Ooh Max Factor!

I just discovered Max Factor makeup, specifically their amazing concealer, Erace. 

(That is not a spelling error. That's how the company spells the product's name.)

I'm using the shade "medium."

It matches my skin perfectly. It covers and conceals beautifully. Did I mention it only costs $5?

Here's the problem. It's hard to find. I went to Walgreens and Rite-Aid before I finally found a small grouping of MF products at Duane Reade. I was excited DR had the products, but I really try and avoid DR whenever possible. I didn't make it to CVS/Pharmacy so I don't know about availability there. But when I checked the CVS.com and searched Max Factor, nothing popped up.

It is also available at drugstore.com and beautyboutique for $3.99.

"Yes I'm black, but I do [the hair] of all women"

It's Fashion Week in New York City, which means a lot of traffic near Bryant Park, and hordes of reporters and photographers trying to snap pictures of celebrities.

Sometimes it's easy to lose sight of some of the bigger picture issues during FW.

But today, when I had the opportunity to interview hair guru Ted Gibson, I decided to start with the tough questions.

I asked Mr. Gibson what challenges he's faced as an African-American in this field. It's fair to say that race is a hot button issue these days even if folks won't admit it.

What do race and style have to do with each other?

Apparently a lot.

Gibson said he often has to remind clients he is not a hairdresser who only does African-American hair. 

In other words, African-Americans can be comfortable with Asian hair and vice-versa. And look around, with the growth of biracial children, more hairdressers will need to work with varying textures of hair.

"I believe in textures of hair and not skin color. Yes, I'm black, but I do [the hair] of all women."

Look around, in other words, you can be dark with straight hair and fair with kinky hair.

 Take actress Debra Messing. Her hair is kinky curly. But she's clearly caucasian.

Gibson says you have to think outside of the box, but too many people want to keep it safe.

Ultimately Gibson says his obstacles will make it easier for the next African-American kid to succeed in this field.

Therapy Systems

I've been meaning to write about Therapy Systems, a skin care line that has greatly improved my skin tone.

You are looking at a picture of their Alpha Beta Treatment cleanser. A friend recommended I try out TS after hearing me complain about various skin concerns. 

I've had some trouble with pimples and skin discoloration. Unfortunately I tend to exacerbate blemishes because I can't keep my hands from my face. I'm a picker. 

But I've found that my reducing zits I am less likely to touch my face. 

This cleanser has helped reduce the incidence of blemishes, specifically in trouble areas, like my chin and the sides of my face. I tend to have repeat breakouts, which are so annoying.

If you are interested in trying TS products, visit the company website. You can order junior sizes of almost every product. Great concept. Like the 'trial aisle' in your local drugstore or superstore. Seriously, why don't more companies do this?

Let me know if there is a product that has helped your skin recover from a rough patch. 

A Letter to My Readers

To my loyal readers,

I'm sorry I've been slow to post the past few weeks. I started a new job at Columbia University and have been swamped. However, I am still passionate about all things beauty -- and I am not ditching the blog. Please don't believe what you read on Page Six. Please look for new blog posts in the coming weeks. Enjoy September!

xoxo BeautyBabe