SICKA THAN AVERAGE

Secret Garden: Clinique Fresh Bloom Eye Shadow

 

It took me a second to sweep my eyeshadow brushes onto these Clinique Fresh Bloom compacts — the pressed, two-toned floral designs are so beautiful that it's hard to fathom messing it up (it's kind of like that stinging tinge of guilt you feel when you dig your fork into a particularly handsome dessert). But, since you're not likely to hang these up as miniature works of art, you eventually just go for the kill. And the results are well worth it.   

These limited edition eye shadows come in four two-toned hues: Apple Blossom, which includes a pale moss green and a sightly darker olive green; Tiger Lily, a pale bronze paired with a darker rusty hue; Maple Blossom, a silver-y gray paired with a deeper brown-gray hue; and Cherry Blossom, a daint carnation pink and a darker, French rose.

When applied, the colors are much paler than they appear in the compact, giving you a fresh, dewy look (the shades also have a bit of shimmer, which accentuates that fresh, clean look). You can, of course, apply as many coats as necessary for a more intense look, but the focus with this collection is a natural, gentle, subtle look.

With just a hint of color, your natural beauty will bloom and dazzle like the most precious of flowers.

Clinique Fresh Bloom Eye Shadows in Orange Blossom, Tiger Lily, Cherry Blossom and Apple Blossom, $16.50 each. Visit Clinique.com

Inked In

Forget all those stuffy leather or cheap-o latex iPod case If you're an Apple fiend then, chances are, you have at least some degree of admiration for their products' sleek design. And. when you have such a fine piece of machinery at your disposal, you don't want to conceal its beauty — you want to play it up (the same way we jazz up our features with a few sweeps of eyeshadow).

This new collection by Contour Design consists of crystal clear cases etched with designer patterns (from basic circles to cheeky zebra stripes to fanciful swirls). Each Contour Design iSee Inked case  measures a mere 0.7 ounces and is made of polycarbonate.  These scratch-resistant cases feature two sides that snap together once the iPod is in place — but, of course, you still have access to all of your iPod's controls even when it's snug in its sassy case.

Do note, however, that the cases are clear so that the hues pictured above are the result of the iPods' colors and not of the iSee inked cases. That being said, whether your iPod is pink, green, black, or white, it will surely look cooler in one of these, don't you think?

Contour's iSee Inked cases for the iPod 4G Nano, $24.95. Visit ContourCase.com

Chloe Dao for Nuo-Tech Laptop Bags

 

 After beating out competitors Santino Rice (who can forget Santino's Tim Gunn impersonation?) and Daniel Vosovic, with her astounding Fall 2006 runway show at New York City's Bryant Park, Chloe Dao was crowned the Project Runway Season 2 winner.

Since then, she's upgraded her Lot 8 boutique in her hometown of Houston, Texas, produced Simply.Chloe Dao, a more affordable collection for QVC, and continued creating exquisite clothes that make women feel feminine, young and sexy. Now, Chloe Dao is bringing her fresh aesthetic and flair for color to a line of computer bags by Nuo-Tech, a company specializing in functional but stylish carrying cases: from messenger bags to backpacks, camera cases, mobile cases, laptop bags, and more. Featuring interesting textiles, eye-catching geometric patterns, and high-quality leather accents, the Dao Chloe Dao by Nuo Collection hits stores this Spring. Look out for the Dao Chloe Dao by Nuo Collection at select retailers like Offie Max and Best Buy. For more information, visit Nuo-Tech.com

Discovering the Muse Behind Rebecca Wynne Jewelry

 

 

Ever stared at a beautiful piece of jewelry and wondered about what inspired its creation? That's what Rebecca Wynne's pieces do for me — they incite me to ponder about the books, artwork, music, and natural wonders that functioned as her muse.

There's a clear respectfulness and wonderment in regards to Mother Nature evident in pieces like the Clover Sapphire Earrings (pictured fourth from top), which feature 18k gold vermeil and three clustered white sapphires (0.12 ct), and the Large Leaf Earrings, available in silver or gold vermeil (pictured at top).

Pieces like the stackable, 18k white gold Eternity Diamond and Sapphire Bands, pictured third from top (available in pink sapphire, yellow sapphire, blue sapphire, champagne diamond, and white diamond), and the 18k white gold Diamond and Sapphire Eternity Bracelets, pictured at top (available in white diamond, yellow sapphire, blue sapphire, and pink sapphire), suggest an admiration for Byzantine mosaics and Venetian glass art.

The White Diamond Cocktail Ring, pictured last from top, and the Linx Bracelet with Black Diamond Details, pictured fourth from top, both convey an appreciation for Gustav Klimt's paintings, particularly works like "The Tree of Life" and "Adele Bloch-Bauer II."

There's a soulfulness to Wynne's pieces that makes them all the more special -- you can actually imagine her brainstorming designs and giving each piece the necessary TLC. Hers is an artistic approach to jewelry and that's where the soulfulness lies.

