Temple of Glam

Going natural is everywhere. From organic instant pudding to the hair transitioning movement, natural is the new black. I carry around an earth-friendly tote every day and when I forget it, I have been known to walk out of stores with my purchase in hand. Awkward! Plus, I'm really into natural hair and skin products. Segue time...

I received a canvas (of course) tote bag filled with Neutrogena Naturals (made from post-consumer recycled plastic) and other green goodies, it was a sign that I needed to give it a go. So, I went.

Here are my thoughts:

Purifying Facial Cleanser

Normally, I save clear cleansers for the summer because they don't tend to deliver the moisture my normal-to-dry skin requires. This sulfate-free cleanser successfully removed my makeup and left my skin feeling clean, but not stripped of its oil. It not only includes Vitamins B, C & E, but it also has naturally derived, detoxifying salicylic acid and beta hydroxy acid.

Two words: Balanced cleanser

Purifying Pore Scrub

I have whiteheads. Go ahead and judge me. As a result, I'm constantly looking for the "miracle product" that will make them go away and keep self-extraction at bay. See what I did there? Anywhoo, this 94% naturally derived scrub detoxifies pores and it has a really great consistency. It's not grainy like other scrubs.

Two words: Smooth operator

Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer

A lightweight-but-effective moisturizer, this is a go-to product for me. I like that my skin feels hydrated, but not like an oil slick. AND my skin absorbs it super fast! It's chock full of bionutrients, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory goodness.

Two words: Moisture booster

Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Night Cream

We've all heard it. At night, our skin does its thing: heals, repairs, regenerates (is that starfish specific?).

Enriched with Inca Inchi Oil (it has the highest concentration of omega fatty acids) and Yerba Mate (Brazilian green tea), also known as "tea of life", this cream enhances skin's defense against dullness, leaving it glow-y.

Two words: Night Nurturer

In short, I am in love with this collection. I'm not a fan of perfume-laden products; probably because I'm allergic.

All of the products I used had a barely there scent My arrogant whiteheads were less A LOT less oppressive and my skin felt amazing. Score for team natural!

NEUTROGENA® Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Moisturizer is a daily lotion that replenishes essential skin nutrients while providing continuous moisture throughout the day for healthier, younger-looking skin. It contains no harsh chemical sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, dyes or phthalates.

NEUTROGENA® Naturals Multi-Vitamin Nourishing Night Cream replenishes essential skin nutrients and is fortified with vitamins B, C, E and anti-oxidant omega bionutrients. This nourishing cream is clinically proven to boost skin’s defense against dullness and roughness, leaving it naturally radiant, healthier and younger looking today and in the future. It contains no harsh chemical sulfates, parabens, petrochemicals, dyes or phthalates.

Disclosure: Compensation was provided by Neutrogena via Glam Media. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions or positions of Neutrogena.

Every now and again I get lost in my mom's wrinkleless skin. Quite possibly more than usual, I've been mesmerized by her visage because she just turned 60. I am so stoked about that fact.

To be honest, she doesn't own a face mist, but her skin is constantly er, moist. For those of us who have dry to normal skin, a mist is a must. Yup, your skin can look instantly hydrated and healthier with just a spritz of the right mist.

Just when I thought I'd tried every mist on the market, I was introduced to Glo-Professional Hydration Mist ($18). Its unique antioxidant-shea butter blend preps skin for makeup application, sets makeup, and offers a refreshing dose of instant hydration. Plus, it's housed in an aluminum can that keeps the mixture cool.

I'd never even heard of the Brooklyn Bodega Hip Hop Festival until last week, but luckily I did and attended with two of my road dogs.

By the time Q-Tip performed "Electric Relaxation" and Bonita Applebaum", we were jumping up with drinks in hand, and perhaps landing (very hard) on folk's flip-flopped feet. I was joyfully sweating, singing, and cool-girl head nodding. For the record, the "cool girl" thing vanished as soon as a very-very-surprise guest hit the stage (and I just about hit the floor). Wait till I tell you who it was...you're going to die.

