This is a compensated review by BlogHer and L’Bel.
When I was younger, I was all about make-up. I loved looking at it, trying it, applying it, buying it – the whole shebang. I could spend an afternoon sitting in front of a mirror and trying out various and sundry new looks with one of my mama’s big ole palettes of eye shadow, and on more than one occasion, my sister looked at my handiwork and said something along the lines of “Um, less is more, you know.”
Now that I’m a little older, I know that my sister was exactly right. Less is definitely more when it comes to make-up. I still get a little giddy when I buy some new powder or blush, mind you, but I’m not nearly as concerned with make-up as I am with taking care of my skin. That’s one reason I was so happy to participate when the folks at BlogHer asked me if I’d like to try some skin care products from L’Bel Paris. I was even happier when I read that L’Bel – which is manufactured in France – focuses on “radiant skin that withstands the passage of time.” That sort of hit me where I’m living right now.
Ahem.
Anyway, here’s what they sent me:
You will never know how happy I was to see that tube of really nice mascara. Sometimes it’s the little things, you know (and the fact that the mascara brush is excellent makes it even better). And they also sent me some perfume, but unfortunately I ripped the perfume packaging when I got my shipment-o-products. You’ll be happy to know that the perfume is none the worse for the wear and is currently resting comfortably in my bedroom.
I’ve been trying the L’Bel products for about a week now, and oh my goodness, I like them so much. They’re light enough that my face doesn’t feel coated, but they’re moisturizing enough that my skin feels completely hydrated. And there’s this stuff called Collagennesse – and I can only hope that I’m spelling that correctly because it is currently packed in my suitcase since I WILL NOT LEAVE TOWN WITHOUT IT – that is pure magic. I put it on after I put on moisturizer, and it fills in the fine lines and makes my skin feel super-smooth and quite honestly I’m not sure how I’ve lived without it. It’s one of the best products I’ve ever tried.
And believe me, internet: I have tried some products in my time.
It makes my head hurt a little bit when I think about all the time and energy (and money) I’ve spent on my skin over the last twenty or so years. But here’s the thing, at least with me: make-up isn’t the thing that makes me feel beautiful. I have never looked at my adult self in the mirror and felt oh-so-attractive because I’ve achieved the perfect smoky eye. But do you know when I probably feel the most pretty? When I’m hanging out at home with my people without a stitch of make-up on. When my face is clean and I’ve put on all my “potions,” as my husband calls them – and I feel like LO, THESE MANY YEARS of taking care of my skin has been worth it.
I mean, I can always buy new eye shadow. But I’ve got to live with this skin of mine forever.
I’m so happy to be able to share these products with y’all, and one lucky reader is going to win $500 worth of L’Bel products to try. Seriously. $500 of skin care products and make-up. The prize will include Delyr, Bleu Intense, Resurgie Jour, Cellvivance, Pore Specialiste, Day Moisturizer, Night Moisturizer, Eye Cream, Makeup Remover, Cleanser, Toner, Face Mask, Divenesse Lotion, Supremacie Mains, Lip Gloss, Mascara and a sassy little bag to hold it all.
By the way, if you think I have any idea what all those French words in the list mean, you are sadly mistaken. But still. I bet they make your skin super-pretty. And I bet they smell really good, too.
Now. A few rules before we get our little skin care sweepstakes started:
To enter, leave me a comment below and tell me the place where you feel the most beautiful – or you may leave a link to your post on your own blog in the comments below. The contest will end on January 8th. Make sure that the e-mail address you leave is correct. I’ll select the winner using random.org.
Also, be sure to check out the list of other bloggers who are also doing a L’Bel giveaway – you can enter to win the giveaways on their blogs, too.
Have fun, y’all!
p.s. You can follow @LBelParis on Twitter for beauty tips and special offers if you’re interested.
This giveaway is now closed.
I tweeted! http://twitter.com/perk0130/status/6611212792
I blogged about this giveaway! http://enteringgiveaways.blogspot.com/2009/12/enter-to-win-500-worth-of-lbel-skincare.html
i feel beautiful and peaceful when i’m on vacation with the hubs at the beach. i might be covered in sand and smell like sun tan lotion, but i know he loves that and that makes me feel beautiful!
I feel most beautiful when my husband tells me I am. Otherwise, I feel beautiful only in low light.
I feel most beautiful after a shower and my hair is done and I have put carmex on my lips.
I feel the most beautiful the day after a haircut, when I have to time wash, dry, and fix it myself, with ALL my makeup on and a skinnifying outfit on.
I feel the most beautiful after a good run, yes, exercise : ).
I feel most beautiful when I’ve got the super cute outfit on, make-up looks good, AND I’m having a good hair day. Then, my husband says, “Babe, you look great!”
I feel the most beautiful when I’m snuggled up on the couch with my family, letting all of the things that don’t matter go from my mind. It’s peaceful – which makes me think I’m probably glowing, and beautiful!
I love the feeling of getting all made up right after getting a good haircut!
I feel the most beautiful when I’m around people who love me!