Rebecca Wynne Jewelry Ultimate Diamond and Sapphire Eternity Bracelets, price available upon request; Large Leaf Earrings in 18k yellow gold, $140; Clover Sapphire Earrings in 18k vermeil, $175; Ultimate Diamond and Sapphire Eternity Rings, price available upon request; Linx Bracelet with Black Diamond Details, $650; White Diamond Cocktail Ring, $1200. Available at RebeccaWynne.com

Marion Cotillard's Oscar Hair

Academy Award winner Marion Cotillard, who nabbed the Best Actress award last year for her performance as Edith Piaf in La Vie En Rose once again made a splash on the red carpet (though this time it was because she looked so stunning in her Haute Couture Dior dress, instead of last year's questionable, fishscale-like silver gown). But apparel debates aside, the one area where Cotillard hit the perfect notes both times around was her hair.

This year, celebrity stylist Robert Vetica once again tended to Cotillard's tresses for Oscar night, creating a modern take on the French twist which he says was inspired by the Cecil Beaton's portraits of fashion icons of the 40s and 50s.

Here are the steps Vetica took to create the look:

1. Vetica blow-dried Cotillard's with a round brush, applying  Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream to detangle strands and prevent frizz. He then created a low, side part.

2. Next, he teased the hair, focusing particularly on the crown and the back of the head.

3. The teased hair was then brushed and shaped it into a full French Twist, which he rolled and pinned in place. To lift the crown and add volume, he used a rat tail comb.

 4. To give the sophisticated, demure look long-lasting shine, Vetica finished with a light spray of new Moroccanoil Gold Glimmer Shine.

Now, like Cotillard, you too can look like an icon from a bygone era, an artist's muse, and a cinematic queen all at once.

Moroccanoil Hydrating Styling Cream, $24, and Moroccanoil Gold Glimmer Shine, $30. Visit Moroccanoil.com

Battle of the Moisturizers

There's no excuse for being ashy or having hands that feel like sandpaper mitts. In this day and age, there is a moisturizer to combat any skin woe — from dryness to discolorations, wrinkles, stretch marks, and more.

But with so many moisturizers to choose from, each targeting a specific are (eyes, legs, face, hands, etc.) and promising to deliver unique results (from softer skin to tighter, firmer hips and thighs), how do you choose the best in class?

Well, after months of trying hundreds of lotions, face moisturizers, body souffles and more and pitting all these products against one another, we bring you SickaThanAverage.com's guide to the best moisturizers in the market. Having knocked out their competitors, these are the contenders you need to have on your side of the beauty battle.

BEST FACIAL MOISTURIZER WITH SPF

Boscia Oil-free Daily Hydration SPF 15, $27. Visit BosciaSkincare.com or Sephora.com

Packed with oil-combating, pore-minimizing silica powder and burdock root, as well as antioxidant-heavy, soothing green tea and jojoba leaf extract, this moisturizer protects and calms the skin. The best part? It's so lightweight that, though your skin will feel soft and appear youthful, you'll forget you even applied moisturizer — which is the greatest feeling ever.

Ole Henriksen Herbal Day Cream with SPF 15, $35. Visit Sephora.com

One of my personal favorites, Ole Henriksen's Herbal Day Creme delivers just the right amount of moisture to the skin (it's actually a little uncanny because, as you apply it, the skin rapidly absorbs and retains the moisture, which means your skin never feels greasy or caked up). Containing grape seed oil, vitamins A and E, chamomile extract, soybean extract, and dimethicone, this creme calms agitated skin and is perfect for all skin types (though it's particularly helpful for those with sensitive skin).

Trish McEvoy Protective Shield SPF 15 Moisturizer, $40. Visit Nordstrom.com

This lightweight moisturizer will literally last all day long, protecting your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays and environmental pollutants. Use sparingly because a pea-sized amount will cover the entire face (and you do have to put in a little elbow grease to rub it onto your visage).

Prescriptives All You Need +SPF 15 Moisturizer, $39.50. Visit Prescriptives.com

This long-lasting moisturizer includes ingredients like Brazilian red algae and caffeine to calm irritated skin, and a mix of fruit and botanical extracts to protect, hydrate, boost collagen production, and regenerate skin cells.

BEST ORGANIC FACIAL MOISTURIZER

Zia Daily Moisture Screen SPF 15, $20.50. Visit ZiaNatural.com

Another personal favorite, Zia's Daily Moisture Screen caresses the skin with its botanical formula, which includes aloe and rice bran oil to nourishes and hydrate, soothing cucumber and matricaria extracts, paraben-free SPF 15, and squalane, jojoba and shea butter to moisturize and encourage cell renewal. The moisturizer has this calming, cooling effect on the skin that makes you feel as replenished as your visage.

