Showing posts with label makeup. Show all posts
Showing posts with label makeup. Show all posts

Saturday, November 2, 2013

First Impression: Arbonne Products



DISCLAIMER: I was recently contacted to do a review of Arbonne products.  Let me start by saying that this is NOT a sponsored post.  I'm aware that many out there function under the belief that reviews like this are ALWAYS sponsored and thus are not 100% truthful.  I cannot speak for other bloggers or beauty gurus out there.  I CAN, however, tell you that while this may be true in certain situations, it is not true for me.  I blog as a past time, a hobby, and as a stress relief from my career (which I will not disclose because a girl's gotta keep a few secrets here).  I blog to share with you all what I've been enjoying on the makeup and skincare front so that we can benefit from one another.  Rest assure my opinions are completely my own, affected by nothing other than my personal experience with a particular product.

PROS
In general, what I DO appreciate about this line is that the products are formulated without harmful ingredients such as mineral oil and parabens.  This line boasts to be botanically based and hypoallergenic.

Many people are under the mistaken belief that because certain ingredients are natural, such as mineral oil and talc, they are safe.  WRONG.  Being "natural" doesn't preclude it from being harmful.  The two are not mutually exclusive.  In fact, while mineral oil (aka paraffinum liquidum) is natural, it has been linked to carcinogenic effects.  I wrote a blog post a while back discussing the various ingredients I watch out for when trying a new product.  It may be worth your while to read that post (click HERE) to understand why I'm such an obsessive monster when it comes to trying out new products.  Believe it or not, after I educated myself about the various harmful ingredients cosmetic companies use, I went through a purge with my makeup and got rid of a ton of products.

Another pro to the line: the packaging.  The packaging for every product is just beautiful.  I like that they're mostly pump or squeeze bottles as this promotes good hygiene practice.  Looking at the packaging, you expect quality high-end products.

As an animal lover, I also appreciate that this line is vegan certified, cruelty free, and free from animal testing.  So let's see how these products actually performed...



Arbonne Makeup Primer
This primer looks and feels like the Smashbox primer.  It's silky, a little goes a long way, and is fragrance free, which is great for those sensitive to smells.  I used one pump, and it was enough to cover my entire face.  While this primer lasts a good 6 hours, my nose was shiny after the 6 hour mark.  I have normal to combination skin so it doesn't surprise me that my nose became shiny.  However, the purpose of a primer is to keep makeup in place so those with oilier skin may have a bit of a problem with longevity.  While this product isn't advertised as mattefying, it has a matte finish upon application and does not leave your skin oily.  After a week's use, I was happy to see this product did not break me out.


SEA SOURCE MUD MASK
My first thought when I applied this to my face: THIS SMELLS GREAT!  I'm not a fanatic when it comes to smells (scents don't usually bother me), but I loved how fresh this mask smelled during application.  The smell indeed was a bit reminiscent of the sea.  The mud mask is like any other charcoal mud mask in color: charcoal gray.  It easily applied to my face like a cream.  The tingling sensation was actually enjoyable and did not cause any pain or stinging.  However, it's on the drying side.  I have normal to combination skin, and it left even my oily areas (the t-zone) tight and dry.  Even after I applied the RE9 Advanced Intensive Renewal Serum, my skin was still tight and dry.  As for its effectiveness, unfortunately, it did not clear my blackheads as much as I was hoping and I still had small bumps on my forehead.  While you should normally give new skincare products about 2 weeks to determine their effectiveness, I am especially harder to please when it comes to mud masks because of  GlamGlow's Super Mud Clearing Treatment.  I use GlamGlow's mud mask as the measuring stick for all mud masks out there simply because GlamGlow gives INSTANT results: blackheads are gone while skin is left feeling soft, supple, and hydrated.  Hence, while this Sea Source Mud Mask was enjoyable given its smell and tingling sensation, I will still shell out $69 for GlamGlow's Mud Mask.


