Each year when the seasons change I like to change my fragrance to suit the climate. Autumn and winter are very special seasons because some of my favorite spices are in many of the perfumes. Christmas always holds a special place in the heart and these are three perfumes that remind me of this special season.
The House of Guerlain always has the most interesting fragrance combinations and there are two that are wonderful during Christmas and winter. Aqua Allegoria Winter Delice (2000) is a rare and hard to find scent but is still wondering around out there in certain stores. I’ve worn this one for years during Christmas. It presents itself with notes of Norwegian Pine, fir trees, Scotch Pine, balsam, Somalian Incense, sugar, and vanilla. It’s like walking in a crystal clear winter forest covered by new fallen snow. It dries down to smokey undertones with woody notes reminiscent of a burning fireplace. A bit of gingerbread is also interspersed with the sugar and pine. This is my absolute favorite of the Aqua Allegoria line. It is definitely “Christmas in a bottle.”
Guerlain Le Instant (2003) is a soft powdery spicy floral that is touched with spice and neroli with a base of vanilla and amber. This amber base is what makes Le Instant so sensual. The fragrance reminds me of different variations of snowflakes but, it provides the wearer with a soft, cozy warmth for cuddling.
Caron’s Nuit de Noel (Christmas Night), (1922) is described as a woody oriental but, the wonderful florals are what make this one so outstanding. Notes consist of geranium, licorice, leather, iodine, vanillin, rose, orris, sandalwood, ylang ylang, and jasmine. There is a subtle smokiness but, the rose and sandalwood create a vibrant yet haunting effect. Once again this one brings to mind softly fallen snow in the sunshine. It is warm and green with a bit of chypre. This fragrance came about after WWI when Europe was in a frenzy of celebration. Nuit de Noel represents the women of the roaring 20’s and it can surely be described as “velvet in a bottle”.
These are the fragrances I want my children to associate with the Christmas season when they are older. Maybe if they catch a “whiff” it will remind them of “Mom” and wonderful things.
If you are in the market for a “hard to find” perfume especially one that may be discontinued, here are some great websites:
perfume.com; perfumeloft.com; perfumespot.com; beautyencounter.com; 99perfume.com; perfumecountry.com; perfumecenter.com; perfumeemporium.com; theperfumespot.com; luxuryperfume.com; fragranceshop.com; perfumegifts.com; and one of my favorites, overstockperfume.com.
The prices can’t be beat on these sites and if you go to like.com this website will usually direct the buyer to the lowest price.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Absolute Beauty Essentials-cont. LIPGLOSS
Lipgloss is a subject that could get into lengthy detail as most gals know. We all have our favorites and to name some of the best would take forever. Here are just a few top picks to consider the next time you go for the “gloss” search.
Stila “Lip Glaze” has been a favorite for years with its high gloss finish the look is almost vinyl. The twist up brush is handy and sanitary so fingers are not necessary when on the go. Right now Stila has a set of 8 mini glazes for $25 which is a steal. There are a variety of colors including old favorites and some new. “Kitten” is one gloss in the set that has become very popular with its accompanying eyeliner and eyeshadow in a peachy gold shimmer (sephora.com).
If you like the twist up color into the brush, Victoria’s Secret “Very Sexy Brilliant Lip Shine” is another nice gloss with extreme shine. I like this one in “Steamy” a glossy plum/grape shimmer with gold.
Tarte’s “Dual-Ended Lip Glosses” are wonderful with a shade on each end. Usually one is a sheer matte shade and the other a shimmery pearl shade to layer over top or each can be worn alone. These also have a brush applicator and come in the names of famous couples such as Anthony and Cleopatra (tarte.com, sephora.com, dermstore.com).
Another favorite with the brush applicator is YSL’s “Golden Gloss” which is a bit more on the pricey side but the color is definitely worth a shot. I like this one in 7BA which is a bright golden coral orange shine with extreme gloss (yvessaintlauren).
A bit on the less pricey side is Napoleon Perdis “NP Set” gloss with brush applicator which can be found at Target stores. These are great glosses that come in a nice sized container.
Illamasqua “Intense” and “Sheer” Lipglosses are opaque and sheerer shades that are “hot”. The intense shades are very striking whereas the sheer shades are a bit less color but, not exactly sheer. These have an unusual but, workable sort of applicator in a squeeze tube. These are most certainly recommended for those who have a bit of makeup artistry in their veins (sephora.com).
For a gloss with natural ingredients, Jane Iredale’s “PureGloss” lip gloss comes in very wearable shades with a wand applicator but, the container is a squeeze container, therefore allowing you the control of the product (janeiredaledirect.com, dermstore.com).
If you’re one who likes a lipstick and gloss in one, try Bareescentual’s “Buxom Lips Full Color”. I love this one in “Racquel”, a brownish mauve pink. Also look for their special holiday dual-ended gloss in Angel Food Cake/Brilliance, two shades of creamy sparkling peach that are gorgeous (sephora.com, bareescentuals.com).
Lastly, I’ll stop with Philosophy’s lip glosses from the tube such as Coconut Frosting, Pumpkin, Red Licorice, etc. Usually they are seasonal so they very from shade to shade but they always have the fragrance and taste of the name and they always bear a nice healthy shine (philosophy.com, sephora.com).
If there is any way I can assist with colors, please contact me at tipsfromthemakeupgal.blogspot.com and I’ll try my best to assist.
Stila “Lip Glaze” has been a favorite for years with its high gloss finish the look is almost vinyl. The twist up brush is handy and sanitary so fingers are not necessary when on the go. Right now Stila has a set of 8 mini glazes for $25 which is a steal. There are a variety of colors including old favorites and some new. “Kitten” is one gloss in the set that has become very popular with its accompanying eyeliner and eyeshadow in a peachy gold shimmer (sephora.com).
If you like the twist up color into the brush, Victoria’s Secret “Very Sexy Brilliant Lip Shine” is another nice gloss with extreme shine. I like this one in “Steamy” a glossy plum/grape shimmer with gold.
Tarte’s “Dual-Ended Lip Glosses” are wonderful with a shade on each end. Usually one is a sheer matte shade and the other a shimmery pearl shade to layer over top or each can be worn alone. These also have a brush applicator and come in the names of famous couples such as Anthony and Cleopatra (tarte.com, sephora.com, dermstore.com).
Another favorite with the brush applicator is YSL’s “Golden Gloss” which is a bit more on the pricey side but the color is definitely worth a shot. I like this one in 7BA which is a bright golden coral orange shine with extreme gloss (yvessaintlauren).
A bit on the less pricey side is Napoleon Perdis “NP Set” gloss with brush applicator which can be found at Target stores. These are great glosses that come in a nice sized container.
Illamasqua “Intense” and “Sheer” Lipglosses are opaque and sheerer shades that are “hot”. The intense shades are very striking whereas the sheer shades are a bit less color but, not exactly sheer. These have an unusual but, workable sort of applicator in a squeeze tube. These are most certainly recommended for those who have a bit of makeup artistry in their veins (sephora.com).
For a gloss with natural ingredients, Jane Iredale’s “PureGloss” lip gloss comes in very wearable shades with a wand applicator but, the container is a squeeze container, therefore allowing you the control of the product (janeiredaledirect.com, dermstore.com).
If you’re one who likes a lipstick and gloss in one, try Bareescentual’s “Buxom Lips Full Color”. I love this one in “Racquel”, a brownish mauve pink. Also look for their special holiday dual-ended gloss in Angel Food Cake/Brilliance, two shades of creamy sparkling peach that are gorgeous (sephora.com, bareescentuals.com).
Lastly, I’ll stop with Philosophy’s lip glosses from the tube such as Coconut Frosting, Pumpkin, Red Licorice, etc. Usually they are seasonal so they very from shade to shade but they always have the fragrance and taste of the name and they always bear a nice healthy shine (philosophy.com, sephora.com).
If there is any way I can assist with colors, please contact me at tipsfromthemakeupgal.blogspot.com and I’ll try my best to assist.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Absolute Beauty Essentials – cont. (LIPSTICK)
If there is one cosmetics product that women are constantly trying to achieve perfection with it would be lipstick. Finding the perfect shade can sometimes be overwhelming but, finding the formula that’s right for you can be just as frustrating. This article is devoted to my favorite lipsticks brands that I tend to use continuously over and over. There are so many but I’m just going to highlight a few because I’d spend forever on this subject.
“Shu Uemura” Rouge Unlimited and Rouge Unlimited Crystal Shine are creamy formulas that come in a wide variety of shades ranging from beige, orange, red, pink, wine, and browns.
“29” Lipstick w/spf 20 and age-defying antioxidants is the perfect creamy consistency. You could say it is extra creamy. Shades are inspired by vintage wines. (Neiman Marcus)
“Ilamasqua” is an English brand from the U.K. that is now sold at Sephora. The lipsticks are known for their highly intensified matte coverage. The pigments are rich and non-drying. I’m in love with these. The brand is inspired by film makeup from the ‘20’s and 30’s. I’ve a feeling this is going to be an upcoming brand in the states. (sephora.com)
“Makeup For Ever” lipsticks are also rich in pigment and can be purchased in shimmer, matte, and glossy shades. This is a great brand for makeup artists.
“Bobbi Brown” Lip Color’s are shades designed in such a way that you can’t go wrong. You’ll find no trendy or experimental shades in her line. I think of her line as the “mainstream” or “business-minded” woman’s companion. Her products are wonderful. (Dillards)
“Saint and Sinner” are two varying shades of the same color such as red, pink, or rust. One shade (saint) is a sheer shade of the color and the other shade (sinner) is the more opaque mattified shade.
“Bond #7” Stay Perfect Lipsticks are great lasting colors for everyday wear. These can be found at Target stores.
“Revlon” Matte lipsticks are fairly new but have massive staying power and great colors. (drugstores)
“Maybelline” Colorsensational lipsticks contain honey and are very moisturizing for the lips. The line contains numerous shades. I get many compliments on the shade “Sugared Honey”.
“Shiseido” The Shimmering Lipstick are shades highly illuminated with shine and apply easily. Even though there is an overlay spray for shine, there is still shine underneath which many lipsticks don’t have. (Dillards)
Next week I’ll give some great ideas for the perfect “gloss” to top your lipstick or to just wear alone.
Kim Myers
“Shu Uemura” Rouge Unlimited and Rouge Unlimited Crystal Shine are creamy formulas that come in a wide variety of shades ranging from beige, orange, red, pink, wine, and browns.
“29” Lipstick w/spf 20 and age-defying antioxidants is the perfect creamy consistency. You could say it is extra creamy. Shades are inspired by vintage wines. (Neiman Marcus)
“Ilamasqua” is an English brand from the U.K. that is now sold at Sephora. The lipsticks are known for their highly intensified matte coverage. The pigments are rich and non-drying. I’m in love with these. The brand is inspired by film makeup from the ‘20’s and 30’s. I’ve a feeling this is going to be an upcoming brand in the states. (sephora.com)
“Makeup For Ever” lipsticks are also rich in pigment and can be purchased in shimmer, matte, and glossy shades. This is a great brand for makeup artists.
“Bobbi Brown” Lip Color’s are shades designed in such a way that you can’t go wrong. You’ll find no trendy or experimental shades in her line. I think of her line as the “mainstream” or “business-minded” woman’s companion. Her products are wonderful. (Dillards)
“Saint and Sinner” are two varying shades of the same color such as red, pink, or rust. One shade (saint) is a sheer shade of the color and the other shade (sinner) is the more opaque mattified shade.
“Bond #7” Stay Perfect Lipsticks are great lasting colors for everyday wear. These can be found at Target stores.
“Revlon” Matte lipsticks are fairly new but have massive staying power and great colors. (drugstores)
“Maybelline” Colorsensational lipsticks contain honey and are very moisturizing for the lips. The line contains numerous shades. I get many compliments on the shade “Sugared Honey”.
“Shiseido” The Shimmering Lipstick are shades highly illuminated with shine and apply easily. Even though there is an overlay spray for shine, there is still shine underneath which many lipsticks don’t have. (Dillards)
Next week I’ll give some great ideas for the perfect “gloss” to top your lipstick or to just wear alone.
Kim Myers
(Absolute Beauty Essentials-cont.) LIPLINER
In the last issue, facial bronzers was discussed and now that we have eyes and cheeks covered it’s time to move to lips. Before applying anything with color to the lips it’s best to first apply a lip scrub or use a toothbrush to buff off dry skin. This creates smoother lips, therefore allowing a smoother application for glosses and lipsticks. Laura Gellar’s Lip Strip Cooling Scrub is a hydrating lip scrub that contains organic sugar and peppermint oil that can be caressed across the lips to remove dead skin while making the lips smoother (sephora.com).
