Glowing Skin, All Winter All Winter Long

Banish dry skin this winter with these tips:

1. Choose a heavier moisturizer. If you are using a lighter moisturizer in the summer months, choose a heavier one now to prevent the cold winter air from drying out your skin. Make sure to apply it before bedtime too- especially in dry, flaky areas. Also use an eye cream and lip balm before you go to sleep to keep those sensitive areas supple.



2. Exfoliate. Gently remove old skin cells by exfoliating with a moisturizing scrub. Wipe away scrub with a washcloth for an easy way to remove it and is not harsh on your skin.

3. Embrace creamy makeup. Cream foundations are best in the winter because they are more emollient. Make sure to use a make-up primer first and finish off application with a powder to keep make up set in place.

4. Remember sunscreen in the winter too. Apply right after your moisturizer.

5. Raise your moisture content inside and out. Use a humidifier in your home and remember to drink plenty of water.

6. Fake a warm winter glow. But don't subject your skin to the danger and damage of tanning salon equipment. Use an applied self-tanner. Make sure to exfoliate first to get a even application. And don't forget to wash you hands afterward- orange palms are a dead give away!

Merry Christmas!

While I am enjoying the holiday time with my family, I want to pause and thank you for your business this past year and wish for you a holiday filled with joy and love.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

De-stress Your Holiday

Holiday shopping, present wrapping, party planning, and decorating are enough to make even the jolliest of us say bah humbug! Fortunately you can keep from turning into the Grinch this holiday season with these stress-busting tips.

Work in a work-out.
Exercise soothes stress. If you don't have time to head to the gym- power walk in the mall and make a mental note of the stores you want to hit when you are done. Or bundle up and head outside for a walk with your dog or head for a play day in the snow.

Turn in early.
It's tempting to stay up late to wrap just one more gift or address one more card- but losing precious sleep isn't worth it. Lack of rest increases grouchiness and tension.

Simplify gift giving.
For a group of friends or family members, draw names for a gift exchange. You'll only need to buy one gift- saving time and money. If shopping at the store is tressful, buy gift cards or gifts online. Or skip the gifts entirely and donate to a charity that your loved one is passionate about.

Step away from the buffet table.
Holiday goodies can wreak havoc on your diet. Sweets will zap your energy and those empty calories will have you stressing about weight gain. Nosh on more healthy options that provide energy such as vegies, fruit and nuts.

Learn to say no.
If you are feeling over-extended during the holidays- then it's time to start graciously excusing yourself from obligations. If the mere thought of going to event makes you tired and stressed out, it's okay to say no!

Delegate.
Let the kids address envelopes (my son is a whiz on the computer at making address labels!). Enlist the help of your spouse to clean and run to the grocery store. They may not do things exactly the way you would do it- but let it go and instead relish the extra time you have.

Change your mind-set.
Stress often comes from wishing things were different. Instead of fuming over something that is beyond your control, make a mental list of the things you are grateful for. Take deep, cleansing breaths and soak up the festive surroundings. Things may not turn out perfect, but they'll probably go well enough. Try to be flexible and keep your sense of humor.

Have a peaceful and blessed holiday with your family and friends!

Take control of your finanaces!

Are you concerned about the economy? Having a tough time making ends meet- or even finding a job? Have you thought about Avon? Avon is easy to sell because it has been a recognized American icon for over 100 years! You can earn money for the "extras" in life or to pay your bills. And best of all- you can't get fired, you can't get laid off- it's your own business. And the initial investment is less than the cost of a meal at Burgerville! If I have sparked an interest, please give me a call and I can let you know how I got started.

The 12th Day of Christmas....

a very cool ring from mark. Big fashion rings are in right now- and I love this one: the Petal to the Metal ring. Positively posh with its faux rhinestone center, and gold-rimmed black enamel petals, this is the piece all your friends will want. Available in sizes 5,7 and 9 only for $14.00.

Check out my website www.youravon.com/jbarker0004 and select mark. if you would like more detail on the necklace and dress shown on the inset.

The 11th Day of Christmas...