 

Amala Purifying Moisturizer, $68 for 30 ml. Visit AmalaBeauty.com

Founded by Ute Leube, the creator of Primavera, a German-based aromatherapy company that develops and distributes organic skincare products, Amala offers  skin and body care products certified organic by Ecocert that are formulated with whole plants (as opposed to isolated plant ingredients, which is what most beauty companies use) and distilled by specialists according to the specific plant's properties. The Purifying Moisturizer works for all skin types but is particularly helpful for women with combination or oily skin, as it unclogs pores and subdues any excess oiliness. Rare blue lotus, which is packed with vitamins, minerals and amino acids, nourishes and clears up the skin.

Origins Organics Nourishing Face Lotion, $42.50. Visit Origins.com

Certified 95% organic, Origins Organics' Nourishing Face Lotion includes moisturizing and softening organic shea butter and cocoa butter (both processed without the use of chemicals), organic glycerin to draw moisture and seal it in, skin tone-evening organic rosemary extract, soothing organic sunflower oil, and hydrating organic coconut oil — not to mention Origins' own blend of organic clove, rose, lavender, patchouli and red thyme essential oils.

 

Kimberly Sayer Anti-Oxidant Daily Moisturizing Cream, $32. Visit KimberlySayer.com

Reared by her organic farmer parents, Kimberly Sayer grew up learning about the healing ingredients found in nature — and, luckily for us, she has shared this knowledge through her organic skincare line, Kimberly Sayer of London. The Kimberly Sayer Anti-Oxidant Daily Moisturizing Cream includes oat beta glucan to protect the skin against free radicals and sun damage, nettle extract to promote cell growth, beech bud extract to heal damaged skin cells and borage oil to ward off the signs of aging.

Liz Earle Superskin Moisturizer, $22 for 0.5 fl. oz. or $60 for 1.6 fl. oz. Visit LizEarle.com

From cranberry, borage and rosehip seed oils to pomegranate fruit extract, this all-natural moisturizer is laden with antioxidants, vitamin E and omega-3 amino acids that improve skin elasticity and protect your face from sun damage.

BEST OVERNIGHT FACIAL TREATMENT

Perricone MD Restorative Night Treatment, $100. Visit PerriconeMD.com

With a combination of glycolic acid, DMAE and Vitamin C, this night cream reduces the appearance of wrinkles, evens out the skin tone, balances the skin's hydration levels and softens the skin so that, when you Sleeping Beauties wake up in the morning, you'll be just as beatiful as you were during your shut-eye time.

Sundari Neem Night Cream, $58. Visit Skinstore.com

A few months ago, when I was careless with my personal beauty inventory and, to my surprise, my Neem Night Cream ran out, tears welled up in my eyes — that's how much I love this product. The Neem Night Cream includes ingredients like Neem Extract, Jojoba Oil, Geranium Oil and Shea Butter.

 

H20 Night Oasis Oxygenating Rejuvenator, $36. Visit H2oplus.com

Water is a source of life, so it's only logical that a water-based product formulated with marine-derived ingredients would lead to rejuvenated skin. This soothing product boosts cellular respiration, allowing your skin to breathe as you catch your Zs.

 

Creme De La Mer La Mer Moisturizing Cream, $130 for 1 oz. Visit CremeDeLaMer.com

Creme de La Mer's La Mer Moisturizing Cream is worth every penny. The formula is incredibly potent and dense, packed with sea kelp, calcium, magnesium, potassium, eucalyptus and sunflower oils and more. Before applying, you should warm up the cream in the palms of your hands and between your fingertips so as to activate the key ingredients. The results will make you fully understand why Hollywood A-listers rave about this being the nectar of the gods.

BEST FIRMING/ANTI-AGING FACIAL MOISTURIZER

Aveda Green Science Firming Face Cream, $55, and Aveda Green Science Line Minimizer, $85 for 10 tubes. Visit Aveda.com

For an easy two-step routine that will leave you feeling like you found Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth, check out Aveda's Green Science Line Minimizer and Face Cream. Each box of Aveda's Green Science Line Minimizer includes ten tiny tubes. When you open each ampule, you can squeeze out a tiny bit of clear liquid (it's slightly sticky -- like very watery glue) and dab it onto the eye area, around the mouth, along the forehead, and anywhere else where you've noticed wrinkles rearing their ugly heads. The liquid smells like fresh cut grass and is quickly absorbed by the skin.

You can then follow up with Aveda's Green Science Firming Cream, which has a rich, mud-like consistency, and makes your face feel tighter and pulled in almost upon applocation. Your skin will feel a bit compressed (but in the best possible way — kind of like your thighs after you've been in a rigorous kickboxing program for a few months!).

 

Pevonia Botanica Ligne Power Repair, $69.50. Visit Skinstore.com

This highly effective cream utilizes some revolutionary ingredients such as Marine DNA, extracted from salmon roe, which helps to tighten pores. Other ingredients include hydrating and soothing cucumber oil and nourishing hazelnut oil, which contains protein and vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, B9. With Pevonia's Ligne Power Repair, you can take any facial baggage and check it in, never to be retrieved again (and in this case, that's a very good thing).