Before applying the liner itself or any color I like to use a lip primer. Two good ones are Laura Gellar’s Lip Spackle and Victoria’s Secret Pleasingly Plump Lip Enhancer. The Spackle comes in a small pot and the Enhancer comes in a tube like a lipstick. The primer allows for a longer lasting lipstick and prevents against feathering. It also acts as an opaque base to allow the lipstick’s true color to come through.
Lip liners can be one of those items that should be just right to work with especially if your lip line is fading due to age. Here are some of my personal favorites.
Lancome’s Le Lipstique Liner with Brush provides nice smooth color and glides on easily. Every pencil I’ve ever owned, which have been many, are sharpened down to the very end so that every bit gets used. The brush on the end is nice so that lipstick or gloss can be applied right off the tube or out of a pot (department stores).
Clinique Quickliner for Lips is an automatic liner that you turn to get the product out of its container. These are long-lasting and ‘good to the last drop’ so to speak (dept. stores).
Merle Norman’s Definitive Lip Liner is another automatic that has great color and good shades for corresponding lipsticks (Merle Norman stores).
Loreal Lip Precision Automatic Lip Liner is one of my favorite drugstore brands. I’ve used these for years. There aren’t a wide range of colors to choose from but, they cover most of the bases with nudes, mauves, berries, wines, browns, and others.
Before applying the liner itself or any color I like to use a lip primer. Two good ones are Laura Gellar’s Lip Spackle and Victoria’s Secret Pleasingly Plump Lip Enhancer. The Spackle comes in a small pot and the Enhancer comes in a tube like a lipstick. The primer allows for a longer lasting lipstick and prevents against feathering. It also acts as an opaque base to allow the lipstick’s true color to come through.
Lip liners can be one of those items that should be just right to work with especially if your lip line is fading due to age. Here are some of my personal favorites.
Lancome’s Le Lipstique Liner with Brush provides nice smooth color and glides on easily. Every pencil I’ve ever owned, which have been many, are sharpened down to the very end so that every bit gets used. The brush on the end is nice so that lipstick or gloss can be applied right off the tube or out of a pot (department stores).
Clinique Quickliner for Lips is an automatic liner that you turn to get the product out of its container. These are long-lasting and ‘good to the last drop’ so to speak (dept. stores).
Merle Norman’s Definitive Lip Liner is another automatic that has great color and good shades for corresponding lipsticks (Merle Norman stores).
Loreal Lip Precision Automatic Lip Liner is one of my favorite drugstore brands. I’ve used these for years. There aren’t a wide range of colors to choose from but, they cover most of the bases with nudes, mauves, berries, wines, browns, and others.
(Absolute Beauty Essentials – Cont.) BLUSHERS
Traveling on with our list of the “essentials” we continue with blushers. I’m going to present my favorites in cream, powder, liquid, and loose powder mineral form. Keep in mind, these are just the favorites I like to work with and I tend to change products constantly but, always stick with some of the best in my regime.
For powder blushes Shu Uemura’s “Glow On Powder Blush” is some of the best when working with eccentric hard to find colors. These come in a variety of shade ranges, therefore covering the entire spectrum. They are very soft going on and even though the color may appear darker in the container, it actually goes on quite friendly if applied properly with a light hand. There are also really nice highlighter colors in golds and silvers for the makeup artist in people (shuuemura.com, sephora.com).
Smashbox “Soft Lights” is a good round sized container which holds a fair amount of product that I like using for blush. Some people use it as an all over face color but, I find it can highlight the face softly and create a soft “glow” finish that’s not too harsh. Glow, Tint, Shimmer, and Prism are all nice shades to worth with and can also be used for highlighting (smashbox.com, sephora.com, ulta.com).
In the mineral powder blush category, Bareescentuals blushes are wonderful and don’t require much product. These will last you forever and they come in soooo many shades to accommodate all skin tones. For a really “bright” look I like “Fruit Cocktail” and “Heaven” is a nice soft lavender. “Rose Radiance” face color is a pretty neutral soft rose shimmer for many skin tones (bareesentuals.com, qvc.com, sephora.com, ulta.com).
When leaning towards cream blushes, Julie Hewett’s face and cheek cream is great in the fact there are two products in one. “Jami” is a bit of peach rose, “Belle” a bronzed copper, “Natural” a sheer beige neutral tint, and “Vampie” for the Twilight lover’s (I’m one of them) is an eggplant grape stain. All of these can be applied with your fingers or the brush especially made by Julie Hewett (juliehewett.com).
Another cream blush I tend to warm towards quite a bit is Shiseido’s stick cream blush in S2, a peachy color that tends to blend with many skin tones (dept. stores, Dillards).
As for liquid blush, I like Daniel Sandler’s “Watercolours” especially in cherub, a highlighting pink, truth, a peachy beige, and spicey, a terra cotta nice for medium skin tones. I wouldn’t purchase many of these at a time unless you’ll be using them everyday because they tend to dry up inside the bottle but, just a pinpoint amount goes such a long way and the colors are brilliant (beautique.com).
Next week, “Bronzers” will be the Beauty Focus.
For powder blushes Shu Uemura’s “Glow On Powder Blush” is some of the best when working with eccentric hard to find colors. These come in a variety of shade ranges, therefore covering the entire spectrum. They are very soft going on and even though the color may appear darker in the container, it actually goes on quite friendly if applied properly with a light hand. There are also really nice highlighter colors in golds and silvers for the makeup artist in people (shuuemura.com, sephora.com).
Smashbox “Soft Lights” is a good round sized container which holds a fair amount of product that I like using for blush. Some people use it as an all over face color but, I find it can highlight the face softly and create a soft “glow” finish that’s not too harsh. Glow, Tint, Shimmer, and Prism are all nice shades to worth with and can also be used for highlighting (smashbox.com, sephora.com, ulta.com).
In the mineral powder blush category, Bareescentuals blushes are wonderful and don’t require much product. These will last you forever and they come in soooo many shades to accommodate all skin tones. For a really “bright” look I like “Fruit Cocktail” and “Heaven” is a nice soft lavender. “Rose Radiance” face color is a pretty neutral soft rose shimmer for many skin tones (bareesentuals.com, qvc.com, sephora.com, ulta.com).
When leaning towards cream blushes, Julie Hewett’s face and cheek cream is great in the fact there are two products in one. “Jami” is a bit of peach rose, “Belle” a bronzed copper, “Natural” a sheer beige neutral tint, and “Vampie” for the Twilight lover’s (I’m one of them) is an eggplant grape stain. All of these can be applied with your fingers or the brush especially made by Julie Hewett (juliehewett.com).
Another cream blush I tend to warm towards quite a bit is Shiseido’s stick cream blush in S2, a peachy color that tends to blend with many skin tones (dept. stores, Dillards).
As for liquid blush, I like Daniel Sandler’s “Watercolours” especially in cherub, a highlighting pink, truth, a peachy beige, and spicey, a terra cotta nice for medium skin tones. I wouldn’t purchase many of these at a time unless you’ll be using them everyday because they tend to dry up inside the bottle but, just a pinpoint amount goes such a long way and the colors are brilliant (beautique.com).
Next week, “Bronzers” will be the Beauty Focus.
(Absolute Beauty Essentials – Cont.) Bronzers
While discussing bronzers in this article, I’ll be solely relating to facial bronzers that can be washed off after wear. These are cosmetic line bronzers that are great to use, especially when working on the face.
“Lorac” Bronzer in “Warm Glow” is probably one of my favorite powder bronzers. It isn’t orangey on the skin. It’s more of a dusty rose bronze with a hint of shimmer. I love to use this one. There’s also one a shade deeper for those with more of a tan (sephora.com).
Shu Uemura’s bronzers in light, medium, and dark are wonderful. You don’t have to choose from so many colors because they’re narrowed down for you. I use the “light” and it’s a soft peachy tan glow that’s great for fairer skin (shuuemura.com, sephora.com).
Next, the “au naturale” Bronzing Powder by “Josie Maran” in “Beach #1” is a very good choice for those who wish to go the natural route. This color is barely a shimmer with peachy golden undertones. A very unique color it is and I love it (sephora.com, Berdorff Goodman).
“Lancaster Sunlight Palette” has a multi-colored bronzer that contains five different shades of colors that can be used on the face and eyes. From beige, ivory, copper, to taupe you just can’t loose with this one. It’s a keeper (Barney’s New York).
Once again Julie Hewett comes through with her “Shimmy’s that come in a cream consistency contained in a pot. “Cleo” is wonderful as a bronzer or highlighter and can be used on cheeks, eyes, and lips. It is the perfect coppery color containing a bit of shimmer (juliehewett.com).
One product I’ve been using quite a bit during the summer is “ERA Everyday Classified Cosmetics Airbrush Bronzer in Sun Kissed”. This is like “airbrush” for the face and looks and feels extremely natural. Just spray the product across the face once in a sweeping motion and you’ve got it. I get many people asking about this one (era classified cosmetics-google, hsn.com).
Murad Firming Bronzer SPF 15 for face and body is nice when mixed with moisturizer to give just a hint of a glow to the face.
Next weeks’ focus will be on essential lip liners so tune in.
“Lorac” Bronzer in “Warm Glow” is probably one of my favorite powder bronzers. It isn’t orangey on the skin. It’s more of a dusty rose bronze with a hint of shimmer. I love to use this one. There’s also one a shade deeper for those with more of a tan (sephora.com).
Shu Uemura’s bronzers in light, medium, and dark are wonderful. You don’t have to choose from so many colors because they’re narrowed down for you. I use the “light” and it’s a soft peachy tan glow that’s great for fairer skin (shuuemura.com, sephora.com).
Next, the “au naturale” Bronzing Powder by “Josie Maran” in “Beach #1” is a very good choice for those who wish to go the natural route. This color is barely a shimmer with peachy golden undertones. A very unique color it is and I love it (sephora.com, Berdorff Goodman).
“Lancaster Sunlight Palette” has a multi-colored bronzer that contains five different shades of colors that can be used on the face and eyes. From beige, ivory, copper, to taupe you just can’t loose with this one. It’s a keeper (Barney’s New York).
Once again Julie Hewett comes through with her “Shimmy’s that come in a cream consistency contained in a pot. “Cleo” is wonderful as a bronzer or highlighter and can be used on cheeks, eyes, and lips. It is the perfect coppery color containing a bit of shimmer (juliehewett.com).
One product I’ve been using quite a bit during the summer is “ERA Everyday Classified Cosmetics Airbrush Bronzer in Sun Kissed”. This is like “airbrush” for the face and looks and feels extremely natural. Just spray the product across the face once in a sweeping motion and you’ve got it. I get many people asking about this one (era classified cosmetics-google, hsn.com).
Murad Firming Bronzer SPF 15 for face and body is nice when mixed with moisturizer to give just a hint of a glow to the face.
Next weeks’ focus will be on essential lip liners so tune in.
(Absolute Beauty Essentials – cont.) EYESHADOW
Well, we just finished up with our eyebrows so it’s time to move on to eyeshadow application. I’m going to introduce some of my favorite eyeshadows to work with for myself and on others. In my opinion, these are some of the best.
Bobbi Brown’s Long Wear Cream Shadow’s are soft, smooth, and muted. They come in shades of matte and some with a bit of shimmer but, not much. Bobbi is well known for her toned-down look. Her shades are wearable and, as the name states, long-wearing. Cream shadows can be applied with fingers or brushes especially made for cream shadow application. Bobbi also has a powder shadow collection called “Shimmering Nudes Palette” which is one of those must-have palettes that will flatter all. Not all the shades are shimmer though. Some are matte and the darkest I like to use as an eyeliner either wet or dry. There are seven neutral shades contained in this palette.
Another cream based eyeshadow is “Hydro-Powder” Eye Shadow by Shiseido. These dry down from a cream to a powder. In the containers the shades look very bright but, actually go on more muted once applied to the skin (Dillards).
Probably one of my favorite powder eyeshadows to work with because of the variety of colors and pigmentation is Shu Uemura Single Eyeshadows that come in matte, pearl, or metallic finishes. The color range in this series is from the very lightest to brightest to darkest. If you’re looking for a magenta or bright kelly green, this is the one to go with. I love the metallic finishes(shuuemura.com or Bergdorff Goodman).
Another great powder shadow, also known for it’s “green” packaging and natural ingredients is Josie Maran’s single eye shadows. I especially love the ones containing a pearlized finish such as “Mist” and “Cinnamon”, which is my favorite of all. These are wonderful for their smooth application and softness(sephora.com).
If you prefer mineral-based products the Bare Escentuals Mineral Powder Eyeshadows are the way to go. Keep in mind these are loose powders, however they do come in a wide, and I mean “WIDE” variety of shades. These also come in matte, pearl, and highly metallic finishes(qvc.com, sephora.com, ulta.com).
