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The International Language of Love: KissesBy Madelyn Miller, the TravelLadyA kiss is a kiss in any language (except maybe in Alaska where Eskimos rub noses.) But even Eskimos need balm to make their kisses more enticing. They may use some handy whale blubber, but I found an almost infinite selection of interesting flavors and colors to improve my kiss factor. If only I had the right lipstick, I might meet my prince. And after gathering a collection of balms, glosses, lipsticks, pencils, creams, and other powerful potions, I am ready to kiss almost anyone. At first I thought I would see how long they lasted. As a serious eater and traveler, I never seem to have any lipstick left. But this selection came in so many delicious flavors and fragrances, that they could be a meal in themselves. Where to start? With something fresh and minty and then work my way up to the flavors I would consider for dessert. Such a delicious problem to have. I started about a month before Valentine’s Day, never realizing that reviewing and testing and tasting would be such a beautiful, but all consuming task. I decided I needed criteria. How it looks on (I mean isn’t that the main purpose of lipstick after all—to make you look better? How does it feel? Creamy or silky? Gunky or gooey? How long does it last? How interesting is the packaging? I never would have thought of this until I had so many to test. I was charmed by a lip balm on a keychain. Handy. Benefits. I mean does it contain vitamins, exfoliants, or etc. I wish someone would come up with a lipstick that made you loose weight. I would kiss them a zillion times. How well did it do what it promised? I mean if it says it stays on all day, but the color disappears in an hour, that is really disappointing. That seems to be the kind of lipstick I chose in the past. Socially responsible. That may be a big demand on a little tube of lipstick but many companies proudly boast no animal testing or recycled containers. FIRST IMPRESSIONSSince lipstick enhances your first impression, I decided to start there. Some of the balms came in handy containers. Occasionally something was a little awkward to use or hold. I also wanted to see if anyone noticed my “new” mouth decoration. Did I get more kisses? Read on. GRACE PUCK UP LIP SET
You’re ready to be kissed anytime and anywhere. With lip care that is good for the kisser and the one being kissed (since all their products are chemically safe).
According to founder Flora Stay D.D.S, “We are a cause oriented company that provides chemically safe products. Proceeds from sale of the products go for research to affiliated organizations. 888 883-4276 Fax 805-383-3776 BLESSED BALM LIP REVIVAL TREATMENT
Apply generously to lips in need. Wear along or under or over your favorite lip gloss or lipstick. The collection uses essential oils and botanical extracts from flowers, herbs, fruits, leaves and roots. 201-362-5843 PERK UP YOUR POUT WITH DEBRA MACKI’S HINT OF MINT LIP GLOSSES
This collection of high-shine glosses offers a soft palette of colors that feature the invigorating scent and sensation of Spearmint that instantly wakes up tired lips. Whether you wear them alone of over your favorite lipstick, each will make the puniest lips look plum and oh-so-kissable. And when your beau leans in for a smooch, we’re sure he won’t mind when his lips tingle after touching yours. (Skip the Altoids and let your imagination run wild!) The Hint of Mint collection includes:
Not only will the Hint of Mint collection spice up your love life, it might help you save face in the event of a potential career mishap. Couldn’t resist adding garlic powder to your pizza during lunchtime? Simply layer on the color of your choice before that all-important meeting with your boss or before entertaining your agency’s top client: the Spearmint will help you fake fresh breath. When was the last time your lip gloss did that? Of all the lipsticks I tried, this one got the most attention and compliments. An eligible man who never usually talks to me, gave me a compliment (I can only attribute it to the lipstick, nothing else was new or different) I did not kiss him, because I was on the way to a luncheon. But by the end of the luncheon, my lipstick color was gone. I had great sympathy for Cinderella when her carriage turned into a pumpkin at midnight. I did not reapply because I was on to testing another gorgeous product. Each Hint of Mint lip gloss has a suggested retail price of $16. To purchase or find a retail location near you, call 1-800-463-3272 or visit www.debramacki.com Who is the brilliant woman behind all this? Debra Macki is one of Boston’s most sought-after makeup artists. Does her eye makeup take away dark circles and make you feel well-rested. Stay tuned—that is another story. LUSCIOUS LIPSTICKS MAKE YOU FEEL LIKE A KID IN A CANDY STOREFor irresistible lips that taste as good as they look, try Topez Luscious Flavors Lipsticks. They come in Vanilla, Passion Fruit and Praline. A tasty treat for $1.99 each But the prize for best packaging should go to Precious Lips Lip Quad. A gloss-lovers dream it comes complete with a full size mirror, a dual ended brush applicator and four naughty or nice shades for only $3.99. This compact can transform your look from day to play. Benefits besides the flavor selections that sound like something from Baskin Robbins, these fashionable colors are smooth and long-lasting. PUCKER UP AND SAY AHHHH…
The flavors are yummy:
Ripened Mango Lip Balm: Exotic Mango Butter is paired with the pure luxury of Jojoba to smooth and soften dry, cracked skin. Your lips will feel like they’ve spent a week in the islands after this tropical treat that smells good enough to eat!
