When it comes to applying makeup, the hardest part is making it look even.  To help achieve a flawless face try using the secret weapon of many a Hollywood makeup artist: the Beautyblender.  This spongy, makeup applicator is perfect for creating a perfect blend and professional finish - without leaving streaks.  Its shape and texture are what make it so effective.  The pointy side is best for areas that are difficult like around your nose, mouth and eyes.  The round base is great for blending on your forehead, cheeks and chin. The Beautyblender is non-allergenic, latex and odor free and can be used for wet or dry makeup.  You can find the Beautyblender for $22 at Beautymark in Yaletown.  For more info or to watch application videos and learn some cool techniques, you can visit their site atwww.beautyblender.ca.

If you can’t afford to visit a manicurist or don’t have the time; then I recommend getting yourself the Almond Oil Nail & Cuticle Pen from The Body Shop.  Made with almond oil and organic soy oil this pen provides essential fatty acids to help repair your skin’s moisture.  It’s full of organic ingredients to aid in conditioning nails and cuticles with a simple brush applicator. An added bonus is the lid can be used as a cuticle pusher.  This pen is perfect for creating and maintaining strong, healthy nails with soft cuticles and whiter tips.

For a reasonable $12 you can own your very own cuticle pen from The Body Shop.  The size and shape make for a perfect fit in practically any purse.  So the next time you’re waiting for a friend or sitting on the skytrain thinking of how to pass the time, just whip out your pen and show your cuticles you care!

I believe every girl should have a signature fragrance; a perfume you are known for wearing.  I myself rotate between two: COCO Mademoiselle by Chanel and Bleu by Paul & Joe.  I bought Bleu at the Paul & Joe boutique in Paris a few years back.  It’s an older perfume that’s definitely different.  It has a strong, distinct scent but it’s one I find unmatchable.  My Father bought me COCO Mademoiselle two years ago and I’ve been obsessed ever since!  I wear it almost everyday and get endless compliments from those around me.  It’s a light, floral fragrance that has a soft sweetness to it.  COCO has an air of sophistication that is perfect for any girl who is sassy and classy!

It takes time to find a scent to call your own – especially one you won’t get tired of smelling each day.  I recommend heading down to Holt Renfrew, or your local department store and spend a good hour soaking up the scents.  Don’t trust those paper sticks either; you HAVE to try on the perfume.  Each scent smells different when you apply them to the skin.  If you’re out and about and smell someone nice, don’t be afraid to ask them what scent they’re wearing.  It’s definitely hard finding a signature scent; but once you do it’s well worth the effort.  You can’t rush good taste, or rather smell…

One of the best ways to keep skin looking its best is to exfoliate.  It helps rid you of those rough, dry patches and leaves you with smoother, softer skin.  One of my weekly treats is using the Microdelivery exfoliating wash by Philosophy.  It’s like having a peel, but in the comfort of your own home – and for a fraction of the price!  Philosophy products are great for your skin because they aren’t too harsh or drying, they help retain your skins moisture.  This exfoliating wash is no exception.  The exfoliating beads don’t scratch your skin; you’re left with soft, radiant skin that isn’t raw.  You can find this magic in a bottle at Sephora and Beautymark for around $40

Get your heads out of the gutter!  I’m talking about Blo Blow Dry Bar’s latest location in the Golden Gate City!  San Francisco, California opened its doors this week to its very first Blo Bar!  Since it’s the season for road trips I think San Francisco should be first on everyone’s list.  You’ve got GREAT shopping; fabulous food and now you have your trusty blo bar close by!  I really could have used a blo out 3 years ago when I arrived in San Francisco for Spring Break.  I had just spent 17 hours in a Corolla with my Mother, 2 Aunts and my Cousin!  So if you’re down in San Fran anytime soon you MUST stop by for a blo out at 2167 Union Street (at Fillmore) 415-655-9886.  Visit www.blomedry.com for more info.