RE9 ADVANCED INTENSIVE RENEWAL SERUM
I applied this serum after using the Sea Source Mud Mask.  It is lightweight and quickly absorbs into the skin.  However, it isn't as hydrating as I prefer a serum to be.  I was indifferent to serums until I began using Caudalie's Vinoperfect Radiance Serum a month ago.  Even after I've scrubbed my face with a scrub, cleansed it with my Clarisonic, used an exfoliating mask, Caudalie's Vinoperfect Serum was so hydrating, despite being lightweight, that it can also double function as a moisturizer.


INTELLIGENCE NOT-SO-BASIC REJUVENATING CREAM
This cream was THE answer to my complaint that the Sea Source Mud Mask was over-drying and the serum not being adequately hydrating.  This rejuvenating cream was like a spa in a jar!  This thick and creamy moisturizer was oh so luxurious that it was a complete treat to use.  My skin was greedily drinking up the moisture this cream provides.  It did not leave my skin greasy, but it does leave your skin sticky for about an hour after application.  This sticky feeling, however, doesn't bother me at all.  The next morning, my skin was soft, supple, and hydrated.  I'm even more impressed with this product because of the fact that it restored the hydration I lost from the mud mask...and then some.  I know this is a night cream but I can almost see this doubling as a primer for those with dry skin.  Getting multiple use out of a product is always a huge plus!


RE9 Eye Cream
As far as eye creams go, I prefer mine thicker for the night time and lightweight for the day time.  I'd classify this eye cream as a thicker one.  Like the Rejuvenating Cream, it's thick, creamy, and luxurious upon application.  While I can't speak to whether or not it helps reduce dark circles (since this is merely a first impression review and I don't really have bad dark circles to be able to notice) and whether it minimizes wrinkles (I've been blessed so far with a youthful appearance despite my whopping early thirties), I CAN speak to the fact that it does feel hydrating.  By the next morning, my orbital area still feels supple, soft, and hydrated.  Caffeine is one of the listed ingredients in this so while it isn't advertised as having an instant brightener, the caffeine will help make you look less tired pretty quickly.   While this eye cream IS on the thicker side, it's not so thick that my under eye concealer slips and is unable to stay put underneath my eyes.  Thus, you can definitely use this as your daytime eye cream.  Take caution, though, my oily monsters.  Depending on how oily you are, you may or may not want to use this during the daytime.  What I absolutely love about this eye cream is that after 7 ingredients, you see 15 plant based extracts listed in the ingredients list.  HELLO!! LOVE!


RE9 Smoothing Facial Cleanser
I applied one pump of this onto my Clarisonic and let the Clarisonic do its magic.  While it does feel smooth even as I rinsed it off my face, my skin was left feeling very dry and tight.  I initially used this cleanser after I used the mask so I used it again the next morning after my face was hydrated with the rejuvenating cream.  Unfortunately, it still left my skin tight and dry.  Given that the rejuvenating night cream restored moisture into my skin after the drying effects of the mud mask, I'd say this cleanser is the reason for the tight dry feeling on my skin.  I definitely don't recommend this for people with dry skin despite the fact that this cleanser is advertised for all skin types.  The good news about this cleanser is that it does not contain SLS, an irritant.  (Read more about the use of sulfates and their adverse effects HERE)  I found this to be surprising since the cleanser lathers up quite well without the presence of SLS.  If you have oily skin, this cleanser may be the one for you.


