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	<title>Afrobella &#187; Beauty</title>
	<atom:link href="http://www.afrobella.com/category/afrobella-beauty/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://www.afrobella.com</link>
	<description>Natural Hair, Beauty, Fashion and Makeup Blog</description>
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		<title>Get Into My QVC All-Access Beauty Favorites!</title>
		<link>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/05/10/get-into-my-qvc-all-access-beauty-favorites/</link>
		<comments>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/05/10/get-into-my-qvc-all-access-beauty-favorites/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 May 2013 19:06:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bella</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Makeup]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Skin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[beauty bloggers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[full-pic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[QVC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[skincare]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.afrobella.com/?p=11122</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>There are so many ways to shop for beauty, and for convenience and variety QVC has the game on lock. What makes them so special? Online, QVC.com features a great variety of products complete with customer reviews, FAQ&#8217;s and a complete ingredient list. And on TV, QVC features and demonstrates the products, and the creators [...]</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/05/10/get-into-my-qvc-all-access-beauty-favorites/">Get Into My QVC All-Access Beauty Favorites!</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></description>
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			<div style="float:left; width:85px;padding-right:10px; margin:4px 4px 4px 4px;height:30px;"><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=1&amp;r=http://www.afrobella.com/2013/05/10/get-into-my-qvc-all-access-beauty-favorites/"></script></div>			
			</div><div style="clear:both"></div><div style="padding-bottom:4px;"></div><p>There are so many ways to shop for beauty, and for convenience and variety <a href="http://qvc.co/Afrobella-BeautyPicks ">QVC</a> has the game on lock. What makes them so special? Online, QVC.com features a great variety of products complete with customer reviews, FAQ&#8217;s and a complete ingredient list. And on TV, QVC features and demonstrates the products, and the creators of the products are on hand to discuss and explain everything a beauty lover could need. All the info you need is at your fingertips! If you&#8217;re in the market for new hair care, skin care, bath and body products or makeup, tune in tonight at 11 pm ET. QVC&#8217;s 25-hour All Access Beauty event kicks off tonight &#8211; Friday, May 10!</p>
<div id="attachment_11123" class="wp-caption aligncenter" style="width: 490px"><img src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/photo-3-20130509_215533.png" alt="Afrobella for QVC" width="480" height="640" class="size-full wp-image-11123" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Afrobella for QVC!</p></div>
<p>All Access Beauty means just that &#8212; unparalleled access to the biggest names and brands in the industry. We&#8217;re talking breakthrough products and beauty tips straight from the faces behind the brands. Expect to see special appearances by Kate Somerville, Mally Roncal, Ken Paves, Chaz Dean and more, and special values on brands like Clarisonic, philosophy and Perricone MD. <a href="http://qvc.co/AABbloggers-Afrobella">On QVC.com, I&#8217;m amongst a small group of top bloggers who QVC tapped to choose our favorite products.</a> Check out the <a href="http://qvc.co/AABbloggers-Afrobella">All Access Beauty Bloggers</a>, and click here to check out my personal favorite picks! </p>
<p>What products did I choose? <a href="http://qvc.co/Afrobella-BeautyPicks ">Click here to visit my personal QVC e-boutique page</a>! It was hard to choose just 12 items, but these are the top 12 you-deserve-these-because-they-are-amazing-tried-tested-and-true beauty products that I hope you will love too. I included my favorites by WEN, Clarisonic, Mally Beauty, Bobbi Brown, bliss, Tarte and philosophy. <a href="http://qvc.co/Afrobella-BeautyPicks ">Click to visit, shop, and enjoy &#8211; and tune into QVC tonight to see some of the people behind those brands share what makes their products so awesome!</a></p>
<p>Thanks for choosing me, QVC! </p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/05/10/get-into-my-qvc-all-access-beauty-favorites/">Get Into My QVC All-Access Beauty Favorites!</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>My Summer Of Gatsby Chicago Event!</title>
		<link>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/05/09/my-summer-of-gatsby-chicago-event/</link>
		<comments>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/05/09/my-summer-of-gatsby-chicago-event/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 10 May 2013 03:42:53 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bella</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Absolutely Afrobella]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[event hosting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[movies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Great Gatsby]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.afrobella.com/?p=11105</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>From the moment I saw the trailer for The Great Gatsby, I was dazzled. I said to my husband, &#8220;I HAVE to see this.&#8221; I couldn&#8217;t possibly have guessed that when the time came to have the special screening in Chicago, I&#8217;d be asked to be a special co-host for a screening and afterparty at [...]</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/05/09/my-summer-of-gatsby-chicago-event/">My Summer Of Gatsby Chicago Event!</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></description>
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			<div style="float:left; width:85px;padding-right:10px; margin:4px 4px 4px 4px;height:30px;"><script src="http://www.stumbleupon.com/hostedbadge.php?s=1&amp;r=http://www.afrobella.com/2013/05/09/my-summer-of-gatsby-chicago-event/"></script></div>			
			</div><div style="clear:both"></div><div style="padding-bottom:4px;"></div><p>From the moment I saw the trailer for <a href="http://www.facebook.com/thegreatgatsbymovie">The Great Gatsby</a>, I was dazzled. I said to my husband, &#8220;I HAVE to see this.&#8221; I couldn&#8217;t possibly have guessed that when the time came to have the special screening in Chicago, I&#8217;d be asked to be a special co-host for a screening and afterparty at the<a href="http://showplaceicon.com/default.aspx"> Showplace Icon</a>, my favorite movie theater in the city. Thanks to Warner Brothers, Allied Media and<a href="http://jetmag.com/galleries/jets-the-great-gatsby-screening/3/"> JET Magazine </a>for choosing me for this wonderful opportunity. Summer of Gatsby Chicago was a complete success!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11119" alt="AfrobellaJETGatsby" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/AfrobellaJETGatsby-553x300.jpg" width="553" height="300" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Here I am with my friend <a href="https://twitter.com/mitzimoments">Mitzi Miller</a>, EIC of <a href="http://jetmag.com/">JET Magazine.</a> Mitzi is amazing. So honored to work with her on this fabulous event!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11116" alt="AfrobellaGatsbyScreening" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/AfrobellaGatsbyScreening-449x300.jpg" width="449" height="300" /></p>
