Renee Zellweger: Then and Now

There has been an awful lot of buzz about Renee Zellweger lately. Tongues have been wagging and pundits are weighing in, including plastic surgeons (with heady disclaimers), about what exactly did Renee do?

Frankly, if someone had shown me the picture at right above on its own, I could not identify who it was...could you???

Ms. Zellweger always had a atypical Hollywood look, which I found charming... mostly. There were definitely some Red Carpet appearances, however, where she appeared chipmunk cheeked, from over zealous injections of fillers, (see yesterday's blog for my take on tweaking the right way: http://divadebbi.blogspot.com/2013/12/girls-night-out-new-york-group-for.html)

Her squinty eyes, were well, Renee's.  Highly identifiable, but certainly not an impediment to her successful film career, with hits like Jerry McGuire and The Bridget Jones Diaries, that delighted fans.

What would make her want to change her look so drastically?  There are even rumors that she is "obsessed" with Jennifer Lawrence and one can't exactly deny the resemblance:

Renee (44) and Jennifer (23)

Here's what I think Renee has had done:

Photo courtesy of Perez Hilton

A brow lift, Botox and upper eye lift; notice the larger, tight shiny forehead and wide eyed look. Sculptra to add volume and lift her cheekbones, and a chin implant, there is significantly more length to her face then there was before.  Her skin looks luminous a youthful, so I would guess some combination of peels and laser treatments.

Actually, I think she looks beautiful...I just don't think she looks anything like her former self.

I think one of the top things that stop women from undergoing plastic surgery is the nagging fear that they will no longer look like themselves. They may want to look more youthful, but not alien to their own eyes.

I do think Renee has crossed the line into Meg Ryan turf, another adorable girl next door, who completely altered her looks.  The results are much better, but I do think the rumblings will follow her for the rest of her career.

It's hard now, not to think of Meg, without the image of her post surgical face coming to mind, rather than the fine work she did in films like When Harry Met Sally.

Meg Ryan

Back in the late 80's Jennifer Grey, burst to fame after starring in the warmly entertaining film Dirty Dancing.  She too, was not classically beautiful, but fresh faced and adorable.

In the early 90's, she had a nose job. While the result was not unpleasant or particularly unnatural looking, she lost what was unique and special about her and her career in films along with it.

Jennifer Grey

I wonder what Renee's intentions were; was she chasing her youth or hoping to changing her look?  Perhaps a bit of both... I truly hope shes happy with her results. I also hope it doesn't do what her unconventional look never did before; impede her success...

xox,
DD

Girls Night Out: The New York Group for Plastic Surgery

Girls Night Out: The New York Group for Plastic Surgery

Beautiful friends Izabella and Christine

I have a  wonderful, long standing relationship with the doctors and practitioners at The New York Group for Plastic Surgery.  Dr. Andrew Salzberg is a personal hero of mine.  He compassionately and brilliantly did my breast reconstruction nearly 14 years ago, when I opted to do a bilateral prophylactic mastectomy, (think Angie),  and yes, I was way ahead of the curve.

When it came time to address my anti-aging concerns, it never occurred to me to go elsewhere. Though I think plenty of women don't fess up to all their tweaks, Botox, Restalyne, Sculptra, peels and lasers are as much a part of beauty maintenance these days as facials, highlights and root touch ups.

Lately, I have noticed a discouraging trend; Botox parties, Dentists doing injectibles, Groupon, Amazon and Living Social offering cut rate deals on anti-aging treatments and a new entry Zendy Beauty, modeled like Priceline, where you name your price and see if any of the doctors in their network will accept it.

I think it's begging for trouble.  After all, we wear our faces everyday, this is not an area you want to bargain hunt.

Truly, your very best bet for excellent, natural results is to select your practitioners based on their experience and friends who have had great results.

Accordingly, I gathered a group of 15 friends for an event at the NY Group for Plastic Surgery in Tarrytown, N.Y., where they had the opportunity to meet Dr. Salzberg, Dr. Aydin, Physician's Assistant Tami Healy and Ashlea Hoess. Nicely, there was champagne, munchies and goodie bags for all and their cheerful staff on hand to make sure everyone was comfortable and attended to.

Readers often email me for help and information. I also wanted my friends to have the benefit of hearing about all the latest in anti-aging advances too. As a jumping off point, I put together a list of questions to ask the experts and the Girls chimed in with their own as well.


