Listen to Lena

Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion

Beauty

Picture Perfect: Holiday Hair To ‘Do List

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This post was sponsored by Dove, Nexxus®, TRESemmé® and Shoppers Drug Mart. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author, who is a paid influencer, and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Dove, Nexxus, TRESemmé and Shoppers Drug Mart.

This holiday season, I’m all about pulling together classically chic looks with minimal effort and maximum effect. It’s no secret that my go-to hairstyle is the voluminous blowout; it lends a fun, modern vibe and is suitable for all hair lengths and textures.

Have you ever worried about being “overdressed” for a holiday party or get together? Me too. Often, I text fellow invitees or the hostess in a vain attempt to fit in with the crowd, but often hear the maddening response, “Oh, just wear what you’re comfortable in!”

Spoiler: I am comfortable in yoga pants and a t-shirt.

So, over the years, I’ve come up with a fool-proof way to be perfectly outfitted for a party, and believe it or not, it involves my hairdo. (Yes! Keep reading!)

You see, I find that a flirty, volume-packed blowout is the perfect way to “dress down” an outfit, even when the outfit is formal wear. Loose waves, a textured crown and even a touch of bed-hair prowess sends the message that although you’ve made an effort, you clearly don’t take yourself too seriously. And while there’s a time and place for structured waves and chic updos, a perfectly smooth blowout is a great way of communicating cool confidence with a big, flowy dramatic look.
_dsc0561aAre you on board? Here’s a simple Holiday To ‘Do List to help you achieve the style with ease!

‘DO: Select the right styling aids. Volume-filled hair always needs a little help, so start with a quality product like Nexxus Mousse Plus Volumizing Foam. It creates incredible body and fullness with a spectacular shine (and no sticky residue!). …

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My Moment of Relief

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As the sun sets and the day winds down, we begin the nighttime ritual. Homework is checked; the boys are bathed and bedtime stories are read.

We have a few false starts.

Ryder is bathed while we holler at Reid.

Reid is tucked into bed while Ryder dashes downstairs for a glass of water.

Both boys beg for one more chapter, enthralled with their bedtime story.

Finally, finally the boys are off to dreamland, warm and secure in their beds. And as I wrap myself in my fluffiest robe and join my husband for some quality time with Netflix, I breathe a contented sigh.

This is my moment of relief.

Today, I’m seeing if I can extend that relief straight through to the next morning, with La Roche-Posay Toleriane Ultra Overnight. We know that waking up to calm, rested skin is a sigh of relief – but for many women – including myself – itchy, irritated, ultra-sensitive skin is the reality.
img_3698Recently, I’ve been discovering the Toleriane range by La Roche-Posay. It contains high tolerance products formulated with a minimum of ingredients to limit the risks of allergies. Toleriane promises extreme, instant and lasting comfort in a fragrance-, preservative- and alcohol-free formulation to soothe damaged or irritated skin. …

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Skincare 101: It’s a Hand & Stone Twitter Chat!

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Coming up: real talk about skin care.

Although “moisturize and go” may have been the extent of our skin care regime during our twenties, it is vital to revisit skincare routines as we age. Skin changes over the years, often becoming thinner and more sensitive with the weakening of collagen and elastin, and what worked for us in in the past… may not work quite as well now.

Think about it. Skin is your largest organ, and proper product use and regular facials beginning at an early age can make your routine a no-brainer. At Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa, the importance of this routine – being easy to maintain and affordable – is well understood. With more than 20 locations in Canada, Hand & Stone Massage and Facial Spa is bringing affordable luxury to the masses.
twitter-party-invite_finalI’ll be joining Hand & Stone this Monday, October 24th at 8pm EST for the #Skincare101 Twitter Chat. There, we’ll learn how to combat skin issues and how to adjust skin care routines as we age. They will also be giving away FIVE (5) amazing prizes, including product gift baskets and service gift certificates to the spa. Follow @HandandStoneCA and join the conversation using #Skincare101.

There’s no RSVP for the chat; simply tweet using the hashtag for a chance to win. See you on Monday!

No Filter? Fabulous.

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NOTE: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only. 

