apply it, and treats your skin concerns while correcting them!

The Natural Flush: Tarte Cosmetics Natural Cheek Stain

Tarte Cosmetics is an overall amazing brand to check out if you love natural cosmetic products. They also happen to be the queen of cheek stains. Their cheek stains are formulated without any parabens, preservatives, mineral oil, and fragrance. Oh, and on top of that, they have a ton of antioxidants in them, making them like a vitamin cocktail for your cheeks!

Tarte Natural Cheek Stain

My particular Tarte Cheek Stain came in a makeup kit, so it is smaller than the full-sized product. The color is rich and luxurious, but also sheer enough to blend out beautifully. A light shimmer ensures that the light will hit your cheeks just right. This is also a wonderful multi-use product that can be used for your lips as well!

The International Lip Balm: The Body Shop Satsuma Shimmer Born Lippy

The Body Shop supports community fair trade, which means they receive the ingredients to make their products from various regions with humane practices. The Satsuma Shimmer Born Lippy contains beeswax from Zambia, Africa, which is completely organic and plays a part in protecting and preserving the forest, as well as providing an income for the beekeepers.

The Body Shop Satsuma Shimmer Born Lippy

This particular lip balm has a hint of shimmer and a splash of zest from natural orange and satsuma oils. Not only will this keep your lips incredibly moisturized, you can feel good knowing that you are supporting fair trade practices, as well as the preservation of fine, exotic, natural ingredients internationally.

The Shadow/Liner Made of Clay: Tarte Cosmetics emphasEYES Waterproof Clay Shadow/Liner

Tarte's emphasEYES Clay Shadow/Liner is a multi-tasking product that won't budge, even under water. It comes in a variety of colors to suit your preferences, and the product is made from all-natural clay.

Tarte Cosmetics emphasEYES Waterproof Shadow/Liner

I chose to go with "Bronze," which is a dark bronze with a hint of golden shimmer. This product can be used as an all-over wash on the eyelid, a crease color, or as an eyeliner. The all-natural clay formula will stay put until you take it off with makeup remover, making it perfect for the hot and humid months ahead.

The Foundation Made of Fruit: 100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20

100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Tinted Moisturizer is 100% vegan and natural, and made from fruit! How cool is that? The ingredient list contains peach, apricot, carrot, pomegranate, rosemary, oregano, and more! The pump application allows you to dispense an exact amount of product, as well, which I love.

100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20

Since this product is a tinted moisturizer, you will be getting more sheer, light coverage. It glides over the skin beautifully while still protecting from the harmful rays of the sun with SPF 20. It is available in different skin shades to suit your complexion, as well.

Beauty Gala's Earth Day 2012 Appreciation

Questions or comments about any of the products listed here? Feel free to comment below. May you have a VERY joyful Earth Day, and don't forget to partake in something, even if it is a small act. Mother Nature will surely appreciate your kindness.

[ALL PHOTOGRAPHY ON THIS SITE IS TAKEN BY REBECCA KAZIMIR. NO PHOTOGRAPHS ARE TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION.]

[This article contains a sample product sent by PR. Beauty Gala's opinions are our own, and we commit ourselves to honesty in our reviews and descriptions at all times. Sample products are not guaranteed a review. For consideration of your product, please send all PR requests to Rebecca@beautygala.com, or by using our Press Inquiry Form.]

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Earth Day 2012, Sensible Six Beauty Products: Hair, Skin, & Nails

This slideshow shows my top six favorite hair, skin, and nail products that are considered sensible for Earth Day. Some of them are natural and some of them are eco-friendly, but all of them are just plain smart. Click through the photographs to see each product and learn more about them!

The Safer Nail Polish: Zoya Nail Lacquer

Zoya Nail Lacquer is toluene, formaldehyde, and dibutyl phthalate free. Using safer nail polish allows you to paint your nails as often as you'd like without worrying about harsh chemicals or irritants, especially if you're pregnant.

The Zoya Badge of Safety

Zoya is considered a safe and healthy polish for pregnant moms and smart women worldwide. This is also great if you have children, such as teenagers, and would prefer them to use safer nail lacquer.

Zoya Beach Collection - Summer 2012

The six-piece Zoya Beach Collection for summer 2012 features bright hues for pretty fingers and toes! I love that this collection mixes brights with pastels.

Zoya Surf Collection - Summer 2012

The Zoya Surf Collection for summer 2012 features shimmering, metallic versions of the previous "Beach Collection." The colors are very similar except that these have a ton of gorgeous shimmer in them.