Well, I found that I had a devil of a time thinking of the place where I feel most beautiful. “Comfortable”, “Cozy”, “Content” – I could do all those no problem. Then…my psychotherapist mind wandered off into worry about what that means exactly! The best I could come up with is that I think I look most beautiful in candle-light (covers a world of evil I tell you :)
I feel the most beautiful when I’m in my husband’s arms!
I feel the most beautiful when I am at the beach, a little bit browner and a little bit blonder, and a LOT more relaxed!! : )
tweeted too: ksvjones
Enter to win $500 of L’Bel products! https://www.boomama.net/lbel-paris-giveaway
!!!
When my husband of 34 years tells me I’m pretty, and I realize he still sees me the way I looked when we were first married.
I feel the most beautiful after I’ve washed and styled my hair and put on my makeup.
I feel the most beautiful after a hot bath and I’m all clean and lotioned up!
I feel the most beautiful when I have time to do all the extra stuff and get my makeup just perfect!
I feel the most beautiful when I am ready for bed in my comfy pj’s cuddled with my husband.
I feel most beautiful when my three year old son tells me I’m pretty or something I’m wearing is pretty… if he thinks I’m pretty then I must be! :)
Don’t usually think of myself as beautiful, but I guess when I’m ready to go out on a date with my husband. :)
I feel most beautiful when my husband of 33 years tells me so!
I feel beautiful when……someone I love says so.
Hitting 43 has a way of humbling you. So hearing your husband or teen kids say you’re pretty ROCKS!
I feel most beautiful when my kids say… Wow, mom you look great!
I feel the most beautiful at home and just about to head out the door after getting gussied up.
when my hubby tells me – thankfully, he’s one of those rare, wonderful men who really does!
I feel the most beautiful when my moody, caught-between-little-girl-and-teenager daughter reaches up with a sleepy hand and touches my cheek in the morning when I come in to wake her up…and I hear that little voice saying “Hi, Mama….” – always makes me smile. And ALMOST makes up for the rest of the day when she alternates between pushing me away and then coming right back up for a hug…as long as it’s HER idea.
I feel beautiful when my hubby unexpectedly tells me….
i feel most beautiful when i am all dressed up and made up and ready to go out for a party :)
Definitely at home with my family.
it’s hard to feel beautiful with a 5 month old! But I’d say when I have the time to get all done up!
I feel the most beautiful when I’m dressed in a little dress waiting for my boyfriend to pick me up to go out.
I feel most beautiful with my hubby….he tells me all of the time (which is a gift)!
I feel most beautiful when I am with my family!
I feel most beautiful in the summer after a day on the lake with my hubby! Slightly sun bleached hair with a hue of tan color on my face my oh my my heart is warm just thinking about it!
My time to feel most beautiful is Friday nights after a shower, fresh hair and makeup. We always go out to eat on Fridays. Thanks.
Feeling beautiful? When I first leave the salon after my hair is freshly colored, trimmed, and silky smooth…and after spending time with my stylist who reminds me that I’m beautiful even with my grays!
When my husband calls me beautiful.
I feel most beautiful after I’m fully made up (hair, makeup)!!
Here is my blog link:
http://livinginthelandofpink.blogspot.com/2009/12/more-holiday-give-awaysyippee.html
Well, it has been a while since I have felt beautiful – having been sick w/ H1N1 for almost a month – but $500 worth of product would help!
I guess I feel most beautiful when my sweet husband looks at me and smiles after I have gotten dressed for a special occasion or just when I am in my grubbies and says he loves me in that certain way.
The place I feel the most beautiful is right outside the door of my gym. No matter how ratty I look at the time, I always feel beautiful and strong and fantastic when I leave.
I feel most beautiful at my barn with my horse. Despite the dust and hay stuck to me, I am doing something good for myself and good for my horse, and that’s all that matters.
I feel most beautiful on a date out with my husband. I don’t even have to dress up or anything….
when I am freshly showered and cuddled up with my hubby on the couch. :)
I feel most beautiful when my husbands turns to tell me goodnight and tells me I’m beautiful. He tells me all the time he thinks I’m more beautiful without my makeup on. Bliss!
When I look at myself the way my 2 yr old quadruplets see me….i realize I am beautiful, especially to them. They help remind me daily of the strong woman I am! I’m so thankful for them and my husband!
Jenny
corny yes, but true; I feel most beautiful in the arms of my hubs.
I feel most beautiful when my hair is done and my makeup is fresh.
I felt the most beautiful on my wedding day and on my honeymoon in Hawaii a few years ago. In everyday life I Feel the most beautiful after I have been at the beach and then get ready for a night out. Put on a little makeup and a cute outfit.
I feel the most beautiful in the presence of my family.
I feel the best at the gym!I am taking care of my body and I feel so beautiful in the process!
I always felt beautiful when I visited my grandmas. She made me feel so special and loved. I miss her, especially at this time of the year.
I feel most beautiful in my husbands arms;-)
I blogged this giveaway here
http://mommyblessingsinsmallbundles.blogspot.com/2009/12/win-500-in-lbel-prizes.html
I tweeted this giveaway here
http://twitter.com/gijeanie/status/6845602365
I felt most beautiful when I was asked to dance by my husband for the first time at a party. We didn’t know each other then yet but already had a big crush on him. Felt so beautiful and special :)
I feel the most beautiful just after I get ready in the morning. Within 2 hours all my makeup is kinda blah.
i am always eager to try a new product!
