Avon Advance Techniques Professional Hair Color Review

I color my hair about 2-3 times a year, usually before an event or holiday or when I notice grays popping up. Now that I'm an Avon rep I thought I would try Avon's hair color. It is priced the same as many drug store brands (right now it is even on sale). My natural color is a sort of gross light brown and I've been coloring it a darker brown for years. It is always strange to me how the hair on my head is so incredibly different than the hair on the rest of my body. My head hair is a light color and thin while my eyebrows, leg hair, etc comes in super dark and thick. I have had a bunch of grays pop up around my roots and on the top of my head and I haven't colored it since last year's holidays so it was time.  

Before I made my purchase I watched this great video on the shopping page under the "beautiful brunettes" section. The stylist gave an excellent tip: pick a shade that is 1-2 shades lighter or darker than your natural color. Plus she did a demonstration so you would know what to expect when you did your own. (Of course she looks way more glamorous coloring her's than I do in my old tank top and no makeup.)   

I selected shade 4.3 Dark Golden Brown.

First I got out all of the materials I would need including an old towel and kitchen timer and read the directions. Next I used packet 1 (the Pre-Treatment) and spread it evenly throughout my hair avoiding the roots like the instructions said. I've never used a hair color that had a pre-treatment so I was surprised to see it in the box. It was easy to apply and smelled nice but a lot of hair fell out and was stuck to my hands and in the sink. 

Next I squeezed the Creme Colorant tube into the applicator bottle and shook it up.

Then it was time to apply the color. I would suggest having some wet wipes or baby wipes handy just in case you get the color on your skin. I find that if you scrub it off right away with a wipe it won't leave a stain. You can also rub petroleum jelly on your ears and forehead to avoid staining your skin. 

Once I was finished, I twisted my hair up and waited the 30 minutes suggested in the instructions. (I also scrubbed the spot on the floor where I accidentally dropped the color bottle. It might be a good idea to put an old towel on the floor just in case.)

I like to rinse off the gloves in the kit and save them for when it is time to wash out the hair color. That way your fingers and nails won't get stained. I rinsed out the color then covered my hair and scalp with the Post Treatment Conditioner. After I rinsed out the conditioner, I styled it as usual.

I really like how the color turned out! 
Good points: reasonable price, the smell wasn't too harsh or overwhelming, easy to use. 
Bad points: a lot of my hair fell out during the pre-treatment and conditioning steps.

Check out all of the Advanced Techniques shades at my Avon eStore, http://ericagerlemann.avonrepresentative.com/ -> shop now -> hair care -> hair color! There are a wide range of shades for beautiful brunettes, bold blacks, brilliant blondes, and ravishing reds!!!

Get The Look - Kaley Cuoco @ 2013 Emmy Awards

Romy Raves reported on the amazing (and totally on-trend) makeup look Jamie Greenberg created for Kaley to wear to the Emmys! Jamie used a mix of products including mark!

photo: eonline

FACE: Use Proactiv Face Primer as a base, then layered on Armani Luscious Silk Foundation, mark Super Conceal Concealer and mark Touch and Glow Shimmer Cubes. Contoured with mark’s Bronze Pro in Bronze and used mark’s Just Pinched Instant Blush Tint in Cheeky on the apples of the cheek. Set the look with mark’s Set Things Right Loose Powder.

EYES: Used mark’s On The Dot Bold Palette, layering on the grey shade on the inside of the eye, the brown shade in the middle of the eye, then added Chanel’s Variation No. 37 in the burgundy shade and blended. Used mark’s Keep It Going Longwear Eyeliner in Exposure on the lash line to define the eye. Finished with Ardell lashes on the corner of the eyes with a layer of mark’s Scandalash Mascara in Blacklash and a layer of YSL Mascara in #5 Burgundy.

LIPS: mark Lipclick in Sweetie Pie

Kaley completed her look with a beautiful wine colored Vera Vang gown (one of my fave looks of the night)!

photo: the fashion court

Want to try the mark makeup items JG used on KC (every girl needs Touch & Glow)? Shop my Avon eStore to order!