Repechage Vita Cura Triple Firming Cream, $75 for 1 oz. Visit GerardBollei.com

I've officially inducted this cream into my moisturizer dream team. It smells like the ocean so that, as you apply it, you feel like your skin is being baptized in a placid body of water. And it almost is — this lightly whipped cream reduced the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, increases elasticity, and delivers an essential moisture boost, so that your skin will look younger, fresher and healthier.

 

Patricia Wexler M.D. Intensive 3-in-1 Day Cream SPF 30, $42.50. Visit BathAndBodyWorks.com

Wexler's patented MMPi.20 technology, which repairs skin cells at the structural level, has made her a leader in anti-aging skin research. This 3-in-1 Day Cream promises to firm, lift and fight wrinkles — and it accomplishes its three goals superbly. As soon as your skin absorbs the cream, you'll feel a slight tingle as the skin is tightened and lifted, while the hydration delivered to the skin cells makes the skin feel more supple and soft, minimizing the appearance of wrinkles, lines and unevenness. Talk about a multitasker!

 

Envision Beauty The Solution, $74. Visit Envision-Beauty.com

Developed by live food and beauty expert Kimberly Snyder, The Solution by Envision Beauty functions as a facial moisturizer, anti-aging complex and eye treatment in one. After spending 3 years traveling through 57 countries, Snyder acquainted herself with a vast array of fruits and plants that yield skin care benefits. She included some of these ingredients in The Solution, among them: goji berries, which firm the skin and are chockful of antioxidants; grapeseed, which guards the skin against UV radiation; acai, which optimizes cell function and combats the signs of aging; and centrella asiatica, whic boosts collagen production.

But, in her studies, Snyder found that there are certain results Western, scientifically-developed agents and technologies yield that can't be replicated in a strictly botanical formula. She thus decided to incorporate the best of both worlds, marrying rich berries and plant extracts with such alpha lipoic acid, hyaluronic acid,and DMAE (among others). The result is a versatile and effective product that minimizes bathroom clutter (no need to line those cabinet shelves with loads of targeted skin products) and leaves your skin looking radiant and clear.

 

Estee Lauder Time Zone, $58. Visit EsteeLauder.com

This scientifically revolutionary moisturizer was developed after a five-year study examining the factors contributing to the emergence of aging signs among women ages 20-70. What the study found was that, when exposed to harmful UV rays, pollution, and glycation, the skin's cells are so damaged that they lose optimal function, accelerating the aging process. With the development of two new and exclusive technologies (Sirtuin Ex-1 Technology and Tri-Hyaluronic Acid Complex), Estee Lauder has created an anti-aging cream that reverses this cellular aging process — which means that, not only does your skin look younger, but it behaves like it did during your prime years (how Benjamin Button is that?!).

BEST BRIGHTENING FACE CREAM

 

 

Origins A Perfect World White Tea Skin Guardian, $33.50 for 1 fl. oz., and Origins A Perfect World Antioxidant Moisturizer, $36. Visit Origins.com

I've been using these products for years and, as many skin balancing products as I've tried, I always come back to this super duo. A lightweight serum, Origins' A Perfect World White Tea Skin Guardian incorporates soothing mimosa, orange, bergamot and white tea, all of which work to slow down the signs of aging, brighten the skin and even out your skin tone (reducing the appearance of cars, discolorations, etc.).

The A Perfect World Antioxidant Moisturizer finishes the job, infusing the skin with just the right amount of moisture. Some of the ingredients include: ferment of sugarcane, to protect the skin against free radicals; centella asiatica to firm; murumuru butter to maximize the skin's moisture barrier, rose fruit oil to hydrate; white tea to de-stress and soothe; and vitamin C to even out and brighten the skin.

 

Dermalogica Pure Light SPF 30, $60. Visit Dermstore.com

This medium-weight moisturizer protects the skin from the environmental hazards and pollutants that discolor the skin and lead to uneven skin tones. Natural mineral sunscreens (titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) protect the skin from the sun's harmful rays, while peptides, vitamin C, zinc glycinate and botanical extracts prevent cellular discoloration and stabilize your skin tone. Try this product for a week and your skin will look so smooth and even, you'll look like an airbrushed version of your past self.

 

Patricia Wexler Skin Brightening Daily Moisturizer SPF 30, $39.50. Visit BathAndBodyWorks.com

If you're self conscious about those spots left behind by that pimple you unwisely popped or that scar that never quite healed, you'll be ecstatic about this product which evens out your skin tone, helps to fade the appearance of any spots or blemishes, and restores a natural radiance to your pretty face.