<p>An intimate crowd of Chicago&#8217;s social media and online influencers came out for the screening, and then after the movie came the after party, co-hosted by me and JET Magazine, with beauty stations by Fashion Fair on hand for extra glamour.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11117" alt="IMG_7194" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/IMG_71941-449x300.jpg" width="449" height="300" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>That&#8217;s Fashion Fair Trainer Timothy James &#8211; all night he was offering the ladies in attendance the chance to bump up their lip color to something more Gatsby-apropos from the <a href="http://shop.fashionfair.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=LIPSTICKS">vibrant selection of Fashion Fair lipsticks. </a> Guests each got an awesome gift box with a vintage photo of Pearl Bailey rocking Fashion Fair, containing a full size lipstick! I got Femme Fatale, which can best be described as chocolate cherry.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11120" alt="photo 2 - 20130509_215533" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/photo-2-20130509_215533.jpg" width="480" height="480" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Thanks to blogger friends like <a href="http://www.thesassypeach.org/">The Sassy Peach,</a> <a href="http://chuckstrphoto.com/">Chuck Olu Alabi</a>, <a href="http://www.gabifresh.com/">Gabifresh</a>, <a href="http://www.missloriscampus.com/">Miss Lori</a>, <a href="http://www.rachelobeauty.com/">Rachel O</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/Traci_Daniels">Traci Daniel,</a> <a href="http://www.jettasetting.com/">Jettasetting </a>and everyone else for coming out and showing love!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11118" alt="IMG_7176" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/IMG_71761.jpg" width="427" height="640" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11115" alt="MissLori" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/MissLori.jpg" width="640" height="427" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Hey there Miss Lori!</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11110" alt="IMG_7200" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/IMG_7200-450x300.jpg" width="450" height="300" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Thanks to everyone who came out and made it a fabulous night! Thanks again to Warner Brothers, Allied Media and JET Magazine. The Great Gatsby opens in theaters nationwide tomorrow! Stay tuned for my review!</p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/05/09/my-summer-of-gatsby-chicago-event/">My Summer Of Gatsby Chicago Event!</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>3</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>Now Target Has A Subscription Beauty Box</title>
		<link>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/05/06/now-target-has-a-subscription-beauty-box/</link>
		<comments>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/05/06/now-target-has-a-subscription-beauty-box/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 06 May 2013 22:24:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bella</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Makeup]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[beauty box]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[beauty box subscription]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[box]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[featured. full-pic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[samples]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[subscription box]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Target. Target Beauty]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.afrobella.com/?p=11091</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>&#160; At first I felt on top of the subscription box situation. I knew the main players and what the differences between them were. And then came the box explosion. Happy box lady via Shutterstock Now there are subscription beauty boxes, hair boxes, jewelry boxes, wellness boxes, lifestyle boxes, pet boxes, boxes of organic products, [...]</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/05/06/now-target-has-a-subscription-beauty-box/">Now Target Has A Subscription Beauty Box</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></description>
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<p>At first I felt on top of the subscription box situation. I knew the main players and what the differences between them were. And then came the box explosion.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11094" alt="shutterstock_100695097" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/shutterstock_1006950971.jpg" width="435" height="640" /></p>
<pre><em><a href="http://www.shutterstock.com/pic.mhtml?id=100695097">Happy box lady</a> via Shutterstock</em></pre>
<p>Now there are subscription beauty boxes, hair boxes, jewelry boxes, wellness boxes, lifestyle boxes, pet boxes, boxes of organic products, <a href="https://www.joyus.com/shop/channel/food/catalog/1-52661/joyus-the-bacon-box?vp=1454" target="_blank">boxes for bacon lovers</a>, adult boxes, and boxes for that time of the month. Here a box, there a box, everywhere a box box. Chescaleigh’s parody was dead on.</p>
<p><iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/1lsDgWpLocY" height="315" width="560" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0"></iframe></p>
<p>Just saying &#8211; there are an overwhelming number of boxes for women on the scene. (Check out <a href="http://www.subscriptionboxes.com/">SubscriptionBoxes.com</a> to get an idea of the scope of the scene).</p>
<p>The boxes I’m most familiar with have been created by start-up companies and entrepreneurs with vision. Many of the boxes cost between $10 and $20 for a monthly subscription, and many people sign up for these boxes for an opportunity to try little known, up and coming, brands that have growing buzz, brands that beauty lovers and hair obsessives can look forward to trying for the first time. And now here comes a heavy hitter to switch up the game – <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TargetStyle?sk=app_363229193782196&amp;app_data=main" target="_blank">Target has entered the subscription beauty box arena, and their box is a mere $5 including shipping and handling</a>.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11092" alt="Target Beauty Box" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/Target-Beauty-Box.jpeg" width="416" height="311" /></p>
<p>Via <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TargetStyle?sk=app_363229193782196&amp;app_data=main" target="_blank">Target Style’s FB page:</a> “<em>The Beauty Box by Target boasts beauty, skin care and nail care brands you already know, and a few that may be completely new to you. Shipping is included, plus each order includes a special offer to keep you looking fab while staying on budget</em>.” Sounds promising, right? A few spoiler posts have gone up online, so the brands included in box #1 are out there already – <a href="http://drugsnmakeup.wordpress.com/2013/05/02/target-beauty-box-and-spoilers/" target="_blank">click here to see!</a></p>
<p>Box #1 apparently includes mainstream brands, but there are a few products that piqued my interest even though I’m pretty much drowning in beauty products (those Sally Hansen nail strips, and the Effaclar stuff). I’m thinking if there’s enough interest, Target’s upcoming boxes will include items from their in-house beauty brands, which could mean a $5 box including the best of Pixi, Sonia Kashuk, Napoleon Perdis or Umberto Beverly Hills.  If you&#8217;re strictly into indie brands, obviously this isn&#8217;t the box for you. But if you want to try out the latest from mainstream beauty and personal care brands, this sounds like a sweet deal.</p>
<p>The Target Beauty Box is only available online via Facebook, there are 20,000 Beauty Boxes available, and they cost $5 including shipping and tax. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TargetStyle?sk=app_363229193782196&amp;app_data=main" target="_blank">Click here to get yours before they&#8217;re gone!</a></p>