BODY SYSTEMS LIP BALMS SMELL HEAVENLY
Sniffing around, it was clear the wonderful fragrance came from one box from Body Systems. Interestingly, these products are made fresh each day from only natural exotic organic ingredients. Well, the flavors have fragrances that make me think of Baskin Robbins or a bakery or a flower shop. Sweet and fruity and fresh. And at $3 each, they are less than a Starbucks coffee or a double dip ice cream cone.
sales@body-systems.net 605-484-6742 BODYOLOGY’S LIP BALMS: A GIFT FROM MOTHER NATURE
In severe cases lips can crack and bleed because they are constantly exposed and are one of the most sensitive parts of the body. Petroleum based lip balm just puts a layer of stuff on the lips, it does not put back in the missing triglycerides, fatty acids and Vitamin E needed to prevent chapped lips. Severely chapped lips need Bodyology’s lip balms. Created by Dream Cosmetics Inc., Bodyology’s lip balms are 100% natural and preserved with vitamin E and contain no petroleum chemicals. The newest one, Ultimate Almond flavored lip balm is made with an astronomical amount of antioxidant Vitamin E which reduces free radical damage from sun exposure to the lips and protects lips from harsh elements of wind and cold. The combination of other moisturizing ingredients such as shea butter, aloe and beeswax contribute to the silky smooth texture which protects, rejuvenates and comforts the most dry, cracked lips. There is no color added to the lip balm so it appeals to both men and women. You can use alone for a light shine or as a base for lipstick. GIVE A NO NO KISS WITH ECO LIPS
But the most unique thing of all is the Eco Clip®. It is a key chain-style gripper that attaches easily to your belt, or inside a purse or on a key chain. And in the recycling mode that you would expect from this environmentally friendly company, this top can be used with any of their lip balms. They also offer an Eco Leash® Their yummy products come in flavors like berry and mint and hemp—all infused with organic herbs, vitamins and oils. 1-866-eco-lips SUGAR COAT YOUR WORLD WITH TOUTE SWEET
The formula contains sweeteners and a different fragrance for each shade of the five shades. The easy to apply formula self-levels out for an even glazed look without striation and conditions lips. Don’t these sound delicious? You will want to lick your lips even if no one is around to kiss. A no calorie treat for $6 each. Sugared Almond (pink-gold shimmer) Buttercream (pale champagne shimmer) Crème Caramel (rosy mauve shimmer) Chocolate Fondue (golden copper shimmer) Marshmallow (rosy pink shimmer) This company also makes Fresh Kiss which helps you stay kissable and minty fresh for hours. This lightweight creamy lipstick is the perfect combination of color, coverage and refreshing fragrance for a burst of flavor in every kiss. This full-sized stick is packaged in a petite case so it is easy to carry even in the smallest purse. The lipstick is lightweight, gives medium-to-full coverage with a creamy feel. Fragranced with mint for a refreshing experience and it contains special micro-carriers, known to enhance the activity of fragrance and conditioners. Made with Spearmint Oil (which is known to be refreshing, uplifting and stimulating) and jojoba oil, vitamin E and aloe to condition, soothe and moisturize lips. 1-800 meet-mark DICK WOULD ALWAYS SMILE FOR JANE
These were my four favorites: *Jane ColorSticks and Lip Color in “Siren”—this liner and lipstick in one is quick, easy and long-lasting.($3.99) The hydrating formula with natural emollients increases fullness of lips, smoothes wrinkles, and conditions lips and keeps them smooth and soft.
