Air Kisses - Celebrating twelve years of beauty, trends, style and substance

More Products No One Needs

2008-11-05T07:03:00.000-08:00

Why oh why can't we learn to accept ourselves flaws and all? Could it be because companies like FlabuLess create products to make us even more insecure than we thought possible?

If neo-girdle manufacturers s like Spanx haven't properly constricted your right to let it all hang out and made you thoroughly insecure about every bump and jiggle, and if celebrities with shell-shocked Botox frozen faces haven't made you despise each and every laugh line, FlabuLess will cause you to lose your last shred of peace of mind. We can't believe it's true, but someone has invented an upper arm girdle. We suggest you shake what your momma gave you and avoid future products that scrape, nip or tuck away your right to flab- because we love you either way.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

VOTE

2008-11-04T05:47:00.000-08:00

Because you can.
Because you should.
Because whether or not you're passionate one way or another it's the right thing to do.
(unless it's the left thing to do).
Vote for freedom.
Vote for choice - (whatever choice you make that is!)
Vote and be counted.
Vote because if you don't, you'll have no one to blame to for the next four years but yourself.
Then scoot on over to Ben and Jerry's or Starbucks for free yumminess as a reward for doing your civic duty.

Scoot.
Go.
Get off the computer now and
VOTE!

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Norma + Jeans (make a Marilyn out of me)

2008-10-27T18:48:00.000-07:00

Hell froze over. Or close enough: I am actually going to step into a WalMart this week. Who knew that the place to stock up on TP, garden gloves and sensible briefs would attract a fashion following with a nothing-over-$20 line from Norma Kamali? It's like Joe the Plumber showing up in a Vanity Fair Young Hollywood issue.

Here's what's on offer: sassy, stretchy jersey separates in red, black, and leopard print. Cute patent satchels, clutches, and belts. Iffy-looking "crop-length jog pants" and tunic sweatshirts. Organic cotton graphic tees (yay for the OC, boo for the uninspired graphics). In other words, it's a mixed bag, but one that also contains a pantsuit with jacket for under $40.

With just a few days to go before election day, I'm voting for the jersey wrap dress and shirtdress -- easy on, easy off, and (next to diamonds, natch) a bouncy wrap dress is a girl's best friend. Just keep away from the subway grates....

To Zirh With Love

2008-10-23T13:02:00.000-07:00

Oh there's nothing sexier than a guy fresh from the shower. Zirh's new Warrior collection of shower gels was inspired by strong sexy rulers from centuries past like Alexander the Great one of our favorite ancient Greek kings. (okay, the only ancient Greek king we actually know anything about.) Your guy can learn some world history by reading the bottle. As far as the fragrances go, we've been swooning for Charlemagne - the scent not the ruler of the Franks. This fresh, icy scent conjures up memories of our own ancient past. $22.50 at Zirh.com

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Flutter, flutter...

2008-10-20T07:44:00.000-07:00

Hi, I'm Melissa, and I'm a mascara junkie. ("Hi, Melissa!")

Seriously. I've worked my way through department store beauty counters -- I stock up during the free gift with purchase weeks, because I'm also a sucker for makeup freebies. And since mascara is my product without which I refuse to step outside, it makes sense to keep a stash in my bathroom cabinet. And purse. And travel bag. You get the idea. (Hey -- I can stop any time I want, you know.)

So you can imagine the be-still-my-beating-heart moment that happened when I saw this fine, fine promotion. Ten mascaras for $35! It's the best of Sephora, too -- minis of Smashbox, Tarte, Two-Faced, Urban Decay, Cargo, and more. A great way to sample stuff you've never tried.

And don't blame me if you get hooked.

Glad Hands

2008-10-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

A lot of people are going to be shaking a lot of hands over the next few months.

Between job interviews or holiday parties, your mitts are going to go through quite a workout. Prescriptives Intensive Rebuilding Hand Treatment lasts through multiple hand washings and works to combat crepiness, age spots and discolorations. $38.00 at Macys.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

New York [Car Crash] Couture

2008-10-14T11:28:00.000-07:00

While we may have perfected the art of snark amongst our nearest and dearest, we generally try to remain kind in all things editorial.

If something makes us break out or barf, we'll generally avoid mentioning it. That said, so mesmerized were we by the cringe-osity of New York Couture, that we couldn't help but comment.

Picture the tackiest of American Apparel crossed with the parts of the '80s that we'd most like to forget. Sprinkle in a liberal dose of tranny hooker chic, with a whiff of Carrie Bradshaw at her Patricia Fields worst and you're scratching the surface of this genuinely awful 'fashion' line.

We weren't exactly surprised to find out that Designer Cassie K. was a self-proclaimed "freak in high-school," or that she has no formal fashion training. It isn't that we don't get her scary need to seem shocking or even interesting, we just can't help but wonder how much money was invested in bringing this line to life (to laugh?). Styling, makeup and hair don't help much either.

Call us old fashioned, but we prefer fashion that flatters or at the very least makes a statement in a good or shocking way, not one that looks most appropriate on Halloween.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Rise and shine (or at least pretend)

2008-10-13T09:26:00.001-07:00

Confession: I just joined a fitness bootcamp. With 20 lbs to lose after having my second baby, and the holidays looming ahead, it seemed necessary. The exercise is hard enough, but since my darling, sweet baby still is not sleeping through the night after 8 months, getting up at 5 is torture. Frankly, my beauty routine is less about looking fabulous and more about not looking like an extra in Dawn of the Dead.

I rely on Face Stockholm's Magic Wand to banish my under-eye circles. But check out what could be my new secret weapon: Laura Mercier's Eye Basics. They're sheer primers with a little color to brighten up your eyes. You can use as is or intensify the color with shadow. I'm all excited about Eyebright (shown), a pale blue shade that melts into your skin and makes your eyes brighter by comparison.

I may be doing pushups, but I'll be pretty doin' it!

Scarier than the economy

2008-10-10T07:36:00.000-07:00

Pulling your hair out wondering what's next for your 401k?
Stop and step away from the stock ticker now. Your stocks may be going down faster than your high school best friend, but given enough time it'll all bounce back up again.

To distract ourselves during all of the madness we choose not to focus on the frighteningly awful guitar playing of our inconsiderate new neighbor, but instead to jump in fright at 31 of Moviefone's Scariest Movie Moments ever (and no, the collective facial surgery of the cast of The Women does not count in this fright fest). We're also incredibly relieved not to be the only people who've seen Jacob's Ladder starring a young and dishy Tim Robbins.

So scream a little and laugh a lot, because for now- that's all we've got!

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Give Us Strength

2008-10-08T09:51:00.000-07:00

We're resisting another post about the state of our stocks (and stockings) and will instead focus on the bold, the beautiful, the muy coolio new product from B Kamins. The new Bio Maple Eyelash Fortifier is best used overnight and made for fragile thinning lashes, but can be used on overplucked brows as well.

This powerful (and pricy at $90 bucks a pop) eyelash conditioner makes it easy to flatter your flutter and contains a revitalizing complex said to combat lash loss caused by follicle aging. Loaded with peptide (the hot new buzzword in beauty) growth substances, natural plant extracts and multi-vitamins to help boost micro-circulation at the hair follicles, it's said to increase lash growth in 5-8 weeks. So much better than an eyelash perm.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Beauty and the economic beast

2008-10-06T05:56:00.000-07:00

Scared of losing your job? Evidently not enough to back away from that department-store makeup and pricey skin treatments. According to this article in Brandweek, women are economizing elsewhere:

Sales of prestige skincare brands at high-end department stores rose 2% to $1 billion in the first half, according to NPD Group. Products costing more than $70 were up 8%; those above $150 gained 21%. Similar increases were seen in fragrances and makeup.

The article goes on to mention that the product development lifecycle of most makeup and skincare lines is about 2 years, so there's always a disconnect between the manufacturer's launch calendar and current economic conditions. (In other words, don't kill the messenger.)

The Lipstick Effect has been around since there was lipstick to buy -- something pretty for your mouth is relatively cheap compared to, say, a massage or spa treatment. But what I found interesting in this article was that people are still buying stuff that I'd put in the very expensive category (over $200), with an almost 20% increase in spending over just last year. And that a $600 Botox injection is seen as an economizing move compared to getting plastic surgery!

