Angelina vs. JLO….the battle of the leg slit

Okay, JLO….quit trying to re-do what Angelina did…

Angelina started a worldwide trend with the “leg through the slit” last year. JLO is just one in many celebrities copying Angelina.

What do you think? Who did it better?

Beauty Review: Christopher Drummond Beauty Duo Phase Concealer – Beauty By Britanie

The best concealer on the market? You decide!

Here is an unbiased review of our Duo Phase Concealer.
This is our top selling product, and have been told time and time again that it is “the best concaler on the market”!

Read Britanie’s review and see for yourself.

Beauty Review: Christopher Drummond Beauty Duo Phase Concealer – Beauty By Britanie.

Tagged best concealer |

How to Keep Mascara from Smudging

How to apply mascara so it lasts all day

Q: I would like assistance on how to better use the mascara and eye liner that I purchased. Both products smudge and depending on the day I apply them, they can smudge within an hour or few hours after application. How do I keep my mascara and eye liner from smudging?

Many Blessings,
Anne

A: Hi Anne, thanks for the inquiry.
Some people have a tendency to have oilier lashes and eye area than others. This will make some mascara, eye shadow and eye liner smudge quickly.
My professional recommendaion is to use our Finale Finishing Powder before and after applying the products. Powder sets any liquid, so it will help all products to stay on better and longer, without using a waterproof product. Just lightly dust the translucent on lashes with a q-tip prior to applying mascara, then inbetween the second and third application.

Christopher Drummond beauty mascara is made with as little binders, fillers and toxins as possible, so it is very gentle on the lashes and is not a traditional mascara. It does add length and thickness, but without damaging the lashes.
By adding our Finishing powder prior to application, this sets the liquid faster and better.

The same applies to eyeliner. To help keep it on without melting or smudging, follow it up with the same color of powdered eye shadow. Remember, powders set creams/liquids!

http://www.christopherdrummond.com

SAG Awards 2013: Makeup and Hair Best/Worst

Christopher Drummond and Colin Lively (makeup artist/hair stylist) have a fun “discussion” about the 2013 SAG awards red carpet: hair and makeup best and worst. They discuss makeup and hair of such celebrities such as Halle Berry, Jessica Chastain, Jaime Alexander, Kerry Washington, Julianne Moore, Tina Fey, and Jennifer Laurence to name a few. Funny comments, tips and tricks on hair, and great commentary!!!

SAG Awards 2013 Best:

Perfection: Kerry Washington

Natural, modern, young glamour: Jessica Chastain

Perfection: Jennifer Garner can “do no wrong”

Avante Garde and beautiful: January Jones

THE WORST:

Colin Says: “The poster child for why not to get a Keratin Treatment–what has happened to her???”

Jaime Alexnder: Vaseline in her hair????

Just horrible!!!

Tagged celebrity red carpet looks |

How pig parts make the world turn

This is a must-see video for everyone, not just those of us committed to using cruelty free cosmetics. Christien Meindertsma discusses her book ‘PIG 05049′. In it, she uncovers how modern companies utilize every inch of a pig from the ears to the tail and everything inbetween….Don’t worry, there are no grotesque pictures, quite the opposite.

This is thought-provoking stuff even for those who aren’t using cruelty free cosmetics.

Everything they make out of a pig

Christien Meindertsma: How pig parts make the world turn | Video on TED.com.

www.christopherdrummond.com
Christopher Drummond Beauty is a line of natural, organic and cruelty free cosmetics dedicated to making your world a more beautiful place.

Apple Stem Cells Offer Hope for Aging and Damaged Skin – Life Extension

Apple Stem Cells Offer Hope for Aging and Damaged Skin – Life Extension.

Apple Stem Cells Offer Hope For Aging and Damaged Skin

By Gary Goldfaden, MD

As we age, the reduced turnover of our cells means we can lose control over how our skin ages. Epidermal stem cells needed to create healthy new skin are significantly reduced and function less efficiently. A discovery based on promising plant stem cell research may allow you to regain control.

Scientists have found that a novel extract derived from the stem cells of a rare apple tree cultivated for its extraordinary longevity shows tremendous ability to rejuvenate aging skin. By stimulating aging skin stem cells, this plant extract has been shown to lessen the appearance of unsightly wrinkles. Clinical trials show that this unique formulation increases the longevity of skin cells, resulting in skin that has a more youthful and radiant appearance.

