For Mom: Spa Day

Cards, flowers and gift certificates. There is nothing wrong with getting these for Mom - in fact, I think Mom will appreciate just about anything from you. But, if you're going to go the gift certificate route, do something special that your Mom wouldn't splurge for herself. My favorite is a Spa Day. Any woman would love a facial, massage, scrub, wax, mani, pedi . . .

Use SpaFinder.com to read reviews of local spas in your Mom's area as well as buy a gift certificate. And maybe even you could buy one for yourself.

no!no! YES!

I haven’t shaved my legs since January. Happy April Fool’s, but I assure you this is no joke :) I have not turned into a hairy monster. I have not just “given up.” I discovered the no!no!


Developed by Radiancy, the portable and slim device (a little thicker, but think Ipod look and size) gives you professional hair removal results at home. The no!no! uses Thermicon™ technology - a gentle wave of heat that painlessly destroys hair without pain or irritation leaving you with silky smooth skin. It’s a whole new concept in hair removal.

The no!no! receives my personal stamp of approval. It’s great. Seriously, I haven’t had to shave my legs since January – and I’m ready for spring! Does it get any better than that! It’s easy to use, and my hair growth has reduced significantly. It takes time, but it’s completely painless.

It’s available in three colors (bright pink, bright blue, and black) for $250 at Sephora.

Kiehl's Lip Balm

I'm addicted to chapstick. I use it all the time. And this lip balm with a hint of color from Kiehl is one step better. 30G (a golden berry color) and 58B (a black raspberry hue) add a hint of natural-looking tint, plus SPF 15 sunscreen, in this must-have relief your dull, chapped lips.

$9.50 at Kiehl.com.

the youth, the whole youth, and nothing but the youth

February 1st Bliss introduced an age-fighting skincare line – The Youth As We Know It. The bestselling The Youth As We Know It Moisture Cream – just ask anyone at Sephora what they think about it and you’ll hear rave reviews – is now joined with a concentrate, cleanser, eye cream and toner. With 10 essential anti-aging elements these products will improve your tone, firmness and overall “healthy” look of your skin.

After using the line for a few weeks I’ve seen visible improvement, and I’m hooked. My face feels hydrated all day – which for my dry skin and this dry weather is a miracle in and of itself – rejuvenated and glowing.

The complete collection is $282 – and beauty is worth it. The whole line is fabulous, but if you can’t splurge on everything, start by incorporating a few pieces into your beauty routine. My must have pieces are the cleanser ($30), moisture cream ($79) and eye cream ($75). (The concentrate and toner retail for $70 and $28 respectively.)

The line is available at retailers such as Sephora, Macy’s and of course Bliss. Try them out for yourself at Bliss.com.

Wednesday Giveaway!
To help you create a glowing completion, not one, not two, but THREE readers have a chance to win. Compliments of Bliss, one lucky reader will receive the complete The Youth As We Know It Collection, and two lucky readers will receive The Youth As We Know It Moisture Cream! To enter email thelustlist@gmail.com, with “Bliss” in the subject line, by March 5 at 11:59 p.m. EST. Three lucky winners will be randomly selected.

Jurlique Lavender Hydrating Mist

Lavender and Marshmallows? What, you'd never suggest that pair? Well, you should. Jurlique Lavender Hydrating Mist tones, hydrates, soothes and replenishes your skin. Perfect for this dry weather.

$31.00 at Barneys.

The New "It" Polish - Chanel Blue Satin

Last year it was the Chanel Black Satin, this year Blue Satin. Don't be scared by the "blue." It really is fantastic. It goes on so dark it almost looks black, yet still shines with a navy sparkle. Long-lasting, chip-resistant, protective color and shine, all in a $19 bottle. It's selling out everywhere.

Now I just need to make time for that manicure that is way overdue.

12 Days of Holidays: Day 12 - Clarisonic Skin Care System

I wasn’t planning on featuring this product until I had tested it out for a little bit longer, but after just two weeks I’m in love. I can see a difference in my skin, and I just couldn’t wait to tell everyone about the Clarisonic Skin Care System. (You may have heard of it since it made Oprah’s 2007 Favorite Things list too!)

Clarisonic is the first sonic oscillation (think Sonicare toothbrush – this is actually from the same inventor) face brush that deep cleans pores while exfoliating dead skin. The brush comes with a charging docking station that provides power for 30 one-minute cleanings. All it takes is one-minute, and the brush has timers to help you focus on your whole face for the proper amount of time – prompting you with beeps to move onto the next area. It’s waterproof so you can just take it in the shower with you, and you can use any facial cleanser with it (a trial size Clarisonic cleanser is provided in the kit). And if you need one more thing to love about it – it makes cleaning your face feel like your getting a facial massage (300 movements per second!). Who knew washing your face could be so exciting :)

My skin is softer and clearer . . . yours can be too. There is a 30-day money back guarantee, so you’ve got nothing to lose in giving it a try. The Clarisonic Skin Care System is available for $195 at Clarisonic.com and other beauty retailers.