Another great mark. item is the Super Flip Color Kit that features 9 shades for eyes and 9 shades for lips in a unique compact with a mirror. The quality of the mark. product line is comparable to MAC cosmetics...at half the price! Get this limited edition item today for $20.00

OK- getting behind here! Days 10, 11 and 12!

The crazy preparation days of Christmas are upon us: tree up (check), house lights up (check), tree falls down (check), tree back up and redecorated (check), presents wrapped and under the tree (check)....and on it goes!
Today I am featuring some great products from Avon's mark. line- a line of trend-setting jewelry, fashion and makeup targeted for younger women. But honestly, I love and use it too!
First up is the Glitz and Glow Mini Purse and Lip Glosses: This simmery change purse comes stocked with four mini glow baby glow lip glosess in 4 great shades. The purse is the perfect size to slip into a small cocktail purse or use on it's own. Only $12.50

The 9th Day of Christmas....

I love these soaps- they make bath time fun for kids (and adults)! Four colors and scents that roll on and rinse off easily. Bubble Gum, Candy Apple, Coconut Custard and Cotton Candy. At only $1.99 each , these are perfect stocking stuffers!

The 8th Day of Christmas...

... it's time to get those stocking stuffers. I love the Naturals Holiday Shower Gel and it comes in three great scents: Black Cherry & Nutmeg, Sugar & Walnut and Raspberry. Only $1.99 while supplies last.

On the 7th Day of Christmas...

I gave my heart away! This adorable heart charm necklace comes with two heart charms, one covered with rhinestones on a 17" silvertone chain. Also comes with a 3" extender for a longer look. The perfect gift for a teacher or loved one. Special introductory price of $9.99.

On the Sixth Day of Christmas.....

I painted my toenails a bright holiday red with Nailwear Pro Nail Enamel. Now everytime I see my toes, I smile! Advanced formula with acrylic for strong nails. No formaldehyde, toluene or phthalates. Choose from 24 great colors on sale now 2 for $5.99.

On the Fifth Day of Christmas....

I straightened my hair for the 3rd time this week with a hot flat iron- so I need Avon's Advance Techniques Dry Ends Serum. It dramatically smooths and nourishes dry damaged hair. And it is on sale for only $2.99!

Day 3 AND 4!

Sorry- I got busy with Civil War game prep and forgot to post the 3rd day of Christmas special yesterday! So here are two great deals today:
The winter chill that has blown into town this week is the perfect excuse to get a new scarf to warm you. This ruffled scarf has the look and feel of cashmere but for 1/3 of the price because it is made from an anti-pilling acrylic. Available in Fuchsia,Teal and Ivory for only $14.99.
Add coordinating gloves that have a stitch that gathers them at your wrist for only $9.99.

On the Second Day of Christmas....

Brrrrrr- those cold winds are blowing today! Keep your lips from getting chapped with Care Deeply Lip Balm- now only .69 cents and comes with the 2010 calendar wrapped around the tube. This is the lowest price offered- so get 10 of them !

The First day of Christmas....

I decided to offer you some tips for preparing for the holidays and stay looking & feeling great by offering great daily deals until Christmas.

We have all been frequently washing our hands to prevent the flu bug from spreading. Add the cool winter weather and your hands can dry out quickly. Today I am offering these great 1.5 fl. oz. hand creams that are perfect stocking stuffers and fit great in your purse, gym bag or desk drawer. Each are only .99 cents! Choose from the following classic creams: Skin So Soft & Sensual, Moisture Therapy Intensive, Avon Basics Silicone Glove or Avon Basics Vita Moist. Email me or leave a comment below to get yours today.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I am so thankful for all I have- my health, my family's health, a wonderful life partner and the security of a home. I am also thankful for the new things that have happened to me this year- a job change, the courage to start my own direct sales business, a reconnection with my girl friends and volunteering to make a positve impact on children's lives. And I am thankful to all of you who have supported my business this past month. Please add a comment below with what you are thankful for and I will send you a little gift of appreciation.

Enjoy your holiday weekend!

5 Beauty Tips for Travelers

Thanksgiving is just a few days away- and for many of you that means traveling to visit family and friends. Take the stress out of travel- here's how to simplify and stay gorgeous.