I'm sure there's a moral here somewhere -- but I'm guilty as charged (at least on lipstick purchases), so I'll just sit quiet here in my glass house....

Wear and Wash

2008-09-29T08:12:00.000-07:00

Now, you know that somewhere Martha Stewart has a little black notebook (bound in the finest leather, with hand-stitched pages tinted a lovely pale eggshell using onion skins harvested from her garden) titled "Signs of the Coming Apocalypse."

So when I ran across this article on a suit you can wear in the shower, I knew I needed to write about it, just so the facts of the matter can be enumerated (suggested heading: "These Degenerate Times"). Here are the down-and-dirty deets: The suit is made to be hosed down in your shower and allowed to drip dry. This takes a few hours, but presto! No ironing needed if you hang it properly. (This will cut severely into the profits of Martha's mangle business, I'm thinking.)

A spokesman called the suit "the ideal solution for busy career men and women who want the convenience of easy-care clothes without the cost and hassle of regular dry cleaning." Evidently the suit is a salaryman's dream: there are almost a quarter-million of the suits in Japan!

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Someday, Subway

2008-09-24T05:47:00.000-07:00

The New York City Subway system is famous for getting you where you need to go, but as far as looking great while doing it, not so much. The stations are looking a bit peaked these days with scary moldy looking things and scary rusty looking things and multitudes of scary advertising looking things, but wait- what about the gorgeous subway art? No silly, not the illegal and awful looking graftiti tags of years gone by, but the spectacular posters and public art in the subway cars and stations.

We're jonesing for one of Tim Zeltner's Coney Island prints.

Fancy yourself one of the artsy underground? Then heed this call and apply to become one of the artists displaying their work for the bridging the tunnels crowd. View a current list of subway art here.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Sui Degeneres -- Ellen's the newest Cover Girl

2008-09-22T12:08:00.000-07:00

Read all about it! Ellen Degeneres is the new face of Cover Girl. Three reasons why this rocks:

1. Ellen is beautiful. She's also gay, really funny, and a newlywed, but check out that pic. She's gorgeous.
2. Ellen is... FIFTY years old. (That's L in Roman numerals. She actually embodies the L-word! Awesome.)
3. Her contract (a million or more, we hope) means that we'll be buying makeup from a woman we will always be laughing with, not at. (Paris, Linds and company? Take the hint.)

Here's hoping more cosmetics companies line up behind real women with real faces -- and let's toast to more campaigns celebrating an "ordinary" beauty that's so much more captivating than the manufactured, preternaturally-smooth headshots of spreads past.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Seeing red at the polls?

2008-09-15T10:45:00.000-07:00

With 2 months to go before the polls open in November, you've got plenty of time to consider the issues, debate with your family, and cast your vote (historic no matter who wins). But there's one issue the pols keep dancing around -- Liptroversy '08.

Yes, it's all fine and dandy to debate the merits of lipstick on a pig or a pitbull. The real question is: what lipstick goes best with red? or blue? And do green-party voters wear lipstick? (Oh, I kid.) It's a cruel world in which our political leanings are defined so sharply, so imagine our relief to find Stila's Rock the Vote Red lipstick, a gorgeous clear red sure to glam up the most strident of party t-shirts, buttons, or flag-waving gear. (An added bonus: a portion of proceeds goes to Rock the Vote.)

Making the world a better place

2008-09-11T05:42:00.000-07:00

There isn't much we can write today that won't seem trite, but we're sure going to try. Much like the last post discussed tattoos which leave indelible marks on our skin, 9/11/01 left indelible marks on our souls and psyches. While we can't change the past - we can change the future.

If the memory of what happened 7 years ago hasn't quite inspired you to want to make the world a better place, perhaps the story about Lori Hall Steele will move you in different ways. Lori is a prolific freelance writer and single mom who is battling ALS (Lou Gehrig's disease). While her spirit is vibrant, the disease has eroded her ability to move or work to support her young son. Lori is unable to work and crushing medical debts have left her unable to meet the mortgage payments on her home. Several writers groups nationally have taken up a call to arms to help Lori out. We're asking you to help too.

Give $1.00 or give $1,000.00 but give to help a stranger and know that you're increasing the good in the world on a day that is a sad reminder of just how much evil still exists.

Read more about Lori here: www.savelorishouse.com

Kiss someone you love today.

Tattoo You

2008-09-09T13:36:00.000-07:00

I'm not a fan of body art. I'm no prude, it's just that I can barely decide on which socks to wear each day and can't imagine wearing the same socks every day for the rest of my life. When my boyfriend recently came home with a giant outline of something very blue on a part of his body that few people see, I turned green. When his blue outline started turning red and angry looking - I got very, very white, and very very nervous. An inky friend suggested trying Tatoo Goo which is a really clever product that keeps your tat from going flat. I'm still not loving my man's homage to his hometown, but at least I'm not worried that it will get infected.

And if you want street cred even if your skin is as pristine as the day you were born, try carrying a tin around in your purse and looking extremely mysterious when anyone asks what it's for. Tattoo Goo is $5.69 at Drugstore.com

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Meg Ryan's new old look

2008-09-08T09:42:00.001-07:00

Is it just me, or does Meg Ryan look ....fabulous?

I've always loved Meg's looks -- eternally perky, yes, but wonderfully real, from "Top Gun" to a slew of late-nineties flicks like "You've Got Mail." And then she had a period of bad "enhancements," including maximal trout pout, that kept her out of films for the last few years. But check out the AP photo at right -- I do believe she's herself again.

Full confession: I have to say that in my heart of hearts I the original 1939 film, with Joan Crawford, Rosalind Russell, Joan Fontaine, and Norma Shearer -- whose "Mary Haines" role is taken this go-round by Meg Ryan. But the new Meg -- back to her better self -- just may pull me into the theater to see the remake.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Maybe Baby

2008-09-02T07:38:00.000-07:00

So we've been on summer hiatus working on all manner of exciting things. We didn't mean to neglect you and we really missed you too.

So here's something we could happily have done without this past month - the endless brouhaha over the presidential candidates. Though it's just about six weeks away, we don't know how we're going to deal with another month and a half of pleas for donations, mass speculation, overblown adulation, promises of ultimate salvation, campaign promise mutation and overnight sensation - we really need another vacation.

So Sarah Palin's daughter is pregnant. Unlike Jamie Lynne, at least she's free of Britney as an older sister and role model and Lynne Spears as a mom.

Some distractions while you debate the debates and calculate the running mates:

Juno: While the dialogue is a bit too precious, it's infinitely better than the Daily Kos.
Gossip Girl: The new season is on, and at least these rumors don't actually hurt anyone.
Choose your favorite Palin child name: Join this Facebook group and cast your vote (we pick Piper Indy and we're not embarrassed to admit a wholly unsuitable crush on the First Dude, and of giggling uncontrollably when we first read the expression VPILF describing S.P.)
Accessorize the Obamas: Because Michelle's pins are making us a wee bit frightful of her fashion sense.
Election Ties: Hillary's out of the running but you can still invest in a Hillaryscope tie to show the world how much you still care.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Scrubs

2008-07-16T07:21:00.000-07:00

Speaking of scrubs, we're a bit frightened of Freeze 24.7 Anti-Aging Prep and Polish for our faces, but have found that it works wonders on our decolletage (yes we slathered on the sunscreen- it just didn't seem to help!) and upper arms.

That said there are times when we prefer something more gentle. Beauty vixen Oona B. suggests refreshing summer skin by blending the juice of one lemon along with some lemon rind,
a tablespoon of brown sugar,
a pinch of salt
and one vitamin E capsule (pierce the capsule and squeeze out the contents).

Mix together in the palm of your hand and slather on damp skin. Rinse with lukewarm water for an instantly refreshed, flake and blackhead free face!

Freeze 24.7 scrub is $65.00 at Nordstrom. Oona's scrub can be found in your kitchen.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Scrub-A-Dub Dub

2008-07-15T07:20:00.000-07:00

We know, we know. Your grandma gave you her famous recipe for homemade Latvian facial scrub made of crushed walnut shells and pine nuts and you've tried to use it faithfully. Only while her skin always glowed, yours looks as dewy as Keith Richards. So what do you do with the leftover batch?