<p>What are your thoughts on the subscription box phenomenon? Are you a fan? Do you think there are too many? Would you sign up for this new Target box, and what do you think about big brands entering the subscription box arena?</p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/05/06/now-target-has-a-subscription-beauty-box/">Now Target Has A Subscription Beauty Box</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Fashion Fair&#8217;s 40th Anniversary Collection &#8212; All Pink Everything</title>
		<link>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/30/fashion-fair-40th-anniversary-collection-all-pink-everything/</link>
		<comments>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/30/fashion-fair-40th-anniversary-collection-all-pink-everything/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 30 Apr 2013 17:34:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bella</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Famous Faces]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Makeup]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Product Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[beauty history]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Black Beauty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[black beauty history]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[brand history]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fashion Fair]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[legacy brands]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[makeup]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[<p>&#160; For 40 years, women of color have known and loved Fashion Fair Cosmetics. The venerable beauty brand based in Chicago was a staple in my formative years and I know I’m not the only one who remembers that familiar pink marbleized compact being on their mother’s dresser. The brand has been through so many [...]</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/30/fashion-fair-40th-anniversary-collection-all-pink-everything/">Fashion Fair&#8217;s 40th Anniversary Collection &#8212; All Pink Everything</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></description>
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<p>For 40 years, women of color have known and loved<a href="http://shop.fashionfair.com/v/pxd/ff.html"> Fashion Fair Cosmetics</a>. The venerable beauty brand based in Chicago was a staple in my formative years and I know I’m not the only one who remembers that familiar pink marbleized compact being on their mother’s dresser. The brand has been through so many changes through the years and now Fashion Fair is on an upswing in a new era, thanks in major part to the efforts of <a href="http://shop.fashionfair.com/v/pxd/behindthecollection.html" target="_blank">Creative Makeup Director Sam Fine.</a> His <a href="http://shop.fashionfair.com/searchresults.asp?cat=163" target="_blank">debut collection</a> set the bar high for makeup lovers and now, to celebrate their 40 years of creating beauty products for women of color, they have released the <a href="http://shop.fashionfair.com/v/pxd/ff.html">Fashion Fair Four capsule collection</a>. It’s available in stores and <a href="http://shop.fashionfair.com/v/pxd/product_list.html" target="_blank">online right here, right now!</a></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11070" alt="Fashion Fair Four Capsule Collection via Afrobella" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fashion-Fair-Four-Capsule-Collection-via-Afrobella.jpg" width="480" height="480" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Each collection is beautifully packaged featuring stunning images by <a href="http://skrebneskiphotographs.com/home.html">photographer Victor Skrebneski</a>. Each package features a woman who represents an era of Fashion Fair history on the cover. <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/08/fashion-fair-launches-four-capsule-collection_n_3038547.html" target="_blank">Via HuffPo</a>:</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11066" alt="1970s_Foxy_box fashion fair" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/1970s_Foxy_box-fashion-fair-480x300.jpg" width="480" height="300" /><br />
<strong>The 1970’s Foxy Capsule Collection:</strong> A tribute to our founder Eunice W. Johnson, containing feminine soft pink pallets to inspire the Fox in us all.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11067" alt="Fashion Fair Capsule Collection 2" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fashion-Fair-Capsule-Collection-2-388x300.jpg" width="388" height="300" /></p>
<p><strong>The 1980’s Fresh Capsul</strong><strong>e Collection:</strong> Dedicated to the legacy of the hip-hop era, containing a set of sumptuous warm pink colors evoking fresh beauty.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11068" alt="Fashion Fair Capsule Collection 3" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fashion-Fair-Capsule-Collection-3-388x300.jpg" width="388" height="300" /></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>The 1990’s Sensuous </strong><strong>Capsule Collection:</strong> Reflecting a new evolved era of beauty featuring rich, modern, and bright pink pallets celebrating the sensuality of a woman.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><img class="aligncenter  wp-image-11069" alt="Fashion Fair collection" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Fashion-Fair-collection.jpg" width="497" height="384" /></p>
<p><strong>The 2000’s Divine Capsule Collection:</strong> Capturing the latest and hottest trends in beauty; featuring glamorous and bold pink shades that embody the divine power of beauty. (PS: the colors in this particular photo above are a bit brighter than what I experienced in person).</p>
<p>The packaging is gorgeous! It’s absolutely the kind of thing that anybody would be proud to display on the dresser. I’m so proud of Fashion Fair! The collection itself is beautifully presented, but how you feel about the items within entirely depends upon this question: Do you love pink? Do you really <em>really</em> love pink?</p>
<p>If so you are going to go crazy for this collection. Each package comes with a lip teaser, lipstick, nail lacquer and blush &#8211; all in shades of pink, evocative of the vintage Fashion Fair packaging swirls of marble.</p>
<p>In terms of packaging, the 1970&#8242;s “foxy” box featuring a woman with beautiful large afro is my favorite. In terms of the products within, I must admit I found the pinks to be a little subdued for my personal taste. I like a hot pink. A deep pink. So the 2000’s Divine Capsule was my fave in terms of color – the Divine Pink lipstick has a deeper hue and a violet undertone, and the Divine Pink lip teaser is bright, fun and summertime chic!</p>
<p>I love this new direction that Fashion Fair is heading in and I hope to see them continue to innovate their brand and draw from their rich history. I hope to see them continue to celebrate black beauty for years to come! The overall look of this collection is really encouraging &#8212; between this and Sam Fine’s outstanding makeup collection, I feel that the future is very bright for this classic legacy brand.</p>
<p>Is this particular collection made for me? Not so much, but that&#8217;s just because I&#8217;m not really that into pink. But if you are a diehard pink lover then you should run &#8212; don&#8217;t walk &#8212; to your nearest Fashion Fair counter. And if you&#8217;re not that into pink, I hope you&#8217;re not sleeping on <a href="http://shop.fashionfair.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=Sam-Fine-Supreme-Lip-Color">those Sam Fine collection lipsticks, because they are to DIE for. Click here to shop!</a></p>