Bobbi Brown’s Long Wear Cream Shadow’s are soft, smooth, and muted. They come in shades of matte and some with a bit of shimmer but, not much. Bobbi is well known for her toned-down look. Her shades are wearable and, as the name states, long-wearing. Cream shadows can be applied with fingers or brushes especially made for cream shadow application. Bobbi also has a powder shadow collection called “Shimmering Nudes Palette” which is one of those must-have palettes that will flatter all. Not all the shades are shimmer though. Some are matte and the darkest I like to use as an eyeliner either wet or dry. There are seven neutral shades contained in this palette.
Another cream based eyeshadow is “Hydro-Powder” Eye Shadow by Shiseido. These dry down from a cream to a powder. In the containers the shades look very bright but, actually go on more muted once applied to the skin (Dillards).
Probably one of my favorite powder eyeshadows to work with because of the variety of colors and pigmentation is Shu Uemura Single Eyeshadows that come in matte, pearl, or metallic finishes. The color range in this series is from the very lightest to brightest to darkest. If you’re looking for a magenta or bright kelly green, this is the one to go with. I love the metallic finishes(shuuemura.com or Bergdorff Goodman).
Another great powder shadow, also known for it’s “green” packaging and natural ingredients is Josie Maran’s single eye shadows. I especially love the ones containing a pearlized finish such as “Mist” and “Cinnamon”, which is my favorite of all. These are wonderful for their smooth application and softness(sephora.com).
If you prefer mineral-based products the Bare Escentuals Mineral Powder Eyeshadows are the way to go. Keep in mind these are loose powders, however they do come in a wide, and I mean “WIDE” variety of shades. These also come in matte, pearl, and highly metallic finishes(qvc.com, sephora.com, ulta.com).
(Absolute Beauty Essentials-cont.) EYELINER
Once our shadow has been applied it’s now time for liner. This is probably one of the worst areas people deal with during makeup application. I’m going to provide you with some of my favorite brands to work with that seem to make this ordeal a bit easier.
Bobbi Brown’s Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner is probably my favorite and most popular to use. The colors are toned-down and subdued yet, she still comes out with unusual mixes that are classic. These creams come in a pot and can be patted on the lids with a stiff eyeliner brush. When using cream liners, I like to smudge the bottom lids a bit instead of trying to paint a perfectly straight line or I’ll use a liner pencil.
One really great wearing liner pencil is Merle Norman Soft Touch Eye Pencil. These are long wearing and can be easily smudged to your preference. I have many colors but, “Forest” is my favorite. Merle Norman also carries Luxiva Lasting Crème Eyeliner which is a favorite. This is definitely my best “Brown” cream liner in a pot and it is very long-wearing.
Another good pencil liner is Urban Decay’s 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils. These are so soft and smooth upon application and come in some of the wildest colors. I like “Honey” and “Baked”(sephora.com, ulta.com).
Clinique Brush-On Cream Liner is another favorite cream in a pot. This one reminds me a bit of a gel liner. I love, love “Black Honey” and “Bronze”. These colors are neutral and go with so much(Dillards, Macys).
MAC Fluidline Cream Liner is another pot liner that is perfect for those wanting vivid colors or for makeup artists looking for dramatic looks. You can find vivid pinks and turquoise and numerous “glam” shades with this line.
Smashbox Cream Eyeliner is usually a #1 hit in most magazine surveys and also with makeup artist. This one is great with awesome colors but, can also be purchased in a mini-palette with the best selling colors which is a hit(qvc.com, sephora.com).
One pencil line I really love and find myself wearing daily is Cover Girl’s Exact Eyelights Brightening Liner. These are 4 colors designed with matching mascaras to correspond with each eye color and make that color brighter. My eyes are hazel so I use “Majestic Jade” and it really does seem to bring the “gold” out in my eyes and make them a bit brighter(drugstores, Walmart).
Since we already focused on Mascara a few weeks back, next weeks’ article will be dedicated to the best blushers.
Bobbi Brown’s Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner is probably my favorite and most popular to use. The colors are toned-down and subdued yet, she still comes out with unusual mixes that are classic. These creams come in a pot and can be patted on the lids with a stiff eyeliner brush. When using cream liners, I like to smudge the bottom lids a bit instead of trying to paint a perfectly straight line or I’ll use a liner pencil.
One really great wearing liner pencil is Merle Norman Soft Touch Eye Pencil. These are long wearing and can be easily smudged to your preference. I have many colors but, “Forest” is my favorite. Merle Norman also carries Luxiva Lasting Crème Eyeliner which is a favorite. This is definitely my best “Brown” cream liner in a pot and it is very long-wearing.
Another good pencil liner is Urban Decay’s 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils. These are so soft and smooth upon application and come in some of the wildest colors. I like “Honey” and “Baked”(sephora.com, ulta.com).
Clinique Brush-On Cream Liner is another favorite cream in a pot. This one reminds me a bit of a gel liner. I love, love “Black Honey” and “Bronze”. These colors are neutral and go with so much(Dillards, Macys).
MAC Fluidline Cream Liner is another pot liner that is perfect for those wanting vivid colors or for makeup artists looking for dramatic looks. You can find vivid pinks and turquoise and numerous “glam” shades with this line.
Smashbox Cream Eyeliner is usually a #1 hit in most magazine surveys and also with makeup artist. This one is great with awesome colors but, can also be purchased in a mini-palette with the best selling colors which is a hit(qvc.com, sephora.com).
One pencil line I really love and find myself wearing daily is Cover Girl’s Exact Eyelights Brightening Liner. These are 4 colors designed with matching mascaras to correspond with each eye color and make that color brighter. My eyes are hazel so I use “Majestic Jade” and it really does seem to bring the “gold” out in my eyes and make them a bit brighter(drugstores, Walmart).
Since we already focused on Mascara a few weeks back, next weeks’ article will be dedicated to the best blushers.
Beauty Essentials cont. - "Brows"
Brows are next on the list in order for completing our look and having the essentials to do so. This is one area I do not forsake. If you have bushy, unruly brows, get them waxed or tweezed. It's not "that" painful. The great thing about working with the eyebrows is that the waxing is probally the most you'll spend on them. Most any brow product can be purchased at local drugstores to achieve the "perfect" brow.
Ardell Brow Perfection Stencils is a pack of four various shapes of brow stencils to put over your brows and then color them in. Choose the one you like and color it in with one of the brow colors Ardell also offers(drugstores, Walmart).
Laura Mercier Brow Duet is a dual colored shade for each hair color such as "auburn". The shades can be used individually or mixed to achieve a different look. One shade is darker and the other a bit lighter.
The same goes for Paula Dorf Brow Duet powder. I like this one in "Brunette". One shade is lighter and the other darker. When I want a more dramatic effect, I'll dampen the brow brush and apply the powder with it. It goes on so smoothly.
Sonia Kashuk is famous as a makeup artist and for having her own line of cosmetics sold at Target stores. I use this waxy palette when I do makeup for various events. It contains 3 shades of color and a powder for setting and highlighting underneath the brow bone.
Brow gels are also on the market but, the reason I don't use these much are because some women tend not to have an ample amount of brows to work with, therefore they must be penciled in. Pencils are another brow tool but, I still prefer the softness of a powder. The great thing about a powder too, is that an eyeshadow can be used if you don't have brow powder. Just make sure the shade complements your hair tone and doesn't contain shimmer. Taupe is always a good safe color to use.
Essential is a perfect brow brush. My favorite that I've used for years has been the tiny brow brush by "Bare Escentuals". This brush has gone everywhere with me.
Ardell Brow Perfection Stencils is a pack of four various shapes of brow stencils to put over your brows and then color them in. Choose the one you like and color it in with one of the brow colors Ardell also offers(drugstores, Walmart).
Laura Mercier Brow Duet is a dual colored shade for each hair color such as "auburn". The shades can be used individually or mixed to achieve a different look. One shade is darker and the other a bit lighter.
The same goes for Paula Dorf Brow Duet powder. I like this one in "Brunette". One shade is lighter and the other darker. When I want a more dramatic effect, I'll dampen the brow brush and apply the powder with it. It goes on so smoothly.
Sonia Kashuk is famous as a makeup artist and for having her own line of cosmetics sold at Target stores. I use this waxy palette when I do makeup for various events. It contains 3 shades of color and a powder for setting and highlighting underneath the brow bone.
Brow gels are also on the market but, the reason I don't use these much are because some women tend not to have an ample amount of brows to work with, therefore they must be penciled in. Pencils are another brow tool but, I still prefer the softness of a powder. The great thing about a powder too, is that an eyeshadow can be used if you don't have brow powder. Just make sure the shade complements your hair tone and doesn't contain shimmer. Taupe is always a good safe color to use.
Essential is a perfect brow brush. My favorite that I've used for years has been the tiny brow brush by "Bare Escentuals". This brush has gone everywhere with me.
Beauty Essentials cont.-Powder
This weeks focus is facial powder and here are some of my favorites that I highly recommend.
Make Up For Ever HD High Definition Powder is a loose powder with a microfine finish. It comes in one universal shade for all skin. This powder is wonderful used in conjunction with the HD foundation that was mentioned in a previous issue(sephora.com)
Another loose powder familiar to many makeup artist and actresses is T. LeClerc from France. This powder comes in varying shades of pastel blues, greens, yellows, oranges, whites, roses, and numerous others. Banana is their number 1 selling color of the line. The powder contains rice and the colors are created to even out the skin tone. This comes in pressed and loose.
Cargo Blu-Ray High Definition Make-Up is a pressed powder that is great for those "close-up" shots because it doesn't settle into the fine lines. I like to use this with a huge powder brush and swipe it over the compact. Cargo also carries other "High Definition" products.
Clinique Redness Solutions instant relief mineral powder is a loose light yellow powder that is made to reduce redness in the skin. This is especially a good product for those people who have rosacea. I like it for an all-over soft effect.
Make Up For Ever HD High Definition Powder is a loose powder with a microfine finish. It comes in one universal shade for all skin. This powder is wonderful used in conjunction with the HD foundation that was mentioned in a previous issue(sephora.com)
Another loose powder familiar to many makeup artist and actresses is T. LeClerc from France. This powder comes in varying shades of pastel blues, greens, yellows, oranges, whites, roses, and numerous others. Banana is their number 1 selling color of the line. The powder contains rice and the colors are created to even out the skin tone. This comes in pressed and loose.
Cargo Blu-Ray High Definition Make-Up is a pressed powder that is great for those "close-up" shots because it doesn't settle into the fine lines. I like to use this with a huge powder brush and swipe it over the compact. Cargo also carries other "High Definition" products.
Clinique Redness Solutions instant relief mineral powder is a loose light yellow powder that is made to reduce redness in the skin. This is especially a good product for those people who have rosacea. I like it for an all-over soft effect.
Tops Picks for Summer Fragrance - 7/17/2009
Once again we're skipping a section of "beauty essentials" this week because every summer I like to do a fragrance section for each season and before we know it summer will be over so here are my choices for this summer's top picks.
Estee Lauder's "Bronze Goddess" (2008) is probably my favorite choice for this summer. I love layering this spray with the body lotion and the body oil spray. The top notes are crisp with coconut milk, sandalwood, vanilla, vetiver, and myrrh. Middle notes consists of golden amber, juicy mandarin, Sicilian bergamot, lemon blend, and pulpy orange and dry downs of Tiare flower, jasmine, magnolia petals, orange flower buds, and fresh lavender. This one lasts quite a long time on the skin especially with the layering. I just love it and hope it's never discontinued. (Estee Lauder counters and more discounted prices and Cosmetics Company Store outlets).
"Jamaican Punch" by Carol's Daughter is a spicy tropical citrus fragrance that reminds me of rum punch for some reason. It is a tropical blend of apple, orange, rasberry, peach, and banana in the top and moving onto a center of gardenia, violet, and bayberry (providing the spice), and finshing off with a blend of other spices with sandalwood and vanilla. This scent also comes in shea souffle, bath oil, and body scrub. It is long lasting and a wonderful summer scent (sephora.com or carolsdaughter.com). The bath oil is out of this world.
Clean Fragrance came onto the scent in 2003 and has been going strong ever since. These scents surround themselves with the air of pure soap and that "just out of the shower" scent. "Original Clean" has hints of pure soap infused with orange, sweet lime, and rose geranium notes. It produces a sort of "lemon" quality on my skin which is quite fresh and clean smelling. It also has notes consisting of litsea cubeba, pink grapefruit, passion lily, white musk, and neroli. This also comes in body lotion and hair spray. It is classified in the"fresh citrus" category of fragrance.
The other fragrance by Clean I've really been loving is "Shower Fresh" which is a floral that's sexy and musky and provides that "just out of the shower scent" containing lily of the valley, lemon, mandarin orange, jasmine, sheer woods, and musk. This is a clean sexy fresh scent that comes in a spray and a roller ball for travelling convenience(sephora.com). I tend to pick upof the sheer woods and orange from this one...