Butter London nail lacquer is made by Butter London, which is a 3-Free makeup company based out of the UK.  3 Free means their products do not include formaldehyde, toluene and DBP (3 chemicals commonly found in makeup), so you don’t have to compromise your health for beauty. With a color range as eccentric as the names themselves you’re guaranteed to find a shade for every mood and outfit.  I recommend trying Artful Dodger, Frilly Knickers, and my personal fave: Henley Regatta – which is a fusion of green and blue glitter.  An added bonus is the shape, being square they stack up nicely and make my counter less cluttered! You can find Butter London nail lacquer for $17 a bottle at Beautymark in Yaletown.

Greasy hair be gone!  If you’re anything like me you cherish a blo out.  I try to make them last as long as I can, but after a few days the grease and shine creep up on you!  My stylist recommended this fabulous product by Kevin Murphy called Fresh Hair.  It’s a dry shampoo that gives the effect of freshly washed hair.  It helps remove any grease, shine, odor, plus adds a little volume to your troubled tresses.  Simply spray a light mist on your roots and hair lines and then wipe it off with the towel provided. It costs $22 for the bottle and towel.  You can read more about Kevin Murphy products and find a list of salons in town that carry his products at www.kevinmurphy.com.au.

If you wanted to get a set of lashes at Noir Lash Lounge but have been too afraid, now’s your chance to try one of the hottest trends in the city.  Noir Lash lounge is offering a service called “Le Fling”.  It’s a half set of lashes that are placed on the outer corners of your eye and tapered in to blend.  The end result is flirty, natural and super subtle lashes.  It’s a fabulous way to see your lash potential.  For only $35 you can have a spring fling at Noir Lash lounge.  For more information visit their Yaletown or South Granville location or their website at noirlashlounge.com.

Pit stains are the pits.  We’ve all been there, no matter how much we deny it, WE’VE ALL BEEN THERE!  Doesn’t matter if you sweat a little too much, or the shirt you’re wearing is too thin, the outcome is the same.  To break free from your perilous pits try Behind the Seams, a product made by Hollywood Fashion Tape.  They’re a great company that makes insanely helpful products that hide what you don’t want seen.  Their double-sided fashion tape is a godsend, but every woman should own Behind the Seams.  It’s perfect for everyday use, or special events.

Inside this adorable box are 12 self-adhesive, disposable pads that you put on to protect your clothing from sweat and odor.  They’re made with a unique moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabric that’s so soft to the touch you can barely feel them on.  You can find Behind the Seams at BeautyMark in Yaletown for around $19 a box.  So no more armpit checks at parties, you are now free to put your arms in the air like you just don’t care!

Not all of us can roll out of bed with a perfect complexion; that’s why the makeup gods created concealer.  If you wake up with dark circles or have a blemish you need to hide pronto, concealer is your best friend.  I had tried numerous brands, but had yet to find one that had complete and flawless coverage.  In need of some new brands to try, I went to the experts at BeautyMark and was recommended the Sensual Skin Enhancer by Kevyn Aucoin.

Where has this concealer been all my life?!  This is without a doubt the best one I’ve tried.  My first thoughts were that it was a lot thicker and had a different texture to it compared to its competitors.  I love that this can also be used as a foundation or highlighter; giving you maximum coverage that leaves skin looking flawless.  Now this concealer retails for about $56 a jar, but don’t worry it will last you a long time because you only need to use the tiniest amount. The Sensual Skin Enhancer comes in 15 shades and is available at BeautyMark.  Just remember that a little dab goes a long way!

It’s a beautiful day for a facial don’t you think?  Get your butt down to Kiss & Makeup on the North Shore today.  Their fabulous staff will be giving free facials, administering a little Skoah inspired TLC.  There will also be a draw for a fabulous gift basket filled with Skoah goodies!  You are more than welcome to drop by, but to guarantee a spot phone ahead to book an appointment at 604-922-6292.