<p>What you think bellas? Are you here for the Fashion Fair Four capsule collection? Or is this a little too much pink for you?</p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/30/fashion-fair-40th-anniversary-collection-all-pink-everything/">Fashion Fair&#8217;s 40th Anniversary Collection &#8212; All Pink Everything</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>I&#8217;m On Vacation!</title>
		<link>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/22/im-on-vacation/</link>
		<comments>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/22/im-on-vacation/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Apr 2013 14:32:27 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bella</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.afrobella.com/?p=11056</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>Six years of daily writing, meeting deadlines, taking conference calls and building this blog into what it has become has been such fun but honestly, sometimes exhausting work. Sometimes I find myself struggling under the weight. Sometimes I need a break. Vacation image via Shutterstock It&#8217;s easier said than done. I&#8217;ll admit, sometimes it&#8217;s hard [...]</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/22/im-on-vacation/">I&#8217;m On Vacation!</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></description>
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			</div><div style="clear:both"></div><div style="padding-bottom:4px;"></div><p>Six years of daily writing, meeting deadlines, taking conference calls and building this blog into what it has become has been such fun but honestly, sometimes exhausting work. Sometimes I find myself struggling under the weight. Sometimes I need a break.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11061" alt="shutterstock_91774115" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/shutterstock_91774115-449x300.jpg" width="449" height="300" /></p>
<pre><em><a href="http://www.shutterstock.com/cat.mhtml?safesearch=1&amp;search_language=en&amp;search_source=search_form&amp;search_type=keyword_search&amp;searchterm=vacation&amp;sort_method=relevance2&amp;source=search&amp;timestamp=1366640837&amp;tracking_id=xucYpr4tzci14k_aOR3jLA&amp;version=llv1&amp;page=1#id=91774115&amp;src=xucYpr4tzci14k_aOR3jLA-1-59">Vacation image via Shutterstock</a></em></pre>
<p>It&#8217;s easier said than done. I&#8217;ll admit, sometimes it&#8217;s hard for me to give up control. I don&#8217;t use many guest writers so the pressure producing all of the content to the best of my ability, totally falls on me and that&#8217;s by my own choice. It can be rough sometimes finding a work/life balance, I&#8217;ll be honest.</p>
<p>Many of my friends have encouraged me through the years to just take a vacation. Take a week off and know that my readers will be there for me when I return. I&#8217;ve been too scared to do it before. But this week I am taking the whole week off &#8212; possibly for the first time on this blog. I will be in <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2008/04/21/the-afrobella-guide-to-the-florida-keys/">the Florida Keys</a> with my husband and my in-laws, having a wonderful family vacation and involving myself in nothing that has to do with blogging or social media or hair or makeup. I need a break, so I&#8217;m taking a break. I hope you understand, and return next week for more fresh posts on makeup, hair, beauty, life and culture on Afrobella.com!</p>
<p>Please feel free to <a href="http://www.glam.com/author/afrobella/">read my posts over at Glam.com</a>, and if you want to vacation vicariously with me you can follow me on <a href="http://instagram.com/afrobella">Instagram </a>and <a href="https://twitter.com/afrobella">Twitter </a>for details on where I&#8217;m at, what I&#8217;m eating, how much fun I&#8217;m having and how sunny it is!</p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/22/im-on-vacation/">I&#8217;m On Vacation!</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Honored By Essence Magazine!</title>
		<link>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/22/honored-by-essence-magazine/</link>
		<comments>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/22/honored-by-essence-magazine/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 22 Apr 2013 14:10:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bella</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Life]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Absolutely Afrobella]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Awards and Accolades]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Essence Magazine]]></category>
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		<description><![CDATA[<p>&#160; Maybe you already saw the news online, or read it in print – but I was finally able to get my hands on a copy and now I’m honored to announce it here. Essence Magazine has honored me in their latest issue, in the Best in Black Beauty Awards 2013! Click here to read [...]</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/22/honored-by-essence-magazine/">Honored By Essence Magazine!</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></description>
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<p>Maybe you already saw the news online, or read it in print – but I was finally able to get my hands on a copy and now I’m honored to announce it here. <a href="http://photos.essence.com/galleries/essence-honors-todays-beauty-innovators#291016_291001" target="_blank">Essence Magazine has honored me in their latest issue, in the Best in Black Beauty Awards 2013! Click here to read it online</a>. Or if you have the May 2013 issue (with Janelle Monae on the cover), you&#8217;ll find the Best Beauty Awards inside the sponsored insert in the magazine. Rip the sticker open to see me and my fellow winners!</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11058" alt="AfrobellaInEssenceBestInBlackBeauty2013" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/AfrobellaInEssenceBestInBlackBeauty2013.jpg" width="612" height="612" /></p>
<p>Essence included me in their <a href="http://photos.essence.com/galleries/essence-honors-todays-beauty-innovators#291016_291001" target="_blank">list of Beauty Innovators and named me a Social Media Trailblazer.</a></p>
<p>The write-up couldn’t be more kind or delightful. Thank you to everyone at Essence who chose to include me! I’m going to keep doing my best to share, uplift, and celebrate our unique beauty. Thank you for recognizing me. Honored is not the word.</p>
<p>Where can you find me, blazing these social media trails?</p>
<p>Follow me on:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/afrobellablog" target="_blank">Facebook</a></p>
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/afrobella" target="_blank">Twitter</a></p>
<p><a href="http://pinterest.com/afrobella/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a></p>
<p><a href="http://instagram.com/afrobella" target="_blank">Instagram</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=4958110&amp;trk=tab_pro" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a></p>
<p><a href="https://foursquare.com/afrobella" target="_blank">Foursquare</a></p>
<p><a href="vine://user/911715646230892544">Vine</a> (only for iPhone or iPad)</p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/iamafrobella" target="_blank">YouTube</a> (I promise, I’m coming back).</p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/22/honored-by-essence-magazine/">Honored By Essence Magazine!</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>10</slash:comments>
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		<title>Let&#8217;s Talk About Body Moisturizer</title>
		<link>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/19/lets-talk-about-body-moisturizer/</link>