Just a hint: I like to pair all the Clean fragrances with "Simply Clean" body wash, body lotion, and body spray, by Ulta. These are very affordable and are cheaper than the Clean brand and work just as well. Priced from $5 a bottle to buy 2 get 1 free, they're a steal and they come in bigger sized containers(ulta.com or Ulta stores at Pier Park, P.C.B.).
Estee Lauder's "Bronze Goddess" (2008) is probably my favorite choice for this summer. I love layering this spray with the body lotion and the body oil spray. The top notes are crisp with coconut milk, sandalwood, vanilla, vetiver, and myrrh. Middle notes consists of golden amber, juicy mandarin, Sicilian bergamot, lemon blend, and pulpy orange and dry downs of Tiare flower, jasmine, magnolia petals, orange flower buds, and fresh lavender. This one lasts quite a long time on the skin especially with the layering. I just love it and hope it's never discontinued. (Estee Lauder counters and more discounted prices and Cosmetics Company Store outlets).
"Jamaican Punch" by Carol's Daughter is a spicy tropical citrus fragrance that reminds me of rum punch for some reason. It is a tropical blend of apple, orange, rasberry, peach, and banana in the top and moving onto a center of gardenia, violet, and bayberry (providing the spice), and finshing off with a blend of other spices with sandalwood and vanilla. This scent also comes in shea souffle, bath oil, and body scrub. It is long lasting and a wonderful summer scent (sephora.com or carolsdaughter.com). The bath oil is out of this world.
Clean Fragrance came onto the scent in 2003 and has been going strong ever since. These scents surround themselves with the air of pure soap and that "just out of the shower" scent. "Original Clean" has hints of pure soap infused with orange, sweet lime, and rose geranium notes. It produces a sort of "lemon" quality on my skin which is quite fresh and clean smelling. It also has notes consisting of litsea cubeba, pink grapefruit, passion lily, white musk, and neroli. This also comes in body lotion and hair spray. It is classified in the"fresh citrus" category of fragrance.
The other fragrance by Clean I've really been loving is "Shower Fresh" which is a floral that's sexy and musky and provides that "just out of the shower scent" containing lily of the valley, lemon, mandarin orange, jasmine, sheer woods, and musk. This is a clean sexy fresh scent that comes in a spray and a roller ball for travelling convenience(sephora.com). I tend to pick upof the sheer woods and orange from this one...
Just a hint: I like to pair all the Clean fragrances with "Simply Clean" body wash, body lotion, and body spray, by Ulta. These are very affordable and are cheaper than the Clean brand and work just as well. Priced from $5 a bottle to buy 2 get 1 free, they're a steal and they come in bigger sized containers(ulta.com or Ulta stores at Pier Park, P.C.B.).
Friday, June 12, 2009
Absolute Necessities – Continued
Makeup Primer:Cargo Blu-Ray High Definition Mattifier oil-free is one of the best, in my opinion. It has a slight tint but, can be worn by all complexions from lightest to darkest. This makes the skin so smooth before makeup application. You’ll be really fascinated with this one.Smashbox regular or tinted makeup primer is another good one. This product is always highly rated in all the top beauty magazines as one of the best makeup primers. It comes in a pump dispenser which makes application easier and sanitary.Make Up For Ever High Definition Primer is great if you have problematic areas such as ruddiness or redness on your face. This primer comes in a variety of colors from clear to yellow, green, blue, and many others to accommodate your facial needs.These are the bottom line basics.
Check out more tips on my blog!http://tipsfromthemakeupgal.blogspot.com/
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Absolute Necessities
Recently, I was asked to speak at a ‘beauty boot camp’ to several women. The topic I chose was my absolute must-have products that I use frequently. Over the next few weeks I’ll break these down into sections so they can be shared with everyone. The women were very interested and I received calls regarding the products afterwards. These may change from year to year but, some I’ve kept throughout the years and here they are;
Basic Skin Care:
I use Arbonne Nutrimen C Kit for night and day usage. I’ve seen better results with this brand as opposed to numerous other brands I’ve tried on the market. Sometimes after using a kit I’ll switch to something different but, I notice when I go back to Arbonne I see the whiteheads (which I never have) come out, as a result of the product releasing the toxins in the skin. None of the other products seem to have this particular cleansing mechanism.
For day I like to use Olay Complete all day moisture lotion SPF 15 since the Arbonne only has an SPF of 8 but, now they have a newer version with higher spf. I prefer to use nothing lower than an SPF of at least 15 or higher. I like the Olay for the winter months. If in the sun for a longer period, an spf of 30 or above is preferred.
Neutrogena Age Shield Sunblock SPF 45 with helioplex for face and body is a must along with Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunblock SPF 70 with helioplex. The helioplex covers complete uva/uvb spectrum by combining two of the most powerful sunscreens, avobenzone and oxybenzone. These help stop damaging UVA rays from penetrating the surface layers, offering in turn deep cellular protection. This one I like for summer.
For makeup remover Clinique rinse-off eye makeup solvent is one of the best all-around. If you’re looking for a drugstore brand, Cover Girl eyes and lips makeup remover is swell at removing the basics. I’ve used this one for years.
Check out more tips on my blog!
http://tipsfromthemakeupgal.blogspot.com/
Friday, May 29, 2009
Father’s Day Fragrances for the Distinguished Gentleman
If Dad is the kind who likes his cologne ‘over the top’ here are some ‘picks’ for him. These are some of the best and elegant of the collection for men.
For the classy, elegant, stylish, and timeless fragrance, the House of Creed is a good choice. ‘Green Irish Tweed’ is earthy, woody, clean, fresh, herbal, and aquatic. It contains mysora, sandalwood, ambergris, violet leaves, French verbena, and Florentine iris. This one was made for Cary Grant by Creed. ‘Royal Delight’ and ‘Ambre Cannelle’ (cinnamon amber) are two other good choices. ‘Love In Black’ is the newest Creed fragrance and can be worn by men and women. It has a subtle top note of violet which is used in many men’s fragrances. ‘Silver Water’ and ‘Green Valley’ are two more on the earthy, clean side. houseofcreed.com or google for better prices. Testers are something you may want to consider if you just want to try something.
Another brand on the classic side is an English brand called Truefitt & Hill. My two favorites are the original ‘1805’ and ‘Spanish Leather’. I’ve got a thing for the smell of leather especially when mixed with tobacco. Russian leather is best though because the scent is older. My husband wears both of these and I love them. londonsbathocary.com
For an intricate taste of classy try Tom Ford. His ‘Black Orchid’ for men is to die for and the women’s version is too. For men, there are 14 choices from his private collection. My favorite top four are Black Violet, Purple Patchouli, Tobacco Vanille, and Tuscan Leather. He also has a scent called ‘noir de noir’. I like this because it is the darkest of the dark. tomford.com or google
For FLAIR Bond #9 is a great choice. I have their Bon Bon box which contains just about everything they have. Most all their fragrances except 3 or 4 are unisex therefore, you can try them out to see which you’d prefer. The Andy Warhol Collection is very Nouveau with Silver Factory, Union Square, and Lexington Avenue. Other nice ones for guys are Chez Bond, Wall Street, Saks 5th Ave. for Him, and the list goes on. I like Coney Island and New Harleem. These are all representative of the 3 sections of NYC, Uptown, Midtown, and Downtown. The original bottles are a work of art if you are a collector as I. bond #9 site or (212) 940-2148
Something on the artsy side of the spectrum is Comme de Garcons. I love, love, love the Series 3 Incense. Avignon is my favorite. This was worn by the singer Morrissey and was his documented favorite for years. The other one I like is Kyoto. It’s very nice. There are a couple others in the series also. I’ve tried them all. Series #2 Red ‘Carnation’ and ‘Palisander’ are my favorites in the #2 series. These are the spicy ones. Keep in mind all are unisex. The ‘Synthetic’ Series are completely undefined like metals, irons, concrete, etc. These are for the really unique person who likes a different approach. These can be found at luckyscent.com. Request samples you’d like to try in the comments box.
If you’re a whimsical kind of guy, I’d recommend Tokyo Milk, ‘Poe’s Tobacco’ (beautyhabit.com) or Aquolina’s ‘Blue Sugar’ (fragrancenet.com). Look at the fragrance notes to these and you’ll guess why.
For the classy, elegant, stylish, and timeless fragrance, the House of Creed is a good choice. ‘Green Irish Tweed’ is earthy, woody, clean, fresh, herbal, and aquatic. It contains mysora, sandalwood, ambergris, violet leaves, French verbena, and Florentine iris. This one was made for Cary Grant by Creed. ‘Royal Delight’ and ‘Ambre Cannelle’ (cinnamon amber) are two other good choices. ‘Love In Black’ is the newest Creed fragrance and can be worn by men and women. It has a subtle top note of violet which is used in many men’s fragrances. ‘Silver Water’ and ‘Green Valley’ are two more on the earthy, clean side. houseofcreed.com or google for better prices. Testers are something you may want to consider if you just want to try something.
Another brand on the classic side is an English brand called Truefitt & Hill. My two favorites are the original ‘1805’ and ‘Spanish Leather’. I’ve got a thing for the smell of leather especially when mixed with tobacco. Russian leather is best though because the scent is older. My husband wears both of these and I love them. londonsbathocary.com
For an intricate taste of classy try Tom Ford. His ‘Black Orchid’ for men is to die for and the women’s version is too. For men, there are 14 choices from his private collection. My favorite top four are Black Violet, Purple Patchouli, Tobacco Vanille, and Tuscan Leather. He also has a scent called ‘noir de noir’. I like this because it is the darkest of the dark. tomford.com or google
For FLAIR Bond #9 is a great choice. I have their Bon Bon box which contains just about everything they have. Most all their fragrances except 3 or 4 are unisex therefore, you can try them out to see which you’d prefer. The Andy Warhol Collection is very Nouveau with Silver Factory, Union Square, and Lexington Avenue. Other nice ones for guys are Chez Bond, Wall Street, Saks 5th Ave. for Him, and the list goes on. I like Coney Island and New Harleem. These are all representative of the 3 sections of NYC, Uptown, Midtown, and Downtown. The original bottles are a work of art if you are a collector as I. bond #9 site or (212) 940-2148
Something on the artsy side of the spectrum is Comme de Garcons. I love, love, love the Series 3 Incense. Avignon is my favorite. This was worn by the singer Morrissey and was his documented favorite for years. The other one I like is Kyoto. It’s very nice. There are a couple others in the series also. I’ve tried them all. Series #2 Red ‘Carnation’ and ‘Palisander’ are my favorites in the #2 series. These are the spicy ones. Keep in mind all are unisex. The ‘Synthetic’ Series are completely undefined like metals, irons, concrete, etc. These are for the really unique person who likes a different approach. These can be found at luckyscent.com. Request samples you’d like to try in the comments box.
If you’re a whimsical kind of guy, I’d recommend Tokyo Milk, ‘Poe’s Tobacco’ (beautyhabit.com) or Aquolina’s ‘Blue Sugar’ (fragrancenet.com). Look at the fragrance notes to these and you’ll guess why.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
More On Cream Blushers
As discussed in a previous article, cream blushers are many a makeup artist choice to work with on the face. Cream tends to spread more easily and one can always build for more coverage. Cream blushers are easily applied with the fingers or a foundation brush for a more polished effect. Here are some newer creams I’ve been working with that are supreme.
Julie Hewett’s "Cheekie" cheek and lip shine are little pots of color that can be purchased with their own application brush. They provide a sheer wash of color for cheeks or lips. "Natural" is a beige/pink color; "Jami" is peachy keen; "Bette" is more brick/bronze with a hint of shimmer and "Vampie" is a deeper burgundy wine. There are a couple other colors too like "Rosie" and "Peachie". juliehewett.com
Once again, the Lipstick Queen comes forth with "Oxymoron Matte Gloss" for lips and cheeks. This comes in a few colors but, the two I use are "Honest Politician" (ha) which is a deep rose color and "Deafening Silence" which is more on the beige rose side. These come in sleek clear plastic compacts that can easily be stuck in a back pocket but, they’re not too small. lipstickqueen.com
This blush is one I can’t wait to see hit the states. They sell one or two colors on QVC but, I purchase mine from beautique.com which is a company out of the United Kingdom. The blushers are not really cream. They are definitely a liquid. Makeup artist, Daniel Sandler has his own makeup line and this is his best selling product. It’s called "Watercolour" for cheeks, lips, and eyes. Only one tiny drop is needed for both cheeks because of its high concentration of pigment. "Spicey" is a deep peach/apricot that is perfect for medium colored skin. "Cherub" is a pretty light rosy color for fair complexions and "Truth" is a very light peachy cantaloupe that is perfect as a highlighter or blush for fair skin. There are numerous other colors to choose from too though for all complexions. "Hawaii" or "Paradise" would be beautiful on tanned or darker skin. If you do purchase, be sure to use these often because they tend to stop up but, are easily opened with water or a straight pin. beautique.com
The above blushers are the ones I’m going to exhibit and use at a "Style Camp" next week. Only the best and most workable products will be featured.