FC5 Exfoliating New Cell Scrub
A cream formula with tiny granules that you can use on a daily basis, this scrub is advertised to be infused with antioxidants that help restore and rejuvenate the skin to yield a more youthful appearance.  I like that there are numerous fruit oils (bergamot, mandarin orange, sandalwood, lime, orange, to name a few) in this scrub thus keeping to the product's promise of being infused with plenty of antioxidants and being botanically based.  The creamy texture feels very nice on the skin.  The product warns of possible feelings of tingling in the skin that may last up to 2 hours.  However, I didn't experience this at all.  It was quite pleasant to use.  I skipped using a cleanser after this scrub to see how well it cleansed my skin.  The cotton pad I used to apply the RE9 Advanced Regenerating Toner was pretty clean.  Thumbs up for effectiveness!  However, while this product was certainly effective in removing the grime, dirt, and dead skin cells on my face, thus leaving it squeaky clean, it did leave my face a bit dry.  It didn't leave my face as dry as the cleanser but compared to other scrubs I've used, this definitely isn't as hydrating.  Those with oily skin may very well love this scrub and may, in fact, be able to use this everyday.  Those with normal skin may wish to use this about 3 times a week.  I'd recommend those with dry skin to use this more sparingly.


RE9 Advanced Regenerating Toner
I really like the citrus scent of this toner.  The scent is great to wake you up in the morning.  While this is advertised to be used as a mist, I apply all toners with a cotton round.  Because I was only able to run a test drive with this product for about a week, I cannot speak to whether or not it truly does help with the turnover of skin cells.  If you want a toner rich in anti-oxidants, Vitamin A (great for blemish prone skin), Vitamin C (natural skin brightener and collagen promoter), and Vitamin E (fights free radicals in your skin thus great for anti-aging), you should definitely give this a try.



RE9 Advanced Restorative Day Creme SPF 20
In general, I like the moisturizers in this skincare line.  The day creme is no different.  Hydrating but doesn't leave your skin oily, this moisturizer has the added benefit of SPF 20 protection.  I can always use some SPF protection since some of my foundations do not contain SPF.  However, while this is a good day cream, I'd caution use of this day cream if you are the subject of flash photography.  I find that products with SPF higher than 15 tend to give a flashback (the white cast you see on your face in photos).  

Overall, this is a solid skin care line.  You will need to test out the various products in order to best find the ones that suit your skin.  The Arbonne consultant will be able to help you pick and choose the products that will best suit your skin.

CONS
This line is not readily accessible at places such as Sephora, Ulta, and or even the drug store.  I like knowing that when I run out of one of my beloved skin products, I can just jump into the car and head to my nearest Ulta or Sephora to stock up.  The flip side to this is that you make contact with the Arbonne consultant who WANTS to give you face time to explain each products in further details.

I was not provided with the products in their original boxed packaging.  Thus, I do not know whether or not the ingredients are listed on the outside packaging (they aren't listed on the actual products themselves).  I would assume so as that is FDA required.  If you are an ingredients fanatic like me, you will be frustrated in your efforts locating an ingredients list online.  While some consumers are bothered about this, cosmetic companies aren't required to publish ingredients online.  They are only required to do so on the packaging.  However, not having ingredient information readily accessible may prevent some consumers from even giving this skin care line a try.

The Arbonne consultant I dealt with, Lori, was more than happy to give me the ingredients list for each product when I requested.  

If you're interested in purchasing any of these products or to just obtain more information, Lori will be more than happy to oblige!  You can contact Lori via:
Website: Lorimyers.myarbonne.com
Email: LoriAMyers@me.com
Facebook page : Arbonne Lori Myers Independent Consultant

Saturday, October 26, 2013

Makeup for Nicole: Sexy Vampire


Ok so I've been a little remiss about posting Halloween makeup tutorials.  I may be the only person out there who isn't into Halloween...but after doing Nicole's makeup, well, I may now be a convert.  Unfortunately by the time I finished her makeup, the sun had gone down and these were the best photos I was able to take of her "after" poses.  

Aren't those contacts amazing?