		<comments>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/19/lets-talk-about-body-moisturizer/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 19 Apr 2013 11:22:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bella</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Product Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Body]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[body care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[body shop]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Itiba]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lifetherapy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[moisturizers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[shea butter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[shea moisture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Skin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[skincare]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[<p>&#160; I slather it on every day as soon as I get out of the shower. Some days it&#8217;s a cream, some days it&#8217;s a butter, some days it&#8217;s an oil. As I&#8217;ve grown older, I&#8217;ve come to realize – daily body moisturizer is essential. When I was a teen and in my twenties, I knew I should&#8217;ve been [...]</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/19/lets-talk-about-body-moisturizer/">Let&#8217;s Talk About Body Moisturizer</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></description>
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<p>I slather it on every day as soon as I get out of the shower. Some days it&#8217;s a cream, some days it&#8217;s a butter, some days it&#8217;s an oil. As I&#8217;ve grown older, I&#8217;ve come to realize – daily body moisturizer is essential. When I was a teen and in my twenties, I knew I should&#8217;ve been taking better care of my skin but I didn&#8217;t get it yet and I didn&#8217;t care. Now I’m a woman in her early thirties, living in a climate that’s cold for a hefty chunk of the year. My skin has let me know that daily moisture is required – if I don’t moisturize my skin, it feels itchy and uncomfortable and it will literally look dry and ashy. This didn&#8217;t used to me when I was younger. More signs of needing a grown woman’s skincare regimen, right? It doesn&#8217;t just stop at the face.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11050" alt="Afrobellas Favorite Moisturizers" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Afrobellas-Favorite-Moisturizers.jpg" width="480" height="480" /></p>
<p>The same way I take care of my face and neck, I take care of the rest of my body. Let’s get into a few of my recent favorite body moisturizers that I&#8217;ve been reviewing, and where you can find them!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Drugstore</strong></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11048" alt="Afrobella Favorite Drugstore Moisturizer" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Afrobella-Favorite-Drugstore-Moisturizer.jpg" width="336" height="336" /></p>
<p>Shea Moisture makes many amazing products for hair and body, and their <a href="http://bit.ly/11o5It8" target="_blank">Lavender and Wild Orchid Body Lotion with Calendula Flower</a> lotion is one of my drugstore faves for sure. It smells amazing. It quenches and nourishes my skin with a combination of shea, cocoa and mango butter, plus “orchid extract intended to fight the signs of aging and prevent moisture loss.” Well hey. It smells amazing and it works well. I recommend it.</p>
<p>I always go back to the classics, and I am an unabashed fan of <a href="http://bit.ly/13rPw0C" target="_blank">Johnson&#8217;s Baby Lotion.</a> I love its newer incarnations, especially the <a href="http://bit.ly/102Sros" target="_blank">Creamy Cocoa and Shea Butter</a> variety. I still go back to good old baby oil and lotion often, but the richness of this particular formulation makes my skin super happy.</p>
<p>I used to think of Dial as an antibacterial brand but they’ve really stepped it up in terms of fragrance varieties and skin-improving additives. I didn’t expect to love the <a href="http://www.dialsoap.com/category/lotion" target="_blank">Dial 7 Day Moisturizing Lotion Skin Therapy with Himalayan Pink Minerals</a> as much as I do. But I do! The scent is light and refreshing, and the moisture lasts all day. I have yet to discover afternoon ashiness while using it.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Fancy department store</strong></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11049" alt="Favorite Luxury Body Moisturizers" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Favorite-Luxury-Body-Moisturizers.jpg" width="336" height="336" /></p>
<p>When I think of body moisturizers from the department store that I traditionally adore, Kiehls, Lush and The Body Shop come most immediately to mind. And yes, most def – <a href="http://bit.ly/102yKwW" target="_blank">Crème de Corps</a>, <a href="http://www.lushusa.com/Dream-Cream/00031,en_US,pd.html?start=2&amp;cgid=body-lotions" target="_blank">Dream Cream</a>, and that <a href="http://bit.ly/Zv39IB" target="_blank">Body Shop Cocoa Butter</a> have earned a place in my heart. But I was sleeping on <a href="http://bit.ly/102A1nI" target="_blank">Clarins Body Lotion</a>. It is deliciously decadently efficient and moisturizing. My skin adores it.</p>
<p>For a more highly scented body moisturizer experience, I have to recommend <a href="http://bit.ly/13qTiHE" target="_blank">Agent Provocateur Luxurious Body Elixir in Petale Noir.</a> It’s as decadent and luxurious as you would imagine it to be. It’s a special occasion lotion. A date night lotion. It leaves a lingering sensual fragrance and a little goes a long way. Enjoy. You’re welcome.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Indie and online</strong></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11047" alt="Favorite Indie Online Moisturizers" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Favorite-Indie-Online-Moisturizers.jpg" width="336" height="336" /></p>
<p>There are so many awesome indie, online body lotion and butter companies! I&#8217;ve written about my love for <a href="http://bellebutters.bigcartel.com/" target="_blank">BelleButters</a> often, and via Twitter many of my readers have told me they love indie brands <a href="http://www.whipped.bigcartel.com/" target="_blank">Whipped</a> and <a href="http://ixorabotanicalbeauty.bigcartel.com/category/butters" target="_blank">Ixora</a>. And if you search on Etsy there’s a whole world of homemade body moisturizing goodies to discover. Here are a few recent favorites I&#8217;ve tried, that are available online.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.itibabeauty.com/#!__page-5" target="_blank">Itiba papaya lotion</a> came to me all the way from St. Croix, and when I use it apres-shower, it’s like I&#8217;ve kissed my skin with the scent of home. I love a sweet, delicious tropical body lotion experience, and Itiba’s has no fillers, no parabens, and it&#8217;s 100% aloe vera based. Love. I&#8217;ve got my eye on the <a href="http://www.itibabeauty.com/#!online-store/vstc2=mr-bl" target="_blank">Midnight Rain</a> fragrance next!</p>
<p>Do you like to choose your lotion according to your mood? Then get all the way into <a href="http://www.lifetherapy.com/" target="_blank">Lifetherapy</a> body lotion. The brand is all about fragrance as scent memory, evoking beautiful experiences and emotions for the lotion lover. Lifetherapy’s offerings come in a variety of amazing fragrances based on your mood, with names like Chill, Escape, Flirt, Play and Vacation. It makes picking a body lotion kind of a choose your own adventure experience, which is fun. And every single one smells great. I&#8217;m a fan!</p>
<p>I&#8217;ve got to rave over Georgia NY once again – Jodie Patterson’s indie bodycare line is just THAT good. The <a href="http://www.georgiany.com/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=29795" target="_blank">Gold Luxury Skin Cream</a> is just beyond amazing. And the <a href="http://www.georgiany.com/index.php?dispatch=products.view&amp;product_id=29834" target="_blank">Luxury Skin Oil</a> truly feels and smells like luxury.</p>