Kim Myers
Julie Hewett’s "Cheekie" cheek and lip shine are little pots of color that can be purchased with their own application brush. They provide a sheer wash of color for cheeks or lips. "Natural" is a beige/pink color; "Jami" is peachy keen; "Bette" is more brick/bronze with a hint of shimmer and "Vampie" is a deeper burgundy wine. There are a couple other colors too like "Rosie" and "Peachie". juliehewett.com
Once again, the Lipstick Queen comes forth with "Oxymoron Matte Gloss" for lips and cheeks. This comes in a few colors but, the two I use are "Honest Politician" (ha) which is a deep rose color and "Deafening Silence" which is more on the beige rose side. These come in sleek clear plastic compacts that can easily be stuck in a back pocket but, they’re not too small. lipstickqueen.com
This blush is one I can’t wait to see hit the states. They sell one or two colors on QVC but, I purchase mine from beautique.com which is a company out of the United Kingdom. The blushers are not really cream. They are definitely a liquid. Makeup artist, Daniel Sandler has his own makeup line and this is his best selling product. It’s called "Watercolour" for cheeks, lips, and eyes. Only one tiny drop is needed for both cheeks because of its high concentration of pigment. "Spicey" is a deep peach/apricot that is perfect for medium colored skin. "Cherub" is a pretty light rosy color for fair complexions and "Truth" is a very light peachy cantaloupe that is perfect as a highlighter or blush for fair skin. There are numerous other colors to choose from too though for all complexions. "Hawaii" or "Paradise" would be beautiful on tanned or darker skin. If you do purchase, be sure to use these often because they tend to stop up but, are easily opened with water or a straight pin. beautique.com
The above blushers are the ones I’m going to exhibit and use at a "Style Camp" next week. Only the best and most workable products will be featured.
Kim Myers
Thursday, May 14, 2009
How to Achieve Glowing Summer Skin
The first step to having polished skin is to start with a good skin care regiment otherwise, once you apply products on top of skin that is dry or dehydrated it will not have the same effect. Once you have smooth skin, here are some ways to help it glow throughout the summer without having to get in the sun. The first thing you do is always apply sunscreen.
Sometimes I’ll mix "Bare Bronze Shimmering Body Oil" by Victoria’s Secret with my sunscreen. This is beautiful bronzed glimmering golden oil with a sweet tropical fragrance. It definitely gives the body a luminous glow without causing the skin to feel oily. I like this applied on arms, legs, and chest. Victoria’s Secret also carries a product in their Bare Bronze line called "Daily Glow Facial moisturizer. This comes in a light/medium or a medium/dark color. The product is also nice for the body too. A little goes a long way. Mix it with some sunscreen or a little body lotion and apply to any areas you may want to highlight.
For those low cut dresses, Bare Escentuals has "Body Glimmer" that can be brushed on with a large sized puff or kabuki brush. This is an extremely shimmery bronze rose, but it can be applied with a light hand. I always have people asking me "what is that awesome shimmer and where can I get it?"(bareescentuals.com or hsn.com).
Benefit "Flamingo Fancy" is another favorite shimmering body slip. It’s a dark bronze golden coral hue that has a delicate scent of floral plumeria mixed with something tropical. I love, love, love, this one (sephora.com).
Jergens has a variety of body glow moisturizers to choose from like their "Firming Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer". This comes in a variety of colors for different skintones and gradually builds color each time you apply it. Jergens carries the Natural Glow Facial Moisturizer with an spf 20. It provides a healthy glow and also protects against the sun’s harmful rays. For a quick boost of color when you need it extra fast, try Jergen’s "Natural Glow Express Body Moisturizer".
If you like to self-tan and glow at the same time, Loreal has "Sublime Glow" made for different skin tones. This is a moisturizing microfine mist that gradually develops into a tan. There’s no need to rub in because the bottle is made for 360 degree application. This way you can get your back too. I really like this because it doesn’t leave streaks like some self tanners tend to do.
Kim Myers email - wahuhi@comcast.net
Sometimes I’ll mix "Bare Bronze Shimmering Body Oil" by Victoria’s Secret with my sunscreen. This is beautiful bronzed glimmering golden oil with a sweet tropical fragrance. It definitely gives the body a luminous glow without causing the skin to feel oily. I like this applied on arms, legs, and chest. Victoria’s Secret also carries a product in their Bare Bronze line called "Daily Glow Facial moisturizer. This comes in a light/medium or a medium/dark color. The product is also nice for the body too. A little goes a long way. Mix it with some sunscreen or a little body lotion and apply to any areas you may want to highlight.
For those low cut dresses, Bare Escentuals has "Body Glimmer" that can be brushed on with a large sized puff or kabuki brush. This is an extremely shimmery bronze rose, but it can be applied with a light hand. I always have people asking me "what is that awesome shimmer and where can I get it?"(bareescentuals.com or hsn.com).
Benefit "Flamingo Fancy" is another favorite shimmering body slip. It’s a dark bronze golden coral hue that has a delicate scent of floral plumeria mixed with something tropical. I love, love, love, this one (sephora.com).
Jergens has a variety of body glow moisturizers to choose from like their "Firming Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer". This comes in a variety of colors for different skintones and gradually builds color each time you apply it. Jergens carries the Natural Glow Facial Moisturizer with an spf 20. It provides a healthy glow and also protects against the sun’s harmful rays. For a quick boost of color when you need it extra fast, try Jergen’s "Natural Glow Express Body Moisturizer".
If you like to self-tan and glow at the same time, Loreal has "Sublime Glow" made for different skin tones. This is a moisturizing microfine mist that gradually develops into a tan. There’s no need to rub in because the bottle is made for 360 degree application. This way you can get your back too. I really like this because it doesn’t leave streaks like some self tanners tend to do.
Kim Myers email - wahuhi@comcast.net
Monday, May 4, 2009
How to Achieve Glowing Summer Skin
The first step to having polished skin is to start with a good skin care regiment otherwise, once you apply products on top of skin that is dry or dehydrated it will not have the same effect. Once you have smooth skin, here are some ways to help it glow throughout the summer without having to get in the sun. The first thing you do is always apply sunscreen.
Sometimes I’ll mix “Bare Bronze Shimmering Body Oil” by Victoria’s Secret with my sunscreen. This is beautiful bronzed glimmering golden oil with a sweet tropical fragrance. It definitely gives the body a luminous glow without causing the skin to feel oily. I like this applied on arms, legs, and chest. Victoria’s Secret also carries a product in their Bare Bronze line called “Daily Glow Facial moisturizer. This comes in a light/medium or a medium/dark color. The product is also nice for the body too. A little goes a long way. Mix it with some sunscreen or a little body lotion and apply to any areas you may want to highlight.
For those low cut dresses, Bare Escentuals has “Body Glimmer” that can be brushed on with a large sized puff or kabuki brush. This is an extremely shimmery bronze rose, but it can be applied with a light hand. I always have people asking me “what is that awesome shimmer and where can I get it?”(bareescentuals.com or hsn.com).
Benefit “Flamingo Fancy” is another favorite shimmering body slip. It’s a dark bronze golden coral hue that has a delicate scent of floral plumeria mixed with something tropical. I love, love, love, this one (sephora.com).
Jergens has a variety of body glow moisturizers to choose from like their “Firming Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer”. This comes in a variety of colors for different skintones and gradually builds color each time you apply it. Jergens carries the Natural Glow Facial Moisturizer with an spf 20. It provides a healthy glow and also protects against the sun’s harmful rays. For a quick boost of color when you need it extra fast, try Jergen’s “Natural Glow Express Body Moisturizer”.
If you like to self-tan and glow at the same time, Loreal has “Sublime Glow” made for different skin tones. This is a moisturizing microfine mist that gradually develops into a tan. There’s no need to rub in because the bottle is made for 360 degree application. This way you can get your back too. I really like this because it doesn’t leave streaks like some self tanners tend to do.
Kim Myers
wahuhi@comcast.net
Sometimes I’ll mix “Bare Bronze Shimmering Body Oil” by Victoria’s Secret with my sunscreen. This is beautiful bronzed glimmering golden oil with a sweet tropical fragrance. It definitely gives the body a luminous glow without causing the skin to feel oily. I like this applied on arms, legs, and chest. Victoria’s Secret also carries a product in their Bare Bronze line called “Daily Glow Facial moisturizer. This comes in a light/medium or a medium/dark color. The product is also nice for the body too. A little goes a long way. Mix it with some sunscreen or a little body lotion and apply to any areas you may want to highlight.
For those low cut dresses, Bare Escentuals has “Body Glimmer” that can be brushed on with a large sized puff or kabuki brush. This is an extremely shimmery bronze rose, but it can be applied with a light hand. I always have people asking me “what is that awesome shimmer and where can I get it?”(bareescentuals.com or hsn.com).
Benefit “Flamingo Fancy” is another favorite shimmering body slip. It’s a dark bronze golden coral hue that has a delicate scent of floral plumeria mixed with something tropical. I love, love, love, this one (sephora.com).
Jergens has a variety of body glow moisturizers to choose from like their “Firming Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer”. This comes in a variety of colors for different skintones and gradually builds color each time you apply it. Jergens carries the Natural Glow Facial Moisturizer with an spf 20. It provides a healthy glow and also protects against the sun’s harmful rays. For a quick boost of color when you need it extra fast, try Jergen’s “Natural Glow Express Body Moisturizer”.
If you like to self-tan and glow at the same time, Loreal has “Sublime Glow” made for different skin tones. This is a moisturizing microfine mist that gradually develops into a tan. There’s no need to rub in because the bottle is made for 360 degree application. This way you can get your back too. I really like this because it doesn’t leave streaks like some self tanners tend to do.
Kim Myers
wahuhi@comcast.net
Monday, April 27, 2009
Wear RED Lipstick and Show Your Patriotism
By Kim Myers
Red lipstick has been debated over for decades because most women feel they cannot ‘wear’ red on the lips. Anyone and everyone can wear red depending on the shade. There is a right shade for you. This particular article is going to focus on another subject too though and that is one of showing that we are true Americans and we’re going to flaunt this color, our color, with grace and pride. When I wear red now I think of the men and women overseas who are standing strongly for our country and for the ones who have lost their lives defending it. This also applies to all the families and friends who have lost loved ones and who have loved ones abroad. There are some folks in this country who take this subject very lightly but, I for one regard human “life” as genuine and sacred. Red is a very strong color. It represents the blood shed in this country to obtain freedom. I would like to see women all over the United States wearing different shades of ‘red’ as a tribute to our nations’ freedom and to those who are fighting for it and the ones who have lost their lives for it. Show off your beautiful smile and if someone asks “what color is that pretty red lipstick”, you reply the shade/brand and why you are wearing it. Be patriotic and stand for something because in our country at the present time if we don’t, then we might as well stand for nothing at all.
I received an email that depicted the U.S. to look haughty, ungrateful, and arrogant from a non-U.S. resident. Well, I can say this. In the past, the U.S. has been a bold and prideful country and as for being ungrateful, I think we’ve given more of our share of blood and money to more countries than I can count. Personally, some I think are quite undeserving but, that is just my opinion. This is where American women of every age and race can come together and do something as “one” and be “united” even if it’s something as simple as wearing red lipstick.
Here are some suggestions on a “red” for you:
Julie Hewett Cosmetics have a little round box of reds that includes six of her top selling reds she is famous for but, each can be purchased individually. Belle Noir (an orange based coral red); Rouge Noir (a classic movie star red); Femme Noir (brighter scarlet red w/blue base); Gem Noir (sheer, festive holiday red); Sin Noir (deep aubergine wine); and Coco Noir (brick color red ) for just about anyone because of its neutrality. juliehewett.net – ph.# (800) 761-6647
Besame Cosmetics is a line also known for its red lipsticks and rightly so. Each and every red has its own flair. Besame Red (regal red) is a great color for most; Red Hot Red (a Marilyn Monroe red); Red Velvet (maroon that can also be applied as a stain) makes me think of Angelina Jolie’s lips in the movie ‘The Changeling’; and Cherry Red (medium red like a cherry slushie) that looks great applied as a stain. besamecosmetics.com – ph.# (818) 548-2628
The Lipstick Queen’s Saint Red which is a sheer basic red good for most anyone or Red Sinner which is a matte/opaque version of the Saint Red are both good choices. lipstickqueen.com
The Shu Uemura cosmetics line has numerous “reds” of all categories. Rouge Unlimited Crystal Shine #174S (a shimmery, glossy neutral berry red); Rouge Unlimited #195 (bright red w/bit of an orange base); R/U #134 (intense red but subdued orange base); and R/U #170 (bright crimson blue red). This line of lipsticks is very creamy. shuuemura.com – ph.# (888) SHU-5678
If you want to test your red on site, Merle Norman, Prescriptives cosmetics, Clinique, Mary Kay, Arbonne, and Avon are all good for having advisers/consultants who can help choose the ‘right’ red for you. You can also test your luck at a drug store until you find what you like.