When it comes to choosing cosmetics and beauty products, going to big department stores can be overwhelming – especially if you’re after niche labels.  You’re better off trying boutiques like BeautyMark in Yaletown or Beauty Bar on West 4^th.  Beauty Bar is owned by Tasleem Suleman; she opened her doors in the chic Kitsilano neighbourhood back in 2005.  Suleman has created a welcoming and stylish environment.  Beauty bar carries the best in luxury brands with natural ingredients; it’s all about quality over quantity.  They carry cosmetics, accessories, soaps and beauty products they can stand behind.  Helping each customer to find what works best for them – even if they don’t carry it.  I love their high-spirited staff who are always amazing at creating a stress-free shopping experience.  A few of the labels you can find at Beauty Bar include Paul & Joe, Agent Provocateur, Pink Sugar, Kai and Herve Gamb.  They even carry men’s products, so no more drugstore shaving foam for the man in your life.  Whether you’re looking to spoil yourself or to get a gift for someone else, Beauty Bar is definitely worth checking out.   Get down to Beauty Bar today; it’s an addiction that’s actually good for your body!

If you’ve fought with frizzy hair or are looking to condition dry, damaged locks then you need to try Living Proof hair products.  It’s a revolutionary hair care line that de-frizzes, conditions, adds shine to and protects your hair from dirt and even the rain.  Living Proof was created by MIT professor Dr. Bob Langer and Dr. Dan Anderson.  Instead of using the standard method for creating beauty products they went against the grain and worked with what they knew best – physics.  Living Proof uses advanced technology to help make any hair type resistant to humidity.  What’s amazing about Living Proof is that it makes a whole bunch of products to suit all hair types.  You can find Living Proof at Sephora, prices range anywhere form $15-$50.

Alright ladies it’s time to get personal – VERY personal.  Today I’m talking about taking care of your nether regions.  This post is all about products to help keep your lady bits fresh. Local gal Ritz Clinging has created a fantastic line of feminine care products called I Love My Muff.  The entire line is made with all-natural, non-toxic, vegan ingredients.  There isn’t a single chemical or petroleum based preservative to be found.  Which is important because your skin soaks up what you put on it, so chemical free products are a pretty good idea.  I Love My Muff is jam-packed full of fresh, clean and natural components to help your hoo-haw stay fresh, clean and natural.

Ritz saw a serious lack in feminine care products that fit in with today’s modern woman.  So she set out to create her own line of trendy feminine cleaners; all so other women can show their vajayjay’s some lovin’.  Each product is handmade in Canada with beneficial essential oils, which work for all skin types.  But don’t take my word for it, I Love My Muff products are selling like hotcakes in a teeny, tiny store in New York called HENRY BENDEL!!!!!

For Ritz it’s all about loving your body and taking care of it, so head down to Kiss & Makeup in West Vancouver, or check out www.ilovemymuff.com and treat your lady bits to the freshest products on the market!  Prices range from $18-$35, I recommend the muff maintenance kit.  It comes with washes, sprays, lotions and wipes.  It’s perfect for taking on vacation, that way you can still feel fresh when you’re not at home.

For all those die hard Principessa fans you’ll want to head down to Kiss & Makeup in West Vancouver today because Trish Lucarino, founder of Principessa, will be in-store from 2-5pm!  Trish will be around to talk to customers about her fantastic beauty products.  Kiss&Makeup also has a great offer on right now; if you spend $40 on Principessa products you’ll receive either a Principessa Think Pink water bottle or a fabulous reusable Principessa carry bag!

Principessa is all about indulging yourself with luxurious products.  They’re great for giving yourself a spa treatment in the comfort of your own home.  They make body washes, soaps, lotions, lip balms, candles and shampoo & conditioners. The line is free of petroleum and parabens, is completely biodegradable and the packaging is recyclable.  The most important part is Principessa contains organic ingredients, so you are truly nourishing your body.  I love the packaging of Principessa, the pink is beyond cute and really adds to the “Italian Princess” theme.