I feel the prettiest when I have just applied my makeup and have my hair just so :) I know that’s awful lol!
Such a great give-a-way!
Have a Merry Christmas!
I feel my most beautiful when I’m surrounded by the people who know me and love me the best.
Definitely feel the most beautiful when Ive got my make up and hair done and Im struttin’ down the street in my black peacoat!
I feel most beautiful right when I am ready for bed. My husband and I have had long days but he’ll still say that I am gorgeous.
I blogged about this giveaway.
http://mybestestgirl.blogspot.com/2009/12/lbel-paris-giveaway.html
Thank you for reviewing this company and sponsoring this contest.
When do I feel most beautiful??? When I get all dressed up to go on a date with my very own stud-muffin.
I feel most beautiful at the beach; something about the salt air and I can let my hair naturally dry all curly.
I feel the most beautiful when I am in the arms of my loving husband who loves me unconditionally. Even when I look beyond terrible.
nancyecdavis AT bellsouth DOT net
Tweet! Tweet!
http://twitter.com/NancyeDavis/status/7019002934
nancyecdavis AT bellsouth DOT net
I feel the most beautiful when I am at home.
blogged http://theartofrandomwillynillyness.blogspot.com/2009/12/lbel-blogher-giveaways-16.html
I feel the best, if I am able to go for a short drive and sit on a blanket at the oceans edge just after sunrise…sipping on a coffee, looking out over the water, thanking God for a new day and asking for His guidance..Just a half hour,breathing the ocean air in deeply, and His presence filling my soul, helps me to feel the beauty of who He has made us to be!
cathy b
projecthope7 at gmail dot com
http://insearchofthebest.blogspot.com
http://www.mywaiora.com/724517
I posted a blog about this
http://tnshadylady.blogspot.com/2009/12/my-thoughts-on.html
I tweeted
http://twitter.com/tnshadylady/status/7023821974
blog link
http://tnshadylady.blogspot.com/2009/12/boomama-lbel-paris-giveaway.html
put me in for that giveaway. i am 50 now and if i do say so myself i have nice skin. i want to keep it that way so throw so products my way. ritawages@bellsouth.net
I feel the most beautiful at the spa where I get my eyebrows waxed. I can’t afford their high end services, but it’s nice to pretenD!
the day after after a good microdermabrasion tratment
lynnnjoe@hotmail.com
tweet!
http://twitter.com/LynnAnnMatthews/status/7062956205
lynnnjoe2hotmail.com
I feel the most pretty when one of my girls says, “mommy, you look pretty.” No matter how I think I look at that moment, this makes me feel pretty!
I feel the most beautiful surrounded by the love and caring of my family.
i feel the best when i walk in the house and my dog-hter (dog…daughter. ha!) greets me!!!!
I feel the most beautiful after leaving the hair salon as long as I put makeup on before I went in.
OK…after cancer, hysterectomy & pre mature menopause….I’m having a hard time thinking of a “I feel beautiful” instance…so, I’ll go for the inside beauty :o) when I’m reading my bible & it’s just me and the Lord
I feel most beautiful after surviving a session with Jillian and the 30-day Shred…if only I could ever make it to day 30 :o)
I feel most beautiful at my house after an evening of “pampering” myself
zachsgran1 at yahoo dot com
tweet
http://twitter.com/zachsgran1/status/7219976226
zachsgran1 at yahoo dot com
I feel most beautiful at home and at parties when I am dressed to impress….. myself.
shopgurl101@gmail.com
http://sweetqt.wordpress.com/2009/12/31/5-steps-to-beauty-giveaway/ blogged shopgurl101@gmail.com
http://twitter.com/shopgurl/status/7227084780 tweet shopgurl101@gmail.com
I feel the most beautiful when I get dolled up to go anywhere. Nothing like doing your makeup, putting on your best clothes & painting the town in your boots. :)
Thanks for this giveaway!
Happy New Year!
I feel the most beautiful first thing in the morning following my shower, makeup with that last look in the mirror before heading out to work. I would really like to win since I am now 66 and need all the help I can get. I have some sun sensitivity due to medications that I have to take periodically. Wish me luck..
I feel the most beautiful fresh out of the shower after a fantastic workout that I didn’t slug through. My skin always looks fantastic!
Tweet! http://twitter.com/ktkatherine/status/7314894203
The place that I have been that makes me feel beautiful is the Big Island of Hawaii as it is the most beautiful place I have ever experienced with beautiful beaches, people, flowers, delicious food and Kileua erupting.
ShawnaMichelle@ymail.com
Tweet http://twitter.com/ShawnaMichelle2/status/7315482016
I feel my most beautiful when I’m out and having a good hair and makeup day! It helps when the outfit is good too :) Thanks!
Here’s a tweet about your giveaway.
I’m dragonfly777
http://twitter.com/dragonfly777/status/7315904033
Thanks!
I feel the most beautiful in the mornings after I get ready. I think my best feature is a smile and a relaxed forehead!