1. Minimize Make-up
Streamline your make up kit by packing only the essentials-an eye shadow palette with light and dark shades, an eyeliner, mascara, a blush or a bronzer, and a lip gloss with a hint of color.

2. Don't Skimp on Skin Care.
One product that warrants the space it takes up in your suitcase- a moisturizer with sunscreen that has a minimum SPF factor of 15. If you're flying -remember- airlines limit your bottle sizes to 3 ounces- so transfer your moisturizer into the appropriate size travel container.

3. Helpful Tools.
Instead of bringing all of your make-up gadgets and brushes- bring only cotton swabs. They are great for applying eye shadow, lip gloss and blending eyeliner. For nail touch-ups, bring an emery board- light weight and practical.

4. Easy Up Dos.
Leave the gels and hair sprays at home and try this easy look: sweep your hair up into a pony tail and add a colorful headband or scarf. Lightly pat your hair with a small amount moisturizer to smooth out any stray hairs.


5. Multi-faceted Fashion.
Rely on pieces that pull double-duty when you can't pack your whole wardrobe. Metallic flats, for example, transition well from day into evening wear. To be able to mix and match and get the most from limited choices- select clothing from one color palette- a neutral base like black of grey- and add a few colorful accessories.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Simplify...

We work hard and play hard, filling nearly every moment with activity and consumption. Sometimes it is just all too much. Make a choice to live stress-free. Follow these simple steps to live simply:

1. Stop buying things that don't serve a purpose in your life. If you absolutely love it, keep it until it is beyond repair. And eliminate (donate, recycle, regift) one item from your home before you buy it.

2. Make sure your home size is appropriate and easy to maintain. Living in a cozy environment can be more satisfying that the stress of maintaining a "mansion". Plus, the more extra space one has, the more it tends to get filled with un-needed stuff.

3. Schedule some down-time to relax and do "nothing"- at least 30 minutes a day. Try to spend some time in nature. Don't have time? Practice saying "no" to things that don't fulfill you.

4. Do you feel like your child's taxi? Limit extra-curricular activities to 1-3 per week, depending on their age. Otherwise, you may be raising a child that becomes addicted to constant stimulation.

5. Connect with a sense of spirit in your life, whether through prayer, religious service, journal writing, meditation or spiritual reading. You will find that simplicity leads to spirituality.

30 Minute Morning Beauty Routine

Continuing the series of posts on morning beauty routines no matter how much time you have, here are some tips that you can use when you have a little more time.

For Your Face...
After washing your face, apply a hydrating face mask and leave on for 3 minutes. Follow up with your regular face moisturizer (with a minimum SPF of 15).

For Your Make Up...
Pull out your tweezers and get ready to pluck. A nicely groomed pair of eyebrows polishes your look more than you know. Be sure to be in a natural light (I like to do mine in my car!), follow your natural shape, getting rid of stray hairs and removing any extra hairs under your brow line. Set the shape with brow gel or hand cream. Then sweep your eyelids with a powder shadow from lash line to crease.

For Your Body...
Slather on foot cream, put on a pair of cotton socks and let the hydration soften and sooth your soles. Treat your self to a full manicure... two coats of polish and top coat.

For Your Hair...
Blow drying can actually be good for your hair...if you use a creamy hair mask or deep conditioning treatment. When applying focus on the middle and ends of your hair and leave it on for about 20 minutes. The blast it with a dryer- the heat will help the emollient penetrate

Jazz Up Your Wardrobe

Tips and Tricks to Get More Mileage From Your Clothes and Accessories.
Don't let your limited budget limit your style. Follow these tips to get more from what you already have.

Breathe Life Into a Brooch.
Pin an old brooch (or an inexpensive new one) to a cloth cosmetic case for a innovative clutch purse for an evening out. Or pin to the center of a length of ribbon and wear around your neck as a choker necklace.

Cinch Your Waist.
Fitted waists look very fresh right now. An east way to create one is with a wide belt. Don't have one in your closet? Try a gift ribbon- satin or grosgrain ribbons can make a casual outfit look festive.

