Desert Island Beauty Picks

You know the rules: if you were stuck on a desert island and could only take three (albums, movies, people), which would you pick? Well, today the topic is beauty. And, ignoring the more daunting implications of a Lost-type lifestyle, we’re going to lay down three multitasking must-haves no beauty bag should be without. Ever.

4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup
Your foundation, concealer, powder and SPF 15, Pür’s all-in-one makeup miracle gives you a flawless complexion in just 60 seconds. Made with the finest micronized mineral pigments and good-for-your-skin ingredients like shea butter and vitamin E, this multitasking pressed powder creates a naturally radiant look that nourishes the skin and shields it from harmful UV rays (a key feature for the island castaway).

3-in-1 Universal Mineral Makeup Pencil
Line and define your lips, eyes and brows with expert ease with this smudge-proof, budge-proof mineral makeup pencil. Self-sharpening and featuring a brow brush for perfectly sculpted arches, the 3-in-1 Universal Mineral Makeup Pencil is the Swiss-army knife of beauty tools. With four gorgeous, natural shades to choose from, there’s a pencil for every skin tone.

Pür Rocks
With a kaleidoscope of organic jewel tones in a unique, three-dimensional design, Pür Rocks is a treasure chest of eye, lip and cheek looks. Combine hues with a Powder or Shadow Brush for multidimensional cheeks and eyes or apply as a crayon to instantly intensify lips and contour eyes in pure prismatic colour. With pür-fectly blendable shades of garnet and pink zircon, you’ll be able to keep your look fun and fresh for months on end.

Have your own desert island picks? Share them. Leave a comment with your top three Pür must-haves.

Seeing Red

As a way to celebrate our kick-off for the Go Red For Women campaign, all of us here at Pür Minerals participated in National Wear Red Day. It was a very festive Friday that was full of surprises, perfect for supporting such an important cause. All around the office, people were wearing their hearts on their sleeves, sporting crimson tops and blue jeans, all in the name of wiping-out heart disease, which is the number one killer of women (And you, too, gentlemen!). Being in the beauty industry, of course plenty of us took our looks to the next level with red jewelry, accessories and make-up. I wore a red ribbon in my hair and carried my red, leather handbag, and I love any excuse to bust-out my red lipstick!

Many individuals, companies and even entire cities participate in National Wear Red Day, but I must say that “Project Runway”, the popular fashion design show on Lifetime, definitely got me into the Go Red spirit with its special, Go Red For Women episode, entitled Design Your Heart Out. The designers were paired with women who have been affected by heart disease, and they had to create a red evening gown for these brave and inspiring ladies. The episode was sponsored by Campbell's AdDRESS Your Heart program, and the designers had one day and 100 dollars to complete their look. The winning gown will be worn at the Red Dress Awards on February 10, during New York Fashion Week, and the dress will also be available to buy on Project Runway’s website for a limited time.

Amy Sarabi won the challenge last night, draping her model in a chiffon, full-length gown with an empire waistline and ruching at the top. Jesus Estrada’s short, tight mini dress received much criticism from the judges and subsequently got him voted off the show. Of course somebody has to lose every week, but I really feel that despite that, everybody on that show was a winner last night. Every one of those women looked, happy, healthy and gorgeous, and that in itself is a victory. Besides, the whole point of the challenge and everything it represents is to raise awareness and increase prevention of a nationwide killer, heart disease. Being fashion forward is simply a delightful bonus.

Mineral Mudd Masque is a Fashion Reader Fave!

It’s one thing when a magazine’s beauty department gives you a nod. It’s a whole other thing when its readers cry out your name. So, when Fashion magazine announced our Mineral Mudd Masque was a Reader Fave in its 8th Annual Readers’ Choice Beauty Awards, we were speechless. The best solution in such a situation? Let someone else do the talking:

 “It feels like it’s vacuuming my pores, and my skin feels so smooth afterwards.”
—Jennell B., Fashion reader

Using a unique form of bentonite clay, Mineral Mudd penetrates deep to draw out pore-clogging impurities as it lightly exfoliates the skin.  (You can actually feel the suction as it dries.) Free of harsh chemical dyes, this gentle mud masque rinses off with warm water to reveal a healthy glow and silky smooth feel. Great for everyone, this product is an absolute must-have for those with oily, combo or breakout-prone skin.