I kid you not, those fangs were homemade by her SO

Makeup used:

Face (one shade lighter than her skin color since vampires are suppose to be pale)
MAC Studio Fix in C2
MAC Select Cover Up in NW20
No setting powder was used
Urban Decay All Nighter Makeup Setting Spray

Eyes
MAC e/s in Soft Brown
MAC e/s in Cranberry
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Zero
Lorac Pro Palette e/s in Black
Lorac Pro Palette e/s in White
Lorac Pro Palette e/s in Garnet

False Lashes
Model 21

Cheeks
MAC e/s in Mystery
MAC e/s in Wedge mixed with Soft Brown

Lips
MAC - Dubonnet
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Zero (outer corners)
Cailyn Tinted Lip Balm in Big Apple

Saturday, October 19, 2013

Fall Makeup Tutorial + Lorac Pro Palette sale




In case you missed out on my latest tutorial on YouTube...

Remember to thumbs up the video on the YouTube page and SUBSCRIBE!

www.youtube.com/VinMaquillage

If you're interested in getting the Lorac Pro Palette, it's currently on sale at DermStore.  Click HERE for the link


Sunday, October 6, 2013

Makeup for Ashley: Homecoming

Before

After

It's Homecoming season and I couldn't be more thrilled when asked to do Ashley's makeup.  She was part of her Homecoming Court as Princess so some fabulousness is required.  Ashley wanted a very soft natural look, which was very easy to give her because this girl has gorgeous, healthy, and radiant skin.   I wanted to let the natural glow of her skin shine through to enhance her youthful beauty.

Skin
Moisturizer + Primer: Embryolisse Lait Creme Concentre 

Face
Bare Minerals Foundation: mixed Fairly Light and Golden Fair to match 
Bare Minerals Mineral Veil as Setting powder
Concealer: Coastal Scents Eclipse Palette

Cheeks
Contour and Bronze: Nars Laguna
Blush: Sigma Beauty in Peche (Paris Palette)

Eyes
Maybelline Color Tattoo in Inked in Pink
MAC e/s Soft Brown
MAC e/s Sable
MAC e/s Amber Lights
MAC e/s Mylar
Sigma Beauty e/s in Versailles (Paris Palette)
Urban Decay e/s in Blackout (Smoked Palette)
Urban Decay e/s in Backdoor (Smoked Palette)

Lips
Revlon Colorstay Lipliner in Nude
MAC lipstick in Pink Plaid
Revlon Colorburst Lip Gloss in Orchid

And here she is in her gorgeous dress and tiara =)

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

First Impression: Urban Decay Naked Skin

Image source: Rank & Style


Advertised as a weightless ultra definition foundation, Urban Decay's Naked Skin Foundation is available in 18 shades designated by a number system.  Shades ending in ".0" are for those with warmer skin tones, and shades ending in ".5" are for those with cooler skin tones.  The packaging is a sleek glass pump bottle that reminds me of the YSL Touche Eclat Foundation.

Not only is this foundation formulated without: parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, GMOs, and triclosan, but it boasts of a list of nourishing ingredients: Matrixyl 3000 (anti-wrinkle peptide), Litchiderm, green tea, Vitamin E, and sodium hyaluronate.  More pluses: vegan and cruelty free.

This foundation is more liquid-y than any foundation I've used.  Before applying, it is recommended to shake the bottle to allow the mixing balls inside to thoroughly mix the formula.  The foundation blended beautifully with my Real Techniques buffing brush.  A little goes a long way - I dabbed my brush into a little less than a quarter size diameter of product and it was enough coverage for my entire face, ears, and neck.  Although advertised as a light coverage foundation, it is buildable to medium coverage.

As far as the finish, this foundation is advertised to give a luminous and demi-matte finish.  Be warned, however, that it takes about 15 minutes to completely dry.  It felt very dewy when I finished applying and buffed out the foundation.  Initially I thought the advertisement of a demi-matte finish was erroneous.  However, once the foundation set and completely dried on my skin, it did, in fact, give a demi-matte / satin finish.  True to its word, the foundation felt weightless and did not leave a heavy feeling on my face throughout the day.

How is this foundation's longevity?  It provided coverage for a solid 6 hours.  After 6 hours, my t-zone needed retouching.

Would I wear this foundation to a special event? Yes - it has no SPF, which translates to no flashback in photos.  However, I'd layer a sunscreen underneath this foundation during the daytime for protection.