Create Some Scarf Magic.
Scarves are a simple way to add splash to your evening look-but instead of just knotting one at your neck, try these pro tips: create a halter top by tying the corners of two large scarves around your neck (creating a cowl in the front) and tying the other two corners around the small of your back. Wear it under a jacket for a look that is professional. Another great look is using a scarf as a belt (see above) or simply tied onto your purse in an elegant bow.

Give Your Shoes a Shine.
An old pair of clip-on earrings can give your plain pumps and edgy new style.

Mix Up Your Baubles.
Wearing the same earring and necklace combinations can become passe. Give your accessories a fresher look by breaking up jewelry sets by wearing heavy beaded necklaces with diamond/crystal stud earrings. Also try layering by pairing shorter necklaces with long ones. This can make your everyday sets look brand-new.

IMAGE ABOVE: mark by AVON High Society Necklace $25., Ace of Lace Party Dress $29., Petal to the Metal ring $14.

5 Minute Morning Beauty Routine

Yesterday I posted some quick tips if you only have one minute before you get out the door in the morning. If you only have 5 minutes - here are a few more tips:

For your face:
After cleansing apply a hydrating face mask; leave it on for three minutes, then rinse it off. Next apply a moisturizer. Look for ones that meet your skin type needs- whether it is for oily, dry or combination skin.

For you Makeup:
Apply a gel-based blush (which is more translucent than a powder blush), blend it in with your fingertips, then top with a powder bronzer. The combination creates a natural-looking , healthy flush. Add color (and softness) to your lips with an emollient lip balm in a berry or burgundy hue.

For your Body:
Use a body lotion that is scented with your favorite fragrance. Apply a deodorant that provides odor and antiperspirant protection.

For your Hair:
If your style has gone flat overnight, freshen up your look with a styling cream- which won't leave your hair gunky like second-day hair spray can.

Morning Beauty Routines- For Every Schedule

Whether you have one minute- or 30- here's how to get ready:

If your mornings are unpredictable, chances are your beauty routine is too. But that doesn't mean you can't look beautiful in next to no time at all. Follow this guide to look pulled together in as little as a minute.

If you want to spend one minute...

...on your face:
cleansing cloths- which remove dirt and make up while gently exfoliating-are super quick and nix the need for a washcloth. And if you use cloths containing moisturizers, you can cut your morning skin-care routine down to one step.

... on your Makeup:
Mascara, mascara, mascara! If you have time for only one thing, this little tube is it! Use a formula that curls and lengthens and you can skip the clunky curler.

...on your body:
Wash with a mild bar or body wash with moisturizer. For exfoliation, use a pouf. And if your tub/shower has those non-skid decals on the floor, rub your feet on them. The sand paper-like texture will get rid of rough, callused skin.

Check back tomorrow- for additional tips when you have 5 or more minutes.....

All Over Skin Care- Part 3

Are you ready for part 3 in this 4 part series on skin care? Today the focus is on your chest, back and shoulders.
Like your face, theses areas have a high amount of sebaceous (oil) glands. When too much oil is produced- especially during exercise- it can clog pores, causing the skin to erupt with blemishes. The solution? When you work out avoid tight, spandex-type clothing, which holds in moisture. Instead, wear loose-fitting, cotton clothing. Also, shower as soon as possible after your work out to remove accumulated oil and sweat. If you do have a break-out, apply the same acne treatment you use on facial blemishes. Try AVON's Clearskin Professional Invisible Blemish Treatment with zinc peptide, wheat germ extract and salicylic acid for instant reduction in pimple redness, swelling and size. Only $7.99 through Nov. 17th.

Mad About the look of Mad Men!

Are you one of the thousands following the hit TV series Mad Men? Whether you love the simple look of Peggy of the vampy look of Joan- here are some tips to get your own MAD look:

The Eyes Have It
Put some focus on your eyes by using a bold eyeliner. Black liquid eye liner will give you the dramatic cat-eyes look when you apply it with a tick line on your upper eyelid with a small "swoosh" at the corner of your eye.Have a shaky hand? Try this trade secret: dab small dots of eye liner along your upper lash line- then connect them in one smooth dramatic line. For a more subtle look, use an eye liner pencil in a softer color like chocolate brown or gray and smudge it with your finger tip to blend and soften the line. Follow both looks with a powder eye shadow in a soft blue to get that 60's look.