Remember the Reason for your change to Red. Stand by your choice!
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Fashion Show with a Retro 1940’s Look
This past weekend, I had the good fortune to be involved in a fashion show for one of my favorite stores, Christopher and Banks. If any of you have not been in this store you should really check it out. They have a lot of cute clothing with fun colors and the store is known for their blue jeans that slim your body 2 sizes down. My own mother actually had to go down 4 sizes and the jeans looked great on her. The prices are extremely affordable too, which adds to its allure. The dress I wore was a black and white floral that I decided to give a retro 1940’s flair complete with vintage ‘40’s makeup. Here is how I achieved the makeup look.
First, since my skin is fair I like to apply either “Yellow Cameo” by Besame Cosmetics which is a heavier foundation in a pot, slightly tinted yellow or “Garbo” by Julie Hewett Cosmetics which is a light ivory cream foundation in a compact. Both make the skin look very smooth and soft. Apply concealer where needed. Use powder sparingly over foundation, enough just to set. Make sure your eyebrows are a bit thinned out and have a slightly higher arch. For this I applied Paula Dorf eyebrow powder in ‘Brunette’ to darken and shape.
As for eye shadow, I kept it simple using “Shimmer Beige” all over the lid and “Socialite Brown” in the crease, both from Besame Cosmetics. Next, I applied a very stiff black line across the top eyelid across the lash line with “Caviar” cream liner by Smashbox. I used just a bit of liner on the lower lash line in “Steely” by Mary Kay and of course lastly apply lots of black mascara. On the cheeks, just a smithering of “Rasberry” blush by Besame Cosmetics was applied to the apples using a light hand.
Here is where the main focus comes in, the lips. This is what sets the whole ‘40’s face aglow, red, red, red, lipstick. I first lined lips with a MAC pencil in “Red” and then applied Julie Hewett’s lipstick in “Femme Noir” which is an astounding red for this period look. On some skin it can appear brighter than others. It is definitely not her brightest red. ‘Rouge’ and ‘Belle’ are even brighter.
I’ve modeled for this store before and it’s always a delight because women of all sizes, ages, and heights are profiled. I always meet many nice people each time I go, and never leave without making a new acquaintance. This time I met a girl named Christine who visits Israel and we shared our thoughts and feelings on many subjects regarding the Holy Land. Hopefully, we’ll meet again.
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Tips from the Makeup Gal
Top 3 Spring Fragrances
Once again we’ve entered a new equinox and it’s time for that change of fragrance. During the warmer months a lighter scent is more preferred because the heat can make a scent permeate throughout a room and seem suffocating. I’ve narrowed my top choices I’ve been wearing down to three and I think readers will be pleased as these are quite the variety.
1. "Honey and the Moon" by Tokyo Milk is among one of the many fragrances of this line and the scent is intoxicating with notes of sweet honey, sugared violet, jasmine, and sandalwood all crushed and distilled to perfection. Their Bon Bon Lip Balm in "Honey Blossom" is also great and nourishing on the lips and both smells and tastes yummy. I like wearing this fragrance with Italian Bath and Body’s Honey line of creams and shower gels. Check out the full line of Tokyo Milk products at beautyhabit.com.
2. Betsey Johnson’s own perfume named after her is a very sassy and vibrant scent that is both uplifting and youthful. The bottle itself looks like something from a fairy tale. Wearing makes you too want to go around doing back flips and cartwheels like she does prior to all her fashion shows. The notes consist of grapefruit, tangerine, blackcurrant berries, pear, freesia, Muguet lily of the valley, apple, cedarwood, sandalwood, amber, musk, and praline. The mixture is delightfully pleasing and puts a person in ‘high spirits’ while wearing.sephora.com, fragranceshop.com, or fine department stores.
3. "Fantasia de Fleurs" by Creed has been one of my favorites for years so it’s been in my collection for years. It’s very feminine for the wearer with bouquet of Bulgarian rose, Florentine iris, and an infusion of ambergris. Love, love, love this one. The House of Creed was founded many years ago and their perfumes and fine fragrances are made with the highest quality of ingredients. You’ll feel like a princess surrounded by your fantasy of flowers with Fantasia (parfumsraffy.com, fragrancenet.com).
Once again we’ve entered a new equinox and it’s time for that change of fragrance. During the warmer months a lighter scent is more preferred because the heat can make a scent permeate throughout a room and seem suffocating. I’ve narrowed my top choices I’ve been wearing down to three and I think readers will be pleased as these are quite the variety.
1. "Honey and the Moon" by Tokyo Milk is among one of the many fragrances of this line and the scent is intoxicating with notes of sweet honey, sugared violet, jasmine, and sandalwood all crushed and distilled to perfection. Their Bon Bon Lip Balm in "Honey Blossom" is also great and nourishing on the lips and both smells and tastes yummy. I like wearing this fragrance with Italian Bath and Body’s Honey line of creams and shower gels. Check out the full line of Tokyo Milk products at beautyhabit.com.
2. Betsey Johnson’s own perfume named after her is a very sassy and vibrant scent that is both uplifting and youthful. The bottle itself looks like something from a fairy tale. Wearing makes you too want to go around doing back flips and cartwheels like she does prior to all her fashion shows. The notes consist of grapefruit, tangerine, blackcurrant berries, pear, freesia, Muguet lily of the valley, apple, cedarwood, sandalwood, amber, musk, and praline. The mixture is delightfully pleasing and puts a person in ‘high spirits’ while wearing.sephora.com, fragranceshop.com, or fine department stores.
3. "Fantasia de Fleurs" by Creed has been one of my favorites for years so it’s been in my collection for years. It’s very feminine for the wearer with bouquet of Bulgarian rose, Florentine iris, and an infusion of ambergris. Love, love, love this one. The House of Creed was founded many years ago and their perfumes and fine fragrances are made with the highest quality of ingredients. You’ll feel like a princess surrounded by your fantasy of flowers with Fantasia (parfumsraffy.com, fragrancenet.com).
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Tips from the Makeup Gal
Luminous Complexion for Spring
Now that the weather is warming up and people are going outdoors a bit more it’s time for a boost for your complexion. You want your face to present a radiant luminous ‘glow’ and show off your beautiful smile. One of the many suggestions I make for people wanting that extra kick is skin luminizers. I have certain preferences that are easy to use and easily applied.
Napoleon Perdis "Liquid Veil" is one of my favorites because it can be easily mixed with moisturizer or foundation and applied to the skin. It can also be worn alone because it is a lightweight tint, yet it is highly pigmented with intense color concentration. Liquid Veil contains pomegranate extract which provides for antioxidant properties to protect skin from free radicals and environmental pollution. It comes in a pump dispenser allowing for the perfect amount of dispensation. For a ‘cooler’ effect I like to use the color "Moscow" which is a pink glow. The veil also comes in "London" (silver), "Houston" (gold), and "Buenos Aires" (bronze). (Target stores or npsetcosmetics.com)
For a warmer glow, I like Stila’s "All Over Shimmer" liquid luminizer in #3 gold. This is also a liquid that can be mixed with moisturizer or foundation or applied to cheekbones and eyebrows to highlight areas you want to show off. This has a brush applicator. (sephora.com or stila.com)
There are many varieties of luminizers. These two are the liquid ones I prefer to work with because of their smooth and soft sheen effect. Cream luminizers are preferable too and in the future I’ll highlight some new ones I’ve been working with that are super and have a glamorous look.
Now that the weather is warming up and people are going outdoors a bit more it’s time for a boost for your complexion. You want your face to present a radiant luminous ‘glow’ and show off your beautiful smile. One of the many suggestions I make for people wanting that extra kick is skin luminizers. I have certain preferences that are easy to use and easily applied.
Napoleon Perdis "Liquid Veil" is one of my favorites because it can be easily mixed with moisturizer or foundation and applied to the skin. It can also be worn alone because it is a lightweight tint, yet it is highly pigmented with intense color concentration. Liquid Veil contains pomegranate extract which provides for antioxidant properties to protect skin from free radicals and environmental pollution. It comes in a pump dispenser allowing for the perfect amount of dispensation. For a ‘cooler’ effect I like to use the color "Moscow" which is a pink glow. The veil also comes in "London" (silver), "Houston" (gold), and "Buenos Aires" (bronze). (Target stores or npsetcosmetics.com)
For a warmer glow, I like Stila’s "All Over Shimmer" liquid luminizer in #3 gold. This is also a liquid that can be mixed with moisturizer or foundation or applied to cheekbones and eyebrows to highlight areas you want to show off. This has a brush applicator. (sephora.com or stila.com)
There are many varieties of luminizers. These two are the liquid ones I prefer to work with because of their smooth and soft sheen effect. Cream luminizers are preferable too and in the future I’ll highlight some new ones I’ve been working with that are super and have a glamorous look.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Give Your Blush a Boost with Duwop Blush Booster
Tips from the Makeup Gal
Duwop Blush Booster is one of those products I discovered a few months ago and now I can’t be without it. I love to wear it alone just enough to give a little radiance to the skin. With a little blush booster on top of powder blush or cream blush, it immediately brings the color right back to the skin when the blush underneath starts to fade. There are four colors in the Blush Booster line and are the following:
1. "Apple" which is described as a soft shimmering rose. I describe it as pure pearlized rose glow, but goes on sheer once applied. This is my absolute favorite color of them all. It seems to go with any colors you’re wearing. Believe me folks, it is pretty. It also has a bit more color, although it isn’t dark in the least.
2. "Mango" is a shimmering warm apricot. It is probably next in line for depth, but as said earlier, they are all sheer because of their highlighting abilities. This one has a bit more of the color you want as if you’ve been in the gym working out.
3. "Pomegranate" is a shimmering coral. This is lighter than Mango. It is a slight coral, but not bright. Something very soft comes to mind.
4. "Watermelon" is a shimmering pink. This is probably the lightest of all the colors and contains less pigment. A similar colored highlighter could probably be purchased at a drugstore or department store, but the effect is very ethereal.
These Boosters can be worn alone or layered on top of regular blush. They act as a highlighter for the face and the blush you are wearing. When worn alone, it gives a glimmer of color resulting in a sheer subtle shine. Blush Booster contains Vitamins A and E, antioxidants, jojoba oil, and cucumber extract. These work to keep skin smooth, moisturized, and nourished.
Another Duwop product that works great in addition to this is "Doubleglow7" face balm which is a sheer luminous beige balm that can be worn over, under, or instead of foundation. It gives the face complete radiance with its illuminating pearls. This product is also very hydrating and nourishing for skin.(sephora.com or duwop.com)
Duwop Blush Booster is one of those products I discovered a few months ago and now I can’t be without it. I love to wear it alone just enough to give a little radiance to the skin. With a little blush booster on top of powder blush or cream blush, it immediately brings the color right back to the skin when the blush underneath starts to fade. There are four colors in the Blush Booster line and are the following:
1. "Apple" which is described as a soft shimmering rose. I describe it as pure pearlized rose glow, but goes on sheer once applied. This is my absolute favorite color of them all. It seems to go with any colors you’re wearing. Believe me folks, it is pretty. It also has a bit more color, although it isn’t dark in the least.
2. "Mango" is a shimmering warm apricot. It is probably next in line for depth, but as said earlier, they are all sheer because of their highlighting abilities. This one has a bit more of the color you want as if you’ve been in the gym working out.
3. "Pomegranate" is a shimmering coral. This is lighter than Mango. It is a slight coral, but not bright. Something very soft comes to mind.
4. "Watermelon" is a shimmering pink. This is probably the lightest of all the colors and contains less pigment. A similar colored highlighter could probably be purchased at a drugstore or department store, but the effect is very ethereal.
These Boosters can be worn alone or layered on top of regular blush. They act as a highlighter for the face and the blush you are wearing. When worn alone, it gives a glimmer of color resulting in a sheer subtle shine. Blush Booster contains Vitamins A and E, antioxidants, jojoba oil, and cucumber extract. These work to keep skin smooth, moisturized, and nourished.
Another Duwop product that works great in addition to this is "Doubleglow7" face balm which is a sheer luminous beige balm that can be worn over, under, or instead of foundation. It gives the face complete radiance with its illuminating pearls. This product is also very hydrating and nourishing for skin.(sephora.com or duwop.com)
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Lead in Lipstick – Should We Be Concerned?