Verdict: Tres bon first impression!

Saturday, September 7, 2013

Sneak Peaks: September 2013 Ipsy Bag

The first half of every month is a much suspenseful time for Ipsy Glambag subbies!  Ipsy slowly releases sneak peaks and keeps subbies guessing as to what will arrive at their doorsteps.

Click HERE to start your Ipsy subscription!

Let's see what are the sneak peaks given are so far (source of all images: Ipsy)

Sneak Peak #1
That packaging and shadow design equates to NYX single eyeshadow.  Judging from the color, aside its use as an eyeshadow lid color, this can be potentially used as an inner tear duct highlight as well as brow bone highlight.
Health fanatics: this product contains talc and a paraben

Sneak Peak #2
Consensus guess: It's So Big Volumizing Mascara by Elizabeth Mott
For the health conscious, this mascara contains parabens

Sneak Peak #3:
Guesses: Jesse's Girl Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
Cailyn Tinted Lip Balm
John Freida hair product 
Pop Lip Crayon
J Cat's Lipstick
Freeman Beauty Paper Masks


For the health conscious:
Jesse's Girl Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner contains a paraben
Cailyn Tinted Lip Balm contains mineral oil
John Freida's Shampoo contains SLS
Pop Lip Crayon contains mineral oil
J Cat's Lipstick contains mineral oil
I don't see parabens or mineral oil in Freeman Beauty Paper Masks

Ipsy revealed the design of the makeup bag that all of these products will be coming in on their home page:




Stay tuned for more sneak peaks as Ipsy provides them!

Monday, August 19, 2013

Products I Will Not Repurchase

1. Make Up For Ever Duo Mat Powder Foundation
I'm a fan of Make Up For Ever products.  Absolutely LOVE their matte velvet plus foundation.  Absolutely love their lab shine lip gloss (specifically #S2).  Absolutely love their aqua line.  Thus, it pains me to say I will not be repurchasing a product from them.

It's a great product: oil free and mattefying makes it great for my combination skin.  Further, it has great coverage.  I believe it's actually the fullest coverage of foundation that MUFE has.  The finish is also pretty natural.  With that said, I've chosen not to repurchase this product because it contains talc and a paraben, ingredients which have been linked to cancer.  Talc is actually listed as their first ingredient.  Read my previous blog post HERE to understand why I choose products without talc and parabens.


2. Benefit's Hoola Bronzer
I may be starting an uproar with the makeup community and all Benefit fans by listing Benefit's Hoola Bronzer as a product I won't be repurchasing.  A makeup cult favorite, this bronzer gives a gorgeous matte and natural color to virtually all skin tones.  Unfortunately it contains talc and parabens.

3. Shu Uemura Anti Oxi Cleansing Oil
One of the earliest blog posts I wrote was about cleansing oils. (Click HERE to read) I was introduced to cleansing oils by way of Shu Uemura's Anti Oxi Cleansing Oil.  I virtually sang praises for the idea of cleansing oils but was remiss in looking at the ingredients as it was a gift.  When I finally sat down and looked at the ingredients, I stopped using this cleanser cold turkey, got into my car, and drove straight to the nearest Sephora to buy a new cleanser.  The first ingredient listed for this cleanser is mineral oil, an ingredient where evidence has found it to be carcinogenic You can read about mineral oil in further detail HERE.  I will always be grateful to this specific cleanser for poppin' my cleansing oil cherry, but regretfully, we must part ways.




4. Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat Radiant Touch
Speaking of mineral oil, another product that contains it is a HUGE HUGE HUGE cult favorite among make up artists: the YSL Touche Eclat.  Hop onto YouTube and after a search, you will see what a huge sensation this luminizing pen is.  It is indeed a great product that truly brightens the skin to a gorgeous radiance but my skin is more important to me.