Pouty Lips
The key to youthful looking lips is making sure they are moist and plump. Try using a lip stick with Retinol which reduces lip lines for smoother-than-ever lips. Also look for lip stick with a plumping effect for a fuller-looking lips. Try Avon's Plumping Lip Color with SPF 15 and double the Retinol available in 15 shades.

Wellness Tip: Sleep Alert

I recently read that "new research is showing that insufficient sleep of 6 hours or less may contribute to the development of insulin resistance and reduced glucose tolerance- which in turn may increase the long-term risk of developing diabetes." (November 2009 Natural Awakenings). Here are some tips that will help you get some healthy sleep:
1. Do not drink beverages with caffeine in the evening. Try a herbal tea such as chamomile instead.
2. Don't eat after 8:00pm. This is not only better for your body weight but also will prevent you from sleepless nights feeling bloated or experiencing heart burn.
3. Take a warm bath using soothing bubble bath in a fragrance that relaxes you. Soak for 15 minutes and mentally relax. AVON offers many scents that are great for sensitive skin and won't leave a ring in your bath tub!

What do you do to ensure a good night's sleep?

T.G.I.F. - It's Give-away Day!

It is finally Friday- and that mean's it's give away day! Today I have one of my favorite products- Skin So Soft Replenishing Body Lotion. One of my pet-peeves is dry skin- especially dry hands- and this is my go-to cure every time! I love it because it isn't greasy and lasts all day. To enter to win this prize just leave a comment telling me what your beauty or personal care pet peeve is.

Pampering: Make a Tired Face Look Beautiful Instantly!

Deadlines, carpools, trips to the grocery store because you are out of milk again- no wonder we all look less than perky now and then.But follow these few simple tricks and you will look like you've had eight hours of sleep and a massage!

Revitalize with veggies.
Place cold, sliced cucumbers under your eyes for 3-4 minutes to help close the pores and tighten the skin.

Make time for tea.
Chamomile tea bags soaked in cold water are great for reducing under eye puffiness. Place the tea bag under each eye for 10 minutes. Prepare by soaking several tea bags at a time and storing them in your refrigerator. When the first tea bags get warm after a few minutes on your face, simply replace them with fresh, cold ones from the frig.

Send under-eye shadows into hiding.
Concealer is our friend. Use a small make up brush with firm bristles and a cream concealer. Apply directly under the eye- at the inner and outside corners. Then apply a bit of concealer to the inner sides of the nose- where the shadows are the darkest. You can apply all the way up to the inside corner of the eyes.

Add a little shimmer to wake up tired eyes.
Apply a small dot of silver, gold or pink powder eye shadow to the inner corner of the eye- right on the tear duct to give your eyes a glowing boost.

What do you do to pamper yourself when you are worn out?

All Over Skin Care- Part 2

Here is Part 2 in a 4 part series on general skin care tips. Last Wednesday I posted tips on hand and foot skin care. This week the focus is on Knees and Elbows.

Because the skin is so thick on these parts, it exfoliates less often than thinner-skinned areas. So it tends to get rough. The solution? Regularly exfoliate these areas by using a body scrub when you shower. AVON makes a wonderful one: Planet Spa African Shea Butter Brown Sugar Body Scrub. Follow up after your shower with the Whipped Body Balm from this same line and you will not only feel great but smell wonderful too. On sale now 2 for $6.99 through Nov. 17th.

3 Make Up Tips for Looking Great Everday

Want people to think you look amazing every time they see you? You can make it happen by focusing on these essentials- with alluring make up and up to the minute fashion. Check Next Mondays' post for three hot fashion tips. But read on to learn how to take your look to the next level with these simple make up tips:

Refresh Your Foundation
If you've been buying the same shade for years, it may be time to switch. Skin color changes over time. After applying your current foundation, re-evaluate your skin tone and try a few different shades at your jawline to find the best match. Also consider trying a different type of foundation. As skin ages it can become more dry, so a cream or liquid foundation may be better than a matte powder to maintain a glowing look.