Instagram filters. I love them. You love them. They are, without a doubt, the best thing since sliced bread. (Which, by the way, filters well with “Lo-Fi.” Really brings out the crusts and such.)

The thing about Instagram filters is that they hide the little stuff we don’t necessarily want the world to see: fine lines, age spots, pesky under-eye shadows and enlarged pores. In fact, whenever I apply a filter to one of my photos, I visualize a fairy godmother waving a wand and saying “Poof! You’re gorgeous.”

It’s a beautiful thing.

But something happened recently. A few weeks ago, I posted a photo to Instagram. It was a rare selfie of my husband and I (we manage to squeeze in about three to four dates per year), and I was happy to show off my new blonde highlights (I clearly don’t follow the crowd that goes darker for fall).

However, when I accessed the screen to select a filter, something – quite fabulous – happened:  I realized that my skin looked healthy and luminous… and the photo actually looked better without a filter. I looked young, fresh and happy! Hashtag: #nofilter!
13671950_187517688335085_434322412_nNow let’s be clear: I am wearing makeup in this photo. I have concealer under my eyes, a hint of eye makeup and blush, and a fabulous fuchsia lip gloss.

But other than under my eyes? Completely foundation-free. My pores? Almost non-existent. The fine lines and wrinkles around my eyes? I dare you to point them out.

And then I realized that I had recently made a change to my skin care routine – for the past three weeks, I’ve been using NeoStrata® All-in-One Night Serum and All-in-One Eye Serum. …

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A Rose Gold Toothbrush? Yes, Please!

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Note: The following giveaway is open to Canadians only.

Functional and fashionable? Now you’ve got my attention.

Introducing the NEW Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Rose Gold. It’s the latest addition to the Philips Sonicare DiamondClean range! Now, we all know that rose gold is a strong trend across fashion and beauty. From watches and necklaces to scarves and mobile phone accessories, the stunning hue is everywhere for Fall 2016. So, why not own a toothbrush that combines the best of both worlds? The Philips Sonicare DiamondClean Rose Gold provides the ultimate whitening in the most elegant sonic electric toothbrush yet.
DSC_1455a(Yes, I had my nails done in rose gold specifically for this photograph. Thank you for noticing!)

I’ve had a long love affair with the Sonicare DiamondClean toothbrush. With the highest level of performance from a Sonicare power toothbrush to date, DimondClean is clinically proven to remove up to ten times more plaque than a manual toothbrush in hard-to-reach areas when used on DeepClean mode with the AdaptiveClean brush head. The Sonicare DiamondClean Rose Gold is safe, gentle and effective on teeth and gums as well as orthodontics, veneers and sensitive teeth. …

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All About Cleansers

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Combination skin. Also known as the least desirable skin type known to womankind – and also the most common! In fact, many women think they have oily or dry skin, but actually have a combination of both.

Here are some signs you have combination skin:

– You experience excessive oil and shine in your t-zone (forehead, down the nose to the chin), while your cheeks feel tight and dry.
– Your skin is oilier in summer and dry in winter, and even if you switch up your skin care, 11:00am shine in your T-zone is pretty much a guarantee.
– During menstruation, you may experience breakouts in your T-zone. However, once your period is over, the breakouts clear right up and your skin begins to feel extra dry and flaky.

Sounds like you? Welcome to the world of combination skin!

Now you may feel like your skin has a split personality, and unfortunately, it kind of does. I’ve dealt with the consequences of combination skin for decades and am acutely aware of the importance of finding the right cleanser. In fact, using the incorrect cleanser – whether it be too stripping or too moisturizing – can derail your entire skin care regime. So, take some time, do a little trial and error, and uncover the perfect cleanser for you!
13767626_1018845368235334_1146099638_nThe first step? Choose a brand with proven, superior skin care solutions that really work. As the first cosmeceutical brand in Canada, NeoStrata develops leading-edge skincare products that are supported and endorsed by the medical community. NeoStrata’s cleansing products refresh and cleanse, revealing smoother, clearer and younger-looking skin. …

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Is There a Science to Great Skin?

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Heredity. Genes. Sheer, dumb luck.

