Where to Find Replacement Pads for a Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler

Shiseido Eyelash Curler Replacement Pads

If you have the iconic Shu lash curler (and by now you should), then you probably know that they don’t offer replacement pads for it. I know this because once a year I go hunting everywhere for something that fits its unique design and size and eventually resort to buying a new one which is exactly the reason why they don’t make them I suppose. I get it- it’s something that would otherwise last forever and there’s not as much money to be made on a one time purchase but it’s just such a waste. I think I’ve finally solved the mystery using Shiseido’s replacement pads ($9 for two). It’s the same mushroom design that makes Shu’s so good, the pad is fatter on top than the bottom so it cushions the lashes and provides a lot of stability to get a tighter curl. It isn’t a perfect fit because it stops just a hair short of fitting the entire length of the curler, but it’s close enough to where I don’t notice a difference and best of all it saves you from a purchase you don’t need to make.

Shiseido Eyelash Curler Replacement Pads

Murad Age-Diffusing Firming Mask

There was a time when I would love a good Friday night of beauty. Do my nails, maybe a hair treatment and a face mask topped off with some 20/20 and it was the perfect night. Pretty crazy, I know. It’s not like I don’t do these things post-baby, it’s just that they’re more spread out so they don’t take up big chunks of time that are harder to find. Multi-tasking is the new name of the game so I’ve been putting on a mask before I hop in the shower so by the time I’m ready to jump out it’s ready to take off. All the more helpful because I’ve been using Murad’s Age-Diffusing Firming Mask which isn’t a clay version that takes patience and time in front of a mirror to remove, it’s easily wiped away and even better penetrated by the steam which makes it the perfect shower mate.

It’s meant to firm, tighten, and smooth out the skin with a bunch of fancy ingredients, but all I know is that it brightens and boosts my skin in a way that’s visible right after I use it. It makes my skin really soft too, it’s everything you need in a mask. As long as your skin isn’t breakout-prone, all that heavy clay isn’t necessary.

If you aren’t remembering to use your mask weekly, toss it in the shower and use it there. These mini-spa treatments are so key to the health of your skin especially if you aren’t getting regular facials, it makes such a difference.

My VISIA Skin Analysis

The most horrifing thing I’ve ever enjoyed is probably how I’d describe getting my skin analized by MyChelle’s super fancy VISIA machine at Whole Foods today so I can see what the damage is (literally) with my skin and how I can fix it. Revealed in just seconds was the present and future damage that their line is designed to treat in a natural, but high-tech way. My fantastic beauty advisor explained the results for each of the 8 skin measurements (wrinkles, dark spots, texture, etc.) and then developed a personalized plan for me to achieve better skin based on the mapping. Dark spots and fine lines are what I’ll be tackling before returning in 10ish weeks to re-scan and see the positive changes in my skin. I’m so excited!

Let’s look at this mess I created in my 20′s by: tanning, using tanning beds, not wearing sunscreen ever, buying too-harsh skincare that was basically a step down from acetone, occasionally smoking, and generally not caring about the 35-year old me who now has to figure this thing out.


A snippet of my results. I especially like the part where my hearty Italian nose is accentuated by the drawing around it. Quick, someone get me a frame, this sucker is going above the mantle.

Look, shopping for skincare is confusing- even for me. There’s just so much out there and everyone’s skin is unique, it’s why you’re combing through my blog right now trying to get some sort of help to become less confused about it all. This is so genus, not only do you get someone to answer your questions, but you’re dealing with facts. No guessing, no buying something because your friend likes it, just facts. Here’s your skin now, come on back and let’s see how it’s better. It’s that simple.

Click HERE to find a VISIA near you to experience their FREE (!) skin analysis and bring a friend along who can help you make fun of your results. It’s more fun that way.

Make Your Own Gradual Self Tanning Lotion

Gradual self tanning lotions like Jergens are my favorite kind. No streaks, seamless color, scent-free, and a rich natural looking tan especially if you get the darker formulas and use it daily for a week or so. Its subtlety is the key, too much color all at once is just a recipe for disaster. It’s not magic though, it’s all about ratio- less of the DHA (what turns you tan) and more moisture.

I like the natural self-tanning formula from Nature’s Gate, but I was getting harsh streaks from it just because I’m so damn pale. No problem, I started mixing it with a squeeze of regular body lotion (not a self tanner) and I create my very own custom gradual tanner. Essentially a watered-down version so it isn’t so intense and won’t streak as easily which is what a gradual lotion is all about. I’ve got a good ratio figured out of half lotion and half tanner so now I can just slap it on without worrying about blending or much else. It’s perfect.

If you have self-tanning lotions just hanging around unused because the color is too harsh, try out this easy DIY trick for a no-fail glow.

The Cheapest Face Brush Out There

When picking up a new hairbrush for my daughter recently, I noticed that the feel of the bristles reminded me of something familiar, my Shiseido face brush I used for years. I still recommend that $25 brush to those who want the Clarisonic experience but not the steep price, but this baby brush with the identical feel to Shiseido’s for just a few bucks is an even better value. Just get the softest one you can find and the smallest so it’s more face contour-friendly. THIS one shown below isn’t what I have, but I’m sure it would do the trick.


Shiseido’s face brush.


Use the brush, not the comb on your face $4.

What to Do With Makeup You Don’t Use

If you’re reading this, I’m sure you have more than one gift with purchase lipstick or moisturizer laying around totally unused. Or maybe a perfume you got for a gift that just doesn’t smell right and you don’t have the heart to throw it away. Resolve to gather together all of your unused cosmetics and find a local women’s shelter so you can make a really great donation. Many of the women there leave their homes suddenly without packing anything so they arrive with just the clothes on their backs. Toiletries and cosmetics are among the most requested items for the shelters and they tend to run low when the economy isn’t the greatest.

It’s a win/win; spring cleaning for you and helping women in need at the same time.