Stem Cells

Cells in our bodies are programmed for specific functions. A skin cell, a brain cell, and a liver cell all contain the same DNA, or set of genes. However, each cell’s fate is determined by a set of epigenetic (able to change gene expression patterns) signals that come from inside it and from the surrounding cells as well. These signals are like command tags attached to the DNA that switch certain genes on or off.

This selective coding creates all of the different kinds of cells in our bodies, which are collectively known as differentiated (specialized) cells.

Although differentiated cells vary widely in purpose and appearance, they all have one thing in common: they all come with a built-in operational limit. After so many divisions, they lose their ability to divide and must be replaced. This is where stem cells come in.

Your body also produces other cells that contain no specific programming. These stem cells are “blank,” so your body can essentially “format” them any way it pleases. Two universal aspects shared by this type of cell are: (1) the ability to replenish itself through a process of self-renewal and (2) the capacity to produce a differentiated cell.

In animals and humans, two basic kinds of stem cells exist: embryonic and adult stem cells. Embryonic stem cells have the power to change into any differentiated cell type found anywhere in your body. Adult stem cells, on the other hand, are generally more limited. They can only evolve into the specific type of cell found in the tissue where they are located. The primary function of these adult stem cells is maintenance and repair.

But certain adult stem cells found in nature retain the unlimited developmental potential that embryonic stem cells possess. These cells have become the main focus for an exciting new wave ofregenerative medicine (repairing damaged or diseased tissues and organs using advanced techniques like stem cell therapy and tissue engineering).

The Role of Stem Cells in the Skin

The basal (innermost) layer of the skin’s epidermis comprises two basic types of cells: (1) the slowly dividing epidermal stem cells (that represent about 2-7% of the basal cell population) and (2) their rapidly dividing offspring that supply new cells to replace those that are lost or dying.1-3

The slow self-renewal process of epidermal stem cells, however, creates a problem. Because each epidermal stem cell only lasts for a certain number of divisions, and because each division runs the risk of lethal DNA mutation, the epidermal stem cell population can become depleted. When this happens, lost or dying skin cells begin to outnumber their replacements and the skin’s health and appearance start to decline.

So what can be done? Scientists turned to plants for the answer.

Planting a Seed of Hope

Plants also have stem cells. Like humans, plant stem cells depend on epigenetic control and signals from surrounding cells for their development. Unlike humans, however, each plant-derived adult stem cell possesses the ability to generate a whole new plant.4 Scientists have found a way to harness the power of plant stem cells by growing plant tissues in culture.

The technique is a relatively simple one. First, viable tissue is obtained from a source plant. This material is called an explant. Next, a small cut is made in the explant. New cells form on the surface of this cut in an attempt to heal the wound. This colorless mass of cells is called a callus. The slowly dividing cells of a callus are undifferentiated cells that lack the characteristics of normal plant cells. They are essentially unprogrammed and full of potential.

With this technology, it is theoretically possible to propagate any plant cell in a liquid culture, opening up a whole new realm of possibilities. This fact started scientists thinking—what would happen if an extract of genetically long-lived plant stem cell tissue was applied to human skin?

Comparing Apples to Apples

Today, apples are cultivated primarily to enhance their appearance and flavor. But before the rise of refrigeration, an apple’s ability to stay fresh for a long time was its most sought-after characteristic.

For this reason, a special variety of apple was cultivated in the middle of the 18th century that could be stored for a greatly extended period of time. In essence, it was the genetically modified, longer-living stem cells of this tannin-rich variety of apple, called the Uttwiler Spätlauber apple, which were responsible for its unique storage longevity.

In a certain isolated area of rural Switzerland, a few of these hardy apple trees still survive today. Scientists obtained an explant from the leaf of one of these trees to produce a special anti-aging stem cell extract.

The Amazing Results

In order to test the theory that this unique plant extract would produce anti-aging effects, scientists at Mibelle Biochemistry first obtained human stem cells from the blood of an umbilical cord. Their first in-house study on cell viability showed that, at a concentration of only 0.1%, an extract of Uttwiler Spätlauber stem cells stimulated the proliferation of human stem cells by an astounding 80%! 5

In a second experiment, these scientists irradiated the umbilical cord blood stem cells with UV light. Nearly 50% of the stem cells cultured in growth medium alone died, but the cells grown in the culture containing the special apple extract showed only a small decrease in the number of living cells.5

Another in vitro experiment conducted by the scientists involved fibroblast cells. These are the most common of all cells in the connective tissue of the skin. They manufacture the collagen, glycosaminoglycans, reticular and elastic fibers, and glycoproteins that make up the extracellular matrix (connective tissues providing support to cells). Fibroblasts not only help provide a structural framework for the skin, they also play a critical role in wound healing.