Gloss Your Lips
Berry or chocolate colored lip glosses are great for business or evening wear. For a more casual look, try a lighter hue closer to your actual lip color. First fill in your lips with a liner that matches your natural lip color, then layer a shimmery, pink lip gloss on top.

Awaken Your Eyes
For a wide-eyed, understated look, try this professional tip: Apply eyeliner only on the top of your eyes, then go over the eye lid with a matching color eye shadow to soften the look.

How to Wear Fall's Bold Colors

The fall fashion season is full of vibrant hues. Rich jewel tones are hot and incorporating them into your wardrobe is an easy way to freshen it up. Here's how to wear these trendy colors:


Passionate About Purple
Purple is a strong color, so use it as an accent in your wardrobe. Try wearing a purple skinny belt, ankle boots or pumps , purse or scarf. Purple works well with navy, grey, brown or olive green.

Radiant in Red
This bold color looks great on nearly everyone. Use it for main pieces such as dresses or skirts or as accessories like boots (suede) and opaque tights. You can wear red alone or combine several shades. And don't be afraid to mix it up: Red pairs well with egg plant, steel grey, camel and navy. However, if classic red is a bit too bright for your taste, try toning it down by wearing a Bordeaux shade instead.

What the Nose Knows

Don't underestimate the arresting power of aroma.

Nearly everyone is aware that a dog's sense of smell is far superior to that of humans. But did you know that women have a stronger sense of smell than men do?

Other interesting olfactory facts from the Sense of Smell Institute:

• Smell is responsible for an astonishing 80% of taste. That's why food isn't as flavorful when your nose is stuffed up. Hunger also influences smell. So the more ravenous you are, the more intensely you'll smell what's cooking.
• The same odor smells differently to each individual. What's more, your ability to detect odor varies from day to day. You'll never experience an odor exactly the same way.
• The abilility to smell gets stronger as the day progresses. It turns out the best time to stop and smell the roses is at night!

Looking for a great new fragrance? Try the recently introduced scent by Reese Witherspoon- In Bloom. It combines the fragrant notes of the Magnolia, Star Gardenia and Night Blooming Jasmine.

T.G.I.F.!

Happy Friday! Fridays are always welcome, but even more so with S.M.A.R.T. Women. Every Friday I will feature a contest give away- woo hoo, free stuff!

As we near the end of October, we not only celebrate Halloween, but also wrap up Breast Cancer Awareness month. Leave a comment on how you honored Breast Cancer Awareness month and you will be entered to win this week's prize: AVON Breast Cancer Crusade Moisturizing Bar Soap. This is a gentle glycerin-based soap for face and body with a refreshing grapefruit scent. 100% percent of the profits from the sales of this bar will be donated to AVON Breast Cancer Awareness Crusade.

AVON Breast Cancer Awareness Crusade:

More than $585 million is donated globally for research and access to care.More than 742,000 US Avon Representatives raise funds to eliminate breast cancerand domestic violence by selling AVON products like these- not just in October, but year round, every year since 1993!

A pampering Pedi

OK- I admit my week has been a little off, but I just realized that I stated the wrong day of the week in my post. SO- CORRECTION: Every Wednesday will be a post on skin care. Now onto Thursday (today!): every Thursday I will post tips on pampering yourself- we could all use a little, right?

PEDICURE 101

It doesn't take much time to have fabulous looking feet and you don't have to spend a lot of money to do it. Here are the basics to pampering your feet.

• First remove any old nail polish on your toes with a gentle polish remover.
  
• Cut nails straight across with toe nail clippers. Don't use your finger nail clippers- they are too small and may make an uneven cut. File nails if any rough edges remain.
• Fill a large bucket or bowl with warm water. Find a comfy chair and a good read. You can add Epsom salts to the water for a relaxing soak to soothe aches and pains. Or, if you prefer a more aromatic or invigorating soak, use a peppermint or other scented foot soak. Relax and soak for 15 minutes. Try flexing your feet and curling your toes a few times to release any tension. Follow with a rinse in clear water and towel dry your feet.
• Use a pumice stone on toes, heels and balls of your feet to smooth away any rough spots. Make sure you do this after every shower for lasting smoothness.
  