BEST MOISTURIZER FOR VERY DRY SKIN

DERMAdoctor KP Duty, $36. Visit DERMAdoctor.com

Those with extremely dry and irritated skin, such as people suffering from Keratosis Pilaris (known colloquially as "chicken skin"), can finally send those unseemly red bumps  "to the left, to the left." DERMAdoctor's KP Duty exfoliates the skin with glycolic acid and sodium glycolate (without causing any irritation), infuses the skin with moisture thanks to urea, sodium hyaluronic and dimethicone (which seals in moisture), and soothes the skin with green tea.

Repechage Hydra Dew 4 Day Protection Cream, $42. Visit GerardBollei.com

Using such ingredients as olive oil and olive leaf, this unscented cream erases any blotchiness and redness resulting from parched skin, restoring moisture to your skin and soothing any irritation.

 

Jurlique Moisture Replenishing Day Cream, $40 for 1.4 oz. Visit Jurlique.com

If your skin needs an extra dose of moisture, reach for this lightweight, gentle moisturizer, which features calendula, chamomile, rosehip and avocado extracts.

BEST NOURISHING/HYDRATING BODY MOISTURIZER

 

Kiehl's Creme de Corps, $16.50 for 4.2 fl.oz or $26.50 for 8.4 fl. oz. Visit Kiehls.com

According to the label, Kiehl's Creme de Corps will make dehydrated skin look and feel better within 10 days of use. Personally, I think you'll start seeing the difference in as few as 5 days. Particularly great for the wintertime, this rich formula will have your skin feeling softer than cashmere.

 

Aveeno Positively Smooth Moisturizing Lotion, $8.49. Available at food and drug retailers nationwide. Visit Drugstore.com

Made primarily of soy extracts, Aveeno's Positively Smooth Moisturizing Lotion not only conditions the skin, but it makes the hair on your legs feel and look softer, hence making them less noticeable (which of course, means you can shave less often). Do you need a better sales pitch than that? Didn't think so!

  

Jurlique Rose Body Care Lotion, $38. Visit Jurlique.com

With its thin, milky consistency, this refreshing body lotion invigorates and softens the skin while enveloping it in a romantic floral scent. You'll smell like you were laying in a bed of roses and your skin will feel as soft as the petals on those roses.

Soft & Beautiful SKIN Body Lotion, $5.99. Available at food, drug and mass market retailers.

You don't have to spend $50 or $60 for a hydrating, softening moisturizer. Soft & Beautiful SKIN has some amazing offerings, like this MoistureSoft Body Lotion, which moisturizes and, as the name implies, softens the skin with a non-greasy formula consisting of cocoa, shea and almond butters.

Lubriderm Skin Nourishing Moisturizing Lotion with Shea and Cocoa Butters, $7.99. Visit Walgreens.com

There's nothing quite as hydrating as shea and cocoa butters. This lotion draws moisture to your skin to keep it looking and feeling silky smooth.

BEST HEALING MOISTURIZER

(FOR TREATING SCARS, STRETCH MARKS, ETC)

 

Curel Ultra Healing Moisturizing Lotion, $7.99. Available at food, drug and mass retailers.

This intense moisturizer feels a bit like vaseline (minus the greasy after effect), gliding onto your skin effortlessly. The skin absorbs this potent lotion so quickly, you almost don't have to rub it on. Not only does Curel Ultra Healing Moisturizing Lotion leave your skin feeling silky smooth thanks to ingredients like shea butter and orange oil, but it helps to diminish the appearance of any cuts, scraps and bruises thanks to soothing ingredients like oatmeal extract and eucalyptus leaf extract.

 

Palmer's Cocoa Butter Formula Skin Therapy Oil, $10.99. Available at food, drug and mass retailers. Visit Drugstore.com

When I was pregnant with my son, I was very diligent bout moisturizing my ever-expanding belly, hips and thighs — I knew one memento from my pregnancy I didn't want was stretch marks. After trying several moisturizers, I realized nothing was quite as effective for this particular problem (stretch marks) as Palmer's Cocoa Butter. If only I'd had this incredibly potent oil back then! The Skin Therapy Oil contains 100% pure body butter, vitamin E, sesame oil, canola oil, rosehip oil and neem oil which, together, help to diminish the appearance of scars and blemishes, moisturize even the most dehydrated skin, and improve the skin's natural elasticity.

BEST FIRMING BODY MOISTURIZER

Pevonia Botanica Ligne Tropicale De-Aging Body Balm in Papaya Pineapple, $89. Visit Skinstore.com

The skin on your face isn't the only thing affected by the passing of time, sun exposure and environmental pollutants: your body, too, starts looking withered as the years go by — the skin on your arms, thighs and knees starts to droop, unsightly wrinkles pop up everywhere, and your dermis loses its luminous quality. But no need to throw in the towel — you can look better than Meryl Streep (who has retained her looks well after, I might add!) with Pevonia's Ligne Tropicale De-Aging Body Balm, which includes retinol to eliminate the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, marine collagen peptides to nourish the skin and plump up those wrinkles and lines, and shea butter to moisturize and replenish the skin. The mousse-like consistency of this body balm makes it a treat to smooth onto the skin and the delicious papaya scent will have you dreaming of a Caribbean getaway (so you can flaunt your youthful-looking bod, of course!)