The Natural Cleanser: Simple Moisturizing Facial Wash

This cleanser contains no perfumes or dyes, as well as vital vitamins and nutrients that your skin needs. If your skin is sensitive or you would prefer to use a face wash with as few additives as possible, this is a great option!

Simple Moisturizing Facial Wash

I stumbled across this face wash in my local drugstore, which happens to be a skincare brand from the United Kingdom. Since this product contains no perfumes or dyes, it is super gentle on your skin.

The Natural Shampoo & Conditioner in One: L'oreal EverCreme Cleansing Conditioner

This brand new product is a shampoo and a conditioner in one. It contains no sulfate, which often only further dries out your hair. This is a low-lathering formula that you place on your scalp and hair, massage in, and then rinse out.

L'oreal EverCreme Cleansing Conditioner

This product not only saves time, but it also saves your hair. The sulfate-free product keeps your hair from dying out, especially if your hair is coarse, curly, or color-treated. I really love this new product and have noticed a huge difference in my hair!

The All-Natural Makeup Primer: Reviva Labs Makeup Primer

Makeup primer is a must-have for applying underneath foundation and/or concealer. This product will fill in lines, conceal pores, and control excess oil. Most makeup primer's break my skin out, but this all-natural formula leaves your skin prepped and primed, smooth as can be, for makeup.

Reviva Labs Makeup Primer

The ingredients in this makeup primer include Vitamin A, Vitamin D3, Olive Oil, and Coenzyme Q10. There are no harsh ingredients like silicone in it which tends to cause breakouts.

The Sea Moisturizer: Gabriel Cosmetics Seaweed Nourishing Moisturizer

This moisturizer is formulated for normal to combination skin, and is super protective for your skin. With blue green algae from the sea and rose hip seed oil, it will smooth your skin and prevent aging.

Global Inspired Natural Beauty: Bella Lucce Tropical Hawaiian Fruit Peel

Bella Lucce is a globally inspired spa and beauty company that creates products from nature around the world. This company has been featured in Vegetarian Times for their cruelty-free, natural products. Every product feels so luxurious and brings the spa to your home. Also, the owner and company is from Columbia, South Carolina, where I reside!

Bella Lucce Tropical Hawaiian Fruit Peel

The beautiful packaging is only half of the luxury. This face peel comes in powder form, which you then mix with some water or warm milk. The attached spa fan brush helps you apply the product. This product can be used on the face and on the body.

Bella Lucce Tropical Hawaiian Fruit Peel

This peel has natural vitamins and enzymes harvested from tropical coconuts, mangoes, papayas, and pineapples. This will purify your skin and transport you to a tropical place. Plus, having the product in powder form means it will last you for a very long time!

Beauty Gala's Earth Day 2012 Appreciation

Questions or comments about any of the products listed here? Feel free to comment below. Stay tuned for a makeup slideshow!

[ALL PHOTOGRAPHY ON THIS SITE IS TAKEN BY REBECCA KAZIMIR. NO PHOTOGRAPHS ARE TO BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT WRITTEN PERMISSION.]

[This article contains a sample product sent by PR. Beauty Gala's opinions are our own, and we commit ourselves to honesty in our reviews and descriptions at all times. Sample products are not guaranteed a review. For consideration of your product, please send all PR requests to Rebecca@beautygala.com, or by using our Press Inquiry Form.]

All hail the glorious shade of tangerine this season! Tangerine, mandarin, coral, and every other shade of orange you can imagine is everywhere this spring and summer. The MAC Cosmetics Très Cheek Collection is a limited edition collection of six blushes, with Modern Mandarin being one of them. I was instantly attracted to this shade the most because I seem to have my eye on everything coral and tangerine lately, and also because it’s very unique to my makeup collection. This shade is so insanely vibrant and pigmented that it can be worn boldly or applied lightly for a beautiful “just-got-back-from-running” flush. To see photographs and cheek swatches, read more…

Every once in awhile, I get hooked on a particular lip product and I find myself using it over and over again without adding in any other variety. I purchased this Maybelline Super Stay 24hr 2-Step Lip Color a few weeks ago, and I thought it would be “just another lip color.” I could not have been more wrong! This shade, Constant Coral, is stunning, and so versatile, and the best part is that it stays put for literally an entire twenty-four hours. I was kind of excited to post this today because I went for a routine dental cleaning this morning, and I was quite nervous. Just fairly normal dentist jitters…but everything looked really good, and I was even able to share my website with the dental hygienist there, Joan, (hello if you’re reading!) who made me feel very much at ease. That being said, I was eager to show off my smile with this dazzling coral shade. To see photographs and swatches, read more…