Seriously, we constantly get e-mail from people wondering what to do with pricey cosmetics that don't suit their skin. First off contrary to popular online wisdom - don't swap!!! (did we include enough exclamation points there?). It's unhygienic, you have no idea who or what has used these products first and it's really, really grody.

Try to figure out a different use for what you already have. For instance when we buy a facial scrub that's too intense for our delicate complexions we use it on our bodies, or love this new trick we've picked up. Rub some scrub on the top of dry, unwashed hands. Massage in and then wash hands to reveal softer, smoother younger looking hands...

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Gonna Make You Sweat

2008-07-14T05:11:00.000-07:00

Some women glow during sultry summer months. We, on the other hand sweat so much that we've been mistaken for contestants in a wet t-shirt contest and wildlife frequently cozy up to us for a salt lick.

To keep us from looking entirely washed up this season, we've become slaves to Welcome Matte Skin Enhancer from Laura Geller. We're not sure about the claims to minimize pores, but man does this gel soak up shiny spots leaving our faces looking as poised and polished as Donald Trump's personal dating pool- uh, the Miss Universe pageant of course. $22.50 at Sephora.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Hello Gorgeous! It's Mad Men

2008-07-03T06:40:00.001-07:00

Some of us have always been fiends for Mid-Century style and design, while others have recently discovered that particular brand of ooh la la courtesy of Mad Men.

For those of you who are still wondering what the hype is all about, you can watch the first episode of AMC's cult series here . If you're looking for a primer on the ads created by the real Mad Men during that era, you might want to track down a copy of Hello Gorgeous! Beauty Products in America '40s-'60s by our own style siren Rachel Weingarten.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Ice, Ice Baby

2008-07-02T05:36:00.000-07:00

Skyn Iceland is such a cool brand. We're not entirely sure if it's because they've figured out an interesting spelling for skin/skyn that doesn't reek of 'kewl,' whether it's because they have Iceland in the brand name so it conjures up all kinds of frozen goodness, or because the packaging is so incredibly clever-- probably though it's because their tagline is "Solutions for Stressed Skin."

New in the line up is the Arctic Brightening Serum which is described as "a time machine for your skin." It's got all kinds of funky ingredients that will make us look younger though not necessarily hotter and all this without a flux capacitor. Yes, we did in fact just date ourselves with that 'Back to the Future' reference.

$65.00 at Sephora

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

A Rave For Cerave

2008-07-01T06:32:00.000-07:00

Yeah, we know. That *was* an extremely lame header, but we're so happy we could cry - in a good way of course.

Summer can be tough on skin, between the strong rays of the sun, the intense heat that has us sweating like a socialite queuing up for a limited edition Birkin and the drying air of the a/c, our skin can sometimes act erratic. Cerave hydrating cleanser does all kinds of scientific things like protecting our skin's barrier, and not interacting badly with acne or other skin treatments to leave us looking un-oily, un-dry and just right.

Cerave hydrating cleanser costs about $11.99 here.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

You're Going To Make It After All...

2008-06-27T18:54:00.000-07:00

Summer Fridays can be tough. While all of the cool kids are off to their summer rentals, the rest of us plebes are stuck in front of our computers. Though we're not necessarily working through the day.

Our new old addiction is watching episodes of the Mary Tyler Moore show on Hulu.com. While everyone else is still enamored with Carrie and company, we're retro-crushing Mary and Rhoda (though more of Rhoda). It's hard to believe that nearly four decades before Bridget, MTM was living life as a single, successful thirty-something. Sure the dialogue is sometimes cliched or politically incorrect at times, but the friendships ring true, the work situations are sometimes excruciating and being unattached doesn't seem quite as tragic.

When watching these old episodes we couldn't help but wonder: When did strong, fun, funny, female characters disappear and become replaced by airbrushed, air-brained clones?

(Check out Phyllis's outfit in this episode- we would kill for it!)

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Summer Scents

2008-06-26T05:24:00.000-07:00

Living in NYC during the summer months can be tough. Our friend Kyle from Cali describes the scent of our city summer as being akin to 'garbage soup.' Well, we may not have ocean breezes and the scent of celebrities in our midst, but we do have the perfect way to add a bit of spice to our skyscraper surrounded lives.

Nuvara Exotique creates hand poured, soy blend candles with natural and essential oils and an all cotton wick. Our favorite is the light as a Mediterranean breeze Italian Bergamot and Mimosa which brings to mind dangerously attractive men in slightly too tight fitting pants zipping around Capri on their Vespas. Did we mentioned just how evocative the scent is?

Italian Bergamot & Mimosa candle is available for $36.00 at Zensual.com

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Chocolate for Change

2008-06-25T06:50:00.000-07:00

Some people get very, very, super, uber nasty when they're in full throes of PMS. No one that we work with of course-but we've heard rumors. Oh such rumors we've heard of name calling/ product throwing/chocolate munching hissy fits.

In the spirit of improving our local and global environment (while also pursuing outreach to those afflicted by insatiable monthly cravings for cocoa based products) we've stocked up on Climate Change Chocolate which comes wrapped with 15 tips for "lightening your environmental impact." Can any one snack product improve our external and immediate universe? Who knows, but we're happy putting in as much time as necessary researching the chocolaty goodness.

Climate Change Chocolate costs about $5.50

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Get Rid of the Itchy, Itchy Scrapes

2008-06-24T06:09:00.000-07:00

We recently discovered that the endless boob affliction we've been sporting is actually a spot of eczema brought on by hives or an allergy. We were as shocked as you were to learn of this condition (and also relieved not to be sporting a third nipple).

Too much information aside, after weeks of antihistamines, oatmeal baths, home made concoctions and scent free everything we discovered Psorzema Creme. Granted the name isn't glamorous. The packaging isn't much to write home about either- but oh the results. In all of our hyper-sensitive porcelain skinned lives we have never, ever encountered a product that worked so well and so fast.

Psorzema contains masses of all natural ingredients like Neem and something called Bearberry and is part of Derma E Bodycare Products. Based on the results of this baby though, we're ready to buy the entire line.

Psorzema Natural Relief Creme is $19.95 and worth every penny and then some.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

No More Racoon Eyes!

2008-06-23T06:15:00.000-07:00

We're pretty vigilant about taking off our makeup before bed (because we're scared of Rachel W.) but notice that even when we're religious about our de-maquillage, we usually wake up with that tell tale smudge of shadow and the ghost of mascara. We've recently discovered Clarins Instant Eye Makeup Remover which gets to even the peskiest liner and makes the smudgies disappear- without leaving eyes greasy or gooey. For even more gentle makeup removal try Almay oil-free eye makeup remover with Aloe, Cucumber and Green Tea.

Clarins is $25.00 on Sephora.com Almay is $5.99 at Walgreens.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Natural First Aid Tips from Whole Foods

2008-06-16T12:04:00.000-07:00

We're not too proud to admit being a bit clumsy, and now that it's summer and we're spending more and more time outdoors and suddenly everything is itchy and overheated and well, we're starting to panic. With trips to water parks and long summer drives, we're noticing nosebleeds and sunburns and bug bites- oh my! To the rescue is Whole Foods (go figure) with their suggestions for an all natural first aid kit to pack before even the shortest trip.

Did you know that peppermint oil helps to reduce body heat and promotes a healthy inflammatory response to sunburn? Add a few drops to unscented lotion or a cool bath to combat sunburn.
Taking B-complex vitamins and eating garlic and onions might make your skin less tasty to mosquitoes (and maybe your significant other- you'll have to make a choice here!)
Essential oils like citronella, evergreen or eucalyptus can disguise your body scent and make you less appealing to mosquitoes. Biting flies aren't fans of lavender, basil or geranium.

You can find a complete tip sheet with really great advice and product recommendations on the Whole Foods website.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Fizzy Daddy

2008-06-13T11:36:00.000-07:00

Confession. We tried to be really creative this year and didn't want to get dear old dad just another tie for father's day. We got him a Soda Club Fountain Jet home soda maker, because he's trying to go green but can't seem to stay away from his seltzer.

Our intentions were pure. Buy it for dad, show him how to work it and be on our merry way.
Only it wasn't that easy.
For every bottle we made, we wanted to make another one. And then we got creative and started adding in fruit and flavors and faster than you could say 'Fizzy Bubbeleh' we were hooked.