Boscia Jujube Rejuvenist Whipped Body Creme, $30. Visit BosciaSkincare.com or Sephora.com

When it comes to body firming lotions, you want something that will suck in those hips, thighs, and buttocks without making you feel like you're wearing a corset or some medieval, torturous, circulation-killing shapewear. Boscia's Jujube Rejuvenist Whipped Creme accomplishes this feat thanks to ingredients like brightening mulberry and peony root, nourishing and healing rosehip oil, refreshing Roman chamomile and Yuzu essences, and strengthening jujube fruit.

BEST ORGANIC BODY LOTION

 

LUSH Dream Cream, $22.55. Visit LushUSA.com

Lush's best-selling Dream Cream Hand & Body Cream packs a potent punch with its mix of calming natural ingredients — from lavender and chamomile to olive oil, rose water and oats. It's dreamer than Doctor McDreamy himself.

Weleda Sea Buckthorn Body Lotion, $20. Visit Shop.Weleda.com

Derived from the antioxidant-rich, vitamin-filled sea buckthorn oil, this lotion is ideal for parched, irritated or dull-looking skin since it stimulates skin regeneration and restores moisture.The consistency is very light (slightly watery without being drippy), and the refreshing citrus scent gives you an energizing  boost.
 

BEST HAND CREAM

Lisa Hoffman Spa Hand & Foot Butter, $35. Visit LisaHoffmanSkincare.com

My hands are a problem — I've got the type of yucky, raggedy cuticles that make manicurists' cringe, and the skin surrounding my nails is always dry or cracked (it's the kind of thing that makes women at the nail salon mock me in their native tongue). The irony of it all is that I constantly moisturize — not a day goes by when I don't apply hand cream or cuticle oil (or both). And, while I've tried a gazillion hand lotions, nothing has ever yielded jaw-dropping results — until I tried Lisa Hoffman's Spa Hand & Foot Butter. Your hands can feel like car tires and this product will still do the trick!

Lippman Collection Rich Girl SPF 25 Hand and Cuticle Cream, $24. Visit BathAndBodyWorks.com

I typically associate celebrity manicurist Deborah Lippman with nail lacquers, but this delightful hand cream has me thinking otherwise. Ingredients include moisturizing shea butter, softening avocado and jojoba oils, skin-tightening coneflower and hydrocotoyle extracts, and a botanical lightening complex consisting of grape, mulberry and saxifraga extracts. The Rich Girl SPF 25 Hand and Cuticle Cream softens hands and cuticles, restores moisture, tightens any sagging skin, and fades away the appearance of age spots.

 

Jurlique Citrus Hand Cream, $25. Visit Jurlique.com

Not only does Jurlique's hand cream hydrate your hands, but the crisp, clean citrus scent of this emollient hand cream will make those antsy fingers of yours feel re-energized and invigorated.

BEST SCENTED BODY LOTION

 

True Blue Spa Shea Cashmere Body Lotion, $16.50. Visit BathAndBodyWorks.com

There's something so seductive about this lightweight body lotion, which softens skin with African shea butter and Mongolian cashmere extract. It smells like a mouth-watering mix of butterscotch caramel (it doesn't actually contain either but, for some reason, it definitely smells like a Werther's nugget). You'll smell good enough to eat.

 

Lavanila Pure Vanilla Healthy Body Butter, $25. Visit Sephora.com

Unlike most scented lotions and body butters, Lavanila's Healthy Body Butter doesn't incorporate any artificial ingredients or fragrances. Instead, it brings us the best nature can offer: 100% pure cocoa and shea butters, goji berries (which are loaded with anti-oxidants), olive lead extract, kakadu plum (which stimulates collagen and elastin production), and marine extracts. The scent, meanwhile, is also derived from natural sources. The Pure Vanilla Body Butter contains notes of Madagascar vanilla, freesia, heliotrope and vanilla orchid for a clean, crisp scent.

BEST BODY BUTTER

 

Clinique Deep Comfort Body Butter, $23.50. Visit Clinique.com

This succulent body butter has a margarine-like consistency (but minus the greasiness or stickiness). The rich cream replenishes and smooths the skin, and the light, buttery scent creates a homey effect— it kind of feels like your skin is getting a giant bear hug!

 

L'Occitane Ultra Rich Body Cream, $21. Visit Usa.Loccitane.com

I swear by L'Occitane's shea butter creams and lotions — so much so that I've been known to carry around a full-sized jar in my bag (yes, it's a little extra, but I'm all about keeping my skin looking right and tight!). The Ultra Rich Body Cream is particularly thick and concentrated, making it best suited for those with very dry skin — think of it more as a treatment than a product for daily use.

