by Kiki Bella
I'm a fan of the eco-friendly green movement we've seen lately in beauty care, and have found yet another awesome company to let you all know about. It's called Seed, and they recently sent me three new complimentary products to try out: (seed) Nourishing Body Lotion in Invigorating Citrus Blend scent; (seed) Conditioning Hair Shampoo Bar, Unscented; and (seed) Moisturizing Body Soap in Invigorating Citrus Thyme.

Here's me wearing two coats of polish on an overcast day, photographed outdoors without the flash.

Chanel's new spring nail colors—specifically Chanel Particuliere Le Vernis Nail Colour—has everyone scrambling to find the perfect mushroom, taupe or putty nail polish for less, which led me to test out Complete Salon Manicure Nail Polish in Commander in Chic by Sally Hansen ($7.99 at Ulta.com). I purchased mine for $6.99 at Target.

I definitely agree with readers who tried this polish before me—the brush is fantastic because it's a little wider and flatter than most brushes, allowing for smooth, even and easy application. But the color is rather sheer, so three coats are required for full coverage. I get really impatient with nail polish, so I just applied 2 coats (3 on my thumbs, haha).

The subtle, sophisticated color is flattering and looks best on shorter nails. It looks different in different lighting situations, of course, but overall it has that slightly purplish-grey-taupe look I was going for. I would like to try something that's a little less glossy, and a little more creamy, though shine is good for hiding imperfections. I feel like I have to be super careful when applying matte colors as these tend to show every flaw.

Here are some more Chanel-inspired colors to choose from, recommended by your fellow readers!

Perfect Putty Polish Colors for Spring 2010

• 
  OPI Fiji Weejee Fawn
  


• 
  Rimmel London Lasting Finish Pro Nail Enamel in Steel Grey
  


• 
  OPI The Classics You Don't Know Jacques!
  


• 
  SEPHORA by OPI Matte Nail Colour Matte Metro Chic
  


• 
  essie Chinchilly
  


• 
  SEPHORA by OPI Nail Colour Under My Trench Coat
  


• 
  Opi Brights Over the Taupe
  


• 
  butter LONDON Fash Pack (saw this in the ASOS e-newsletter)
  

Photographed with camera flash OFF, indoors

Photographed with camera flash ON

Chanel has three new coveted nail colors out for spring 2010, including Chanel Particuliere Le Vernis Nail Colour, a color that can be described at "mushroom," "taupe" or "putty." This affordable luxury (oxymoron intended) can be yours for $23 a bottle at uma.chanel.com.




If you want to try this color for less, People StyleWatch offers a great dupe in the February 2010 issue: It's the Complete Salon Manicure Nail Polish in Commander in Chic by Sally Hansen, $7.99 at Ulta.com (or look for it in drugstores). Maybe I'm just smitten by this color because Chanel says it's chic, but I definitely can't wait to get my hands on a creamy putty polish for Spring! If anyone has any suggestions for a similar color, I'm all ears.

A couple days ago I found myself watching AccentHealth Waiting Room TV at my doctor's office (just in for a routine check-up), and they did an interesting segment on finding relief for dry winter skin, so I took some notes to share with all of you. Might as well make the most out of a boring situation, right?

First, the common causes of dry skin:

• Exposure to hot or cold dry air
  


• Heating and/or air conditioning
  


• Long, hot showers
  


• Improper use of moisturizers
  

Simple tips for dry skin relief:

• Apply moisturizer to damp skin, right after you shower.
  


• Avoid antibacterial or deodorant soap
  


• Drinking water, while vital for good health, does not relieve dry skin.
  


• Use a mild cleanser applied gently with the pads of your fingers. Splash skin to rinse and pat dry. I use Neutrogena Extra Gentle Cleanser in the winter because it's non-comedogenic (like Cetaphil), fragrance free, and won't leave a filmy residue on your skin.
  


• Use an oil-free moisturizer for your face. I've been using Jergens Natural Glow Healthy Complexion Daily Facial Moisturizer and I love it. I bought it back in August for our summer vacay to Quebec and have been using it ever since. I use it in addition to the Kiss My Face Olive/Aloe Natural Moisturizer that I wrote about here.
  


• Wear sunscreen daily. The Jergens moisturizer contains SPF protection, so I'm covered.

How do YOU cope with dry winter skin?