Jane Lip Huggers Lipstick in “Plum Perfect” –The high sheen of this lipstick attracts the glance of perfect strangers and keeps your lips kissably soft. ($3.69) Jane Lipkick Lipstick in “Firetruck”—This traditional lipstick is anything but boring with its red-hot color and luxurious texture.($4.49) THERE IS ANOTHER JANE WHO FOCUSES ON FLOWERS THIS SPRING
Known as The Skin Care Makeup, the Jane Iredale line is so safe and beneficial to use that it is recommended by Plastic Surgeons and Dermatologists throughout the world. Jane's line is a highly-sophisticated blend of minerals and pigments which are micro-pulverized, using proprietary technology and processes to form microscopic flat crystals. These crystals overlap each other on the skin to form a filter that allows the skin to breathe and function normally while still protecting it from air-borne pollutants. The staying power of the minerals is so great that they rarely need a touch-up during the day. And because these silky-feeling powders are water resistant, they won't crease or smear even during the most strenuous exercise. These state-of-the-art minerals are available in so many colors that there's one for every complexion no matter what the ethnicity. I tried the PureMoist LipColour ($19) in Carrie. It layered well. I also tried Jane Iredale’s Pure Gloss for Lips($19) in Candied Rose. The colors are intense and long lasting because of the saturation of pigments. Jane Iredale has one of the most informative websites. They emphasize the dangers of sun exposure without just focusing on their product. VICTORIA’S SECRET FOR KISSING
And no surprise that their products are as tantalizing as the lingerie. Even the name sounds erotic—Beauty Rush. Give in to your beauty addiction with Beauty Rush, a hot new collection of beauty essentials from Victoria’s Secret. With everything from irresistible flavored lip glosses to shine stoppers, lip balms, and more. Beauty Rush feeds your need for all things sexy. Go by the numbers. #1 is Beauty Rush Lip Gloss. High on Shine? These addictive lip candies feature every finish from shimmer to glimmer to all-out crystal gleam. I tried a blush pink color and a rose—but even with my glasses on, I could not read the names. Does it matter? Does it work? I felt very kissable but since I was mostly sitting at my computer writing when I tested it, I wondered if it worked better when you wore the underwear at the same time. #2 is Beauty Rush Minty lip shine This Peppermint Oil-Infused balm leaves lips glossy and hydrated while freshening your breath. #3 is Beauty Rush Soothing Lip Balm. Soften up with this rich, ultra-thick lip balm. With Aloe Vera to smooth and hydrate and Peppermint Oil to calm and soothe. #4 is Beauty Rush Lip Conditioner SPF 16 This sleek stick balm softens, moisturizes and protects lips all day long. A must for every bag. I loved the Vanilla, but it is also available in Watermelon. Available at select Victoria’s Secret stores and www.victoriassecret.com ECCO BELLA’S BEAUTY BOOSTERS
YOU GLO GIRL
INSTANT GRATIFICATION AND CONTINUING IMPROVEMENT
Available at www.cvs.com, www.walgreens.com and many drug stores FOR A PERFECT VALENTINE’S DAY (OR ANY DAY) POUT
