Bob and I thrive on routine. We ALWAYS go to the grocery store first-thing Friday morning, eat pizza at least once a week, and prefer red wine with cheese, peanut butter, make that just about anything.
But sometimes a change can do you good, especially when it comes to beauty. One of the simplest and most budget-friendly ways to perk up your look is to try a different lip color. Want to break out of your rut this summer? Here are 8 of-the-moment finds you and your lips will adore.
This lively, pink-based orange has a tropical vibe that's sure to lift your spirits as well as your smile. Ideal for sexy summer evenings, it's an affordable, fun way to wake up your look. Part of Avon's Totally Kissable line, the creamy formula includes fruit enzymes and natural oils that condition lips and help them look fuller. It feels so light and comfortable you almost forget it's there but the color lasts for several hours. ($8 from Avon representatives or Avon.com)
To create this bright, berry pink, the folks at Mary Kay swirled together 2 of their gorgeous creme lipstick shades: Compassion and Inspiration. The resulting One Woman Can is a rich, matte late summer and fall staple ideal for anyone who craves color. This lightweight, moisturizing lipee goes on easy and has superb staying power. It also includes nourishing Vitamin E and a Vitamin C derivative to protect against wrinkle-causing free radicals. (Yes!) As if that wasn't enough, a portion of the proceeds from this special edition goes to help end domestic violence. ($15 while supplies last from Mary Kay consultants; visit MaryKay.com to locate one in your area)
Another Boomer-rific lip saver that offers a BIG color payoff, delicious orange Mischievous is one of the standout shades of the season. Right on trend, this bold, matte hue provides a sassy pop of color sure to be noticed. It comes in Merle Norman's Age Defying+ Lipcolor formula which uses Volulip, Argan Oil and Wild Mango Butter to moisturize lips while helping reduce the appearance of fine lines. Although I sometimes shy away from darker lipsticks, this limited-edition head-turner has become my date-night hero because it works like a champ and doesn't overpower me! ($15 at Merle Norman Studios; visit MerleNorman.com for locations)
This beautiful, sheer hot pink is one of the new, jaw-dropping hues in Pür's popular Lip Gloss Stick family. Richly pigmented, this buttery smooth gloss combines an enchanting tint with good-for-you conditioners and Vitamin E (no parabens or gluten) that soften your smile as they color. And you simply twist the bottom of the pencil-shaped tube to expose more gloss -- no sharpening needed. ($15 exclusively at ULTA stores, professional spas and physician offices, and Purminerals.com)
This versatile, brown-toned baby pink plays up your pout's natural color, adding irresistible shimmer. Moisture-packed, it hydrates lips with Aloe and Vitamin E so they appear plumper. It also includes just enough Peppermint to deliver a short-lived tingle that enhances the effect, taking plumping into what they call "level 2" territory. Now, we're talkin'! ($18 at Sab.us.com)
With 6 stunning shades, Smashbox's first-ever lip tint makes it difficult to pick a favorite. But soft, coral Mimosa is a natural go-to for summer. This lightweight, matte color lets you try orange without going overboard. Since it's made with 40% water, it nourishes lips and keeps them smooth. What's more, the tantalizing tint lasts up to 8 hours so it's wonderful for anyone who doesn't have the time or inclination to fool with lots of touchups. ($20 at Smashbox.com, Sephora, Sephora Inside JC Penney, ULTA, Nordstrom, Beauty.com and select Macy's)
Part of Laura Mercier's lust-worthy, limited-edition Summer Nudes collection, this chic, sheer neutral makes your pout look natural only better. The hint of pink has a lovely shine that's perfect for long, summer days. The timeless shade glides on and stays put without feathering, bleeding or drying. Plus, it helps lips look fuller and there's a coordinating Bare Angel nail lacquer. No wonder I'm wild about this lip-nourishing choice! ($24 at Laura Mercier retailers and LauraMercier.com)
Lighter than it looks in the tube, this new, easy-does-it deep pink gives your pucker a splash of subtle, high-sparkle color that simply cries summer. It goes on smooth - not sticky - and delivers 6 hours of hydration to keep lips comfortable. Great when you're on-the-go (like always), the tube opens with the click of a button and the applicator doubles as a lip liner and shaper. Now, that's clever! ($27 at Lancôme counters nationwide and lancôme-usa.com)
We'd like to shout out a big "Thank You" to the brands in this post
for providing free samples for review and testing.
Prepare your own Mexican quick fix with this Chipotle-inspired bowl. Carbs are moderated by filling the bowl with beans, extra veggies and chicken. No need for rice, since the beans count as carbs.
Tips:
If you love tomatoes, increase the quantity to 1/2 cup, but note that the carbohydrates will also increase.
If preparing this recipe for one person, cut all of the ingredients in half. Or simply prepare the full recipe up to the end of step 2 and store leftover chicken and vegetable-bean mixture in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave on High for 1 to 2 minutes, or until heated through, and continue with step 3.
Health Bite: The iron, calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper and zinc in black beans help to keep bones strong and healthy.
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