Star October 7, 2013 issue features Kaley Cuoco at the Emmy Awards in mark makeup!

Look info & pics: The Fashion Court, Romy Raves, & E!online.

Lucy Hale's mark Magalog 10 Favorites

mark Brand Ambassador Lucy Hale picked her fave new items from mark Magalog 10! Look for Lucy's initials next to her favorite mark products!!!

1. mark Get A Tint Tinted Moisturizer Lotion SPF 15
Seven shades; lightweight, oil free coverage.
2. mark Just Pinched Instant Blush Tint
Blendable, sheer color for cheeks or lips.
3. mark Touch & Glow Shimmer Cream Cubes All Over Face Palette
Nine shades blend together for a beautiful shimmer on cheeks or eyelids. 
4. mark Style Faux Sure Sweater Vest
Tan with golden metallic threads sweater vest with faux fur trim.
5. mark Exotic Edge Dress
LBD with silvery embellishments along the neckline. 

Want more Lucy? Check out this mark video where LH reveals her style secrets!

Get your hands on Lucy's faves at my Avon eStore, http://ericagerlemann.avonrepresentative.com/ -> shop now -> mark. in the top bar!

Pics & info from: meetmark.com Lucy Hale, meetmark.com Lucy Hale Faves, & Lucy Hale's Style Secrets: Style Faux Sure Vest! video.

Avon Clearskin® Pore Penetrating Black Mineral Mask Review

I saw this in the Avon brochure and had a few customers order it so I thought I would try it out myself. I also asked my sister to give it a try for a second opinion.  
What is my skin like? I am in my late 20s and I still get acne. I have a ton of blackheads on my nose and cheeks and my pores are clogged and huge. My skin gets oily as the day goes by. Where I've had an acne spot the skin usually gets really dry and peels as the zit heals. 
What is my normal skincare routine? I wash my face in the shower daily alternating mark That's Deep Purifying Gel Cleanser and mark Act Normal Daily Foaming Cleanser then moisturizing with mark Matte Chance Mattifying Lotion. I only wash once a day unless I wear makeup that day (about once a week) which of course I wash off before bed. 

This product says it "pulls like a magnet to draw out pore-clogging dirt & oil" which sounds exactly like what I need!

How does it work? We began with day old skin on a non-makeup day. The directions say to apply a thin layer to your face, wait 10-15 minutes for the mask to turn gray, then rinse it off with warm water. 

Just after we applied the mask!

I am glad to say this mask doesn't have a harsh smell. Right after we put it on I could feel a cooling sensation all over my face. Sarah didn't feel the cooling. She said she started to feel the tightening after a few minutes. I think I applied a thicker layer to my face then she did because it took me longer to feel the tightening effect and to turn gray. Be careful not to get it on the delicate area under the eye because I had a little there and the feeling was a little strange (it didn't hurt but it felt weird). 

Yes I am feeling less smiley after I saw that I had more big dots than Sarah!

This is us after about 15 minutes. If you make the photo bigger you can see our giant pores and spots especially on our noses. Sarah rinsed her mask off first and afterwards she said her face felt clean and smooth. I checked on her a little later to see if her skin had any kind of reaction but she said it felt fine and clean. After I rinsed my face it felt clean and smooth too. About 5-10 minutes later my skin felt warm and when I looked in the mirror I had redness on my cheeks and forehead. At first I thought I had rubbed my face too hard on the towel when I was drying off but the warmness and redness continued for about 30 minutes after I rinsed my face. As for our pores, we both thought that our noses looked like we had less blackheads. 

I was concerned that I might have an acne breakout after I used this product but now that it is 5 days later I haven't had any problems. I will share an update when I use it again to see if I have the same reaction. 

If you are interested in trying this Clearskin® product or the rest of the line visit my Avon eStore: http://ericagerlemann.avonrepresentative.com/ -> shop now -> skincare -> Clearskin. 