 

Soap & Glory Blueberry Thrill, $14.99. Visit Target.com

There's something so old-school and in-your-face about this body butter's whimsical packaging that it makes me think of carnivals, Coney Island and circus trappings. But what's inside is pretty glorious. When you first open the jar, you might not be too enthused because the body butter does have a very blubbery, jiggly consistency (think of a newly opened Stonyfield yogurt) —but get over that quickly because once you apply the Blueberry Thrill on your skin, you'll notice how much it softens and soothes the skin (without being overly thick and making you feel like you've been basted). And the light, blueberry scent, well, that's an added plus.

 

Dr. Andrew Weil for Origins Plantidote Mega Mushroom Body Cream, $46. Visit Origins.com

I heart Dr. Andrew Weil — heck, I may just have to hang a picture of him right on my wall (I kid). Still, the man has definitely turned me into a mushroom convert. This rich body cream includes a blend of hypsizygus ulmarius, reishi and cordyceps mushrooms, ginger, turmeric and holy basil, larch Ttee extract,  and murumuru, shea, cocoa and cupuacu butters.  Not only does this cream moisturize your skin, it also fully protects the skin barrier against any future damage incurred due to environmental pollutants, sunlight, climate changes and other irritants.

Black Opal Papaya Body Butter, $7.95. Available at drugstores and mass retailers nationwide.

I was pleasantly surprised by this fruity body butter (the papaya scent is so yummy, you'll start thinking of making a papaya shake... well, maybe that's just me!). Papaya naturally contains enzymes that help the body produce arginin, an amino acid that aids in cell regeneration, which means it's a natural exfoliant and rejuvenating agent. The Black Opal Body Butter, with its whipped, mousse-like texture, feels like an indulgent treat even as you glide it on to your skin.

BEST EYE CREAM

 

Sundari Neem Eye Cream, $48. Visit Skinstore.com

It's no surprise why Sundari's Neem Eye Cream keeps earning the title of best eye cream in many beauty mags and websites year after year. This rich eye cream soothes, moisturizes and replenishes, diminishing the appearance of dark circles, reducing puffiness and softening the tender skin around your eyes with its soothing mix of neem leaf extract, gotu kola oil and mango seed butter.

 

La Mer The Eye Concentrate, $165. Visit CremeDeLaMer.com

Though, in my opinion, it doesn't fully eliminate dark circles, this antioxidant rich cream — which contains hematite, soothing marine and plant ingredients, and La Mer's patented Miracle Broth — does work wonders in reducing the appearance of crow's feet and wrinkling along the eye, plus it helps to deflate puffiness. Probably my favorite part, though, is the accompanying scoop, which allows you to mete out the exact amount necessary for an application.

 

Amala Rejuvenating Eye Treatment, $88 for 15ml. Visit AmalaBeauty.com

Cocoa bean, which has been proven to promote micro-circulation and stimulate cell renewal, is the main ingredient for this highly effective eye treatment (which smells like a delicious chocolate confection). All you'll need is a small dab of this cream to pat around your eyes and you'll soon see any lines, discolorations and sagging virtually disappear.

 

Kiehl's Creamy Eye Treatment With Avocado, $24.50. Visit Kiehls.com

Avocado oil is the vital ingredient in this concentrated eye cream, which soothes puffy eyes, moisturizes tender skin and smooths away wrinkles.

Win a "Sex Drive: Unrated and Cream-Filled" Special Edition DVD

Those of you who have been loyal readers of SickaThanAverage.com have probably noticed that, as we've picked up steam, we've begun conducting some fantastic giveaways for you fashionable, entertainment-loving gals.

Which is why I'm thrilled to be announcing this new giveaway contest, courtesy of Summit Entertainment, in which one lucky reader will win her very own Sex Drive: Unrated and Cream-filled 2-Disc Special Edition DVD.

The hilarious film, which hit stores today (Feb. 24th), centers on Ian (played by Josh Zuckerman), a teenager who drives 800 miles in the hope of losing his virginity to a hot girl he met online. His sex-crazed friend Lance (Clark Duke) and best girlfriend Felicia (Amanda Crew) tag along for the ride, which quickly swerves out of control, with more unexpected twists and turns than your ordinary road trip. The 2-disc DVD includes both the theatrical and unrated versions of the film, as well as audio commentary with the director, writer and producer, and several mini features.

To enter, all you have to do is send an e-mail with three bits of trivia about lead actor Josh Zuckerman. The person with the most interesting trivia bits wins! Please note than any trivia/info submitted should be verifiable and that STA is not interested in any salacious or rumor-based information — we're interested in solid facts about this up-and-coming actor's previous roles, hobbies, etc.

The deadline for entries is March 23rd. Good luck!!!