In their experiment, the scientists treated fibroblast cells with hydrogen peroxide for two hours until the cells began to show classic signs of aging. In scientific terms, this means that several genes essential for cell proliferation and growth were significantly down-regulated. However, after incubating these cells for 144 hours in a 2% Uttwiler Spätlauber extract, this down-regulation of genes was effectively neutralized, and in some cases, it was actually reversed! In addition, the scientists noted that the expression of an important antioxidant enzyme called heme oxigenase 1 was also stimulated.5

Finally, the scientists conducted a human study to determine the anti-wrinkle effectiveness of a special cream containing a 2% Uttwiler Spätlauber extract along with lecithin liposomes. This patent-pending cream (called PhytoCellTec™ Malus Domestica) was applied twice daily to the crow’s feet area of 20 participants. Wrinkle depth was reduced by an average of 8% after just two weeks, and by 15% after four weeks—thus reducing the signs of aging!5

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: APPLE STEM CELLS OFFER HOPE FOR AGING AND DAMAGED SKIN

Scientists are conducting intensive research on stem cells, which show tremendous potential to repair damaged tissues and organs.
Stem cells are capable of self-renewal and can transform themselves into differentiated cells.
Epidermal stem cells are crucial to replenish the skin cells that are lost due to continual shedding. When epidermal stem cells are depleted, the number of lost or dying skin cells outpaces the production of new cells, threatening the skin’s health and appearance.
Like humans, plants also have stem cells. Scientists are keenly interested in a stem cell extract from the Uttwiler Spätlauber apple tree, whose fruit demonstrates an exceptionally long shelf-life.
This extract, termed PhytoCellTec™ Malus Domestica, has been shown to stimulate human stem cell proliferation, protect stem cells against ultraviolet light-induced death, and mitigate aging-related alterations in gene expression.
A human study showed that topical application of PhytoCellTec™ Malus Domestica reduced the depth of crow’s feet wrinkles after only two weeks.
Chondrus crispus (red seaweed) extract, hyaluronic acid, and an antioxidant tea blend complement the effects of PhytoCellTec™ Malus Domestica to help promote radiant, youthful skin.

Revitalize Your Skin

A potent concentration of this PhytoCellTec™ Malus Domestica is now available to help preserve and protect your vital skin stem cells. This special apple extract complements other ingredients provided in a new topical formula.

One is a special extract of Chondrus crispus, a red seaweed found only in the cold waters off the Atlantic coast. With its abundance of mineral salts, trace elements, proteins, and vitamins, this extract is an excellent emollient with soothing, anti-inflammatory properties.6Other anti-aging ingredients are hyaluronic acid (noted for its outstanding moisturizing ability)7 and a concentrated antioxidant tea blend, which helps fight the free radicals that contribute to skin aging.8,9

Combined, these ingredients comprise an innovative topical formulation that protects and preserves the youthful look and vitality of your skin in ways never before possible. Just a tiny bit applied to your face, neck, and décolleté area twice daily can help revitalize the tone, texture, and appearance of aging skin.

Gary Goldfaden, MD, a clinical dermatologist and lifetime member of the American Academy of Dermatology, is founder of Academy Dermatology in Hollywood, FL, and COSMESIS Skin Care. He is also a member of the Life Extension Scientific Advisory Board.

Golden Globes: 2013 Makeup Trends

Golden Globe Awards 2013: makeup trends of the Red Carpet
by Christopher Drummond

There were a lot of hits and a few misses at the Golden Globe Awards on the Red Carpet last night. The big trends continue to be a classic smokey eye (As worn by Halle Berry and Claire Daines), a bold lip (Jessica Alba and Salma Hayek takes the cake with their HOT orange lips), and truly natural looking makeup that actually let the gowns take center stage (Personally, I love a “bare” face with a gorgeous gown…it really shows the clothes and not the face!!)

Here are my hits and misses on the Red Carpet.

NATURALLY GLOWING MAKEUP AND SKIN: BIG TREND!!

At first, I wasn’t crazy about Jennifer Garner’s “no color” makeup, but when you look at her GORGEOUS crimson gown by Vivienne Westwood, you get it. the color is all in the gown, not in the face. Brilliant!