<p>Those are some of my latest favorite body moisturizers. See any of your faves? What do you use?</p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/19/lets-talk-about-body-moisturizer/">Let&#8217;s Talk About Body Moisturizer</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>New Skincare to Put on Your Radar</title>
		<link>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/17/new-skincare-to-put-on-your-radar/</link>
		<comments>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/17/new-skincare-to-put-on-your-radar/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Apr 2013 21:22:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bella</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Product Reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Skin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[full-image]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hot beauty trend]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[new products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[skin care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[skincare]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.afrobella.com/?p=11038</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>&#160; I always find it very difficult to write about light fluffy things following a national event, like what Boston experienced this week. My mind and heart are truly with the victims of the marathon bombing. But I realize that sometimes you need an escape from things that are too heavy so I hope that [...]</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/17/new-skincare-to-put-on-your-radar/">New Skincare to Put on Your Radar</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></description>
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<p>I always find it very difficult to write about light fluffy things following a national event, like what Boston experienced this week. My mind and heart are truly with <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2013/04/16/us/boston-marathon-explosions/index.html" target="_blank">the victims of the marathon bombing.</a> But I realize that sometimes you need an escape from things that are too heavy so I hope that today&#8217;s post &#8212; while it is light and fluffy &#8212; somehow brings knowledge or happiness or something fulfilling to your day.</p>
<p>Via Twitter I was asked to write a skincare post and I am here to deliver. I hope you enjoy.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11039" alt="New Skincare" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/New-Skincare.jpg" width="480" height="480" /></p>
<p>Here&#8217;s some of the new skincare that I&#8217;ve been trying out, the products that I love enough to recommend to the world. Here’s the brands and new products you should put on your radar, and where you should look for them &#8212; from the drugstore to the department store, from the spa to&#8230;outer space? Read on!</p>
<p><strong>Department Store Skincare</strong></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11040" alt="NewSkincareAtDepartmentStore" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/NewSkincareAtDepartmentStore.jpg" width="336" height="336" /></p>
<p><a href="http://www.kiehls.com/" target="_blank">Kiehls</a> is a brand I’m always talking about, because everything I’ve tried from them works to perfection. I also love their aesthetic and what they stand for – Kiehls is always involved in meaningful charitable acts, which means you can score killer skincare while doing something good for the world. Every year for <a href="http://www.kiehls.com/Earth-Day/earth-day-2013,default,pg.html" target="_blank">Earth Day</a> they partner with celebrities to create a Limited Edition Label Art Series for an iconic product. This year, their <a href="http://www.kiehls.com/Earth-Day/earth-day-2013,default,pg.html" target="_blank">Ultra Facial Cream comes in cool new celebrity design packaging by Alanis Morissette and Zachary Quinto.</a> They explain the whole project in this <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MOWvmQlGg3I&amp;feature=share&amp;list=PL0b75_KADmzhJJURtAx6lwvVh8nQ5b2--" target="_blank">cool video, check it out!</a></p>
<p>Kiehls kindly sent me their latest skincare products, and then I went away for the weekend. I totally came back and found the Zachary Quinto Ultra Facial Cream already open by my husband&#8217;s side of the sink. Guess I know who’s using that one!</p>
<p>The other new Kiehls skincare product I am excited about is their <a href="http://www.kiehls.com/Skin-Rescuer/1327,default,pd.html?start=4&amp;cgid=justArrived" target="_blank">Skin Rescuer</a> Stress-Minimizing Daily Hydrator. It promises to reduce visible signs of stress (like fatigue and redness) and so far, so awesome. It’s a lightweight cream that feels really really good on my skin. I’m loving it so far, and hey, I can use stress-minimizing whenever I can get it.</p>
<p>If you have mature skin and pretty hard-core skincare needs, I hope you&#8217;ve looked at <a href="http://www.strivectin.com/" target="_blank">StriVectin</a> &#8211; they make amazing, highly effective skincare products and they always have <a href="http://www.qvc.com/StriVectin-Beauty.category.6285.html?refine=1282822+4294942718" target="_blank">great sales on QVC</a>. If you’re seeking a skincare product to focus on stretch marks, or your eye area, your neck, your hands, or for your skin-tightening or resurfacing needs, you should check them out. The brand is known and respected for dealing with lines, wrinkles, crepey skin and the aspects of age that many seek to avoid. You can find StriVectin products at Bloomingdales, Bonton, Dillard’s, Costco, Macy’s Nordstrom, Sephora, Ulta – the list goes on. <a href="http://www.strivectin.com/retaillocations/us_canada" target="_blank">Click to find out more</a>.</p>
<p>Origins is a brand that I’ve long admired from afar, but hadn’t become intimately knowledgeable about. I’ve always heard great things about their skin products but had only tried tiny samples here and there. Recently I got a little sample of their <a href="http://www.origins.com/product/6191/11226/Skincare/Must-Haves/Travel-Favorites/Checks-and-Balances/Frothy-face-wash/index.tmpl" target="_blank">Checks and Balances frothy face wash</a> and I was absolutely blown away. It’s so thick and lovely and frothy! This wash feels amazing on my skin and makes for a great travel mini that will last beyond one trip. I’ll have to make an effort to try more Origins products. Very impressed by the quality of this face wash!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Spa Quality Skincare</strong></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11042" alt="SpaSkincareFavorites" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/SpaSkincareFavorites.jpg" width="336" height="336" /></p>
<p>Of course you expect top of the line skincare at a spa, and lately I’ve been to some AMAZING spas. Look out for a few upcoming spa review posts!</p>
<p>In terms of in-spa treatment and then high quality take home products, it’s hard to top <a href="http://www.intraceuticals.com/" target="_blank">Intraceuticals</a>. It’s been a while since <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2010/07/12/my-top-five-latest-skincare-faves/" target="_blank">my last Intraceuticals facial</a> but I’m still loving the Intraceuticals line of products – it’s all about hyaluronic acid and vitamin boosters to address specific skin issues. Their <a href="http://www.intraceuticals.com/rejuvenaterange.html" target="_blank">rejuvenating line</a> (including the hydration gel and daily serum) includes items I reach for almost everyday. Lately I&#8217;m into products that are boosted with vitamins so I really love their vitamin D and vitamin C boost.</p>
<p>The <a href="http://www.reddoorspas.com/" target="_blank">Red Door Spa</a> also makes the fantastic professional quality clarifying vitamin D serum that has been making a noticeable difference to the health and appearance of my skin – I only just started using it so I can’t make any over-the-top claims, but it smells and feels like luxury and my skin is happier for that.</p>