Include Aquaphor in your preparations for any big night out. In the morning, gently exfoliate your lips with a soft toothbrush to remove dry skin. Apply a generous amount of Aquaphor to moisturizer during the day. Dermatologist-recommended Aquaphor is an all-purpose healing ointment that effectively heads dry, rough, cracked lips. Aquaphor is proven to soften and heal even the most severely dry, chapped lips. It works by creative a semi-occlusive barrier that protects as it allows a natural passage of air and water to help promote healing. Since it is free of fragrances and preservatives, it will not irritate delicate chapped lips. And for an irresistibly perfect pout for any night try one of these fabulous looks Dramatic—smooth Aquaphor over mate lipstick/line. The result is a dramatic, high gloss shine that protects your lips from chapping in the cold and wind. Natural—wear Aquaphor alone. You’ll achieve a soft, subtle shine and your lips will be moisturized and protected all night. Romantic—apply Aquaphor under a dark lipstick shade. It will create a softer, lighter look and protect your lips from the dehydrating effects of lipstick. Aquaphor is available at drugstores nationwide for $1.99 for .35oz What I learned doing this research? Obviously kissing can be a full time job. And based on what is available, people use lipstick for much more than coloring their lips. It is a balm, a breath freshener, an accessory and a perfume. I still haven’t found one that stays on all day, but if you know of one, please write me at Madelyn@travellady.com Madelyn Miller is a writer and web entrepreneur who has created www.travellady.com, www.chocolateatlas.com, www.cocktailatlas.com, www.carladynews.com, www.todaysgooddeeds.com |
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Women
can brighten our faces just by adding color to our lips, even if we wear no
other makeup. Grace Pucker Up Lips set covers you whether you’re on the ski
slopes, daytime in the city or on a hot date (please tell me which product to
use for that).
The Pucker Up set contains Grace moisturizing lipstick, lip
liner, gloss and lip balm which come in a handy travel bag that can easily hold
other cosmetics as well. You can choose from 20 shades of lipstick, 8 shades of
gloss, 5 shades of lip liner and 4 lip balm flavors. The passion fruit lip balm
was creamy and tasted yummy. Since I had no one to kiss, I got to enjoy it all
by licking my lips.
Infuse
life into dry, cracked lips with Trinity Cosmetics Blessed Balm Lip Revival
Treatment ($10) Rich in vitamins and antioxidants, this healing balm instantly
nourishes and softens. Within seconds, lips are shiny, silky and appear fuller
without any stickiness or tackiness. The combination of Vanillin and Mint
provides a delicate, refreshing scent and taste.
When
was the last time your lip gloss added a little oomph to your love life? If you
can’t recall, perhaps it’s time to give Debra Macki’s Hint of Mint lip glosses a
go..
Let’s
face it, you’re not going to get any lip action if your smackers are dry and
cracked. For lips thirsting for moisture, it’s Bath by Bettijo’s Luxury Lip
Balms to the Rescue. Created by Bettijo B. Hirschi, the Luxury Lip Balms ($6)
provide nourishing qualities that make them ideal for use year-round. Wear alone
or under/over your favorite lipstick to create the perfect pout.
Peppermint Lip Balm: Packed with peppermint essential oil,
this all-natural lip balm will not only make your lips tingle, it makes your
whole mouth feel fresh. Vitamain E, Coconut Oil, Cocoa Butter and Olive Oil are
combined to moisturize and condition lips without leaving a greasy after feel.
Sweet Almond Softening Lip balm—the latest addition to the
popular Lip Treat Collection infuses moisture into dry, cracked lips. This
all-natural lip balm combines Almond and Coconut Oils, Vitamin E and Jojoba to
soften and smooth.
I
came back from a month long trip to a pile of boxes of lip balms and lipsticks.
Something smelled wonderful. At first I was not sure if it was the combination
of lip products or one special one.
Many
of us have chapped lips regardless of the season.