Here were some of the questions asked and answered by their team of experts:

Tami Healy P.A. Expert injector, Ultherapy, Surgical Assistant

DD: We all know Botox is routinely used to smooth furrows on the brow, the "coin slots" between the brows and around the eyes. Are you using it anywhere else successfully?

Dr. Salzberg: Botox is a highly purified and diluted form of the muscle paralyzing botulism bacteria.  It is very effective in treating problem areas for people who perspire excessively. Cosmetically, we can get a nice result on the platysma muscles, the vertical bands on the neck,  and it can be used on the jawline to feminize it".

DD: Tell us about Restylane how is it most commonly used?

Dr. Aydin: "Restylane is stabilized hyaluronic acid, a filler, used to add volume and diminish wrinkles.  Commonly treated areas are the lips, nasolabial folds, (nose to mouth) and crows feet.  It can also be used to add volume to facial hollows".

DD: What kind of results are you getting with Sculptra and who are good candidates for this treatment:

Dr. Salzberg:  "Sculptra is used to replace volume in face.  It is deeply injected and stimulates the production of collagen.  It is generally done in a series, about 3 weeks apart. You can roughly approximate one treatment per each decade of life. Results are cumulative and will look best in a few months, lasting two or more years. Generally, one touch up treatment should be done each year. The areas most commonly treated are the temples, cheeks and jawline.  We are having fantastic results with patients reporting firmer lifted skin. This is a great option for women who are looking for a significant improvement without surgery. Because it is done over time, it is also a subtle change. Because it lifts the cheeks, the need to fill the nasolabial folds with Restylane may be diminished".


DD: It's interesting to me that Plastic Surgeons have embraced Ultherapy, a non-invasive FDA cleared procedure that uses ultrasound waves to tighten skin on the chin, neck and brow.  Is this in response to women trying to put off surgery and who are the best candidates?:

Tami demonstrating Ultherapy, a non-invasive lifting
and tightening treatment for the face and neck

Tami Healy: "Well, we are treating men with Ultherapy too, so, I would agree that people do want to retain their youthful good looks as long as possible and they are looking for non surgical alternatives.  Ultherapy is particularly appealing because there is downtime and very little bruising. Ultherapy is best used on patients with mild to moderate sagging.  The ultrasound waves stimulate the deep structural support layers of the skin, stimulating collagen,without disturbing it's surface. Results are best seen 2-3 mos. after treatment and can last for several years. The happiest patients are the ones who are doing this at the right time...meaning they really don't yet need surgery."

Discomfort is relative.  I have used this treatment myself and had no pain in my neck area. Tami performed a sampling of Ultherapy on three of my friends that night. All were pain free.

When the whole face is being treated, I can imagine that during the one plus hour treatment, the discomfort may be cumulative.  Tami told us some patients prefer a mild sedative during treatment.  If that is your preference, you will need to have someone drive you home.

Ashlea Hess- Certified in Advanced Asthetics

Ashlea Hoess recently joined the practice to head up their new Spa Nouevelle. She is certified in chemical peels, microdermabrasion and laser treatments. Ashlea is passionate about helping each patient achieve their goals and is an expert at treating rosacea, melasma, spider veins and melasma.

(I recently underwent a three procedures that required zero downtime and some immediatebenefits.  I will share those with you with pictures, in the next day or two. I couldn't be more thrilled with the results!!!)

It was a fun and informative  Girls Night Out and I was happy to be able to share my team with my friends and offer them the "DivaDebbi" discount, 15% off your first procedure or treatment.

The N.Y Group for Plastic Surgery treats patients in four location including NYC. You can click on this link for for more details.

I like to think of my readers as friends too, so if  you are interested in consulting with my A team, please call 914-366-6139.  If you do book a procedure, please tell them I referred you and they will honor the same discount for you.

Whether it's the NYGPS or other highly trained, well recommended practitioners, my point to you is don't take chances.  There is an art to this artifice.  Be smart and beautiful.

xox,
DD

Review: Nars Light Reflecting Pressed Powder

Nars Light Reflecting Pressed Powder (L) and Loose Powder (R)
$34

"See the pretty girl in the mirror there...who can that attractive girl be"???...
Maria, West Side Story
DivaDebbi, stunned Nars Reflecting Pressed Powder  user

On Friday, I blogged about Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer, my new 'HG'concealer that covered any hint of darkness under my eyes while whisking 5 years off my face.