Pop Culture’s Perfect Storm: Fashion Week Meets “Jersey Shore”

I’m all for combining guilty pleasures. That’s why I was thrilled when the New York Post hinted at a possible merger of two of this year’s arguably biggest pop sensations—Fashion Week and MTV's “Jersey Shore.” Alright, so Fashion Week isn’t exactly a guilty pleasure, but the fake bake boardwalk crew certainly is. And with their indulgently un-PC first season at an end, fans everywhere are looking for their next fix.

According to the Post, the cast is demanding tickets to shows for the weeklong fashion preview, which starts February 11. While celebrities—even pseudo-celebs—pining for ground level access to fashion’s biggest event isn’t anything new, what is exciting—and some would argue frightening—is who’s pulling for the reality stars.  Michael Schweiger, a manager for several of the cast members, says at least three designers approached them with offers to attend and even—gulp—model in a few of the Bryant Park shows. Just imagine JWoww strutting down the runway in all her orange-dipped glory.

Designers were understandably divided on the issue.  While some welcomed the publicity and encouraged the crew to come as they are—gelled bouffants and all—others worried that “the situation” (pun definitely intended) might distract viewers from the collections they’re trying to promote.

Whatever the outcome, however, thousands of fans (this one included) will be on the lookout for any excuse to keep the party alive while the gang gears up for another season of drama, debauchery and delightfully lowbrow mischief.

Winter Woes?

Are winter beauty challenges bringing you down and cramping your style? I try very hard to like winter, but as much as I focus on the holidays, fluffy coats, hot chocolate and snow, I just can’t get past the cold weather and its cosmetic cruelty. As air gets colder, it holds less water, and dry air means dehydrated skin and hair. Throw in a little wind and super-low humidity, and you’re looking at some serious winter woes from your head to your toes. Don’t let skin and hair problems keep you from looking your best! With relative ease, you can melt these icy crises away in no time!

Dull, Dry Skin?

It’s bad enough to lose your summer glow, but cold weather conditions can also make skin dry, itchy and dull. My face, hands, legs and even my feet feel the brunt of winter, and I’m a girl who loves her strappy heels and peep toe pumps. Moisturize! Moisturize! Moisturize! I keep the Pür Body Butter with me all day, and special foot treatments, like Happy Feet, are a great remedy for cracks and dry cuticles. Eating foods rich in Omega – 3 oils are great for your skin, so adding flaxseed, nuts and fish to your diet could help, too. A self tanning lotion, like Pür Minerals Get A Little, can be a great replacement for your summer tan, but be sure to exfoliate beforehand. Irregular dry patches of skin can ruin that flawless glow. In a real pinch, I’ve misted myself with a little moisture spray and lightly dusted my legs and arms with Mineral Glow for a quick fix.

Chapped Lips?

Not only are cracked, chapped lips unappealing, but they hurt, too. Don’t pout! Just keep a reliable lip treatment handy, like Pür Balm or Mineral Lip Revival. Really deep cracks and splits may require special attention and should be treated with a healing ointment or petroleum jelly. Be sure to avoid flavored balms and glosses. They can irritate dry lips, and you may be tempted to lick your lips, which is a no-no!

Hair Static?

This happens to me all the time. The frigid air makes my hair go everywhere! I barely touch it or brush it against my coat or scarf, and poof! It’s practically standing on end. The first step to conquering those electrical locks is to shampoo less and use a good conditioner. Shampooing strips natural oils from your hair, so it may be a good idea to only wash it every other day. Definitely reduce any chemical treatments, like coloring. The old wives tale about rubbing a dryer sheet over your hair works for many people, or if your style allows for it, brushing-in a little hair spray or leave-in conditioner can keep those fly-aways in check. I’ve been known to squirt some moisture spray in my damp hair, like Fulvic Mineral Mist, before drying and styling.

Three Head Turning Hair Trends for 2010

Sure, it may seem like only yesterday that we were celebrating the holidays and winter had just begun, but for fashion designers and beauty experts, all eyes are already on spring. As fashion houses preview their fair-weather fare on midwinter’s runways, we get a sneak peek at what’s in store for next season, and the look—from the head up, at least—is pretty exciting. Here’s a preview of the haute, new hairstyles to look for in the New Year:

The Fishtail Plait
The milkmaid-inspired fishtail plait is a tousled take on the simple ponytail. Whether parted to the side or in the middle, the fishtail is a great casual look best worn by mid-back length hair with a bit of fringe. While variations of the look have emerged sporadically throughout the years (Google 80s plaits for a laugh), what sets the 2010 trend apart is its windswept look and low-hung (braiding should start at the nape of the neck), over-the-shoulder braid.