<p>The next time you’re strolling through a spa’s boutiques, keep an eye out for spa brand <a href="http://www.pevonia.com/" target="_blank">Pevonia</a> – I have yet to be disappointed by anything I&#8217;ve tried from spa skincare line. Their skin creams are decadent and rich, and their <a href="http://www.pevonia.com/pevonia-product-type-saltmousse.html" target="_blank">saltmousse exfoliators</a> are essential for my skin’s smooth appearance in the upcoming warmer months. They use fruit enzymes and finely milled salt to soften and smooth your skin from head to toe.</p>
<p><strong>Drugstore Skincare</strong></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11043" alt="Olay" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Olay.png" width="265" height="265" /></p>
<p>Don&#8217;t sleep on the drugstore, their skincare has stepped it up a whole another level! Brands like <a href="http://www.neutrogena.com/" target="_blank">Neutrogena</a>, <a href="http://www.aveeno.com/" target="_blank">Aveeno</a>, <a href="http://www.lorealparisusa.com/" target="_blank">L’Oreal</a> and <a href="http://www.olay.com/Pages/DefaultFlash.aspx" target="_blank">Olay</a> are definitely doing what it takes to get it right, and their research and development teams must be working overtime because I feel like there&#8217;s always incredible new products coming out from those brands in particular.</p>
<p>I’m absolutely loving some of Olay’s latest products, and their <a href="http://www.olay.com/skin-care-products/total-effects/Total%20Effects%20Moisturizer%20+%20Serum%20Duo%20with%20Broad%20Spectrum%20SPF%2015%20%E2%80%93fragrance%20free?pid=75609191473" target="_blank">Total Effects Moisturizer and Serum</a> is a recent favorite. Broad spectrum SPF 15, and it isn’t too heavy for the transitioning weather.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Online and Beyond</strong></p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11041" alt="TalikaCreamBooster" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/TalikaCreamBooster.jpg" width="336" height="336" /></p>
<p>One of the most intriguing skincare products I received recently is the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/TALIKA-Talika-Cream-Booster/dp/B0089KEWM0" target="_blank">cream booster by Talika Paris</a>. I’ve never used a device like this before. Inspired by space research, it claims to “boost your skincare’s potency by driving actives deep into cells and increasing microcirculation,” by using “LED phototherapy, microvibration technology and ionotherapy”. Basically it&#8217;s a fancy, high tech vibrating device to help your skincare work better. I&#8217;ll keep you posted as to how it goes when I try it out! <a href="http://www.talika.com/P_592_cream-booster.html" target="_blank">For now, check out their website here.</a></p>
<p>That’s some of the latest skincare I’m testing and trying and wanted to share with you. See anything you want to try, or already love? What are your skincare favorites?</p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/17/new-skincare-to-put-on-your-radar/">New Skincare to Put on Your Radar</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Monday Manicure. Spring! Pastel! Nails!</title>
		<link>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/15/monday-manicure-spring-pastel-nails/</link>
		<comments>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/15/monday-manicure-spring-pastel-nails/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 15 Apr 2013 17:31:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bella</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Monday Manicure]]></category>
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		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.afrobella.com/?p=11033</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[<p>&#160; I&#8217;ve been seeing these really cute springtime manicures on Pinterest, where the girls paint their nails in various pastel shades, each nail in a different color. SO CUTE. I&#8217;m not here for all pastels (I’m not a baby pink kind of girl), but there are some really really cute new pastel nail polishes out [...]</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/15/monday-manicure-spring-pastel-nails/">Monday Manicure. Spring! Pastel! Nails!</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></description>
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<p>I&#8217;ve been seeing these really cute <a href="http://pinterest.com/afrobella/nail-inspiration/" target="_blank">springtime manicures on Pinterest</a>, where the girls paint their nails in various pastel shades, each nail in a different color. SO CUTE. I&#8217;m not here for all pastels (I’m not a baby pink kind of girl), but there are some really really cute new pastel nail polishes out the season that I am loving more than I thought I would! Allow me to share them with you in this week’s Monday manicure!</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11036" alt="Spring Pastel Nails" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Spring-Pastel-Nails.png" width="480" height="480" /></p>
<p>This past weekend I had a speaking engagement in Austin Texas, at the first ever Black Social Media Summit. I needed to have a cute manicure in a hurry because I was going to be out in public shaking hands getting hugs and meeting new people couldn&#8217;t go out with my nails raggedy, could I?</p>
<p>Inspired by Pinterest and the new spring manicure trend I decided to play with some of the new colors of been sent by brands, for review. Here’s what I used!</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11035" alt="PastelNails" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/PastelNails.jpg" width="545" height="480" /></p>
<p>- <a href="http://bit.ly/116791W" target="_blank">L&#8217;Oreal nail polish in Pistachio Cream</a></p>
<p>- <a href="http://bit.ly/116791W" target="_blank">L&#8217;Oreal nail polish in Royally Yours</a></p>
<p>- <a href="http://www.narscosmetics.com/the-latest/collections/newest-collections-from-nars/pierre-hardy-for-nars-collection?gclid=CN6rvOOXzbYCFYI-MgodBxIAEg" target="_blank">NARS Pierre Hardy collection.</a> Can I just get into this for a second? This collection is so awesome. There are SO many incredible nail polish sets and vibrant on trend colors! The <a href="http://bit.ly/1167wcJ" target="_blank">Sharks set</a> is as springtime as it gets. <a href="http://bit.ly/1167wcJ" target="_blank">Sharks Right</a> is a beautiful lilac that’s distinctive yet feminine. <a href="http://bit.ly/1167wcJ" target="_blank">Sharks Left</a> is a butter yellow that I&#8217;m really excited to try. But me being me, I went for the purple. Duh. It’s who I am.</p>
<p>After painting my nails like little Easter eggs, I decided to layer on a little sparkle with <a href="http://www.cnd.com/products/colour-effects/nail-polish-colors" target="_blank">CND&#8217;s Sapphire Sparkle</a>. It adds a subtle iridescence to everything it goes over.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11034" alt="Pastel Nail Polish" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Pastel-Nail-Polish.jpg" width="640" height="443" /></p>
<p>So you’ll notice some chips in my manicure, and I want to vent really quickly about it. I&#8217;ve been totally spoiled by gel manicures and no chips. The procedure turned me out. And now, when I do my own nails, I get really frustrated by how easily they can get damaged. HOWEVER, I&#8217;m really<a href="http://jezebel.com/5890788/oh-crap-those-fancy-gel-manicures-might-be-bad-for-you"> scared of the potential negative side effects of gel manicures from what I&#8217;ve been reading online</a>. Yikes.</p>
<p>With minimal chipping, my pretty spring miniature lasted through the weekend. I did get some more significant chips towards the end and I will have to do it over but hey. It is what it is. Maybe I need to use a sturdier top coat. Any recommendations?</p>