While I was at Sephora, I asked for a clean brush to try Nars Light Reflecting Pressed Powder.  I find loose powders to be too messy for my liking, so even though it looked luxuriously finely milled, I opted for the (very) hard pressed powder instead.  Besides, wouldn't it be nice to be able to travel with it in my handbag?
I didn't pay much attention to the look of it in Sephora, but my skin instantly felt refreshed. Many hours later, when I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror, I couldn't believe how flawless both my skin and makeup looked.

I was excited to use my new concealer this morning, but suspected that I grabbed the wrong shade by mistake..."ginger" just sounded darker than something I would have selected, though the color wasn't obviously deep hued.

I decided to leave it in pristine, unused condition and headed back today to see if I had indeed chosen the wrong shade. (I did. I am apparently a perfect "biscuit".)
While I was there, I had to give Nars Reflecting Pressed Powder another whirl.

It is so hard pressed, there is NO VISIBLE product on the brush.  That doesn't mean, however, that it will not be present on your skin...even if you can't see it there either.

What you will see is visibly blurred imperfections and flawlessly radiant skin.WOWZA!

You do know I love to read reviews, particularly when I am at the extreme end of loving and hating a product.  Makeupalley, an online website strictly devoted to members experiences, gave it a spectacular rave of 4.5 out of 5 Lipsticks.  That, is a rarity, particularly for a prestige brand that some consider very expensive, often a detriment in ratings.

Sephora had many 5 star reviews, but some complained that zero product is on the brush or the skin...I disagree.  I do agree that that the flimsy, thin, sponge square applicator is nothing to write home about, but I loved Nars sleek packaging, and the smart, fold over final pouch will keep it pristine in my handbag. (Some exchanged their pressed powder for the loose version and were then thrilled with the results.)

For those of you who like the "dets", here they are:

What it is:
A weightless, translucent powder for all skintones that creates a soft matte finish that looks luminous in any light. 

What it does:
This setting powder enhances the look of foundation without a trace of color, extending makeup wear thanks to the NARS exclusive Light Reflecting Complex™, which optimizes light-reflection on the skin. Its silky powder is infused with Photochromic Technology, which diffuses light and adjusts to new sources of light throughout the day. Soft, silky and luxurious to the touch and undetectable on the skin, this weightless formula applies evenly and blends effortlessly. One of the best parts? Fine lines, wrinkles, and pores optically fade as skin is visibly smoothed. Additionally, revolutionary microfine mineral powders are loaded with glycerin and antioxidant vitamin E to help guard against dryness and keep skin comfortable all day. Ideal for touch-ups, it helps regulate shine throughout the day and seamlessly sets foundation. This product is paraben- and fragrance-free and non-comedogenic. 

What it is formulated WITHOUT:
- Parabens 

What else you need to know:
NARS Light Reflecting Complex utilizes a blend of pure ingredients that work in synergy to transform light like a prism. Light-active micro-prisms are combined with algae extract and Polynesian seawater to optimize light reflection on the skin.

Research results:
In final clinical test results:
- 84% agree that the product was non-drying
- 72% agree that the product blurred enlarged pores
- 72% agree that the product blurred fine lines and wrinkles
- 94% agree the product smoothes out skin’s appearance
- 91% agree that the product absorbs excess oil
- 81% agree that the product sets the foundation
- 75% agree that the product helps the foundation and other makeup to stay put all day

Nars, it seems is on a roll, with me anyway.  Both Radiant Creamy Concealer and Light Reflecting Powder are my new on my Holy Graillist.  What could possible be next???

Dressed to Kill Satin Lipstick. A new formula and a spectacularly pretty, luminous rose. Why not make it a trio?

xox,
DD

Holy Grail Alert: Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer

Nars Radiant Creamy Concealer
10 Shades $28

Want to look younger and rested???  Is there anyone among us who silently answered no???  Read on!

Wowza!  A product that not only lives up to it's hype, it surpasses it!  I have been reading excellent reviews and following all the buzz about Nars Cosmetics new Radiant Creamy Concealer, which launched this month.

Let's start with the fact that it bills itself as, "crease proof"...really???  I'll take two. That's one claim I have never heard associated with an under eye concealer.

