Temple of Glam

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).

I'm obsessed with gummy candy. What? Think it'd be beauty or fashion related just because this is a beauty and style blog?! Silly, silly.

Swedish Fish. Haribo Gummi Bears. Peach Rings. I especially enjoy the underrated act of chewing when I'm stressed.

And though my bod has been feeling the results of many chaotic weeks, my face is none the wiser. For I have been using Origins Mega Mushroom Advanced Serum ($50).

This baby is packed with mushroom-y goodness that's meant to soothe tired, agitated skin. Girls with rosacea, this one is especially for you!

And now back to our regularly scheduled candy obsession. If CVS didn't have such god-awful (read:non-immediate) delivery times, I'd be pleading right now with someone to send over a $0.99 bag of Gummi Worms.

Boy, I long for the days of care packages. Mom, if you're reading this, feel guilty...very guilty.

A few of you have asked, "yo what's up with the posts?" Is there a Shaunequa Jr. on the way? Moving to Zimbabwe? Joining the Rockettes? As much as I want to tell you I'm the proud new member of the New York chapter of the Human Tail Society, I can't lie: I'm just a lazy mo-fo.

But I wasn't so busy doing ABSOLUTELY NOTHING; I did find a new product. I read one piece on the magical properties of Emu Oil and (the impetuous little minx that I am) went right over to Westerly and copped a bottle. It's supposed to be an anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, hell it's probably a crime-fighting, sea-parting, walk-on-water oil.

Oh my poor forsaken coconut oil had to take a backseat. Sorry, yo. I've been using Emu Oil for just about a week.

It's supposed to be an incredible under-eye moisturizer and it keeps even my dry hands (sorta) supple. I’ll say this my alter ego, the Queen of Glow, thinks it’s a bit much for the face--especially because it’s so warm now. Oh, and its appearance makes it a little difficult to forget its origins.

I've been especially drawn to natural products lately; mostly because I feel like I'm doing something phenomenal for the earth and myself, but I also feel like I'm giving the middle finger to The Man. And who can turn down that rare opportunity?

Now Josie Maran isn't a cooking-up-products-in-the-kitchen sorta' company (this week we'll explore a few beauty and fashion girls doing just that), but it is a relatable brand.

In recycled, biodegradable packaging, Josie Maran 100% Argan Oil ($14) is all-natural and I happen to use it every day on my face. Now that the weather's getting warmer it might be a bit much on even my moisture-seeking skin. Don't fret my pet, it's also great for hair, body, cuticles, and lips!e

I watched Food Inc. a few days ago. Have you seen it? One word: puke. After watching it, I sooo get the raw food movement. I would still love for heat to touch my food, but I get it. That said, I will be en route to Whole Foods for this week's more socially responsible, grocery store trip.

Inspired, I thought I'd highlight my current beloved moisturizer, which happens to be organic. I slather Sabon Organic Day Cream ($39) onto my skin every morning. For the record, I truly can't stand odiferous moisturizers. So if you want to smell like the fragrance section of Bloomingdales, this macadamia nut-based, UV ray blocking cream isn't for you. If your normal to dry skin wants rich, age-defying moisture, "make your next move your best move".

My friend bequeathed this to me recently. You might be saying to yourself, "Big whoop, lotion. Soooo?!" I argue it is more than a high falutin' moisturizing agent.

Kiehl's Creme de Corps ($27.00) came from my friend's heart. He sacrificed his own ashen hands so that mine would be properly hydrated. Full disclosure, I constantly asked to borrow his fragrance-free, super-decadent emollient. Maybe he gave it to me to shut me up.

Wouldn't be the first time. Remember my-mom-feeding-me-caramels-to-stop-my-wailing story? 'Nuff said.

Oh, I haven't completely lost it. I realize it's almost the end of fashion week. I promise to post my favorite NYFW looks soon. Have you seen any swoon-worthy fall 2010 styles? Holla, I'm just a mere email away!

I honestly love-love-love LA. Between you and me, it's kinda outranking NYC these days. The temperature is damn-near-perfect, the folks are super nice, California chic, and they have blindingly white chompers. Everything I adore. In fact, the only thing I am less-than-stoked about is LA's gnarly, arid air.

I'm consistently unprepared for ashen shoulders, knees, and toes (knees and toes). During my recent visit, I was armed with a lotion, which in most climates is a viable contender. Well that west coast air ravaged my skin and left it pleading for mercy (and moisture).

Next time, I'll bring Vaseline Intensive Care Revitalizing Gel ($7.49). Nothing can beat its skin-soothing and sweet-smelling properties. So watch out TSA, I'll be packing the big guns. Not literally...c'mon I'm kidding. Seriously I can't handle another strip search...