Despite all of the jumping around, the Tocca SPF 30 Sunscreen Towelette ($28 for 8) I gave my friend stayed in tact leaving her skin silky, sun protected, and scented in the blood orange Stella fragrance. Not that I noticed (or cared) how my friend smelled; I was preoccupied with the thought of not being trampled by the crowd when I passed out in shock. Shock? Yes, read on.

When Q-Tip and Monie Love performed "Buddy" and Busta Rhymes hopped out for "Scenario", I was floored. Then Q-Tip asked the crowd twice, "Can we get much higher?". I was paralyzed with anticipation...disbelief...some other word that evokes intense emotion. Kanye West appeared on stage out of nowhere.

Remember what I said would happen if I was in the same area as him? Well, at least I wasn't carried away. And that's all I can say without damaging my street cred.

L to R: Jordan, Danny, Donnie, Jonathan, Joey. Image courtesy of jamati.com

You probably wouldn't think the New Kids on the Block could inspire a beauty post, but you know how I roll. Last week I went to the New Kids on the Block-Backstreet Boys (or NKOTBSB) concert. Between eardrum-destroying screams and spastic dance movements (what? I was excited), I was fixated on how great NKOTB looked; so, this post was meant to be (kinda' like Donnie and I):

L'Bel Collagenesse XT, ($52)

Front man, Jordan doesn't have a wrinkle in sight and though I don't believe they're anywhere in his near future, 170% collagen-stimulating L'Bel Collagenesse XT can maintain his already smooth (and I'm assuming soft) skin.

Bare Escentuals Purely Nourishing Moisturizer, ($28)

I'd say that lightweight Bare Escentuals Nourishing Moisturizer is great for buff Danny. You see, it has electrolytes (I hear that's good for folks who exercise). Plus, this formula, which is ideal for combination skin, firms as it hydrates.

Olay Total Effects Moisturizer Plus Cooling Hydration, ($18.52)

I choose you, Olay Total Effects Moisturizer Plus Cooling Hydration. The oil-free moisturizer is just like super-talented Donnie--more than meets the eye. Not only is it a vitamin-packed moisturizer, but its mint extract also cools the skin.

Vichy Aqualia Thermal Serum ($31.50)

Always laid back, I think Jonathan would be into Vichy Aqualia Thermal Serum. This mineral-enriched formula is made for dry/sensitive skin and provides all-day hydration (thanks to thermal water).

Lierac Intiatic Cream ($48)

For the youngest member of the group, shea butter and goji berry-enriched Lierac Intiatic Cream is perfect because it's made to reduce and prevent the first signs of aging (lines, wrinkles, you know the deal).

Judging from your emails and notes, you guys really liked my spring top picks. So I figured, "hell, let's do it again for summer"!

CK One Summer, $46

From the moment I stole a spritz from my college roommate's bottle, I had a love-love relationship with CK One. Since this limited-edition scent features crisp apple and sweet crushed berry top notes and cedarwood and incense base notes, I'm all over it (well, guess it's all over me).

Avon Peep-Toe Mini Wedges, $19.99

Super light...and inexpensive. They're great for city walking: comfy enough to break into a sprint in case something goes down. And there's always a chance something will go down...don't you watch "Cops"?

Biore Makeup Removing Towelettes, $7.99

For the days when makeup is a must...and waterproof mascara is the only way to go (if you have allergies, you know what I mean), these wipes remove makeup, refresh the skin, and leave it with a light, pleasant scent.

Rimmel Moisture Renew Lipgloss in Fuchsia Therapy, $6.15

If I hear, let alone say, "pop of color" one more time, I shan't be held responsible for my actions. But hey, there really isn't a better way to describe such a glorious color, enriched with moisturizing collagen, Vitamins A, C & E, and SPF 15 gracing soup coolers everywhere.