Sultry Waves
Fashion has always moved in cycles, and hair trends are no different. While the resurgence of the 20s flapper fad crowned the bob cut 2009’s ‘do du jour, 2010 sees the throwback trend all grown up—well, at least 20 years older. Inspired by the femme fatales of 40s and 50s film noir, the classic wave is equally seductive and self-assured. Parted off-center, thick waves (not curls) should cascade just below the shoulders (think Janet Leigh in Touch of Evil) for a cool, confident look.

Pixie Crop
The punky pixie crop saw a spike (no pun intended) in popularity toward the end of 2009 that fashionistas predict will continue through spring/summer 2010. Best worn with darker hair (and a bit of attitude), the view from the runway suggests that this year’s pixie will boast a slightly longer fringe. They key to this carefree short cut is separating your hair with your fingers into tousled pieces that—ironically—look like you haven’t touched it at all.

Rave Reviews and Blog-worthy Buzz

December’s been a busy month for Pür Minerals and for our fans. With the holidays fast approaching, many have taken to the web to share their thoughts, experiences and opinions on this month’s must-have beauty buys. Here’s a look at what a few have to say:

Examiner.com – Boston
Beauty reviewer Alicia Strader tested three of our Pressed Mineral Eye Shadows (Midnight Jade, Champagne Citrine and Burgundy Malachite). Here’s what she had to say: “These three colors are perfect for the upcoming holiday season. They are long lasting and crease proof. The shadows go on smoothly and are very pigmented. The packaging is also very simple, with a bottom part that comes with an applicator brush and mirror.”

Forty, Flirty and Fabulous
Beauty blogger Lorena of Forty, Flirty and Fabulous creates a classic party look using a few Pür faves: “[First] line your lips with Mineral Lip Pencil with Brush in Ruby and fill in with Mineral Shea Butter Lipstick in Red Ruby. For extra shine, apply Pür Balm. Next, dust your eyelids with Pressed Mineral Shadows in Champagne Citrine and Gold Dust to give eyes a subtle sparkle. Line your lids with Mineral Eye Defining Pencil in Chocolate Mica for extra definition. Finally, apply Universal Marble Powder in Spice for perfectly flushed cheeks.”

The Sunday Paper – Atlanta
Looking for a last-minute gift for under $50? Tamara Crockett of Atlanta’s SundayPaper.com recommends our 5-Piece Holiday Brush Collection. “They say it’s all about the tools, and this set will help you apply and achieve the trickiest of makeup looks like a pro. Complete with a powder brush, utility brush, covered lip brush, blush brush and eye shadow brush, this all-natural, cruelty-free collection comes enclosed in a lush quilted case. [Use it] at your work soiree, to show your boss and co-workers you’re just as flawless with your face as you are with work.”

Hide Holiday Stress in Three Easy Steps

There’s no denying that, for many, the holidays are the most stressful time of the year. Whether it’s the last-minute shopping blitz, booked social calendar or just a little too much merrymaking, the mad dash to the new year is often paved with sleepless nights. And at a time when we’re often pressured to look our very best, scrimping on z’s can easily sabotage our best intentions. Fortunately, even if you can’t catch your nightly eight hours, you can still look the part with a few tips and tricks from Pür.

Get Your Beauty Sleep
If visions of sugarplums are keeping you from counting sheep, your skin may suffer as a result. Nighttime is when your skin is most active, repairing and regenerating itself. By cutting your sleep time, you’re actually interfering with your skin’s normal metabolic activity. However, if you can’t commit to at least eight hours of shuteye, you can give your skin a little nightly boost with an intensive night cream like Mineral Moisture Complex. Loaded with nourishing vitamins and essential hydrators, this powerhouse moisturizer works hard to fight the signs of stress so you can wake up refreshed and radiant.