The kit comes complete with two bottles, a container of carbonation, and a device to mix it all up in. Sure it can make an obscene sound when you add in the fizz, but then so does dear old dad.

$79.95 at SodaClub.com

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Lashing Out

2008-06-11T06:41:00.000-07:00

Unlike our older sister, we haven't been blessed with long, fluttery, spidery lashes to die for. In fact, you might say that our own peepers are crowned by stubby, nubby baby fine wisps. Sigh. At least we're the pretty one in the family.

That said, we no longer have to settle for second lash best since the geniuii (plural for genius, darlings) at Peter Thomas Roth have launched their new Lashes To Die For nighttime treatment. At $125.00 a pop, it's pretty pricey, but it's less dicey than eyelash extensions or perms. In case you've over-plucked, you can also use on your brows, but we'd suggest applying carefully to avoid self inflicted unibrow.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Que Sera, Sera

2008-06-10T11:15:00.000-07:00

Sometimes a product line comes along that is so easy to use, so perfect for our busy lifestyle and so overwhelmingly affordable, that we feel like sending up an actual prayer of thanks.

Sera Anti-Aging technology is a genius new line of cosmeceuticals that not only targets those tiny but super annoying wrinkles, but is also super easy to apply. The packaging is all roll on, so you don't have to pat and irritate sensitive skin, but rather keep application always clean. Best of all Sera is fragrance and dye free so it doesn't irritate our sensitive skin.

The entire line is $39.95 per product, with our favorite being i-Sera for laugh lines near our eyes. Available at www.rollawaywrinkles.com or by calling 1.877.653.0015

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Balms Away!

2008-06-09T07:27:00.000-07:00

For those of you who fear developing a lip balm addiction- fret not. Lips are the least likely spot on your entire body to develop skin cancer, since they're usually covered with balm or gloss.

What better reason then to stock up on Bobbi Brown Tinted Lip Balm which gives you the ease of a gloss with the protective qualities of your favorite balm? Best of all they're now available in a metal case to keep them melt-proof all summer. $18.00 at www.bobbibrown.com

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Out Damned Spot

2008-06-06T04:05:00.000-07:00

With a future mother in law heading to town, we're in a panic that not only won't she see us fit to give us a blessing to marry her only son; but that she'll do the white glove test on our less than pristine kitchen.

Shaklee's new line of Healthy Home products ensure that not only won't we be poisoning our prospective guests (tempting as it may seem) with strong chemicals and additives, but that everything will be sparkly clean in no time.

Our favorite miracle product from the line is the Scour Off Heavy Duty Paste which removed all the drippy gunk from our darling MIL's recipe for pot roast. Available for $8.50 at Shaklee.com.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Bugs Be Gone

2008-06-05T10:59:00.000-07:00

Picture this: You're sitting outdoors, sharing snacks with friends or snogs with your honey. Suddenly you're assaulted by anything that flies, bites or buzzes and wake up the next morning covered with welts when you were hoping for love bites.

That would never have happened if:

A. -You'd have been sitting next to us. (we're magnets for not only creepy men, but also for all manner of mosquitoes, midges and mites)
B. You'd have spritzed on Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard along with your favorite scent. Available for $14.95 at Avon.com.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

RAW Skin

2008-06-04T06:51:00.000-07:00

If we were princesses, we'd probably want glamorous names like Kate Middleton or Andiroba.

Yes, we can just see it now- Princess Andiroba of mythical land of AirKisses, where chocolate has no calories, men call when they say they will and makeup remains exactly as applied. Well, one out of three is promising at least with RAW Skincare's Andiroba Botanical Face Primer which smoothes the appearance of fine lines and keeps your face in place even during sweaty summer months. Available for $36.00 at RAW.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

No Bed of Roses

2008-06-03T06:41:00.000-07:00

So life can be tough- we're tougher. We just don't want it to show on our faces.

Tammy Fender Bulgarian Rose Water Formula No. 238 not only keeps us looking soft and dewy, but according to the label the power of rose petals (some 7,000 are required to produce just one drop) "strengthens the power of one's emotional being - revealing love and beauty." For $65.00 for a bottle we're sure willing to give it a try.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Sex and the City Redux

2008-06-02T10:32:00.000-07:00

So we saw the movie.
And we didn't hate it.
Though we still can't quite figure out why we had to see Miranda naked, Big's bad dye job, Carrie's wooden assistant and all of that hideous with some very wonderful fashion.
But we liked it, and we're (not entirely) ashamed to admit it.
We most enjoyed watching the 20somethings in the audience who had based their lives on the fantasy, squirm as they realized they're likely in for another decade or so of hard work before they're even close to happily ever after.

But we digress.

So life isn't quite like Sex and the City. And we'll probably never be able to afford the shoes, the homes, the bought by the yard hair or lifestyle- but by God we're going to get great pedicures with Duri Sex and the City nail polish in a deep sexy scarlet. $5.00 at Duri.com or by calling 1.800.724.2216

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Who's Your Caddy?

2008-05-30T10:23:00.000-07:00

I'll bet you thought we'd be sneaking out today to see Sex and the City. Not quite, we've got more of a love/hate relationship with that quartet. Forgive us if we're still skeptical about the fact that SATC purports to let you in to the inner workings of the female mind when it was written and directed by a man.

Instead of sitting around though, we've taken up early morning power walks with our new fave accessory - the Fitness Caddy by BVT. This genius case keeps our bottled water cold, our keys handy and even has room for a cell phone or wallet. Patricia Field might not approve, but this baby is our new purse du jour. $19.99 on eBags.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Don't Be Afraid To Change

2008-05-29T07:25:00.000-07:00

My mom is one tough broad, and whenever I try to gently change her mind about something, she responds: 'This is who I am. I can't change.' I'm not sure I believe it though, I mean c'mon, people change all the time - even brands change. Nexcare, the bandage people have an entirely new series of bandages that have features like diamond shapes, or Active bandages with extra cushions for athletes.

The ones I like best are the Heavy Duty Flexible Fabric - the tag line? 'Ultra tough yet conforming.' You hear that mom?

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

C Life

2008-05-28T07:56:00.000-07:00

We're not ashamed to admit that we're total suckers not only for inappropriate pop culture references, but also for interesting brands with even more interesting stories. Imagine our delight then to discover c'watre (sea water- get it?) oceanic (like on Lost) skin care. We're most impressed with the Kanreki Serum (sounds like something Indiana Jones would try to rescue) a "mineral cocktail" (think Sex and the City for your face) that contains modified seawater infused with 78 nanonutrients and restores your youthful skin and expels toxins.

Sorry, no more clever comments - we're too busy marveling at our gorgeous, glowing faces!

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Apres Sun Hair Care Here

2008-05-27T06:34:00.000-07:00

Spend a little too much time in the sun over the holiday weekend? Well next time make sure to pack the Phyto Plage Moisturizing After-Sun Styling Gel. A teeny dab of this wonder goo ensures that your hair stays soft and shiny and doesn't look like straw after a day on the beach.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Love Is In The Air

2008-05-26T08:52:00.000-07:00

In recent years there's been a boom of skin care created from the mud and minerals from the Dead Sea in Israel which is one of the most mineral rich spots on earth. Our long time fave has always been Ahava (Hebrew for love) and apparently, Kristin Davis is a huge fan too. Right now we're digging the Purifying Mud Mask which seems to pull all those grody blackheads to the surface leaving our noses clean and pure. $28.00 on Amazon.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

You Gotta Have Faith

2008-05-23T07:47:00.000-07:00

So maybe George Michael didn't sing our all time fave on the AI finals the other night, but we still have faith - in cute accessories. Our new product crush is the tattoo inspired pillbox from retro inspired artist Karyn Cantor $18.00 at Uncommon Goods.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Take A Powder

2008-05-22T06:37:00.000-07:00

We're not big fans of PETA and their shock tactics, but that doesn't mean that you'll catch us flouncing around in a mink stole. Be that as it may, we love us some luxurious sable makeup brushes, and are dazzled by Sonia Kashuk for Target's newest powder brush. The contoured shape makes it easy to hold, and the rounded shape ensures that your bronzer or translucent powder goes on sheer as can be. $19.99 at Tar-Jay.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

A Rose (And Geranium) By Any Other Name

2008-05-21T08:21:00.000-07:00

It's a battle as old as time, no it's not good vs. evil but more like oily T-zone vs. dry patchy areas. Lucky for us HollyBeth's natural handcrafted skin care has not only the most adorable website ever (seriously, check it out) but all natural products that soften the dry spots and don't goo up the greasy ones. Try the Rose and Geranium Face Cream which contains ingredients like, um, Oil of Geranium and Rose Geranium. $45.00 for 4 oz.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Micro-(Soft)

2008-05-20T07:50:00.000-07:00

So maybe we were a bit premature in suggesting that you break out the Manolos just yet. A quick glance at our own feet revealed chipped polish and callouses on every conceivable surface. Lucky for us the XL Pro Foot File from Microplane landed on our desk. This giant foot file sloughs off tough skin and leaves you with smooth, soft, Manolo ready feet.