I tried  Radiant Creamy Concealer at Sephora last week, and was amazed that it instantly covered my under eye circles. Not a hint of darkness and I was looking tired that day.  Unfortunately, they were out of the color I needed. Despite some gentle prodding, I knew that this shade was too light and pink for me and I could not be persuaded to buy it.

I did however, get to see how well it wore that day, also living up to its "long wearing" promise.

Review: Philosophy Resurface Microdelivery Dual-Phase Peel

Philosophy Microdelivery Dual-Phase Peel
$69

My darling friend Nancy and her family were visiting from London this weekend. We are childhood friends and though I don't get to see her nearly enough, when we are together we are in instant lock-step and spend most of it laughing. I adore her.

Nancy came to Greenwich on Friday to see me.  We shopped at Richards and then I took her to Warren Tricomi to meet with my dream team;Christopher for color and Jennifer for brow and eyelash tinting.  SinceMichael spends half of his time at Warren Tricomi and the other half at Vidal Sassoon in London as their Creative Director, I thought he would be the perfect person to cut Nancy's hair.

Nancy and Diva at Warren Tricomi

Since we didn't feel like we had nearly enough time together, we agreed to a part 2 in New York on Saturday.  Nicely, Nancy is a huge fan of my Blog and asked if we could first meet at Sephora, so I could help her select my must-haves. 

Nancy was asking for my recommendations, but I couldn't take my eyes off her flawless, glowing skin.  Forget what I'm using...I wanted to know what she was using--she looks fantastic.

Nancy thinks that Philosophy's Resurface Microdelivery Dual-Phase Peel was a true game changer for her.  Naturally, I wasn't leaving without it and she couldn't wait for me to try it.

The reviews for this product are extraordinary; young, old, sensitive skin, oily skin, dry skin, everyone it seems loves their results.

The first phase is the application of the Vitamin C crystals to exfoliate and resurface the skin.  It is best applied to clean dry skin for 60 seconds, in a gentle circular motion, (avoiding the delicate eye area.)  The next phase is applying the activator, which contains both lactic and salicylic acids. It foams and warms slightly.  Simply leave it on for three one minute and rinse thoroughly.  Truly, I have never used a simpler peel.

The results are stellar. Baby soft, glowing skin. Now I know why the reviews were so exemplary...It works!!!  My makeup today went on flawlessly.

Thank Nanc!

We ended up doing plenty of damage at Sephora sharing both our ,"must haves". Her incredibly patient son Noah was an absolute trooper...He could not have possibly anticipated and hour and 20 minute pit stop.  Lucky for him we didn't have enough time to hit Bergdorf's. Lucky for us too... one of us may be a bad influence...

Shorts-Elegantly

Shorts-Elegantly by divadebbi 

Shorts are such a huge trend for Spring.  I cringe when I see women of a, "certain age" sporting shorts with two inch inseams and platform shoes.  Um, isn't this standard attire for West 14th St. at 3:00 am???

I do think if you legs and veins are up for it, shorts can be tasteful ie. wear them a little longer, add a blazer or long cardigan and a flat shoe. Voila.

Ladylike vs. Lady of the Night...

xox,
DD

MAC's SOAR: The Ultimate Lip Pencil

 

MAC SOAR Lip Liner $15
Photo courtesy of Indian Makeup Blog

There are a few things that I consider my "Holy Grail" products. Years of trial and error have taught me they are at the top of their class and nothing can top them...despite this, I am still at times either fickle or lazy and purchase other products.

Without question, MAC's SOAR Lip Pencil, (which I have written about many times before) is the perfect, natural, rosy, nude. Since it is such a universal shade, one would assume there is a version of it in every beauty collection. Not SO. Not even close. Even if it appears to be close, it won't be once you see it in sunlight.

I knew it was time to toss all my other look-a-likes, so I made a trip to Bloomingdale's, the only free standing store in my vicinity that sells MAC, since I am mall phobic. Tragedy struck, when I found out they were not surprisingly sold out of SOAR,

Good God, that meant I had to go to the Westchester Mall. Those who know me, know my sense of direction is non-existent, so I might be able to enter it, but exiting is dicey...

The anchors are a little easier for me to navigate from. Neiman's doesn't carry MAC, but Nordstrom does, so I parked as close to the elevator as possible and hoped for the best...Apparently, there is a run on SOAR, because they too were out of stock.