I’m actually not certain what contributes to naturally fabulous skin. I suppose it could be a combination of genetic and environmental factors, coupled with an individual’s commitment to care. How do I define a “commitment to care”? Simple –

1) The good sense to live a healthy lifestyle, which includes being mindful of diet and exercise
2) The ability to abstain from smoking, excessive drinking and of course, recreational drugs
3) The desire to practice safe sun habits, including wearing sunscreen and protective clothing

And 4) – the willingness to help nature along, by being open to trying new things.

13549448_940751226051443_298707666_nThis year, I’m trying new things.

As the first cosmeceutical brand in Canada, NeoStrata offers Canadians of all ages greater confidence in themselves through healthy, beautiful skin from proven, superior skin care solutions that really work. Having recently celebrated their 25th anniversary, NeoStrata  continues to develop leading-edge technologies that are supported and endorsed by the medical community.

I’ll admit it: Although I’m very familiar with the brand’s name and reputation, NeoStrata is new to my skincare regime. Based on incredibly positive feedback from friends who have tried the line, and a desire to select innovative, dermatologist-recommended products for my skin, I am so excited to have the opportunity to try their products throughout the year! …

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Pure + Simple: Beautiful Skin, Naturally

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Take a moment to exhale.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, in between the meetings, the carpool responsibilities, the grocery runs and the daily commutes, there exists a common truth: we need to slow down. We need to take care of ourselves, inside and out. We need to prioritize our health and happiness.

We all have our preferred indulgences, of course. For some, it’s food; for others, a quiet spot and a good book. And for most moms I know (including yours truly), it’s a little bit of “me time”, with a chance for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation.

Is it time to press pause? Pure + Simple, an all-natural skincare and wellness spa with locations in Toronto and Waterloo, is celebrating a month-long pop up event showcasing beauty brands that are natural, effective and proudly Canadian.
Wellness Centre Sign (2)FRESH CANADIAN BRANDS is an initiative designed by Pure + Simple to highlight locally-sourced talent and provide clients with fresh alternatives to their routine products. If you live in the Greater Toronto Area, visit one of their four locations to try innovative, better-for-you products and meet with the founders on select dates/times. Featured brands include da’lish, FitGlow, Healing Haus, Sattva Pure, Skin Essence, Thera Wise and more. …

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Ageless.

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Standing in the bathroom, I moved closer to the mirror. “There,” I murmured, finding the dark spot near my right eye. “And there and there and there,” I continued, pointing to the pigmented markings that were dusted across my cheeks and nose. “Age spots,” I sighed in defeat.

Freckles. Age spots. Sun spots. Liver spots. No matter what you call them, they’re essentially the same thing: collections of pigment, also known as melanin, that often appear after exposure to ultra-violet light.

Sun damage.

Naively, I thought I was immune to the effects of the sun. Being of South Asian descent, I’ve always believed that I have a “built-in SPF”, allowing me to skip a daily application of sunscreen and occasionally, tan with reckless abandon.
DSC_0549Technically, I’m not completely incorrect; darker individuals have a higher natural SPF thanks to the increased amounts of melanin in our skin. However, no one’s natural SPF is enough to keep the effects of sun damage at bay, which includes, but is not limited to, skin cancer, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.

Back to those age spots.

You have to look closely, but you can see them. Scattered across my nose and cheeks; the darkly pigmented spots that seem to increase with gusto as I get closer to age 40. To me, they represent years of taking my skin for granted; a lax skin care routine coupled with sporadic sunscreen use. …

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Show Your Legs Some Love! Summer-Ready Tips

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One of my fondest memories as a young adult was stocking up on women’s beauty magazines, just before summer arrived.

“25 Must-Have Beauty Tricks To Get You Through Summer!”
“8 No-Sweat Beauty Tips for Summer Heat!”
“Ready, Set, Summer: 11 Updates for Your Beauty Routine!”

There were pages and pages of beauty-inspired wisdom to get through, with promises of the perfect peach-hued lip glosses, beach-tousled hairstyles, a super-smooth bikini line and more. I primped, polished and pampered, and then I declared myself ready for the summer season.