Tips from the Makeup Gal:
The debate has been going on for years as to whether or not there is enough lead found in lipstick to cause lead poisoning or cancer. A products test by Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found 20 of 33 brand name lipsticks that contained detectable levels of lead ranging from .03 to 0.65 parts per million. The FDA supposedly has no set limit for lead in lipsticks but, it does have to regulate selections of dyes that manufacturers produce such as F&C RED #6. Lead builds up in the system over time and can affect most every organ in the body. It mainly affects the nervous system. Anything we wear or put against our lips is often ingested to a degree.
The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found lesser expensive brands such as Revlon had no detectable levels of lead whereas, some higher end brands contained higher levels. That’s not to say lead amounts were not found in drugstore brands though.
One theory to find out if your lipstick contains lead is to apply the lipstick to your hand and rub a "gold" ring on the lipstick. If the color changes to black, then the lipstick contains lead. Lipsticks that were tested in this category that were found to contain lead were brands such as Chanel, Shiseido, Clinique, Christian Dior, Lancome, Red Earth, Estee Lauder, and YSL, with YSL containing the highest amount. I tried this test with numerous lipsticks of my own. I tried 5 colors from the Clinique Color Surge line and detected no black. Other brands I tested were Besame, Merle Norman, and Jane Iredale with no lead containing results. Only 2 colors I tested immediately turned black and these were longer wearing shades that were deeply pigmented. Neither brand is in the list above. I tested approximately 30 to 35 different shades and brands of lipstick. Keep in mind this is a rudimentary test at best.
Supposedly, no human has contracted lead poisoning from lipstick but, how would one pinpoint and come to this conclusion is another question. The Mayo Clinic’s answer to the question of lead in lipstick is "you can paint your lips without worrying".
Kim Myers
The debate has been going on for years as to whether or not there is enough lead found in lipstick to cause lead poisoning or cancer. A products test by Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found 20 of 33 brand name lipsticks that contained detectable levels of lead ranging from .03 to 0.65 parts per million. The FDA supposedly has no set limit for lead in lipsticks but, it does have to regulate selections of dyes that manufacturers produce such as F&C RED #6. Lead builds up in the system over time and can affect most every organ in the body. It mainly affects the nervous system. Anything we wear or put against our lips is often ingested to a degree.
The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found lesser expensive brands such as Revlon had no detectable levels of lead whereas, some higher end brands contained higher levels. That’s not to say lead amounts were not found in drugstore brands though.
One theory to find out if your lipstick contains lead is to apply the lipstick to your hand and rub a "gold" ring on the lipstick. If the color changes to black, then the lipstick contains lead. Lipsticks that were tested in this category that were found to contain lead were brands such as Chanel, Shiseido, Clinique, Christian Dior, Lancome, Red Earth, Estee Lauder, and YSL, with YSL containing the highest amount. I tried this test with numerous lipsticks of my own. I tried 5 colors from the Clinique Color Surge line and detected no black. Other brands I tested were Besame, Merle Norman, and Jane Iredale with no lead containing results. Only 2 colors I tested immediately turned black and these were longer wearing shades that were deeply pigmented. Neither brand is in the list above. I tested approximately 30 to 35 different shades and brands of lipstick. Keep in mind this is a rudimentary test at best.
Supposedly, no human has contracted lead poisoning from lipstick but, how would one pinpoint and come to this conclusion is another question. The Mayo Clinic’s answer to the question of lead in lipstick is "you can paint your lips without worrying".
Kim Myers
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Tips from the Makeup Gal 2/26/09
A Fragrance for Everyone
Have you ever been in a room and someone in that room is wearing an obnoxious amount of perfume? You may feel nauseated if you don’t get out in time but, you know it would be rude especially in a professional environment. Many people have allergic reactions to different scents. Most of the time, these reactions usually occur from the floral or spicy variety. For instance, I love cinnamon and nutmeg but, if I apply it to my skin when wet, there will be a major allergic reaction. My friend, J.K. has horrible reactions to strong floral fragrances that permeate a room. Here I will provide a different approach to wearing fragrance in small amounts where the wearer controls the output. These scents are neither floral nor spicy.
Lush Cosmetics, a Canadian company, is filled with natural products, some vegan, and don’t affect the skin as harshly as products containing chemicals. Most all their products are unisex and customer reviews are available to read regarding each product. The little gems I’ll discuss are the solid perfumes that come in little tins that can easily be thrown into a purse or pocket if the heat is not too extreme.
"Honey I Washed The Kids" (4 ½ out of 5) is for the sweet tooth. The scent is pure honey and toffee but, isn’t overwhelming. I love anything containing the smell of honey so this is the ‘sweet’ one for me.
"Go Green" is a total non-floral with notes of grapefruit, neroli oil, smoky vetivert, fennel, thyme, and cedar wood. Many men like this one because it’s earthy and provides an invigorating jolt of inspiration. It received 5 out of 5 stars.
"Olive Branch" is probably my favorite for both men and women alike. (4 ¾ out of 5) One reviewer stated "I don’t like scents that stay in the room 30 minutes after the person leaves". This was their choice too. It’s not fruity or floral, but contains notes of mandarin oranges, olive oil, bergamot, and lemon oil. This is a calming and relaxing fragrance. On my skin, I detect a hint of something "pine" which is nice and it is definitely woodsy and herbal with a hint of citrus. This one is a classic. Olive Branch also has a shower gel bearing the same name. These little solids don’t take much and they last a long time in the container. At $12.35 that’s a steal(lush.com or (888) 733-5874). We can’t control what other people wear but, at least we can censor our own tastes in fragrance.
Kim Myers - tipsfromthemakeupgal.blogspot.com
Have you ever been in a room and someone in that room is wearing an obnoxious amount of perfume? You may feel nauseated if you don’t get out in time but, you know it would be rude especially in a professional environment. Many people have allergic reactions to different scents. Most of the time, these reactions usually occur from the floral or spicy variety. For instance, I love cinnamon and nutmeg but, if I apply it to my skin when wet, there will be a major allergic reaction. My friend, J.K. has horrible reactions to strong floral fragrances that permeate a room. Here I will provide a different approach to wearing fragrance in small amounts where the wearer controls the output. These scents are neither floral nor spicy.
Lush Cosmetics, a Canadian company, is filled with natural products, some vegan, and don’t affect the skin as harshly as products containing chemicals. Most all their products are unisex and customer reviews are available to read regarding each product. The little gems I’ll discuss are the solid perfumes that come in little tins that can easily be thrown into a purse or pocket if the heat is not too extreme.
"Honey I Washed The Kids" (4 ½ out of 5) is for the sweet tooth. The scent is pure honey and toffee but, isn’t overwhelming. I love anything containing the smell of honey so this is the ‘sweet’ one for me.
"Go Green" is a total non-floral with notes of grapefruit, neroli oil, smoky vetivert, fennel, thyme, and cedar wood. Many men like this one because it’s earthy and provides an invigorating jolt of inspiration. It received 5 out of 5 stars.
"Olive Branch" is probably my favorite for both men and women alike. (4 ¾ out of 5) One reviewer stated "I don’t like scents that stay in the room 30 minutes after the person leaves". This was their choice too. It’s not fruity or floral, but contains notes of mandarin oranges, olive oil, bergamot, and lemon oil. This is a calming and relaxing fragrance. On my skin, I detect a hint of something "pine" which is nice and it is definitely woodsy and herbal with a hint of citrus. This one is a classic. Olive Branch also has a shower gel bearing the same name. These little solids don’t take much and they last a long time in the container. At $12.35 that’s a steal(lush.com or (888) 733-5874). We can’t control what other people wear but, at least we can censor our own tastes in fragrance.
Kim Myers - tipsfromthemakeupgal.blogspot.com
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Dry Shampoo Comes to the Rescue
Technology is so advanced. Your bad hair days can now be turned into good hair days with the use of something as simple as dry shampoo. Can you believe for many centuries washing the hair was considered to be an act of pure necessity? Well, bathing was also. Can you imagine the stench? At some points in our history, putting water on the hair to wash it was considered to be a health hazard. I suppose this was akin to the idea of the world being flat.
Dry Shampoos have multiples uses such as if you’re running behind and late for work, just work a little in and “walla” you’re good to go. Those who have had physical limitations or medical conditions and cannot properly wash benefit from these in hospitals. It boils down to the fact that this shampoo is just merely “convenient” and is not time-consuming. It does its job by absorbing oil and leaving the hair clean, soft, fresh, and ready for re-styling. Be sure to read the directions because some of the powders come in spray form and some come in tubes of powder. Start at the roots and scalp where oil is heaviest and work your way to the ends by massaging throughout the hair. You can restyle regularly or blow out with a blow dryer. No water is required. The shampoos are wonderful for de-greasing in between washes.
The following are a few brands to choose from in order to find your favorite:
Rene Furterer Naturia dry shampoo
Oscar Blandi Pronto dry shampoo
Aveda Pure Abundance hair potion (for a more matte texture)
Klorane Gentle Shampoo with oat milk
Salon Grafix spray powder shampoos for a variety of hair colors
Samy Dry Spray Shampoo with oat extract (this is my fave)
Most all dry shampoos contain similar ingredients such as rice, silica, cornstarch powders, clay, oat extract, and peppermint oils, caraway, and basil to soften.
(drugstore.com, sephora.com, Aveda salons, hsn.com)
Kim Myers
tipsfromthemakeupgal.blogspot.com
Dry Shampoos have multiples uses such as if you’re running behind and late for work, just work a little in and “walla” you’re good to go. Those who have had physical limitations or medical conditions and cannot properly wash benefit from these in hospitals. It boils down to the fact that this shampoo is just merely “convenient” and is not time-consuming. It does its job by absorbing oil and leaving the hair clean, soft, fresh, and ready for re-styling. Be sure to read the directions because some of the powders come in spray form and some come in tubes of powder. Start at the roots and scalp where oil is heaviest and work your way to the ends by massaging throughout the hair. You can restyle regularly or blow out with a blow dryer. No water is required. The shampoos are wonderful for de-greasing in between washes.
The following are a few brands to choose from in order to find your favorite:
Rene Furterer Naturia dry shampoo
Oscar Blandi Pronto dry shampoo
Aveda Pure Abundance hair potion (for a more matte texture)
Klorane Gentle Shampoo with oat milk
Salon Grafix spray powder shampoos for a variety of hair colors
Samy Dry Spray Shampoo with oat extract (this is my fave)
Most all dry shampoos contain similar ingredients such as rice, silica, cornstarch powders, clay, oat extract, and peppermint oils, caraway, and basil to soften.
(drugstore.com, sephora.com, Aveda salons, hsn.com)
Kim Myers
tipsfromthemakeupgal.blogspot.com
Saturday, February 7, 2009
No Dread for Makeup in Bed
Over the years haven’t we all been told at some time or another not to wear our makeup to bed? Well, I can say for sure it’s something I’ve never done because it was always drilled into my head but, for some women that is not an option. Just the thought of going to bed without makeup is like bearing the sacrificial lamb to them. Ramy Cosmetics has conquered part of that problem with a product called “Sleep in Beauty”.
This is a tinted moisturizer cream ($48) that can be applied as a foundation but, can be worn to bed unlike other foundations. The cream is actually a treatment containing 2% salicylic acid which acts as an agent to prevent breakouts and diminish blemishes. This won’t affect acne-prone or sensitive skin types. Instead, it is a night cream for all skin types. The product is loaded with anti-age defying ingredients and contains an anti-wrinkle treatment. Your skin will look positively radiant.
Included in “Sleep in Beauty” are peptides that smooth away rough skin, prevent redness, and increase collagen to plump up skin. It also contains ‘Matrixyl’ which activates the skin in preventing wrinkles and fine lines. Add to this a tinted lip balm with treatment and you should be set. No one needs a full face of gunky makeup in bed. Think of all the pillows you’d have to wash. “Sleep in Beauty” leaves no pillow residue. The product would be applied as you would apply any foundation or wrinkle cream. I also apply it over moisturizer on some occasions. The shades come in light, medium, and dark. The consistency is very light and comes with an attached spatula for sanitary application.
This is a tinted moisturizer cream ($48) that can be applied as a foundation but, can be worn to bed unlike other foundations. The cream is actually a treatment containing 2% salicylic acid which acts as an agent to prevent breakouts and diminish blemishes. This won’t affect acne-prone or sensitive skin types. Instead, it is a night cream for all skin types. The product is loaded with anti-age defying ingredients and contains an anti-wrinkle treatment. Your skin will look positively radiant.