UPDATE 9/25: I've used this product 4 times now and I haven't noticed any significant change in the size of my pores. I do feel like my nose might have a few less blackheads. I haven't had an acne breakout due to this product, which is a good sign. Also times 2-4 did not give me the same redness/warmth reaction as the first time. I'm going to keep using it mostly because I bought it and have a whole tube and don't want to let it go to waste. Plus I still have my fingers crossed I will eventually see a change in pore size. I will let you know what happens!

UPDATE 10/17: So it's been about a month of twice a week use and I haven't noticed much of a change in pore size. I feel like maybe there are a few less blackheads on my cheeks but that is the only change I've noticed. 

UPDATE 1/9/14: I'm still using the mask twice a week. I have noticed some receding of blackheads on the apples of my cheeks. Blackheads used to cover the entire "apples" area but are now only noticeable closer to my nose. The blackheads on my nose, chin, and forehead have not changed. 

Get The Look - Wonder Glow Part Deux

If you liked this look from mark Magalog 9, you'll love this new version from mark Magalog 10!

FACE: Dust mark Wonder Glow Blush & Glow on the apples of the cheeks and temples. Dust mark Just Blushing Powder Blush in shade afterglow along the hollow of the cheeks to contour.

EYES: Sweep a mix of mark Mark. The Day 10 Year Anniversary Palette shades "a" and "r" over the lids. Run shade "m" along the lower lash line at the inner corners of the eyes. Run mark I-mark Wet/Dry Eye Shadow in shade nightly along the lower lash lines at the outer corners of the eyes, extending the lines slightly beyond the eyes. Brush two coats of mark Lash All You Want High Volume Mascara in shade black onto lashes.

LIPS: Apply mark Wonder Gloss Lip Shine shade nude shine.

Accent the look with mark Byzantine Goddess Earrings!!!

Shop my Avon eStore http://ericagerlemann.avonrepresentative.com/ to order all you see!

mark Magalog 10 Fall Collection Jewelry & Accessories

mark Magalog 10 released new Byzantine-esque jewelry. From mosaics to jeweled pieces mark has the accessories you need for Fall! Check back for updates! To see more style pics, beauty how-tos, and product pics visit my Pinterest board, Fall Collection from Avon's mark. Brand!

mark Mosaic Details Earrings featured in the October 18th issue of All You Magazine!

Redbook October 2013

mark Mosaic Detail Earrings were featured in the fashion under $50 section.

photo avoninsider Instagram

1. mark Mosaic Detail Earrings
• With lively colors, a pretty design and hints of sparkle, these studs aren't just any earrings; they're like little works of art!
• Pavé glass rhinestones in a goldtone setting 
2. mark Byzantine Goddess Earrings
• Inspired by the ornate, hot-for-fall motifs associated with the Byzantine Empire, these earrings' rich mix of gorgeous goldtone filigree and colored faux stones makes a statement for the ages.

1. mark Sleek & Chic Belts
• One, rose goldtone faux leather with goldtone buckle; one, black faux leather with rose goldtone mini spikes and buckle; one, wine-colored faux leather with rose goldtone studs and buckle
• Sizes: small/medium (41 1/2" L), large/x-large (43 1/2" L)
2. mark Taupe of the Line Bag
• In a super-versatile, seasonless taupe color with lots of room to stash daily essentials, this luxed-up satchel is the ultimate arm candy
• Genuine suede body with faux leather straps and silvertone studs and hardware

photo from eBay

1. mark Style Goddess Necklace
A major statement piece includes that wine color trend that's so popular this Fall!
• Goldtone with wine and russet-colored stones and clear rhinestones
• 20" L (plus 3 1/2" L extender)
2. mark Tempting Style Ring
• Faux stones and glass topaz-colored faux stones in a goldtone setting
• 1" H
• Sizes: 6 1/2, 7 1/2, 8 1/2
3. mark Style Goddess Bracelet
A perfect match for the Style Goddess Necklace! 
• Wine and russet-colored faux stones with faux topaz stones in a bronzetone setting
• Stretches to accommodate a range of wrist sizes

Shop Fall accessories at my Avon eStore: http://ericagerlemann.avonrepresentative.com/ -> shop now -> mark.