Halle chose a smokey eye and “barely there” lips and very little color on her face. Good choice, since she had a “busy” dress on. Flawless as usual!

Rosario Dawson’s soft makeup really let her natural beauty and flawless skin shine through.

Heidi Klum also chose a washed out lip, “no color” blush and focused on her radiant skin. Great choice!

Sienna’s makeup is literally “barely there”, yet she looks radiant and very fresh faced! Bravo!

Lucy Liu kept the makeup feminine yet soft and natural. Thank Goodness, she had on a very, shall we say, “opulent” dress. Great hair and makeup, though

ALL ABOUT THE EYES

Jennifer Lopez looking gorgeous as usual with her trademark glowing skin and smokey eyes. Gorgeous…..

Beau nelson focused on a beautiful blue shade for Nicole Richie. It made her look trendy yet feminine. LOVE!

Kerry Washington was my favorite look of the night. She looked so chic, feminine and modern, yet the makeup was very wearable. Loved the pop of color on her eyes. PERFECTION

LIP TREND: COLORFUL AND SEXY

Salma Hayek looked totally ravishing. And I loved the modern twist of a brighter lip color. Very sexy and modern.

BEST PLEASANT SURPRISE: TAYLOR SWIFT

I loved how Taylor Swift stayed away from the “RED” that she always seems to wear. The minimal look is beautiful on her….they focused on luscious lashes and a stunning hair style…

WORST: WHAT WERE THEY THINKING?

There is absolutely no excuse for this. While they were trying to make Rachel Zoe look like she has very little makeup on, she looks totally the opposite: caked on, thick, and, well, just plain BAD. her makeup artist should be fired. Seriously.

Tagged Celebrity Makeup, jennifer lopez makeup, red carpet makeup |

Moves made to ban animal testing in cosmetics welcomed

From Cosmetics Design Europe

Brands like Christopher Drummond Beauty are dedicated to being 100% cruelty free, and even Vegan.

The recent announcements made in India and Israel with regards to banning animal testing for cosmetics products has been welcomed by animal rights group BUAV and its affiliates. This is one step closer to having cosmetics that are cruelty free and also free of any animal ingredients.
Christopher Drummond Beauty proudly is a part of the cruelty free movement, by providing makeup that is free of animal testing, and animal ingredients

http://www.cosmeticsdesign-europe.com/Regulation-Safety/Moves-made-to-ban-animal-testing-in-cosmetics-welcomed

Natural Skincare Recommendation: Andalou Naturals

Great Natural Skincare: Andalou Naturals

I constantly get asked what skincare I recommend to go under Christopher Drummond Beauty. On of my favorite natural lines is Andalou Naturals. They have just announced that they are the first complete personal care brand to be certified non GMO!

Andalou Naturals has pioneered innovative fruit stem cell ingredients and high quality, natural products with meaningful standards and leadership values, by successfully partnering with leading natural and organic retailers.

Tagged natural skincare, non-GMO skincare, plant cell skincare |

Spring 2013 Makeup Trends From Christopher Drummond

Eyes were the focus at shows across all four cities, with Donna Karan, Derek Lam and Altuzarra in New York, Clements Ribeiro and Christopher Kane in London, Gucci and Versace in Milan and Chanel and Dior in Paris all choosing to draw attention to coloured shadows and liner, jewelled lids and extra-long, flirty lashes.

Meanwhile, matte lips at the likes of Giles, Rochas and Burberry Prorsum pepped up pared-back beauty looks, whilst Marc Jacobs and Moschino’s Sixties focus held its own against the Nineties grunge liner at of Lanvin, 3.1 Phillip Lim, and Miele.

Here are my favorite looks from the runways for Spring/Summer 2013 makeup.
I will have tutorials, tips and more coming soon at www.christopherdrummond.com

Christohper

Cherry Red Lips by Miele

Chloe Bronze-hued Cat Eye

Kenzo Colorful Eye Liner

Nanette Lepore Soft Feminine Colors

Derek Lam-Flirty Pink Lips and Muted Colored Shadow

John Galliano-Heavy Under Eye Liner

Moschino-Bright Lips, Flirty Lashes

Dior-colorful, Jeweled lids

Get the look: With our all natural, organic and cruelty free makeup, Christopher Drummond Beauty, you can get all of these great spring 2013 makeup looks!
just go to our website at www.christopherdrummond.com to see all of the makeup
so you can be the trendsetter for Spring/Summer 2013!

Tagged spring 2013 makeup |

Tips and Tricks