Included in “Sleep in Beauty” are peptides that smooth away rough skin, prevent redness, and increase collagen to plump up skin. It also contains ‘Matrixyl’ which activates the skin in preventing wrinkles and fine lines. Add to this a tinted lip balm with treatment and you should be set. No one needs a full face of gunky makeup in bed. Think of all the pillows you’d have to wash. “Sleep in Beauty” leaves no pillow residue. The product would be applied as you would apply any foundation or wrinkle cream. I also apply it over moisturizer on some occasions. The shades come in light, medium, and dark. The consistency is very light and comes with an attached spatula for sanitary application.
Also, try Ramy lipstick in “Goddess”. It’s a light to medium shimmery pink shade with a bit of interwoven coral. It’s a limited edition shade for summer that was launched for Laurie Graff’s new book “The Shiksa Syndrome”. Some proceeds of this book will go to cancercare.org. You’ll find this lipstick quite moisturizing with avocado oils (hsn.com, ramy.com, drugstore.com).
Kim Myers
Friday, February 6, 2009
Tips from the Makeup Gal
By Kim Myers
Geisha by Aroma M – The Whimsical Roll-On Perfume
This week the focus will be on the spring/summery fragrances of Geisha by Aroma M. I call these little babies "pocket perfumes". Don’t let their small size fool you though. They are pure concentrated long lasting perfume oils.
Geisha "Pink" is probably the most girly girl of all the Aroma M scents with its flaming pink blossoms perfect for anyone who loves pink or wearing pink. It’s for that "Betsey Johnson" kind of gal. You know the one. This fragrance is a flirty concoction of sugared plum, tart orange, and vanilla. It’s a very bright scent indeed if you think of it in that respect. It reminds me of melons and citrus blended with grapefruit.
As mentioned before, I’m a violet kind of gal and Geisha "Violet" is my favorite for the summer with notes of lilac and Japanese lotus mixed with bitter chocolate. Imagine it as a quilt of ethereal veil of beauty. This is a refreshingly cool violet enhanced by lotus flower topped with just a hint of chocolate but, not cloyingly sweet. I would describe it as a "dignified original" and think of it as my pocketed little Japanese garden in a bottle.
Geisha "Blue" is the calm, quiet, magical one. The significant ingredient here is the peaceful and tranquil blend of blue chamomile (soothing properties), green tea, leafy greens, jasmine, and honey(which provides the sweetness it deserves). Being that blue is my favorite color there is just something about this one that calls to me. I like peace in my life and this is the one I always reach for in time of need.
Geisha "Green", the last of the group is probably the coolest (as in a cool green sort of way) scent of them all. This green is like an aroma of a drink, or per se an "aperitif". Its tart licorice-flavored liqueur, slightly bordering Sambuca, but not, is sugared up with black currant, mandarin, violet and seduced with hints of amber and tonka bean. As Aroma M tells us "absinthe is a legendary creativity enhancer which inspired the likes of Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, Hemingway, not to forget all of whom had their own demons. "Absinthe was known in Belle Epoque Paris as ‘the green fairy’ because it cast such a narcotic effect at cocktail time it came to be known as l-heure verte (the green hour) because of its dazzling green color, according to Aroma M." (luckyscent.com)
Geisha by Aroma M – The Whimsical Roll-On Perfume
This week the focus will be on the spring/summery fragrances of Geisha by Aroma M. I call these little babies "pocket perfumes". Don’t let their small size fool you though. They are pure concentrated long lasting perfume oils.
Geisha "Pink" is probably the most girly girl of all the Aroma M scents with its flaming pink blossoms perfect for anyone who loves pink or wearing pink. It’s for that "Betsey Johnson" kind of gal. You know the one. This fragrance is a flirty concoction of sugared plum, tart orange, and vanilla. It’s a very bright scent indeed if you think of it in that respect. It reminds me of melons and citrus blended with grapefruit.
As mentioned before, I’m a violet kind of gal and Geisha "Violet" is my favorite for the summer with notes of lilac and Japanese lotus mixed with bitter chocolate. Imagine it as a quilt of ethereal veil of beauty. This is a refreshingly cool violet enhanced by lotus flower topped with just a hint of chocolate but, not cloyingly sweet. I would describe it as a "dignified original" and think of it as my pocketed little Japanese garden in a bottle.
Geisha "Blue" is the calm, quiet, magical one. The significant ingredient here is the peaceful and tranquil blend of blue chamomile (soothing properties), green tea, leafy greens, jasmine, and honey(which provides the sweetness it deserves). Being that blue is my favorite color there is just something about this one that calls to me. I like peace in my life and this is the one I always reach for in time of need.
Geisha "Green", the last of the group is probably the coolest (as in a cool green sort of way) scent of them all. This green is like an aroma of a drink, or per se an "aperitif". Its tart licorice-flavored liqueur, slightly bordering Sambuca, but not, is sugared up with black currant, mandarin, violet and seduced with hints of amber and tonka bean. As Aroma M tells us "absinthe is a legendary creativity enhancer which inspired the likes of Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, Hemingway, not to forget all of whom had their own demons. "Absinthe was known in Belle Epoque Paris as ‘the green fairy’ because it cast such a narcotic effect at cocktail time it came to be known as l-heure verte (the green hour) because of its dazzling green color, according to Aroma M." (luckyscent.com)
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Geisha by Aroma M Roll On Perfume Oils
By Kim Myers
The next time you purchase a perfume and want one that really last, try Geisha by Aroma M. These little concentrated oils are perfect for tucking inside your pocket and applying on the go. They are very long-lasting and all smell good. The packaging even resembles a Geisha type print.
The next time you purchase a perfume and want one that really last, try Geisha by Aroma M. These little concentrated oils are perfect for tucking inside your pocket and applying on the go. They are very long-lasting and all smell good. The packaging even resembles a Geisha type print.
Geisha “Rouge” (red) is the highly energetic one of the bunch. There’s no floral in this one folks yet it is highly steamy, spicy, and bold. Wearer should have a strong personality and awareness of self. This is great for autumn and winter. It reminds me of red hots and hot toddies. On my skin I really can detect the cinnamon, and the star anise lets the licorice odor come through bringing forth a striking combination. Notes consists of tonka bean, tobacco, vanilla, sandalwood, cinnamon, star anise (which gives it that licorice bump), and clove which is reminiscent of Christmas to me.
Geisha “Marron” (brown) is the newest scent of the bunch and is thought of as an autumnal scent considering its composition of chestnut blossoms, but is also reminiscent of spring due to the combination of mixed white flowers and brown musk. This is another fave I must say because not enough credit is given to “brown” fragrances that represent things such as overripe fruit or the edge of, as Aroma M describes, ‘seductive decay’. Think of fruits in items such as fruit cakes that must be fermented to get that perfect “smell” and “taste” or overripe plantains for frying to give off that perfect aroma. Yes, “Marron” stands on its own with notes of grapefruit, mandarin, bergamot, muguet, Japanese magnolia, and chestnut blossom (white flower).
Geisha “Blanc” (white) is the innocent one of the cluster. The wearer is immediately transported to a clean warm cozy laundered blanket fresh out of the dryer. It is layered in a soapy, powdery, simplicity. There’s nothing simple about it though. This is one of Aroma M’s best sellers and is one of the lightest and most feminine. Notes consist of lychee, jasmine, hyacinth, and ylang ylang.
Geisha “Noire” (black) is the perfect fragrance for a winter night. It is so distinguished and 1930’s. I feel like I should be wearing a cloche hat and platforms with a snazzy dress and a dark lipstick applied to lips such as “Sin Noir” by Julie Hewett. Noire is for the “diva”. Think “film noir” and the wearer is bold, beautiful, ravishing, and dressed to a T. It’s surrounded by seduction, mystery, and danger, which I suppose is why I like it so much. It reminds me of trouble. Notes consist of black amber, sandalwood, and tonka bean.
Next week I’ll finish up with the remaining four. Each of them is great for spring/summer wear and just as enjoyable as the former. All can be purchased at www.luckyscent.com.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Be Sweet to Your Feet – Foot Solutions for Dry Skin
During the winter months it’s cold outside and the air inside is dry heat. Both of these conditions can wreak havoc on your skin. Your feet should not be neglected just because you may not be wearing sandals the entire season.
In a milder climate where the air is not cold on a daily basis I like Sally Hansen’s “Cracked Heel Foot Lotion”. This is a fairly light cream that can be used just about any time and will produce desired results for feet that are a bit flaky and dry.
Going a step further to make feet even smoother, O.P.I.’s “Green Tea Scrub” is a great exfoliator to prepare the feet for O.P.I.’s “White Tea Massage” lotion for feet. Both products smell great and work well together. O.P.I. has always been a forerunner when it comes to manicures and pedicures. Both products are packed with anti-oxidants and will help repair skin damage.
Another product that works well for feet but, is not necessarily made specifically for the feet is the “Lush” massage bar called “Fever”. This is a bar for the body with a creamy consistency that is intended to be used for massages which is why it’s lightly scented with sandalwood, rose, and jasmine. I like to rub the bar onto my feet and put on a pair of socks and go. The bar is just light enough that you don’t feel greasy or moisture after applying (lush.com or 888-733-5874).
The best product I’ve found yet for the feet and hands is by Sheaterra Organics. This is probably most effectively used when it’s very cold or if you’re on your feet a lot and they take a beating. It’s not a product made for feet but, once again, it is great. “Frankincense and Myrrh” is my favorite. It’s almost solid in the jar but, once you start rubbing it the texture turns into a buttery consistency. Once applied, it’s best to put a pair of socks on for a few hours or overnight. This really helps to make the skin smooth. The only drawback for some may be the scent because it is very earthy and resinous which I quite like. The fragrance is woodsy and natural and can be used with the “Frankincense and Myrrh” body oil spray which is a bit on the sweeter side of woodsy. This African healing butter is deep penetrating and has been used for centuries for its healing properties. Both the body oil spray and shea butter are $12 each and will provide multiple usage because only a small bit is needed (sheaterra.com or 877-427-6627, b-glowing.com).
For further comments or questions you may visit tipsfromthemakeupgal.blogspot.com.
Monday, January 12, 2009
For the Man who wants the Year Round Tan
I recently had a gentleman inquire about how best to have a tanned “glow” in the winter months without having to get in the sun. First, it’s not a good idea to get in the sun at any time for purposes of getting darker, although sunlight is good for the body. Be sure to always wear an SPF of 15 or above when outside. Some of the best tanning products I would recommend for men are the same ones used on women. Essentially, the same product ingredient is in all self-tanners that gives the deepened glow. The option is whether or not you want to use a gel, mousse, cream, spray, or tan towelette.
Before using a self-tanner you must first wash and exfoliate the face and body to get rid of dead skin that may cause blotchiness when the tanner is applied. When skin is dry apply the tanner using a circular motion instead of up and down to avoid streaks. Stay away from elbows, knees, and ankles. Always wash hands thoroughly afterwards to avoid the “orange” hands look. Wait for the allotted time on the container before getting dressed.
If you are a beginner and are especially pale, I’d recommend starting out with a gradual daily tanning moisturizer such as “Jergen’s Natural Glow” or “Loreal Sublime Glow Daily Moisturizer”. These are my two favorites. These products can be used on a daily basis and one won’t see streaking or discoloration that doesn’t look abnormal. “Loreal” comes in fair and medium shades so it’s very hard to get too dark. The fragrance is a bit nicer than Jergens and it provides for a better color. What I like mostly is that it last up to a week. The Loreal Sublime also comes in a microfine mist.
My favorite self-tanning towelette is also “Loreal Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Towelettes”. These tend to cover the face and body nicely when applied evenly and also give a natural “glow”.
“Tan Towel” is another favorite towelette used by many and always gets good reviews. I know one woman who uses this religiously. I’ve used it before and you do seem to get more for your money due to the number of towels in a pack whereas, in “Loreal” you only get six. Tan Towels can be purchased through hsn.com.
One of the number one gel self-tanners is “Clarins Self-Tanning Instant Gel”. It is one of the best tinted gels and it gives a natural golden tan. Usually, Clarins will have samples of all their skin care and self-tanners available so go to a Clarins counter and ask for one at Dillards or Macys.
“Lancome Flash Bronzer” is another department store favorite. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but it is a good “mousse” self-tanner that is easily applied.
“Model Co. Tan Airbrush In A Can” is a very popular spray that many actors and actresses have made popular. I’ve not used this one but, it is rated highly.
A couple others worth trying are “Clinique Self-Tanning Body Mist” which is very fast setting therefore, allowing getting dressed easier and “Neutrogena Instant Bronze” which also provides for a quick bronzed glow.
Just a small hint for you men out there, PALE IS IN FOR MEN! Ever since all the hip about vampires and vampire movies that have been becoming so popular women are seeing pale as the new “sexy”. Don’t ask me why, I happen to like people the way they are supposed to look but, you know how it is when something new hits Hollywood. Pale is cool. There’s nothing wrong with the look as long as it’s not the deathly pale look as in “grey”.
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