Today, my routine is *slightly* different: I shave my legs more often. The end.

You too? We’re not alone. In fact, a recent poll by Leger Marketing found that when compared to hair and facial beauty products (24 per cent and 32 per cent respectively), only 13 per cent of women spend the most on leg care products during the summer. This is in spite of the fact that more than 80 per cent of women say the appearance of their legs is important!
legsLadies, it’s time to show your legs some love! Here are summer-ready tips to have your gams looking and feeling great:

Problem: Dry, winter-beaten skin.

Solution: Love your legs! In the shower, get your general circulation and the flexibility in your legs going with a mix of hot and cold bursts of water. You can stimulate circulation by gently massaging your legs with your hands or a natural bristle brush. Follow up with a good moisturizer (choose a cream instead of lotion for extra-dry skin) and be sure to apply it as soon as you’re out of the shower, while skin is still damp. …

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#DermWednesday: Spring Clean Your Cleansing Routine!

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NEW OBSESSION! CeraVe Hydrating Cleanser Bar. Check out my video testimonial here.

Facebook Graphic (2)This week, our #DermWednesday Twitter Chat introduces CeraVe’s newest product to gently cleanse dry, sensitive skin. I’ve been using the bar for just over a month now, and my skin is soft, smooth and never dry, thanks to the 5% CeraVe Moisturizing Cream included in the bar. (And, it’s fragrance-free and non-irritating.) I’ve raised the bar with my cleansing routine! I can’t wait to tell you all about it.

As always, Dr. Ben Barankin from The Toronto Dermatology Centre will be there to answer any of your skin care questions and/or concerns.

To thank you for joining the conversation, three (3) attendees will win a CeraVe Prize Bundle, including a selection of CeraVe’s must-have cleansers and moisturizers!

Follow @CeraVeCanada and @DermatologyTDC on Twitter, and see you on Wednesday night!

Make Your Teeth a BIG Deal

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Confession: I’m only *mildly* obsessed with my teeth.

I brush and floss twice a day and use an interdental pick to get in between my bonded retainer. I rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash at least once daily and visit my dentist like clockwork every four months. I used to whiten my teeth aggressively with at-home whitening strips, a practice I abandoned in recent years, preferring to simply stay on top of my oral hygiene for a more natural look.

odaAnd what can I say? I have a great smile.

April is Oral Health Month! If it’s been a while since you’ve seen your dentist, now would be a perfect time to make an appointment. Regular dentist visits are the very best way to detect oral (and overall) health problems you might not know you have, and prevent them before they start.

Need a little more convincing? Here are 10 Reasons to Make Your Teeth a Big Deal!

1. Your Appearance. *Of course, * I’m going to get a little vain here. Your smile lights up your face; it’s high on the list of “attractive qualities” for both men and women alike. Your smile is also part of your first impression, which is essential for both social and professional interactions.

2. Your Self-Esteem. Oral health affects physical, mental and social well-being. If you have tooth pain, are missing teeth or experience frequent tooth infections, it can have an impact on how you speak, eat and socialize. Keeping your teeth in optimal condition goes a long way to boost your self-esteem. …

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COVERGIRL: Embrace Your Face

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Welcome to Spring! It’s my favourite season of the year – and I’m not just saying that because my birthday is coming up in two weeks!

Spring is about renewal. It’s about shrugging off the heavy layers (both physically and metaphorically) that we endured all winter, and looking forward to longer, brighter days. It’s also a great time to lighten up: our diets, clothing, hair colour, and even our makeup routine.

This Spring, embrace your face with COVERGIRL! In just 30 seconds, you can get matched to your perfect foundation based on the coverage you need, your skin type and skin tone, and the preferred makeup finish you are looking for. Personally, I love buildable coverage for my dry skin, with a natural look for my medium complexion. According to the #EmbraceYourFace Makeup Finder, I was matched with TruBLEND Liquid Makeup!
IMG_1765cTruBLEND Liquid Makeup is available in 14 shades and features a new shade matching system. To find your perfect blend, first determine your shade family. Second, choose your number. Coordinate complementary truBLEND products based on your number for a seamlessly flawless nude look that blends in and virtually disappears.