Who knew that we'd be recommending that you buy your beauty products from a company that also makes cheese graters, $29.95 at Microplane.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Your Pedicure Pal

2008-05-19T09:22:00.000-07:00

Winter has not been kind to our feet. Between Uggs for everything from grocery runs to work to gym, our feet have gotten used to a little added cushion every day. Suddenly it's spring! Cute shoes are cropping up everywhere. Strippy strappy sandals abound and our feet are nowhere near ready, worse- we've all but forgotten how to walk in our highest heels.

Ms. Bradshaw and company may be used to strutting in their stilettos, but we find that our tootsies get temperamental and cry out for relief after even a short walk in our Choos.

To the rescue is ALCiS, a genius new topical pain relief cream that soothes our sore feet, doesn't smell funny (in fact it's packed with botanicals) and doesn't leave our feet feeling funky. $20.00 for a 2 oz. size at Walgreens.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Kiss Kiss

2008-05-16T09:12:00.000-07:00

When contemplating that first kiss with a special someone there's so much to take into account.

Fresh breath? Check, got the Altoids right here baby.
Drool control? Always a good idea, though that man is in fact slobber worthy.
Smooth, kissable flake-free lips? You betcha- courtesy of The Lip Scrub by Sara Happ. We almost didn't want to open this delicious brown box, but are so happy that we did. Our lips are soft and sweet and ready for that special someone. Ahem. I said - we are soooo ready for that special someone. Our favorite is Almond Creme - buy yours here for $20.00.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Hair Play

2008-05-15T06:49:00.000-07:00

Here's something I haven't told too many people- I haven't cut my hair since last summer. It isn't that I haven't had the opportunity- quite the opposite in fact, when you're a beauty writer everyone wants to cut your hair. I've just started taking a very Zen attitude towards my grooming - all live and let grow (and grow, and grow) and that sort of thing.

The strange thing is that my hair looks better than ever. It also looks a lot like the way it did when I was in high school- only back then I was spending hours each day twisting, and blow drying and otherwise torturing it into place. These days though, I have one and only one holy grail product - Hair Play Set which is part detangler (oh how I yearn for the days of Johnson and Johnson No More Tears detangler) part setting spray and part leave-in conditioner all in one bottle - all this for under 20 bucks.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Turn That Frownie Upside Downie

2008-05-14T06:24:00.000-07:00

Are you having a hard time recognizing your fave actresses lately? Between botox, restylane and the unfortunate cast of modern cosmetic procedures they've all started looking like Jocelyn Wildenstein's younger sisters.

Well, if you've been plagued by pesky wrinkles but aren't of the mind to nip or tuck anything, you'll love Frownies new Face Lift in a bag. Frownies are those incredibly low tech face stickies that keep you from frowning in your sleep. This new collection costs under $100.00 and also includes a complexion wash, hydrator spray, and Frownies facial patches for nearly every part of your face. You probably won't look as preternaturally radiant as Morgan Fairchild, but you also won't have to face a scalpel or oddly shaped pouches of silicon.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Hairy Scary

2008-05-13T07:08:00.000-07:00

So, you're sneaking that final peek in the mirror before your big night out, when you spot a dark smudge above your upper lip. On closer reflection you realize that what you thought were a few faint hairs are actually a burgeoning mustache. While not as lush as Tom Selleck's in his Magnum P.I. days, this is definitely not the kind of facial foliage that will go over big with your boyfriend.

Faster than a speeding aesthetician, Veet Salon Line of ready to use wax strips will leave your fuzzy bits bare and beautiful and ready for some serious lip locking. (and can also be used on bikini area to tame those strays).

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Orgasmic Beauty

2008-05-12T07:11:00.000-07:00

So what if you haven't had a date in weeks because you've been working on that HUGE project that's sucking the life out of you - is that any reason to look like you haven't had a date in weeks because you've been working on that HUGE project that's sucking the life out of you?

We don't think so either, and apparently neither do the geniuses at Nars who just in time for summer have introduced an Orgasm gift set of the cult lip gloss along with a new nail varnish.

Go for the afterglow! At Sephora for about 40 bucks.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Take Back The Fat

2008-05-08T09:25:00.000-07:00

We're all about empowerment, most especially when it comes to objects of beauty (and even objects of beauty for our booties), which is why we're so in love with Bliss's Fat Girl line. We know they'd never call us fat, even if we do it to ourselves.

Newest in the line is Fat Girl Sleep which for $38.00 skinnifies you while you're already catching up on your Zzzzz. Genius.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Fifteen Minutes Of Shame

2008-05-07T06:18:00.000-07:00

Picture the worst thing that's every happened to you.
No.
Even worse than that.
Now picture that happening on national television.

That's the premise behind Lisa Daily's new book Fifteen Minutes of Shame in which romance expert Darby Vaughn (think Dr. Phil, only female and not annoying) finds out that her husband has been cheating on her in a big way. If you're a fan of chick lit you'll love this. If you're a fan of witty chick lit you'll be in heaven. If however you're looking for oversimplified plots or characters - you'll definitely be disappointed. Daily's characters and situations feel real and are really funny - except for when they're painfully real. You'll inhale this book over a weekend.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Desert Island Picks

2008-05-05T09:15:00.000-07:00

We're sooooo ready for a vacation. Barring an immediate escape to a tropical paradise populated by shipwrecked cabana boys, we'll have to settle for a fragrance that makes us feel as though we're there. Michael Kors Island has all the hallmarks of the perfect spring into summer scent - a gorgeous bottle inspired by the sparkling waters of the Caribbean and containing exotic notes of Kauai Waterfalls, Chinese Kiwi, Parrot Tulip and Galapagos Driftwood - all for about $75.00.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements) Posted by Airkisses a

Somme Girls

2008-05-01T06:11:00.000-07:00

Some of us are extremely lazy. Others tend to go for facials faster than you can say beta hydroxy acid. All of us are looking for ways to improve our skin in time to bare a bit more of it.

All of us have fallen for Somme Institute Transport Pads which are a slightly more grown up version of the Clearasil pads we used in high school. Instead of targeting errant zits, these beauties contain alpha and beta hydroxy acids and not only unclog blocked pores but also exfoliate dead cells on face and chest.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Balms For The Pore

2008-04-29T07:03:00.000-07:00

Some women I know complain about monthly breakouts, for me though, my worst skin offender has always been a shiny nose and T-zone. I can't begin to tell you how many photo ops have been ruined by my too shiny forehead and nose.

Okay, so maybe I'm exaggerating, but I'm hyper aware of the teeny, tiny blackheads on my nose and that inevitable oily shine.

Along with the myth of lather, rinse, repeat being the only way to shampoo, comes the notion that with enough scrubbing you can shrink your pores - not so.

You can wash with a gentle cleanser to keep pores as clean as possible to diminish the appearance of large or clogged pores. When regular facials or scrubs fail me, I rely on Dr. Brandt Pores No More which seems to smooth out my pores and mattify my offending nose.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Spring Kisses

2008-04-10T05:35:00.000-07:00

We are unrepentant lip gloss addicts. It's nothing we're ashamed of, (except for that incident last summer at Sephora) like say, an addiction to tanning beds or American Idol, but we're addicted nonetheless.

Come this summer (okay, next month) we know we're going to have a hard time resisting Prescriptives Colorscope Lip Gloss which is the perfect mix of subtle colors with over the top sexy shine.

Our fave shade is Sassy- the ultimate pinky neutral with just enough shine to be really interesting, but no over the top gloop factor..... though for under $20 a pop- we're tempted to stock up on every shade.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Smile!