Goldfaden Daily Scrub, $65

Did you guys know that you're supposed to use your scrub BEFORE cleansing? Yup. When you use a scrub like this one, which includes ruby crystals, anti-aging/free-radical-busting red tea, and seaweed, it will lift up dead skin cells allowing your cleanser to work better. You heard it here, folks.

Hudson Hampton Short Shorts, $143

I love this fresh take on colored denim, plus, you can't have summer without shorts. Well, yeah you can, but why would hue want to? Had to do it...don't hate me.

John Freida Frizz-Ease Hair Serum, $8.99

Humidity...the end.

Hermanny by Vix Kelly One Piece, $107 + Win a FREE $100 Gift Card!

I'm a ride-or-die bikini girl. BUT I think this one piece from Amazon's new Swim Shop, is the perfect combination of color, pattern, and va-va-voominess (thanks to strategic ruching).

Enter to win a $100 Amazon Swim Shop Gift Card: Just tell me "I'm a bikini girl" or "I'm a one-piece girl" in the comment area below or Tweet me. Be sure to include your email address.The giveaway ends at midnight on Friday, June 10th.

I'm sure you remember the DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince classic, "Summertime". I recall thinking how grown up Will Smith looked with facial hair. Gotta' love it.

This will most likely be the only politics-related intro I'll ever use, but here we go. President Obama was in New York the other day. During my commute, the train conductor casually mentioned we'd bypass the most popular stop in Harlem because of a <insert public transportation excuse here>; it was the same stop as the one for Obama's event. I smirked and continued to read New York magazine.

When suddenly, the levity increased tenfold. As a boarding policeman was confronted by frustrated-passenger questions about the transit change, he gave us an impromptu comedy act about the goings-on. I immediately envisioned his precinct as the one in "Reno 911". Does his lieutenant wear khaki daisy dukes? If so, I need that rag tag squad patrolling my neighborhood.

If you're more interested in line fighting than crime fighting (yeah, I typed it), I think you're going to looove the new Zeno Line Rewind ($39.99). I learned about it at an intimate breakfast at David Burke Townhouse hosted by Zeno and Zeno-enthusiast, Kelly Rutherford from "Gossip Girl". As I noshed on the most delicious lobster scramble, I saw how Line Rewind uses red light technology, heat, and massage to target lines and wrinkles.

In fact, when paired with the Wrinkle Reduction Serum included in the kit, women saw results in four weeks, in a clinical trial. And if that doesn't make you want to try it, just look at Kelly Rutherford. She looks the same as she did on "Melrose Place"! And btw, the pic doesn't do her skin justice; it was LUMINOUS.

Ron from Beauty Stat emailed me to attend the Philips Crystalize event. Ron is huge in the beauty world...kinda' like "The Godfather". He made me an offer I couldn't refuse: skin imaging with an in-depth consultation.

Honestly, I thought to myself, "C'mon, now. My skin is just about perfect...bring it.".

I parked my bumper into a seat as the Philips Crystalize consultant took pictures of my skin. As I prepared for a litany of compliments, she told me instead that out of a perfect 8 (perfectly balanced, well-hydrated skin) my joint was a 3.6. And then she pointed out my fine lines in the photo. Fine lines? Me...Babyface Brathwaite?

The system also tested my skin's redness (um...), texture, and pigmentation.

To assuage my dismay, she  gave me the products that would help my skin look its very best. So tonight you better believe I'll be trying out my new Vichy products. Here's the dealio: the skin imaging and consultation are free. I got mine done at Duane Reade; go here to see where you can get yours!

I've been very impressed with Bare Minerals. I took my first hit last week at a Spa Week kickoff party and have been using it more frequently each day. I'm addicted.

Other than an incredible glow, Bare Minerals is also more makeup than I normally wear. How overjoyed I am that I was introduced to Kimberly Sayer Gentle Face Cleanser $25!