<p>What do you think of the colors I chose for my spring manicure, bellas? Would you try any of the colors I chose?</p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/15/monday-manicure-spring-pastel-nails/">Monday Manicure. Spring! Pastel! Nails!</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Rumble With The Bee &#8211; Interview With The Daily Show&#8217;s Samantha Bee</title>
		<link>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/09/rumble-with-the-bee-interview-with-the-daily-shows-samantha-bee/</link>
		<comments>http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/09/rumble-with-the-bee-interview-with-the-daily-shows-samantha-bee/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 09 Apr 2013 17:38:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>bella</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Beauty]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Famous Faces]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Randomness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[celebrities]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[celebrity interviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[dove]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Interviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Samantha Bee]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[Skin]]></category>
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		<category><![CDATA[the afrobella interview]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Daily Show]]></category>

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		<description><![CDATA[<p>&#160; This post has nothing to do with Lil Kim. And everything to do with coming face to face with your TV faves. I’m a big fan of The Daily Show, so when my friends at Dove told me the April Truth Day they wanted me to come to NYC for was being hosted by [...]</p><p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/09/rumble-with-the-bee-interview-with-the-daily-shows-samantha-bee/">Rumble With The Bee &#8211; Interview With The Daily Show&#8217;s Samantha Bee</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></description>
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<p>This post has nothing to do with <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_-vQm3z-4wE" target="_blank">Lil Kim</a>. And everything to do with coming face to face with your TV faves. I’m a big fan of <a href="http://www.thedailyshow.com/" target="_blank">The Daily Show</a>, so when my friends at Dove told me<a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/09/inside-doves-april-truth-day-discover-the-real-deal-with-cleansers/"> the April Truth Day they wanted me to come to NYC fo</a>r was being hosted by <a href="http://www.thedailyshow.com/news-team/samantha-bee" target="_blank">Samantha Bee</a>, I HAD to go.</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-11022" alt="AfrobellaSamanthaBee" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/AfrobellaSamanthaBee.jpg" width="491" height="480" /></p>
<p>Do you watch The Daily Show, bellas? If you do, you already know Samantha Bee as their intrepid correspondent who bravely interviews politicians and newsmakers, tackling tough subjects with assumed, deliberate and brilliant insensitivity and ignorance. And when she isn&#8217;t reporting on stories about current affairs, she’s doing stuff like striding around Times Square, interviewing folks in a faux-shower for Dove.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>I had to ask her about that, and more. And it’s so cool to come face to face with someone you watch often on TV, only to discover that behind the comedic veneer is a sweet, friendly, down to earth, nice person.</p>
<p>Samantha Bee is Canadian, and I was curious as to whether being an outsider to politics here lent to her perspective on the issues that separate our countries, like health care or gun control – stuff like that. “I think so, to some degree. It can be disconcerting being an inside-outsider. There are tons of cultural similarities, but we’re also totally different. It’s interesting how it informs society.”</p>
<p>Samantha gained a reputation on TDS as being the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samantha_Bee" target="_blank">“always pregnant lady,” as Olivia Munn referred to her.</a>I had to ask her about being a mom and it turns out her Wikipedia entry could use some editing for clarification. Samantha Bee and her husband (and fellow TDS correspondent) <a href="http://www.thedailyshow.com/videos/tag/Jason%20Jones">Jason Jones</a> might have joked once about having kid #4, but it certainly isn&#8217;t happening, ever.</p>
<p>“Jason had <a href="http://www.thedailyshow.com/watch/thu-august-4-2011/uncensored---i-survived">a real vasectomy on The Daily Show</a>! So Wikipedia is wrong, they should add that. How do you fix a Wikipedia entry?” As someone who had a Wiki page for all of half an hour, I have no idea.</p>
<p>We chatted about our mutual love of Dove. My history with Dove love goes back a ways, but not as far as Sam Bee’s. “My grandmother used Dove, t was her brand. So I&#8217;ve used it since I was a child, before I could even remember. Forever. And I use it on my kids, too.”</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11023" alt="dove-april-truth-day-00022" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/dove-april-truth-day-00022-450x300.jpg" width="450" height="300" /></p>
<p>Since Samantha had asked so many women about their shower habits on Dove’s behalf (see video above,) we discussed our own shower routines. It turns out, I over shower – using both a bar and a liquid soap cleanser. I also luxuriate, listening to my Shower Songs playlist while I get clean. Samantha is the mother of three little kids. She has zero time to herself. “I do hair first. Hair, out of the way. I feel like then I do these parts (rubs torso) and then these parts (goes lower). Then I have to get out ASAP because a child is banging on the door. Or even worse, it’s too quiet. When it’s too quiet, something’s wrong.”</p>
<p>I had to ask her how she does it all. I don’t even have kids and I feel myself struggling with work/life balance issues. How do you figure out a work/life balance when you&#8217;ve got a husband, three kids, and a high profile job on one of television’s most popular programs?</p>
<p>“The secret is, don’t try to do anything very well. Give everything like, 75%,” she says in her usual comedic deadpan. Then she gets real. “I don’t know. Work/life balance? I just do the best that I can. Sometimes I just throw everything to the wind.” Samantha Bee pulls out her cell phone and shows me a photo of her living room floor, absolutely covered in toys. “This is my reality. That’s a good snapshot of what it’s like at our house.” And that made me feel better. We’re all trying our best, right?</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-11024" alt="165300119" src="http://www.afrobella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/165300119-425x300.jpg" width="425" height="300" /></p>
<p>Thanks to Dove for the opportunity, and thanks to Samantha Bee for being lovely. You can follow <a href="https://twitter.com/Dove" target="_blank">@Dove</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/iamsambee/with_replies" target="_blank">@IAmSamBee</a> on Twitter. And visit <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DoveUS?ref=ts&amp;fref=ts" target="_blank">Dove’s Facebook</a> page for more on the whole April Truth Day concept.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><em>Disclosure: My trip to NYC was sponsored by Dove, but these posts weren’t – just in case you were wondering!</em></p>
<p>The post <a href="http://www.afrobella.com/2013/04/09/rumble-with-the-bee-interview-with-the-daily-shows-samantha-bee/">Rumble With The Bee &#8211; Interview With The Daily Show&#8217;s Samantha Bee</a> appeared first on <a href="http://www.afrobella.com">Afrobella</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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