2008-04-09T11:04:00.000-07:00

So winter never really ended.
And your roommate just got engaged.
And your jeans don't fit anymore-
-Because winter never really ended
and your roommate just got engaged.
(which inspired the incident with the cheesecake
okay, the cheesecakes)

So you haven't had much to smile about.
Until now that is.

Arm & Hammer have just released a new line of tooth pastes, which is pretty cool, but their Whitening Booster is even cooler. You use this clear, peroxide based gel along with your regular toothpaste for an almost immediate whitening boost. (2x more whitening power than tooth whitening strips alone!). $4.99 at drugstores

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Hilary And The Scorpion

2008-04-08T13:10:00.000-07:00

Better than crabs, right?

For those of you who haven't seen the clip on YouTube yet, there's a sneak peek from a new movie called War, Inc. directed by NPR darling Joshua Seftel in which the formerly sugar and spice Hilary Duff pulls an Aguilera and drops a live scorpion down her pants.

No, for real.

We noticed John Cusack (sigh. we love us some Johnny Q) looking kinda queasy during the scene as Ms. Duff writhes and shakes and bellydances with the carnivorous arthropod (No silly, we mean the other carnivorous arthropod).

So are we meant to be shocked or awed or a little confused by the girl who used to make us all go awwwwwwww? No clue. But the vid has had nearly a million viewers so far.

Also, Hill's character is named Yonica Babbyeah, and we're extremely disturbed by the fact that we're digging the name Yonica in a big way.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Take A Powder

2008-04-04T10:32:00.000-07:00

We heart organic products. From chocolate chips to veggies and dips, we're so over pesticides. So does it make us shallow that our favorite organic product ever just happens to be a hair product?

We'll explain. For days when you're too tired to rinse, lather, repeat, you can just shake some of this heavenly scented stuff into your tresses for instant shine, instant clean, instant smells so heavenly that you feel like singing like Princess Gisele in Enchanted. Only you don't.

At $40.00 Lulu Organics ain't cheap - but then neither are you, no matter what that beyotch cousin Margaret says about you.

Buy some now (we recommend the Lavender & Clary Sage- pure bliss!)

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Girly Toys

2008-02-21T08:34:00.000-08:00

No silly, not *those* toys. We're talking about our new Asus Eee itty bitty computer. It's definitely sans bells and whistles but at 7" and 32 ounces it's easy enough to throw into a purse and use to take notes or send e-mail. It's small, cute and gets the job done. $299.00 on Amazon.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Editor's Note

2008-02-18T10:00:00.000-08:00

We've gotten a lot of e-mail since our re-launch from cosmetic companies, designers, studios, publicists and pretty people wondering why we sometimes update every day, sometimes not for weeks and sometimes after the fact. Well, while we like to keep our beauty secrets to ourselves, we do think you deserve an explanation.

You see lovely ones, we're not strictly a beauty site and we're not quite a beauty blog either. Over a decade ago when most beauty companies barely had e-mail we launched as PlanetPretty.com one of the most popular beauty and entertainment web sites for young women. So popular was the planet known as pretty that Netscape (the Google of its day) chose us as the top site of the day- for 31 days running. Times changed. The bubble burst. And PlanetPretty was no more.

Like the Bionic Woman we've reformed. We're better, stronger, prettier- but we're still not quite your traditional schilling for beauty products site. We cover things that we hope interest you- like makeup and books and movies and more. We also work with our corporate clients on finding out what makes both you and them tick. For that reason we've got a database and e-mail list that's just over 100,000 strong nationally in different age groups and demographics, and before you ask, no, you can't join that list just yet, though you will be able to sign up for a new and different prize list in a few weeks. Anyway back to the nitty and the gritty. Our carefully chosen list receives advance and popular product information and advice. Sometimes they love it, sometimes they hate it. If they love it a lot we'll usually feature the products here. Sometimes they're given mad money to spend at places like Sephora and all they have to do is tell us what was on their wish list and what they ended up with. Sometimes we'll tell them that we'll pick up the tab on their eBay purchases for an entire day- as long as they let us surf along with them. In other words, we love our makeup, but we also analyze, advise and indulge our clients and readers.

If you've read this far, you deserve a great big Air Kiss for your trouble. If you're a cosmetic company or fashion brand interested in finding out more about our services, please write to us at info [at] airkisses.com and if you're interested in the best of beauty, trends, styles and substance- well then- you've come to the right place.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Fashion Week Trivia

2008-02-01T04:49:00.000-08:00

It's Fashion Week this week- you know, those seven days when fashionistas totter through arctic weather clad in stiletto flip flops, resort wear and zillion dollar handbags while flitting through the tents and bestowing airkisses on all and sundry.

Forbes.com has a fun story on 10 things you didn't know about Fashion Week - though of course, we already knew it all. Okay, we didn't know that the tents in Bryant Park take up 65,000 square feet- isn't that the square footage of the *entire* island of Manhattan?

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Beauty Blogging For Freebies

2008-01-31T09:58:00.000-08:00

Well, you know a trend is officially over when the Styles section covers it and today's story on beauty bloggers just proves our point. Ten years ago, when we started our online reporting of all things beauty, trends, style and substance it was mostly us (when we resided on the planet known as pretty) and the big guys- and by big guys we mean cosmetic companies who were spending upwards of $125 million dollars to create their web presences. No really, we promise- look it up! Back then we were consulting and creating content for them, only it was more like a pity grope on our part, since they still didn't quite get it, albeit one with a really great paycheck. These days, as ever, we bring them information on emerging trends and consumer quirks and you our loyal readers informed advice on the hottest style trends as reported by our great editorial team of reputable writers and authors as opposed to those in search of the great swag grab. Oh, and we're still consulting and reporting for the big guys, only now they have a slightly better idea of the power of the internet!

And with that kissable ones, we're off to polish off our Louboutins and hit the tents.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Vicks For Chicks

2008-01-30T10:10:00.000-08:00

Remember back when you were but a wee fashionista and aromatherapy meant your mom rubbing Vicks VapoRub on your bony and congested little chest? Well, times have definitely changed. These days when you're not enjoying aromatherapy infused massages or dinner a deux with your hottie du jour, you're likely flitting about in search of fabulosity and can't be bothered with something as icky as the arid air in your tiny boite.

When moisturizers have stopped dew-ifying your face it's time to tackle the actual air that you breathe. As un-glam as it may sound, the new Vicks V790 GermFree Humidifier (about $129.95 call 1-800-477-0457 for more information ) makes indoor winter air easier on your skin and makes it easier for your moisturizers to keep your skin moist.
Only we hate the word moist.
But you know what we mean.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Blooms Where You're Planted

2008-01-29T08:35:00.000-08:00

Winter sucks. We won't even pretend otherwise. Even that tiny vase of fresh flowers looks wilted after a day of indoor heat and not enough fresh air. Well, we're still crazy for wall tattoos and are seriously loving the arum (isn't that Liz Hurley's hubbie?) sticker from the Acacia catalog. It's pretty dummy-proof.
Find wall.
Apply Sticker.
Marvel at self.

The arum wall sticker is available for $59.00 from Acacia.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

You Glow Girl!

2008-01-28T09:40:00.000-08:00

Here's something you might not know- we're actually a little jealous of our darker skinned co-workers who get to use words like 'ashy' to describe their dry winter complexions- we just look flaky.

We've been religiously ingesting our omegas and popping our Vitamin E capsules, but we're still looking dehydrated which is why we were thrilled (delighted, happy, giddy) to discover Prescriptives Vibrant-C Skin brightening cream moisturizer. See, here's the thing. We're not just flaky and parched, we're also tired and getting into this hibernating thing, so makeup seems like too much of a chore on some days. Vibrant-C not only adds nutrients to your skin (like, duh- what did you think the 'C' stood for?) but it also has these teeny, tiny, glowy things (micro-optic luminizers if you insist on getting technical) that actually make our skin look radiant.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Gimme Some Sugar

2008-01-25T09:10:00.000-08:00

We know, we know, you're all obsessed with mineral makeup because it hides your zits and lets your skin breathe and leaves you looking perfect and kissable and....Wait, not quite kissable. Did you know that there's mineral makeup for your lips too? No really. ColorScience makes these yummy lip candy glazes with delicious sounding colors like Gum Drop and Jelly Bean that not only make your pucker all kinds of shiny, but also keep lips shiny not sticky and oh so kissable.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Genie In A Compact

2008-01-18T11:29:00.000-08:00

You'd think with all the intrigue, sex and partying, those crazy Gossip Girl kids would be beet red with exertion- if not emotion. Actually, their complexions are pristine (and guilt proof). So how then do they keep that glow? (and afterglow) Rumor has it that the Gossip Girl girls are fans of Genie Beauty. Our lives might be a bit less exciting than theirs, but we're digging Genie too. Our favorite is Make Me Blush which is the airiest cream to powder cheek color we've tried. The color is a soft tawny natural- blend a dot for a fresh glow or enhance your cheekbones for evening glam. We promise not to share your new beauty secret! Available for $20.00 at Genie Beauty.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Hat Hair Solutions...