I’m wearing truBLEND foundation in Golden Beige M-3, with a light dusting of TRUblend Pressed Powder in Translucent Honey 3. I wore a strapless top to illustrate how closely the liquid makeup matches my natural skin tone; as you can see, it is a touch more rosy than my yellow-based skin, but overall, I’m quite happy with the shade and ease of application. …

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#DermWednesday: Putting a Spring in Your Step!

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If I think about one of the most overlooked and neglected parts of my body, it has to be my feet. Dry, cracked heels… chipped nail polish… rough callouses. You too? Especially after a long winter, our tender tootsies are just begging for a little TLC.

Cerave GraphicThis week, our #DermWednesday Twitter Chat tackles the subject of foot care! Specifically, what cleansers and moisturizers you can use to improve the appearance and texture of you feet, just in time for the warmer weather. As always, Dr. Ben Barankin from The Toronto Dermatology Centre will be there to answer any of your skin care questions and/or concerns.

To thank you for joining the conversation, three (3) attendees will win a CeraVe Prize Bundle, including a selection of CeraVe’s must-have cleansers and moisturizers!

For my dry, cracked heels, I always slather on CeraVe Moisturizing Cream immediately after my morning shower, followed by a pair of clean cotton socks. The cream increases the skin’s ability to attract, hold and distribute moisture, and is recognized by the Canadian Dermatology Association’s Skin Health Program.

Follow @CeraVeCanada and @DermatologyTDC on Twitter, and see you on Wednesday night!

Chronic Dry Skin? Join the #DermWednesday Twitter Chat!

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Can you believe that we’re heading into our 12th CeraVe #DermWednesday Twitter Chat? It’s true! For those that have been with us from the start, you know that each chat is a wealth of skin care tips and advice. Plus, Dr. Ben Barankin from The Toronto Dermatology Centre is always on hand to answer any of your skin care concerns.

FB GraphicThis Wednesday, the theme of our chat is “Know Your Options: Treatment Choices for Chronic and Extreme Dry Skin Conditions”. We’ll share tips on how to protect your skin in extreme cold conditions – timely, since the cold weather is really starting to settle in – and help prepare you for everyday commutes or upcoming Family Day weekend activities.

Did you know: many Canadians are unsure if they have chronic dry skin, and have questions about how to care for their skin in the cold, dry and harsh winter climate.

Come to the #DermWednesday Twitter Chat! We have answers.

To thank you for joining the conversation, three (3) attendees will win a CeraVe Prize Bundle, including a selection of CeraVe’s must-have cleansers and moisturizers. My recommendation? Try CeraVe Moisturizing Cream! It increases the skin’s ability to attract, hold and distribute moisture, and is recognized by the Canadian Dermatology Association’s Skin Health Program.

Stay warm, keep moisturizing… and see you on Wednesday night!

Best Beauty: Clairol Root Touch Up by Nice ‘n Easy

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It’s no secret that I like to multitask. In fact, if I don’t have at least 20 items on my “to-do” list, I consider it a slow day. And I find it particularly satisfying that whenever I speak with friends, colleagues and clients, their first reaction is, OMG Lena, you are so busy!

(I prefer this 100 times over So Lena, what have you been up to?)

12093701_1661637730781623_847648523_nHence, I thrive on deadlines, flip the bird at eight hours of sleep and am that crazy mom, holding onto granola bars with her teeth while she secures her kid in his car seat. I take business calls from soccer practice and write blog posts on my iPhone. And then, only when I’m sure everything can and will get done according to plan, I realize I’ve forgotten about five other things. Yikes!

I begin to shuffle. Blog posts are pushed back. Dinner dates get cancelled. And my monthly hair appointment? It’s always, always, always the first thing to be rescheduled.

After all, *how* can I afford myself the luxury of two hours in a stylist’s chair when there are deadlines to be met? Dark roots and peek-a-boo grays. It was a thing. (Past tense, people! Read on!) …

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Winter Itch? Scratch That. (Or Don’t)

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It’s a casualty of being Canadian. Dry skin. Winter itch. My epidermis is tingling just thinking about it.