Lose the Bags
Under eye dark circles are a telltale sign that your holidays are spilling well into your nights. While lack of sleep isn’t the direct cause of dark circles (you can blame your genes for that), it can certainly make them more noticeable. Fatigue causes paleness of the skin, which allows the blood underneath to become more visible, creating the shadowing effect we call dark circles. Pür Minerals' Intensive Eye Treatment uses the revolutionary ingredient Occu-Derm™ to reduce the accumulation of hemoglobin responsible for unsightly under eye circles so you can greet the season bright-eyed and beautiful.

Let It Glow
In addition to dark circles, sleepless nights can leave you with a paler complexion. Burning the midnight oil not only affects your skin’s metabolism, it interferes with your entire circadian rhythm, which includes circulation. However, just because you might not be well-rested doesn’t mean you can’t look it. Give your skin a warm, healthy glow with a light-reflective mineral powder like Pür Radiance. Sweep over your face, neck and décolleté to brighten and awaken tired, pale skin. For an added touch of warmth, apply Pressed Mineral Blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend up to your hairline.

A Cure for the Common Curl?

Ever wonder why you’re never born with the hair you want? Curly girls always seem to want straighter strands, while those with straight hair constantly crave curled tresses. Well, researchers in Australia may have discovered the culprit—a “curly gene” responsible for those unruly locks. The next step? Developing a pill that may, one day, render straightening irons and chemical relaxers obsolete.

“Potentially we can now develop new treatments to make hair curlier or straighter, rather than treating the hair directly,” said Professor Nick Martin, a researcher at the Queensland Institute of Medical Research and author of the study. “That is one angle we will be working on and which I will be discussing with a major cosmetic company in Paris in January.”

Martin’s team studied variations in the trichohyalin gene—a gene known to play a role in hair production—for expressions that might predict naturally tousled tresses. In addition to developing new treatments to relax unruly ringlets, Martin said the new findings could also potentially predict whether a baby will have straight or curly hair and help forensic scientists better identify suspects from hair samples left at the scene of a crime. Now, if there was only a pill for split ends and summer frizz.

My Fair Lady

Makeup Tips for Light Skin

Whether you have naturally porcelain skin, or just a case of seasonal paleness, here are a few tips to help keep fair skin looking luminous and lovely all winter long.

SKIN: A protective day cream is a must for those with light skin tones. Choose a moisturizer with a double-digit SPF, such as Pür Minerals Day Renewal Complex SPF 20, to help block harmful UV rays and preserve skin’s health. Exfoliating regularly, especially during the winter, will help fair skin maintain that supple, milky radiance.

FACE & CHEEKS: Since discolorations tend to reveal themselves more on lighter skin, try prepping skin for makeup application with a colour correcting foundation primer. A green-tinted formula will help to even out the skin tone and offset any redness or imperfections, such as under eye circles or blemishes.

As for foundation, barely-there makeup looks best on fair skin. 4-in-1 Pressed Mineral Makeup in shades Porcelain and Light provide flawless, transparent coverage for ladies with very fair to fair skin. If you love having a sun-kissed look, lightly apply a bronzing powder for a natural-looking, golden glow. Top with a shimmering, pink blush to give cheeks a fresh, youthful flush.

EYES: Pastel eye shadows and subtle metallics go well with pale skin. Pink and lavender shades are a sure bet to complement those with fair hair and complexion, but if you really want to light up your eyes, try shimmering golds and yellows or smooth, sparkling blues and greens. Fair-skinned ladies with darker hair look great in amber, plum and golden-brown hues.

Pür Picks: Blondes should try Pressed Mineral Shadows in Rose Quartz, Violet Iolyte, Champagne Citrine, Sunstone, and True Emerald. Brunettes and redheads will look lovely in Amber, Rose Symesite and Fawn Fayalite.

LIPS: A lip gloss in a soft shade of pink will add just the right amount of polish to your pout. Deeper, berry tints can also provide a nice contrast to your skin tone, but look best with a matte finish. Mineral Shea Butter Lipstick in Black Amethyst is a romantic, berry-stained colour that flatters all skin tones and looks particularly stunning on those with light skin and dark hair.

While fair-skinned beauties should beware of over doing it with bold, over-the-top lip colour, a bright red lipstick can look glamorous and sophisticated when done right (think Naomi Watts and Nicole Kidman). Again, matte lipstick suits this look best, since too much shine can appear harsh against pale skin.

Shop PurMinerals.com for more ways to make fair skin look fabulous.