2008-01-17T09:51:00.000-08:00

Blame it on global warming but one day you're sporting shorts and a t-shirt while the next you've hidden your hair under a babushka. Whatever your reasons, your hair is probably suffering the effects of too much heat/wind/bad color (you sister told us)/ugly hat syndrome.

Here's what we advise:

DEEP condition- If you're ready to really indulge (go ahead- we dare you) wet your hair slightly and comb Philip B White Truffle Nourishing Hair Conditioning Creme through starting just below the roots and through 'til ends. For extra conditioning wrap saran wrap around the tips of your hair and leave on for 5-10 minutes. At $75.00 a pop, this stuff is as expensive as, um, truffles, but our hair has never looked good during winter months.

TREAT baby fine hair - L'oreal Professional Texture Expert Smooth Essence was developed and inspired by catwalk hair- those incredibly polished and stylized looks that are made to be photographed but not necessarily touched. Smooth Essence is ideal for baby fine hair, warm a little in your palms and then work through damp hair. Blow dry or style as usual for soft, shiny, non flat and decidedly non frizzy hair. $21.95 for 5 oz.

GROOM your locks- Whether you twist, twirl or dread your locks, Loc Butter by Carol's Daughter will keep your style looking soft and shiny not winter fuzzy. $15.50 for 8 oz.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

You Bet Nanette!

2008-01-15T05:42:00.001-08:00

It's sometimes hard for us to believe that the bohema-genius known as Nanette Lepore hails from Youngstown, Ohio. With her flair for all things gypsy with a healthy side order of girlie and inspired by her new muse, daughter Violet, Ms. Lapore has launched her most feminine fragrance yet.

The scent is by turns bright and white, courtesy of the petals of a moonstone rose, no less-and then sparkles with the Magenta Nectar of ripened Blackcurrants (really!) before settling into the sensuality of Violette petals. Is it possible to smell sexy, innocent and beguiling all at once? Have we just asked you an incredibly rhetorical question?

From the retro half moon shaped bottle to the adorable polka dot ribbon- even if we hated the fragrance- we'd buy it for the bottle alone!

Nanette Lepore Eau De Parfum spray 1.7 fl. oz. is$55.00

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Lip Tricks

2008-01-14T08:50:00.000-08:00

If you're like us your New Year's resolutions are but distant memories. If you're like us, you're also all guilted out about the Dove chocolate bar in your desk drawer or pack of smokes squished in the bottom of your Prada purse. (okay, we don't really smoke, but we didn't want you to feel like the last Carrie Bradshaw wannabe in your city).

Still with us?

If you're like us, you also fervently want to believe that a cosmetic product can actually cure you of all ills. Well, click your heels three times and reach for Fuze Slenderize gloss - the new collaboration between Too Faced cosmetics and Fuze energy drinks. This glossy gloss promises not just to nourish your lips but to also tighten your tush- in theory at least. Fuze Slenderize Guilt Free Gloss has this cool core at the center of the tube infused with the same active ingredients as that Fuze drink that you chug regularly- stuff like L-Carnitine which is an amino acid said to boost energy.

If you're trying to lay off the cancer sticks, you might want to try out Joey New York's LipNix lip gloss which is said to curb nicotine cravings.

Whatever your poison, these glosses will help you to shine.

Fuze Slenderize gloss is available for $18.50 at Sephora
Joey LipNix for $15.00 on Amazon

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Charmed, We're Sure

2008-01-10T13:11:00.000-08:00

Our new addiction does not involve calorie rich confections, unsuitable men or vodka laden drinks but rather 14 karat miniatures- Gold Label by Tina Tang to be precise. Measuring in at around 7mm-9mm, these teeny tiny charms are too small to even fill a cavity but they satisfy our craving for all things gold, shiny and girlie. At around $99.00 a pop, these babies are a bargain, well- by our calculations at least.

We got the four leaf clover - next on our list- the itty bitty peace sign.

Peace out xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Proportion, Proportion, Proportion

2007-12-24T09:31:00.000-08:00

There are some fashion trends we just don't get. Tight shiny leggings with your lady parts all squished and exhibiting signs of camelus pollex (um, yeah, we were trying to throw in some Latin for camel toe- didn't work though) 'nuff said.

Oversized bags are another. You know, those diminutive celeb-u-lovelies toting bags huge enough to cram in their entire collection of Louboutins. Well, they're just plain silly. Here's our reasoning, if socialites eschew hose in the winter to prove just how infrequently their rarified legs are exposed to the elements, well, then celebs probably shouldn't be toting around anything larger than the size of a box of Chiclets.

Katie Holmes, she of the adorable offspring and veering towards crazy hubby, has been lauded all over the place for her new fashion sense. Seriously though, this bag is slightly ginormous and way out of proportion - unless she was trying to sneak away for a long weekend or toting around her entire collection of Scientology pamphlets.

A rule of thumb for we mortals, if it's too big to cram into the overhead bin- it's too big for every day use.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

Smile and Say Argh!

2007-12-21T09:20:00.000-08:00

You know the holiday drill.
Kiss your great aunt Tillie hello.
Smile for a family picture.
Play with cousin Micah's dog.
Smile for a family picture.
Walk in on your sister-in-law/that French slut Sylvie in flagrante with the UPS guy.
Smile for a family picture.

After all that eggnog and Xmas pudding though, you may be feeling a bit jiggly- and not in a good way.
Bliss Thinny Thin Chin will tighten and firm your neck and chin area - because only Santa and your nephew look cute with extra chins.

Thinny Thin Chin is available at Bliss for $48.00 for 1.7 oz.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for contests, updates and announcements)

The Sweet Smell of Success

2007-12-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

So you don't have a glam Pucci scarf or over the top vintage couture frock this season, get over it. You can still wrap yourself in dazzling designer goodies courtesy of Pucci Vivara cologne. Originally launched in 1966 this fresh scent has hints of almond amaretto (no, really) jasmine, narcissus and other reminders of the Italian Riviera. Best of all the gorgeous bottle is inspired by Pucci Vivara fabric .

Feeling less overtly girly? Then you might want to spring for (or drop unsubtle hints) Badgley Mischka Fleurs De Nuit, a white floral in the most gorgeous (engagement ring shaped) bottle (did we just say that?). Seriously, this vintage inspired scent contains Night Blooming Jasmine and Silky Woods (we don't know what that is- but it sure sounds naughty in a good way).

Vivara: 1 oz. eau de parfum spray is $55.00 at Sephora
Fleurs De Nuit 3.4 oz. eau de parfum spray is $90.00 at Sephora

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for updates and announcements)

Hot Weekends

2007-12-19T09:09:00.000-08:00

So, you've figured out the sleeping arrangements for next week and it looks like you're going to be sleeping in your old bedroom (with all of your stuffed animals) while your sweetie is tucked into the guest bedroom between your two football playing brothers and well, it doesn't look like Santa will be sliding down your chimney any time soon.

Fret not, you can still sneak in a little holiday lovin' with the Kama Sutra Strawberry Dreams Weekender kit. This compact case contains everything you need for some seriously sweet seduction including a mini body oil, honey dust (with a teeny tiny feather applicator, pleasure balm and other yummy treats. If mom catches you canoodling you can always claim that you were dusting.

Available at KamaSutra.com for $21.24 for a limited time

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for updates and announcements)

Wall-A-Razzi

2007-12-18T09:09:00.000-08:00

What do you get the person who has everything?
Their own stalkers with flashbulbs of course.

