Ask Lisa: A Passion for Products

I have a passion, some might say obsession, for trying out new beauty products.

This is partly because I’m always looking for the latest and greatest product and partly because it’s just plain fun! I can spend hours shopping in Ulta and Sephora checking out the latest trends, and as if that’s not enough, I LOVE watching the home shopping channels, QVC and HSN. That’s where you get the real deals and sometimes they offer products that haven’t yet come out in the store.

That’s how I came across my newest find: Tarte 100% Pure Cold Pressed Maracuja Oil ($46 for 1.7 oz.). This stuff is amazing! Tarte says it’s derived from the Amazonian passion flower in Brazil; this oil instantly absorbs into your skin delivering essential fatty acids and Vitamin C to hydrate.

Now, I have very oily skin and just the thought of putting oil on my face fills me with terror. However, after watching the presentation and reading all the positive reviews (4.5 out of 5 stars!) I decided to try it. I’m so glad I did! My skin is softer, brighter and better toned, and my pores and fine lines are reduced.  I have not experienced any breakouts; in fact, my skin has cleared up and is less oily.

Maracuja Oil can also be used on hands, feet, nails and even your hair. It absorbs instantly and does not leave you with a greasy feel. Simply said, I love it and this will definitely be one product I will not want to run out of. Tip for Brides: Buy it for yourself and give as a bridesmaid gift! They’ll thank you for it. On second thought, better get one for your mom and your future mother-in-law too!

Pump up the volume! I’m always looking for a way to help my fine hair have more volume without drying it out and having the dreaded “helmet head.” I’ve been using Big Sexy Hair’s Powder Play and I’ve liked it. But while buying a new bottle the other day, my wandering eye happened upon another of BSH’s volumizing products, What a Tease, Backcomb in a Bottle ($20 at Ulta). I took a chance and bought it. My daring paid off — Backcomb in a Bottle is great! It’s designed to add maximum volume from roots to ends while maintaining moisture and not adding weight. It gives lots of volume and height to hair and really helps hold your style.

Here’s how I use it: After blow drying hair, I lift the areas where I want more volume and spray a couple of short blasts — not a long continuous spray. (Watch the nozzle, it has a tendency to clog, and DO NOT shake the bottle before spraying.) Continue to hold the hair for a minute in an upright position. After spraying, I lightly backcomb that section and then smooth. I use three sprays, one on each side of my head and one at the crown. I get lots of volume with a lot less backcombing, and I think my hair is looking healthier for it. Tip: Using the correct comb for backcombing makes all the difference and will give you the best results. I use a Flipside Comb with metal teeth ($2.49 at Ulta).

By day Lisa Kime is the Yakima Herald-Republic’s advertising manager, but she does more than dabble in makeup — she loves the stuff. During her off hours, you’ll find her boating with her husband, Randy, or milling the aisles at Ulta.

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