Sunday, October 18, 2009
Ten from Two: Top Sleep and Beauty Tips from the Experts
The Beauty in Redundancy
Redundancy is a beautiful thing. Let me say that again. Redundancy is a beautiful thing.
If you don’t believe me, try asking the owner of a T-Mobile Sidekick phone who lost data in the failure of its remote-backup service.
Wait a minute, you must be thinking, the Sidekick problem is because of its remote-backup system. Well, that’s exactly my point. If you have really valuable data, you should probably back up to your computer as well as to a remote server (now popularly known as the cloud).
I used to consider backing up locally to be safe enough. But as a friend pointed out, if there were a fire on my desk, it would incinerate both my computer and my backup drive (and about 200 pounds of paper). A good case for remote backup.
I was a little uncomfortable with shipping my data off to who knows where. I have no idea how good the remote server is. And as we see from the Sidekick incident, there is reason to worry.
What I am suggesting is that to be really safe, you need to do both.
Many phones come with a backup program that lets them sync to a Windows computer. If not, enter your phone’s model and the word “backup” in a search engine, you are certain to find some.
For Apple Macintosh users that may be a little more difficult. Fewer phones come with Mac-friendly backup software. You can always buy a third-party program from a company like Pocket Mac, which says its synchronization programs support 500 phones and P.D.A.’s.
But there’s a second lesson here too: You might consider your phone’s operating system before you buy.
The Sidekick has its own operating system (I’ll bet they’re really sorry that they named the OS “Danger” right about now). Sidekick owners may be able to rebuild part of their database from what is on their computers using tips from T-Mobile.
I would think twice before buying a one-off operating system at this point. You’ll find most of the features you want on a phone running Android, Windows, WebOS, Symbian, Blackberry or the iPhone operating system. These systems are familiar, widespread and there are loads of backup products and options available.
I’d say find your backup software now and use it. Don’t make me repeat myself.
Three simple ways to shop beauty products better
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These simple, but sufficient, tips are second nature to most beauty junkies and have been practiced by shopping veterans all over the world. Believe me, in doing so- You! Oh, special newly christened cosmetic consumer you! - will get what you need and avoid the possibility of the dreaded buyer's remorse once and for all.
You're destiny as the next beauty buying expert is soon to begin. But, in case you couldn't tell by reading my articles, I'm warning you now...Shopping for ANYTHING beauty can be very very addicting. Ultimately, you will start to feel like a kid in a candy store.
Yah! You can try it on but it's better to look up makeup goods like a dirty gossip columnist. The Internet is a beautiful thing...There is a vast majority of sites and blogs that will let you know about any product that you desire, are thinking about, and/or have second thoughts of. Viewpoints.com, TotalBeauty.com and even some beauty company websites, give you the option to look over any reviews written by actual consumers. The rule of thumb here is: Never get anything that has under three stars. If it caused a chemical burn or permanent reaction on a consumer, steer clear, as far as possible. Lastly, this does not apply to fragrance for obvious reasons. I would personally never buy anything that I couldn't smell, even if it had the best reviews ever. If you'll be wearing it in a crowded Bart Train, possibly sweating, in the early hours of a Monday morning rush hour, definitely, smell first unless you want to be remembered as the girl not to stand too close to.
2. Know your return policy:
Always, always save your receipts.
Many of us are stuck with the crappiest things in our caboodles. Constant reminders of the memories we fell prey to our weaker moments of impulse buys or colorblindness. Though some companies will gladly accept cosmetics that have been opened and tried, (For places like Sephora and Ulta, they go straight to the damage bin, wherein the company simply reports it as a negative in their monthly inventory) a lot of manager's, in bigger beauty chains, will look at your powder compact, that is clearly three shades darker, and stare at you with a big invisible blinking sign over their head saying "YEAH RIGHT!" Now, now, no need to turn your inner bratty aler-ego on. I'm here to tell you that you won't have to be stuck with that crinkly eyeshadow and empty pocket forever. Most of the time the actual manufacturer will be able to reimburse you or send you a gift certificate instead with just a few taps on the keyboard or pushes of a button. Look up the customer contact information online and call or e-mail them with your disappointment. (Maybelline and Cover Girl both do this with gift certificates.) No matter what, the customer is always right...and if they still say "No!" to your reasonable concerns, then you have all my permission to turn into biyatch-mode.
3. Buddy up:
Pick the counter you most frequent and eye your ideal beauty companion. You can be a little shallow here. Is she genuine? Do you like her makeup? Is she pushy? (Ick!) Once you've established those traits then you've found your guy/girl. Actually, if they sell me a product that I like and back it up with "If you change you're mind, you can always (Insert absolutely great return policy here...)" they get bumped up a couple notches on my favorite list.
I love my boutique peeps. Making a "new friend" is both healthy and helpful when shopping for new and old beauty products. Knowing who to go to and what the latest products are equals to a great beauty experience and the best possible service. Counter girls, although not my first choice, are always interested in getting people in chairs but they can be a little much. If I can find her/him, I keep my eye on the seasoned counter or store managers since they have already had not only a ton of experience with products but on helping clients. Build up some rapport, set up an appointment, and ask for his/her card. This leads to a familiar face that you look forward to when purchasing the next thing you will need. If they're really good, your foundation color, favorite products, and (if they're really really good) the friendly knowledge of your name will be ready for you on your next visit. That creates the luxury of a quick in-and-out the beauty door when you need most.