These
wonderful lip balms are remarkable for what they don’t contain—no petroleum no
parabins, gmo’s or animal testing. Just good clean fun, that is organic. The
organic Eco Lips even gets fueled with solar power.
This
sugar dipped lip gloss is feminine and flourishes the lips with mouth-watering
sensations. Frost your lips with kissably creamy color and oh-so-tasty gloss. It
comes in four delicious flavors and shades that will satisfy any craving. This
delectable collection is lightly sweetened so they taste as good as they smell.
Packaged in a confection-inspired vial that is topped with a rose. The unique
spatula applicator makes perfecting your pout like frosting a cake. A gentle
glide will glaze your lips with high shine, leaving it with a wash of
mouth-watering color. The perfect guilt-free indulgence.
Jane
cosmetics are not only an amazing quality but are sold at reasonable prices at
many drugstores and mass merchandisers.
Jane Lip Plumping color and gloss in “Neutrals”- a four
pack of colors with names like Romantic Rose, Kiss of Caramel Gloss, Not so
Innocent Pink and Sorbet. Your lips tingle while the rich, smooth color glides
across your mouth plumping to the fullest ($4.49) This gentle formula plumps and
warms lips and encourages healthy circulation. It is made with cinnamon, ginger
natural extracts and Vitamin E.
Not
to get you confused, but Jane Iredale has a light and airy makeup palette
inspired by spring flowers. The colors are soft and radiant with a full floral
bouquet with a range of pinks to suit any skin tone.
I
think if I looked as good as the Victoria’s Secret models do, I would get lots
of kisses, even without any lip products. 
Ecco Bella adds delicate flower waxes to their products,
creating a whole new generation of natural cosmetics. The flower wax-enriched
colors go on smoother and more evenly, with a dewy soft finish that lasts. The
flower waxes create a barrier that prevents moisture from migrating from the
skin to the color. Pigments are cushioned against the skin, giving a soft finish
that is especially gentle for sensitive skin.
After I put on my “Good for you Gloss” in Power, I felt
ready to conquer the world. The rich, gorgeous color in combination with the
convenient case (with a built in mirror) makes this lip gloss a girl’s best
friend. 
Who wouldn’t love Ecco Bella’s FlowerColor Lipstick in
Chocolate Kiss. This luxurious formula of flower wax pigments, natural oils and
herbs glides on and lasts.
But if you only pick one product from this gorgeous
line, try Ecco Bella’s Long Lasting Lip Crayon in Pot au Plum. It was Vitamins E
and A enriched formula and can be used as a lip liner, lipstick and lip
treatment all in one.
glominerals
offers innovative new products in combination with a color palette rich with the
hottest hues and timeless color classics. All products include vitamins
C,A,K,E and green tea extracts, nutrients vital to maintaining healthy skin. 
Glomineral is the first mineral line to launch a tube-like
liquid formula. gloLiquid lips, a high shine, luxurious formulation for
ultra-moist looks that last, offers women a sheer, dewy finish or a richly
pigmented shine. The stunning colors in this collection prove that high fashion
can also be good for lips.
Modele understands that sometimes you need an instant fix
in addition to a treatment plan. Their Anti-Wrinkle Lip Defining Pencils
($29.95) coming out at the end of February is a truly unique product. It goes on
clear to outline the lips while instantly diminishing fine lines and wrinkles.
And of course, because it’s clear, it’s a great product for those who like a
natural look because it does not conflict with lip gloss or rather enhances both
lip gloss and lipstick. It keeps lipstick in place while preventing feathering
or bleedings.
Modele’s Collagen Lip Treatment ($29,95) is a new, runaway
bestseller that restores lost collagen and increases lip volume by up to 40%.
Modele uses a unique amino acids blend and an exclusive Biocrystal ® Complex
that actively increases collagen production to diminish wrinkle size, wrinkle
depth and soften lips for a smooth, youthful appearance.
Want kissable lips all the time? With Aquaphor, you can be
confident and ready to puck up anytime.