Thursday, August 30, 2012

My Current Obsession: Clarisonic Mia*

Ever try something new and become instantly obsessed? It can happen with a new makeup product, a jacket you just purchased, or even food, and it happens to me all the time!

Ever since my good friend, and client, Jene Luciani gave me a Clarisonic Mia Skin Cleansing System for my birthday in July - and yes, I have been completely obsessed.

The cleanser that is included gently exfoliates the skin quickly and efficiently, leaving it ready for your face moisturizer. You don't want to overuse or keep the brush on one section of the skin for too long; the bristles can feel too rough on the skin.

No matter the skin type, this cleansing system does it's job - and very well too!



Sold at Sephora.com

Wednesday, August 29, 2012

To BB, or not to BB, that is the question...

If you haven't noticed, BB Creams are all the rage right now. Created in Asia, these products claim to combine skin care and makeup in one simple step to give the result of perfect skin every time.
In the words of Maybelline, "for instant skin wow!"

Is this true? Can one product give perfect skin results to every type of skin?
The answer is - I don't see how that could be possible, but I truly don't know, because I'm not a scientist and I don't have all different skin types.

In my opinion, these BB Creams seem similar to tinted moisturizers. While tinted moisturizers are exactly what they say they are - moisturizers with a little bit of foundation mixed in for a tint. I feel that with certain skin types, like my own (which is dry), I need more hydration than what the tinted moisturizers offer. This doesn't mean I can't use them, I just hydrate first then apply the tinted moisturizer on top (I love Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer).

I feel the same way with these BB Creams. Everyone has their own skin and specific needs for it, therefore I don't think it is possible for one product to be perfect on everyone when it comes to skin care and skin types; while with lipstick that may be true, not skin care.

This doesn't mean you can't try the product, please do. If it works for you, then perfect! However if it doesn't, that doesn't mean there is anything wrong with your skin or the product. It means that your skins needs weren't met and you need to re-evaluate the products you are using.


Wednesday, August 8, 2012

One Bold Feature A Day, Keeps the Beauty Fashion Police Away!

There are so many colorful trends in style right now with makeup, but if you go too far, you may be placed in Beauty Fashion Police Jail!

How to create that one bold look, and make it one to remember!


Bold Lips


Bold Lips are always in style, it's just how you pump up that pout that changes. Are you looking for that signature bold red? or maybe a deep plum for a vampy look? No matter which color you choose, remember to keep the rest of your face more on the nude side so you don't go overboard.
The above photo has the model in a fantastic bright coral tone that compliments her hair and eye color...gorgeous!



Bold Eye Liner



When experimenting with colorful eye liners, you want to make sure it doesn't clash with the rest of your makeup, as well as your hair and eye color. Navy's, Plums, and Green tones are a fun way to brighten up those eyes, while also not going too far out of your comfort zone.
Notice how in the above photo the model just has some mascara and slight eye makeup? It makes the liner stand out even more! Love it!


Bold Cheeks



Blush is one of my favorite makeup products! It can give any look that extra "oomph", but placement has to be correct - check out my previous blog What's your face shape got to do with it? to see what placement is best for your face shape. Applying it in the correct spot will accentuate cheek bones and make the face look slimmer. You will be surprised what this one product can do!



Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Corals, and Golds, and Blues, Oh My!

No matter what time of the year it is, when asked what summer reminds them of, almost everyone thinks of Luau-themed parties, and anything to do with water. Pools, Beaches, Boating, Snorkeling, and much more.

When it comes to the makeup trends for summer, there are always some trends that come back year-to-year. Bright fun colors, coral and peach tones, sea-foam colored clothing, etc.

Since summer is almost half over - I know, I don't want to think of it that way either - lets get your makeup trends all in order so your August makeup will be trendy and perfect!





If you aren't into super bold colors, coral lipsticks are perfect. There are so many different shades of coral that finding the perfect one can be done easily. Department stores are great for that because you can try them on the inner side of your wrist. Don't apply straight to your lips unless cleaned thoroughly with alcohol, you never know who tried that lipstick recently! You can also return it if it's not exactly what you were looking for. Buy a few shades and play at home, then return the ones you don't like.




Natural, coral and gold tones are great for the eyes during the summer months. Looking sun-kissed and bronzed is trendy, looking too-dark or orange is not!
**Note!
Remember to stick too one trend, you don't want super bronzed and gold eyes and florescent coral lipstick - that is a no-no! Stick to one, and done!









If you want to try something even more bold...use blue and green tones around the eye...





...but remember to keep the rest of the skin and face classic - nude lips and a light cheek compliment this look.