Get The Look - Connect The Dots

This colorful look is featured in mark Magalog 10! These makeup "dots" will be your new fave eye shadow! I love the shades available, the intense color, and its staying power!

EYES: Apply mark On The Dot Neutral Eye Color Compact in shades 2 and 6. Then apply mark On The Dot Bold Eye Color Compact in shade 8. Use mark No Place To Run Longwear Eyeliner in shade steely gaze and mark Scanda-lash Go-To Mascara in shade blackest black.  

LIPS: mark Lipclick Full Color Lipstick in shade bare hug.

NAILS: Paint nails with mark Nailed It Trend Mini Nail Lacquers using blue bella on the ring finger and rosetta on the rest.

Amp up this look with more "dots" with the mark Tempting Style Ring and mark Mosaic Detail Earrings in blue!!! 

Where can you get these products? At my Avon eStore -> click shop now -> click mark. in the top bar!

mark Magalog 10 Fall 2013 Collection Beauty

mark Magalog 10 released a new bath & body scent, hair care items, and makeup Check back for updates! To see more style pics, beauty how-tos, and product pics visit my Pinterest board, Fall Collection from Avon's mark. Brand!

1. mark Super Conceal Full Coverage Concealer
• A lightweight, non-greasy liquid concealer that provides buildable, medium-to-full coverage
• Blends seamlessly for a natural-looking finish
• Conceals imperfections
2. mark Great Finish Pressed Perfecting Powder
• A lightweight, mattifying pressed powder that absorbs oil and reduces shine
• Instantly gives a naturally flawless finish
• Available in seven shades
• Compact features a built-in mirror; powder puff included

photo: mark_girl Instagram

1. mark More Than Shine Hair Serum
• A weightless serum that leaves hair with a brilliant shine
• Dramatically improves the texture of hair
• Locks out humidity to help tame frizz and smooth flyaways
2. mark Prep For It Hair Primer
• A lightweight, creamy lotion that instantly smooths flyaways, detangles and helps protect hair from thermal styling
• Does not weigh hair down
• Use on wet or dry hair
3. mark Therapy Session Hair Repair Mask
• An intense moisture mask that conditions and hydrates
• Leaves split ends looking and feeling smooth
• Does not weigh hair down
• Leaves hair looking and feeling soft, silky and healthy

mark Snowdrop Flower
The essence of a winter wonderland, with shimmering florals, chilled fruits and warm, spicy amber all cozying up to each other.
1. Whipped Up Body Butter
• A super-rich, ultra-hydrating whipped body butter
2. Three's A Charm 3-in-1 Cleaners
• A foaming cleanser with 3 uses: body wash, bubble bath and shampoo
3. Get Misty Body Mist
• A skin-conditioning fragrance mist
4. Hand It Over Super Moisture Hand Cream
• Luxurious formula works to lock in moisture and keep hands soft and supple
5. Just Buffing Body Exfoliator
• Cleanses and gently polishes to reveal softer, smoother skin
• Contains natural exfoliants walnut and bamboo powder

Shop http://ericagerlemann.avonrepresentative.com/ -> shop now -> mark. to order!

Avon Skin So Soft Fresh & Smooth Moisturizing Facial Hair Removal Cream Review

I think this is a problem for all ladies, upper lip hair. Yuck! How do we get rid of it? Shaving, waxing, depilatories, etc. I just started with Avon and thought I would try their SSS depilatory that is made specially for facial hair. 

Confession time. My upper lip hair comes in fairly thick and dark and I usually shave it off about once a week. I know shaving bad, blah, blah but that's what I did. I tried to get a before picture but I couldn't get it close enough to see the hair without it being blurry. Sorry about that but you'll just have to trust me that the hair was there. 