Facebook Graphic (2)Of course we’re victims of winter itch! Cold, dry air… heated homes and buildings… and the endless cycle of scale, scratch, scale. Anyone else have legs that resemble flour bins this season? Yeah, me too.

Once again, here’s your chance to ask an expert – join the @CeraVeCanada #DermWednesday Twitter Chat on December 2nd at 8:00PM EST. Dr. Ben Barankin from The Toronto Dermatology Centre will be on hand to answer any of your dry skin concerns.

To thank you for joining the conversation, three (3) attendees will win a CeraVe Prize Bundle!

And now, try not to scratch your skin silly. My recommendation? Try CeraVe Moisturizing Cream! It increases the skin’s ability to attract, hold and distribute moisture, and is recognized by the Canadian Dermatology Association’s Skin Health Program. One of my faves!

On Winged Eyeliner, Rocker Chick Vibes and Grocery Clerks

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Spoiler Alert: I’m not spontaneous with my beauty routine. AT ALL.

I mean, why should I be? Why should I care? I work from home, my wardrobe consists of tee shirts and track pants, and I’ve been known to extend the washing of my hair by a day (or three).

That’s my life 90% of the time. The other 10% – the part you see on social media – is my glamorous life; the media events and photo shoots, the fashion advertising and beauty blogger selfies. And, if you can only envision one Lena, I want you to think of that version. Because I totes woke up like that. Totes.

Yesterday, feeling like a bored suburban housewife on a Monday morning, I decided to spice up my life. Dipping into a stash of COVERGIRL cosmetics, I created a rocker chick look, complete with winged eyeliner, tousled hair and pouty lips.
IMG_1080I couldn’t let this awesome look go to waste, so I visited Loblaws and picked fresh produce. The end.

(There’s probably a reason I’m not spontaneous with my beauty routine – I don’t have the necessary lifestyle to enjoy it! Nevertheless, a grocery store clerk did check me out. Or, he was side-eyeing me because I was messing up his tower of green peppers.) …

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Questions About Skincare? Ask a Dermatologist Anything!

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Do you need professional help? Sometimes we all need therapy … for our skin, that is.

However, it’s not always easy to reach an expert when we need one most. Questions about your skin care routine? Changes in aging skin, or adult acne? If you’re like me, you may want to know more about Botox, microdermabrasion or laser hair removal.

Facebook Graphic (2)Here’s your chance to ask an expert – join the @CeraVeCanada #DermWednesday Twitter Chat on October 21st at 8:00PM EDT. Dr. Ben Barankin from The Toronto Dermatology Centre will be on hand to answer any of your skin care concerns.

To thank you for joining the conversation, three (3) attendees will win a CeraVe Prize Bundle, including a selection of CeraVe’s must-have cleansers and moisturizers.

CeraVe is the first brand to contain the essential ceramides, cholesterol and fatty esters that healthy skin needs, delivered through a controlled-release MVE system over 24 hours. The daily regimen of cleansers and moisturizers helps repair, replenish and protect the skin barrier to leave your skin looking and feeling soft, clean and healthy.

It promises to be an informative chat! Mark your calendars!

Face of the Day, Galactic-Style

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A short time ago in a theme park far, far away…

Okay, so it’s not *that* far away. (Only a 5-hour direct flight!) I had looked forward to this event for months, and when the time finally came, I was ready to morph into one of the greatest, most sassy droids known to mankind. This past Monday, at Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland, I dressed up as the iconic R2-D2. (Click here for more details on my costume.)

My husband went as himself.
IMG_0739Okay, okay, he didn’t actually go as himself. He dressed up as the ultimate nerd! High-waisted pants and a matching bow tie to boot. (He even has that mouth/ jaw thing going on… it’s quite precious.)

To offset the whole Star Wars-geek thing, I opted for sultry, come-hither makeup using ARTDECO Cosmetics. Identified by its on-trend and fashion-forward designs, ARTDECO has been a cult favourite in Europe for years, and is now available in Canada at select Shoppers Drug Mart stores! Here’s how you can emulate the look, whether you’re trick-or-treating or enjoying date night. …

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