• Use an orangewood stick to gently push back cuticles. Never cut the cuticle- only trim hang nails.
• Moisturize your feet with a rich cream made for feet. Cream with peppermint can soothe and cool sore feet. See my post "All Over Skin Care" for more tips on moisturizers.
  
• Polishing toe nails is easier with foam separators. First apply a clear base coat to prevent your nails from absorbing the pigment of the nail polish. Next apply two coats of nail polish in a color you love, followed by one coat of top coat polish. If you paint outside the nail bed area, use a cotton swab dipped in polish remover to gently wipe polish from your skin.
  
• If you are in a hurry, just apply two coats of clear polish for an easy, elegant look.
  

All Over Skin Care

Every Tuesday I will feature information about skin care on S.M.A.R.T. Women. Here are some great skin care tips that are perfect for cool weather.

Treat Your Entire Skin Right.
Skin is your body's largest organ and one of it's most complex: It's multiple layers are densely packed with nerve endings, cells, oil and sweat glands, muscle, blood vessels and hair follicles. In fact, from head to toe, your body has many skins, from thick skin on elbows to thin skin around eyes.

Because your many skins have distinct qualities, each skin type require special attention. Here is part 1 in a 4 part series on tips to keep all of you smooth and healthy looking.

Hands and Feet (especially heels):
Skin is fairly quick on these parts but can take a real beating. In addition to daily wear and tear, hands are exposed to the damaging effects of the environment, not to mention frequent washings. And feet bear the brunt of body weight, and are often squeezed into ill-fitting shoes that don't breathe. All of this leads to skin that is dry and feels rough.

What is the solution? Regularly apply rich moisturizing creams, which are heavier than creams. If skin is especially rough and dry try this tip: Before going to bed, apply a thick moisturizing cream to your hands and feet, wrap them in plastic wrap and put on cotton gloves or socks to seal in your skin's moisture overnight.

Try Avon's Nurtura Replenishing Cream for a non-greasy night treatment that will leave your skin soft and supple. On special through Nov. 3rd, 2 for $6.99 )regularly $8.00 each).

Don't be Spooked by Fall's New Colors

I have decided to better organize all of the style and beauty information, I will post a specific topic each weekday. So Monday will be tips on cosmetics. Check out the blog tomorrow to see what tomorrow's topic will be!

Feeling a little intimidated by Fall's brighter make up shades?

The fashion world is abuzz about bold, bright make up colors for fall and winter. Think peacock teals, rich golds, deep purples and royal blues. But how do real women make these vibrant hues work for their everyday lives?

Choose the right color eye shadow for you. Any woman can wear this season's deep plums and lush greens. It's all in the tone you choose. We are not wearing these colors like we did in the 80's. Today's look is more subtle. Experiment with eyeliner in one of these colors instead of shadow. And choose pencil over liquid eyeliner. It's more forgiving and less harsh.

Go for the smokey eye. Cotton swaps are a great way to smudge out your pencil eyeliner to get an instant smokey eye look. Use a coordinating eye shadow for a stronger evening look.

Cover your bases. If you want to try that forest green eye shadow make sure it doesn't end up in the crease of your eye by lunch time. Apply eye shadow base before you apply your eye make up. Many woman also fight the constant battle with their make up- it ends up running by the end of the day. Using a make up primer before applying your foundation is the trick to preventing this.

Make Fall lip colors work for you. Red and hot pink are big for Fall, but that can seem like a lot of color if you're used to having a more natural looking lip. One way to try to ease into a bolder lip color is to start with a gloss for just a hint of color. Then transition into a sheer lip stick. Finally, try a full-on lip stick- especially for evening events.

Haute Hats: The Must-Have Fall Accessory

Working a hat into your everyday look can be tricky, but there's no need to be intimidated. Just look through the Sunday newspaper ads and you will see that there are many styles this season. The following tips will help you sport a hat with confidence and style.