How To Get Angelina Jolie's Oscar Hair

 

Still starstruck from the Oscars? Plotting and scheming on how you can imitate some of the red carpet styles? Well, if you were struck by Angelina Jolie's loose, slightly waved hair, Bumble and bumble. Editorial Stylist Rolando Beauchamp (who has masterminded the hair looks for Vivienne Westwood, Reyes and Karen Walker runway shows) can help you get the look with his user-friendly, step-by-step instructions. Pay attention, ladies!

Here's how to get the look:

1. Saturate hair with Bumble and bumble. Styling Creme to add volume and grip. Blow out with a large, round brush.
2. Use a large, one-and-a-half inch curling iron to style entire head. Be sure to to twist the hair away from the face.
3.  To achieve volume at the crown, spray a bit of Bumble and bumble. Spray de Mode Hairspray and back comb a bit. If you've got fine hair and need a volume boost, spray a bit of Bumble and bumble. Hair Powder along the roots prior to back combing.
4.  Smooth hair back away from face For Angelina's free-flowing style, pin the sides back and leave the curled ends free.
5. Finish with a bit of Bumble and bumble. Finishing Balm along the length of the style and more Bumble and bumble. Spray de Mode Hair Spray.

Easy enough, right? Now, unfortunately, I can't guarantee you'll snag a Brad Pitt-esque man with this hair style, but you will feel sexier than Lara Croft and Mrs. Smith combined (if not as deadly!).

Bumble and bumble. Styling Creme, $23 (8 oz.); Bumble and bumble. Hair Powder, $34 (4 oz.); Bumble and bumble. Finishing Balm, $35 (1.7 oz.); Bumble and bumble. Spray de Mode Hair Spray, $25 (10 oz.).Visit bumbleandbumble.com

Project Sneaker: A.R.C. New Balance Kicks

In late January, New Balance launched its Partnership Program, through which the brand's top desginers will collaborate with the company's best and top retailers for regionally designed limited edition collections made at nearby New Balance facilities (but available to consumers nationwide). The program allows sneaker retail gurus to hep in the design and creation process of New Balance sneakers that fit the tastes and needs of their specific clientele.

The Partnership Program kicked off with this collaboration between New Balance and the NYC-based sneaker haven ALIFE Rivington Club (A.R.C.). The ALIFE collection reinvents the New Balance M1300 silhouette, which was first introduced in 1985, by using unexpected materials such as pig suede on the tip, saddle and foxing, and jacquard knit meshes along the tongue, sides and front panels. The A.R.C. New Balance collection is available in three colorways: all-over teal,gray with teal accents, and white with teal details. While the sneaker leaves NB's signature design details virtually untouched, ALIFE Rivington Club designers added subtle details like the the tie print on the tongue, which references A.R.C.'s overall jeans.

I do like the handiwork used to make these, and the construction is impeccable, but I do wish the colorways were a bit more exciting — especially considering some of ALIFE's penchant for splashy designs. Still, they're comfortable, clean, crisp, and that teal color is hotter than hot for spring.

A.R.C. New Balance sneakers, $156. Available at all ALIFE stores and at rivingtonclub.com

Halle Berry's Hair at the 2009 Oscars: Get the Look!

Academy Award winner Halle Berry looked radiant in a black-and-gold strapless Marchesa gown at the 81st Annual Academy Awards last night. Since her dress featured elaborate embroidery work along the bodice and a dramatic, sparkling, exquisitely draped lace and tulle fabric, Halle kept the accessories at a minimum and opted for a romantic, loose chignon, with soft curls framing her face.

The best part: all the products necessary to get this look retail for less than $15. How's that for affordable glamour?

Here are the steps TRESemmé celebrity stylist Mara Roszak took when creating Halle Berry's demure look:

1. Apply TRESemmé Thermal Creations Straightening Gel (pictured at top) on wet hair from roots to ends. Blow-dry hair with a medium-sized round brush, creating movement and lift.

2. Curl random sections of hair using a 1 1/4 inch curling iron, spraying each section with TRESemmé TRES TWO Ultra Fine Mist (pictured third from top) hairspray before curling. Apply a small amount of TRESemmé 24 Hour Body Weightless Crème (pictured second from top) onto hands, rub together, and brush out curls with fingertips, giving hair body and shine.

3. Next, pull hair into a mid-height pony, twisting it into a loose chignon, pinning as you go. Be sure to leave out some pieces to give it an organic look.

4. Finally, spray with TRESemmé TRES TWO Ultra Fine Mist (pictured third from top) hairspray to hold chignon.

Now, you too can look like you're ready for your own golden statue.


TRESemmé Thermal Creations Straightening Gel, $4.99; TRESemmé TRES TWO Ultra Fine Mist, $4.75. TRESemmé 24 Hour Body Weightless Creme, $4.75. Visit TRESemme.com for more information. Available at Drugstore.com and at national mass retailers.