You're such a rockstar, waiting patiently while we crawl back to life. While we can't help you with an entourage, we can help with a wall of paparazzi courtesy of Realm Dekor. For only $40.00 you can stick these vinyl photogs on your wall and you can make like Katie Holmes and that precious Suri (only without the creepy Scientology minders).

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for updates and announcements)

Spritz This!

2007-12-18T08:18:00.000-08:00

Remember back in the '80s when women proudly wore hair scrunchies and carried around bottles of Evian when traveling to delicately spritz their parched skin? Well, airline regulations are such that you can no longer carry around industrial sized bottles of water in your hand luggage- but you can still keep your skin hydrated while traveling if you spritz smaller and smarter.

The curiously named Knutek Oxygen Spritz (named after company founder Jim Knut Larsson, who looks like he's might very well be wearing a scrunchie) is a compact liquid jolt of energy for travel tired or winter worn out skin. Keep a bottle in your desk drawer to refresh your face at work, or carry one in your travel ziplock baggie to ensure that you don't end up at home for the holidays with a dried out complexion.

We can't quite explain how the ingredients like oxygen plasma work, we just know that our new fave for travel or a quick mid-day pick me up is the Oxygen Spritz. ($29.00 at Knutek or by phone at 888-411-4242)

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for updates and announcements)

Sniffle, Sneeze, Wheeze

2007-12-18T01:58:00.000-08:00

So, we've finally launched our new and improved site when suddenly like a noxious blast of bad breath from a greasy haired blind date, our offices are hit by the flu. One by one we fell, one by one we took to our beds, as piles of lippie and hair goo and bubble bath piled up on our desks.

We're back. We missed you. We want to (air)kiss you and make it all better.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for updates and announcements)

For Every Season, Tone, Tone Tone

2007-11-26T14:34:00.001-08:00

We don't know about you, but it's not even winter yet and our faces are feeling tight and flaky. Scrubs seem too harsh while soaps tend to strip our newly sensitive skin. Aida Thibiant (try saying that three times fast) Complex Organics line contains only the purest organic ingredients to pamper instead of punishing sensitive complexions. The organic spray toner contains yummy scented organic orange peel to energize your tired looking face, cucumber juice to soften and chamomile to soothe. $36.00 on the Aida Thibiant website.

Spritz this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for updates and announcements)

Grape Expectations

2007-11-09T14:12:00.000-08:00

We've all been reading about the health benefits of a glass of wine with dinner, but now 29 Cosmetics brings the antioxidant benefits of grape seed extract to their I-BLOCK grape seed age protecting eye shadow palettes.

Named after the designated blocks of vines along Napa Valley's rolling vineyards, these creamy formulas both nourish and protect the eyelids from environmental pollutants and the harmful effects of free radicals.

There must be something to the silky rich texture which makes eyes look bright and refreshed.

Our favorite is The Valley palette a mostly neutral subtly grapey quartet of shadows.
$38.00 at Neiman Marcus.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for updates and announcements)

Honey, Honey

2007-11-07T16:15:00.000-08:00

Okay, we'll admit it, while we're as sick of the aggressive buzz around Jerry Seinfeld's new flick Bee Movie, we're still pretty thrilled with the byproduct of all of those buzzing critters.

Honey is a great natural ingredient used for moisturizing dry skin and also can be used as an antiseptic - best of all, it's usually as close as your kitchen cupboard.

Christopher Watt, who beautifies some of Hollywood's
most glowing faces, including  Halle Berry and
Jennifer Lopez, suggests adding a tablespoon of honey
to your favorite mask for some extra glow.

He also created the following recipe for the National Honey Board:

Dry Skin Moisturizer
- Makes 2 Applications -

Ingredients:
2 Tbsp. honey
2 Tbsp. cocoa butter, melted
2 drops bergamot oil (optional)
1 drop lavender oil or tea tree (optional)

Directions:
Mix all ingredients together and apply to clean, dry face.  This
all-natural moisturizer can be covered and kept in a cabinet, but it will
solidify.  For a second application, heat in microwave for 10 seconds,
stir and apply to skin same as before.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for updates and announcements)

Greasies Be Gone

2007-11-07T13:31:00.001-08:00

Sometimes it feels like it can be a full time job being fabulous. Between blowouts and facials, bikini waxes and bubble baths- well, it's a lot of work to look this effortlessly beautiful. For those days when you'd rather fake it, Shampowder by Buttercream Cosmetics is a genius new invention that allows you to disguise your greasy roots, with a yummy scented hair blotting powder that matches your do.

Available for $14.99 at the Buttercream website.

Kiss this xxx

(visit www.airkisses.com for updates and announcements)

A Kiss for Country

2007-11-06T09:59:00.000-08:00

Country music has never been as flashy as say rap, or as exclusively mournful as emo, but it is the medium with old fashioned heart. Just in time for the Country Music Awards, kissable artists like Martina McBride, Reba McEntire, Jo Dee Messina and Wynonna will auction off their kiss prints (courtesy of lipstick by Mary Kay) to raise money to combat domestic violence. fans will have the chance to bid on their favorite star’s kiss prints through an auction on uBid.com, with 100 percent of proceeds being donated to help end domestic violence.

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for updates and announcements)

Lip Tips

2007-11-05T12:35:00.001-08:00

Is your pucker poutier than Angelina's but less trouty than Britney's? Well then you may just qualify as SoftLips Picture Perfect Lips and win a modeling contract and or/$2,500.00. (which should cover the costs of a couple of collagen injections)

Full rules at www.softlips.com

Kiss this xxx
(visit www.airkisses.com for updates and announcements)

Picky, Picky

2007-11-05T12:27:00.000-08:00

Betty Suarez take note- your dentist was right. Studies by Harvard Health Publications have shown that flossing may add up to six years on to your life. While using a toothpick has always been a somewhat skeevy production, the BrytonPick (www.BrytonPick.com) seems to be an easier option.

This FDA approved inter-dental space cleaner is the size of a credit card and allows you to floss effectively and discreetly by simply threading it between your teeth.

Kiss this xxx

(visit www.airkisses.com for updates and announcements)

Give Me A Ring

2007-11-05T12:19:00.000-08:00

This is such a good idea. Seriously, who wants fruit every month when you can get jewelry instead? Georgie Designs handcrafted artisan jewelry has a ring of the month club where you can choose from silver or gold filled groovy looking gemstone rings. So much tastier than an apple.

Kiss this

Brushing Up

2007-11-05T12:05:00.000-08:00

Remember the good old days of wash and wear hair? These days you're probably spending hours blowing and straightening, curling or smoothing. Just in case you've enhanced your tresses with some add on length, Acca Kappa has launched a brush specifically to brush hair extensions.
The brush is made with high quality plastic and pure boar and nylon bristles and is specifically designed for brushing hair extensions in a way that detangles the hair without damaging the joint between natural hair and the extensions.

Acca Kappa Professional Hair Extension Brush with boar and nylon bristles retails for $32 and is available at www.shopaccakappa.com.

It's Chic To Be The Queen

2007-11-05T07:29:00.000-08:00

If 40 is the new 30, then 81 is the new fabulous- at least in Britain where Vogue magazine declared Queen Elizabeth one of the world's most glamorous women.

Britain's oldest ever reigning monarch, has been declared by Vogue to be "as glamorous in her brogues and headscarf at (her country estate) Balmoral as she is wearing the crown jewels."

Glamour, the magazine declared, is "about how you wear something, not about what you wear. You cannot buy glamour and you can't fake it." Though at Airkisses we firmly believe that you probably have a better chance of faking it if like her majesty- you also happen to be one of the world's richest women...

Our own Rachel Weingarten interviewed various minions at Buckingham Palace when she was writing her book Hello Gorgeous! Beauty Products in America '40s-'60s. When asked about the queen's beauty routine, Rachel was told that there is so much that is known about the queen and that like any woman, the queen prefers to keep some things very private indeed.

Burnt Sugar Nights

2007-11-04T17:36:00.000-08:00

So what if the days are shorter? The nights are longer leaving plenty of time to flirt. Bobbi Brown limited edition Burnt Sugar metallics palette three colors - Toffee, Gold Dust and Burnt Sugar are guaranteed to add some sugar to your long cold nights.