What: HYDROQUINONE Antioxidant, fragrance ingredient, skin bleaching agent, hair colorant. Where: Skin care, anti-aging, sunscreen and hair color. Banned in Canada and the EU and rates a 10 in toxicity in the EWG's Skin Deep database. Why: Immune system and respiratory toxicant; probable neurotoxin; possible carcinogen; irritant; animal studies show endocrine disruption.

When I don't have the time for a real vacation I take weekenders or extended weekenders if I can. Palm Springs, Santa Barbara, Mammoth and Vegas are some of my favorite places to relax and burn off steam. A quick get-away with friends energizes me and helps me get through what lies ahead.

Shopping for natural, organic, cruelty free or vegan cosmetics can be a difficult task in todays market place. The terms are often used improperly or obscure. You never know what to believe or how to decipher it all. Once and for all the terms are demystified. The words "natural", "organic" and "vegan" are not properly regulated on personal care products so you cannot trust them.

Cosmetic colors so delicious they'll have you craving Jordan Almonds. The newest collections for Spring are candy colors in turquoise and pink. Wear them alone or pair colors together. Nothing is too bold!