Pick classic shapes. Hat trends come and go, but you should stay away from wildly unconventional styles unless they work well with your face shape or you're particularly bold dresser. Choose a hat that flatters most people, such as a newsboy cap or a classic fedora. Mark by Avon is featuring this update to a traditional riding cap sown at left. And don't forget about knit hats, which are warm and practical.

Take it easy on the color. Choose neutral colored hats, such as navy, browns and charcoal grey, that blend with your skin tone and match your jacket. If you decide you want to go for a pop of color, make sure the hue you choose is flattering to your complexion. Remember that the hat is going to be next to your face. A fuchsia hat might look great with your outfit, but it could look terrible with your skin tone. Instead, pick a wild color for your gloves.

How old is old? Know when it's time to toss your old make up.

Cleaning out your bulging makeup case, crammed medicine cabinet or jam-packed bathroom drawer? To help you find items that are past their prime (or squeeze a few extra months out of seasonal ones), here’s a product-by-product breakdown that can help you put your best face forward.


Cleansers, Moisturizers, Exfoliants
If a product has changed color or texture, separates after being shaken several times, smells strange or is missing its lid, toss it. As a rule, skin-care staples are good for a year after they’re opened. An exception: Products with vitamin C should be thrown out after six months.


Powder, Blush, Bronzer, Eye Shadow
All powdered items are safe to use for up to three years. Keep them fresh by gently scraping the surface of each with a butter knife, which will remove facial oils and restore the product’s original consistency.


Lipstick
No need to ditch this too quickly; lipstick is good for about two years. Try blending shades—layer a spring pink over a darker hue, for example — to get year-round use out of them.


Foundation
Replace liquids and creams about every six months and powder formulas once a year. As the seasons change, you can alternate a more hydrating winter foundation with a newly purchased water-based or oil-free version; once your skin adapts, toss the old foundation and switch to the new one full-time.


Mascara
Replace it every three months, but save the wand: Wash it thoroughly with soap and water, and use it as a brow-grooming tool.

Does your make up bag have these essentials?

It doesn't take a battalion of brushes or an expensive make up kit to polish a fabulous face. For only $25.00 you can get everything need:

• Eyelash Curler- Every woman should own this amazing tool. Hold the curler at the base of the lash line and squeeze gently, gradually moving outward. Your eyes will instantly look more alive!
• Concealer & Brush-Instead of masking your face in heavy foundation everyday , use a concealer to cover up dark spots and blend away imperfections. The secret to a truly top notch make up application is blend, blend, blend using a feathering motion with a concealer brush.
• Slant Tip Tweezers- Good tweezers are a must for maintaining a polished arch to your brows. Slanted tips make it easier to grab hairs at their root- just pull out in the direction the hair is growing. Use a cold compress to sooth any redness.
  
• Moisturizer with SPF 15- Keep your skin healthy and glowing by moisturizing daily with a product suited for your skin type. Protect your skin from damaging UV sun rays by using a product that includes a minimum of SPF 15 protection.
• Powder Brush- A large brush is great for dusting on translucent powder as the finishing touch for your look. You'll get a sheerer application than you would using an old-fashioned puff.

Missing any of these items from your kit? Contact me by November 3rd and receive all items listed for only $25.00!
Avon.lady.Jennifer@gmail.com

Welcome!

I am so excited to start this new blog- S.M.A.R.T. Women. Notice with all those dots that I am using "SMART" as an acronym of the characteristics that I think make a smart (and interestung!) woman: stylish-modern-adventuresome-real-thoughtful. If you are receiving this- you are a SMART Woman!

I am using this blog as a way to feature health and beauty tips as I take off on my next adventure. I was recently laid off for the 2nd time in 12 months as a result of the recession hitting the architecture industry so badly. I started thinking, "What's next for me? What would a smart woman do now?". And the answer was- FOLLOW YOUR PASSION. So I starting my home-based business selling fashion and beauty supplies. As I venture into this new business, I am researching and educating myself on the latest trends, as well as the timeless tips that can benefit all women. I plan to use this blog as a way to share this info. with you, and hopefully, it will become a valuable resource for you too!

Wishing you the best-
Jennifer