Step 1: Gather up these supplies and read the directions! 

Step 2: Apply the cream. The tube has a lip gloss type top so you can easily squeeze it on. I used a thick layer since my hair had grown out for two weeks. 

Step 3: Wait the 2.5 minutes the label suggests. Be careful about the time (more on that later).
Oh and it helps to have a cute little helper to pass the time!

Step 4: Wipe it off with a wash cloth and warm water. 

Step 5: I applied a thick layer of a nice soothing lotion with aloe. A bit of concealer to hide my acne and some pretty, pretty pink lip gloss and you are good to go!

My review:
When I squeezed it out I was worried that the smell was going to be bad. There is a little bit of smell that I probably wouldn't notice if the product wasn't right under my nose. It doesn't smell as strong as other depilatories I've tried on my legs. The first time I used this product, I left it on a little longer than suggested and it made the area by the corners of my mouth dry. I didn't notice any major growth until about a week and a  half after use. The second time I used it my skin started to burn a little. I recommend trying not to get it on your actual lips. Definitely keep track of the time you have it on and wipe it off if it starts to burn. Overall this is a good product. It takes off the hair like it's supposed to with only minimal side effects.

Get a tube to try for yourself at my Avon eStore: http://ericagerlemann.avonrepresentative.com/ -> shop now -> Skin So Soft -> depilatories. 

mark Magalog 10 Fall 2013 Collection Fashion

mark Magalog 10 is full of beautiful fashion that will help your wardrobe make an easy transition from Summer to Fall! To see more style pics, beauty how-tos, and product pics visit my Pinterest board, Fall Collection from Avon's mark. Brand!

Photo: meetmark.com Sugarlaws

Photo: mark_girl Instagram

Life & Style Weekly featured mark Studly Style Boots!

1. mark Studly Style Bootie
• The wine color is not only super on-trend, it also pairs amazingly with fall darks like black, gray and navy
• Silvertone interior side zippers
• Genuine suede upper with silvertone stud embellishments and suede-covered heel
• 2 1/2" heel
• Available in sizes: 6-10
2. mark Wild Streak Pumps
• Super-hot corset-style embellishment laces up the back for a sassy, sexy surprise 
• Genuine calf hair upper, faux patent leather heel and platform, goldtone corset embellishments with black laces
• 1/2" platform, 4 1/2" heel
• Available in sizes: 6-10 (half sizes order up)

1. mark Exotic Edge Dress
This new LBD is on my wish list!!! It has a gorgeous shape and I love the front details!
• Cool shiny black and brushed silvertone embellishments dance along the neckline of this wear-everywhere LBD
• Exposed brushed silvertone back zipper
• Available in sizes: S-XXL
2. mark A Bit Lacy Tights
I never have anywhere to wear tights and it is still too hot where I live to even think about them. Lol The lace back ones look adorable though. ;)
• Fall's lacy legwear has a hole lot to offer– feminine flair, unmistakable allure and a fun alternative to everyday black opaque
• Set of two pairs: one, an openwork pattern with textured dots; the other, reversible– opaque with textured pinstripes and a lace panel that can be worn so it runs up the backs of the legs or the fronts 
• Sizes: S/M & L/XL
3. mark Style Faux Sure Sweater Vest
I had a customer order this vest and I snapped a few pics before handing it over to her. The vest is fairly lightweight and the fur is securely attached (no fall out in the bag or when I took pics). The sweater part has gold metallic threads and there a few hook n eyes to close it. 
• Get the look of the fall runways' most luxe trend with our (proudly!) faux fur vest, backed up with a cozy gold-laced sweater
• Sizes: small (sizes 2-4), medium (sizes 6-8), large (sizes 10-12), x-large (sizes 14-16), xx-large (size 18)

Shop Fall fashion at my Avon eStore: http://ericagerlemann.avonrepresentative.com/ -> shop now -> mark. -> fashion.