If you have normal, dry, or sensitive skin, you have to give it a go.The soy protein removes built-up oil, and yet leaves the skin re-energized (not tight at all). And the lavender oil balances the skin as it relaxes your spirit. Wow, how hokey did I sound there? Anyway, it's the cleanser I've been using every night to wash off my ever-increasing Bare Minerals applications and it's kinda' incredible.

A couple of weeks ago,  I went to a brunch honoring Veronica Webb's new role as member of the Eucerin Skin First Council. It's a group so dedicated to skin health, it even created a pledge, which you can take here, where you promise to honor your skin. I was seated among approximately 15 bloggers and right smack dab in front of Ms. Webb herself. I know, lucky me. I got to curse my decision to get a blowout after the event and didn't put on as much as tinted moisturizer for the event. But you know me, G-for-life so it was all good.

She discussed the importance of drinking lots of water and sweating a whole bunch (to naturally remove toxins from the body). She has also used glycerin soap on her face since she was little. It totally makes sense. It's SLS-free and moisturizing. I think I've seen it in the 99 cents store, so I mean, it's a win-win, no? I haven't tried glycerin soap, but I want to...badly. Have any of you gals used it?

Recently inspired by two of my newly single friends participating in online dating, I thought I'd compose a little sumthin for all my single ladies. Here are five products you can use as soon as you realize the dude is a dandy or a dud.

Peppermint Oil ($9.95)
If he's a luvah: Place a dot on your tongue making the proceeding convo...you guessed it...like a breath of fresh air.
If he's a loser: I'm not recommending you put some in a rude boy's eyes, because you know, I'd never suggest something like that.

Face Highlighter ($25)
If he's a luvah: Apply it to the bridge of your nose and cheekbones for a healthy shimmer.
If he's a loser: Well,if you put enough of this on the corners of your eyes, you can fake conjunctivitis.

Hair Serum/Gloss ($30)
If he's a luvah: Get touchable-looking hair and mask split ends if you haven't seen your salon since it saw you.
If he's a loser: Two words...faux drool

Lip Color ($22)
If he's a luvah: Though the my-lip-gloss-is-poppin look is cool, take the sex appeal down a thousand: blot liberally.
If he's a loser: Coral is the hotter-than-hot color of the season. Why not smear it on your teeth? Take that, Mr. Big Ego.

Volumizing Mascara ($14)
If he's a luvah:Let your lashes go wild as he tells you a fascinating story.
If he's a loser: Give yourself a makeshift moustache. Right there at the table.

Honorable Mention:
Though I am beyond over the ironic, oversized geeky glasses look, they could come in handy if he turns out to be a toolbag. Sport these Aviator Readers ($10) to distract him from your perpetual eye rolling.

I haven't mentioned my unwavering love of Michael Jackson. Mainly because I've been more than a bit MJ-obsessed since I was 6 and often when speaking of him, I cry. Surprisingly that can make people kinda' uncomfortable. I was more than prepared to swan dive off the balcony on to the stage, if I ever had the good fortune to see him perform live again. Until that day came, my oh-so-vivid "Victory Tour" memories would feed my soul.

So there was no doubt that I'd be at the very first showing of "This Is It", which happened to be at midnight. Yup, I'm a total freak. All I'm going to say about the film (I use the word "film" when I'm feeling extra snooty) is, if you haven't already, you must see it. Seriously.

OK now some beauty. Winter is on its nasty little way. If you aren't exfoliating, well shame on you, Miss-Missies! Your skin is most likely begging for a little scrubbing and you're being plain ol' selfish right now. I demand that you grab a bottle of Bliss Fabulous Foaming Face Wash ($22) pronto. It cleanses and exfoliates (without stripping the skin's oils) in one fabulously foamy step! Don't believe me? Give me your tired and your poor skin. After the last splash, you'll go en masse to the nearest department store to cop a bottle.