For more information or to check out the products you can visit the Principessa website.  But get your but down to Kiss & Makeup in West Vancouver to meet Trish today!

If you’re sick of waking up with tangled, messy hair then I suggest you buy Good Hair Dayz satin pillowcases.  As we all know I love Blo Blow Dry Bar.  I was there last week for my bi-monthly blo out when I spotted the pillowcases at the cash desk.  I asked about them and was told they would help my blo out last longer, so I picked one up.

I slipped on my new satin pillowcase right before bed and when I awoke the next morning my hair was as luscious as the night before!  No tangles, no knots, no messy, banshee hair that I usually have.  It was smooth, shiny and fabulous. I was amazed.  The satin prevents hair from being pulled and tugged at while you sleep, which is what happens with cotton cases.  It also creates a buffer for your hair which keeps it looking better for longer.  The cases come in a cute little organza bag, so you can take it with you when you travel.  They come in white and brown, are made in Canada, are machine washable and fit a standard queen size pillow.

I have to add that sleeping on satin pillowcases is divine, plus they’re perfect for keeping cool on those hot nights.  Good Hair Dayz satin pillowcases are a great gift for any man or woman in your life, in my case it was a great gift to myself.  They cost around $30 and are available at any Blo Blow Dry Bar; you can visit their website for their locations.

*Photo courtesy of Cory Dawson Photography.

Ever feel like your lashes are lackluster?  Feel like your eyes could do with a little more oomph?  Then I recommend you book an appointment at the uber popular Noir Lash Lounge in Yaletown.  They’re the only place in Vancouver that focuses solely on semi-permanent eyelash extensions.   Lash extensions are huge in Asia and Europe, and business has been booming in Vancouver since Joyce Cajucom opened Noir’s doors last March.

Noir offers full sets or fills with over a hundred styles to choose from.  The whole process takes about an hour and costs $60 per full set, lasting anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks.  It’s an affordable price with uncompromised quality; you won’t believe your eyes – literally!  Having to put your own lashes on is time consuming and tricky – and that’s WITH a steady hand.  At Noir they have trained professionals who attach lashes individually using a specially made adhesive.  The end results are flirty, fabulous lashes that are done right.  With Noir’s services you’ll have luscious lashes every morning.

This Thursday they’ll be opening up lounge number two on South Granville right next door to Pure Nail Bar and around the corner from Blo Blow Dry Bar.   It’s going to be the hottest beauty block in Vancouver.  Think about it, you can start your day off with some shopping, then get your nails done, have your hair blown out, and top it off by getting your lashes attached at Noir Lash Lounge.  For more information or to make an appointment you can check out their website at www.noirlashlounge.com.

We all have a certain store we’re addicted to.  Every time we pass by, we have to drop in and see what’s new.  Then we buy what’s new – along with a few other items.  I call these our happy-time stores.  Because no matter how badly your day is going, you know you can count on them to cheer you up.  My happy place is Beautymark.  I’m like a bratty kid in a candy store when I’m there; I have to touch and have everything!

Don’t let the name fool you either, they carry more than just makeup.  They have hair products, creams, cleansers, clothing, purses, shoes, perfume, jewellery, accessories, and oodles more.  If you’re looking for funky new products to try, or the latest in celebrity must-haves Beauytmark is the place to go.  One thing that separates them from those big, bad, chain stores is in order to work at Beautymark you must be a certified make-up artist.

They also focus on non-mass marketed brands and are constantly receiving new inventory, so there’s always fresh stock on the shelves for you to rifle through.  Brands include: Philosophy, Bumble & Bumble, Principessa, Mimi&Marge, Plush, Butter London, Pyrrha and mountains of others.  If you can’t make it out to the store don’t fret.  You can still shop till you drop from the comfort of your own home.  Beautymark has an online store and it’s just as dangerous as being there in person.