5. Josie Maran Argan Matchmaker Serum Foundation
I'm happy to report that my decision not to repurchase this foundation has nothing to do with ingredients.  Josie Maran is renown for a healthy line of beauty products all infused with argan oil.  If you want more information regarding the benefits of argan oil, read my post HERE.

This foundation was ultra hydrating and moisturizing for my skin, which is expected with argan oil infused in the formula.  Better yet, the chameleon pigments in this foundation break down upon application to match to my skin.  Gone are the days of struggling to find the right shade of foundation for your skin.  This foundation makes it so easy.

However, I'm a medium to full coverage foundation gal.  This foundation was light coverage.  Just not my cup of tea.  For all of you light coverage gals out there, this foundation truly is worth a shot!

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Review: Tarte Amazonian Clay 12 Hour Blush



Advertised as being infused with "natural clay harvested from the banks of the Amazon River and naturally baked by the sun," this blush promises to last for 12 hours on all skin types.  Amazonian clay minimizes oil for oily skin.  Those with dry skin will benefit from the nourishing and hydrating properties of Amazonian Clay.

Winner of the 2011 Allure's Best of Beauty and a Sephora Bestseller, this blush is formulated without parabens, mineral oil, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, petrochemicals, phthalates, GMOs, and Tricl.  The clay is obtained from the basin of Amazon River where the clay is at its highest nutrient concentration.  The nutrients are further locked in by the baking from the sun.  At this point, the clay is then shaved down to a finely milled powder and infused into Tarte's formulas.

Two of the line's most popular colors are Dollface, a light pink, and Exposed, a nude.  I opted to try Dollface to not only test the longevity of the product but also the color pay off.

Color me impressed.

The blush itself comes in a colored plastic compact that matches the color of the actual blush you purchase, which I like.  The blush itself has a soft texture to it.  I use the Real Techniques blush brush to apply this product and it applies beautifully - no streaky or harsh lines with a smooth application.  It has good color pay off and can be layered for a more intense look.

So did it last 12 hours?  You bet it did!!  In fact, after at the 13th hour mark, even after I took a nap, I woke up to find the color still on my face.  This could very well be because of the primer that is in my bb cream, but I've worn other blushes with a different primer and it never lasted past 4-5 hours.

As someone who hates doing touch ups throughout the day and is always searching for long lasting makeup, I love this blush!

Retails for $26.

Verdict: Tres Bon!

Monday, May 6, 2013

Makeup for Katie - Dramatic Evening Look



Katie was back to get her makeup done to attend a wedding.  This time, she wanted dramatic eyes.  This fun lovin' gal has an affinity for blue on her eyes so I went with just that!

Face
Smashbox's CC Cream in Light Medium
Ben Nye concealer
Make Up For Ever Super Matte Loose Powder on T-Zone area only

Eyes
Urban Decay Eye Shadow Primer Potion
MAC e/s in Wedge
MAC e/s in Soft Brown
MAC e/s in Mystery
Sigma Paris Palette, e/s in Seine
MAC Limited Edition Chenman Love Cycle e/s
Maybelline Color Tattoo Metal 24 Hour Eye Shadow in Electric Blue
Urban Decay e/s in Foxy
MAC fluidline in Blacktracks 

Cheeks
Benefit Hoola
Nars Orgasm
Sigma Paris Palette - Versailles

Lips
MAC - Pink Plaid

Check out the day time look I previously gave Katie by clicking HERE!

Sunday, April 28, 2013

BB Creams - Overview and Review

History
Started in the 1960's by a German dermatologist and later introduced in Japan and Korea in the 1980's, BB cream is one of the latest cosmetic rages.  BB stands for Beauty Balm, Blemish Balm, Beblesh Balm or Blemish Base (the Koreans apparently have a trademark on "blemish balm").  In Germany, it was used on patients post skin surgery to help soothe and regenerate the skin.

Asian v. Western BB Creams
In Asia, BB Cream is first and foremost a skin care product with cosmetic properties.  It is a 5 in one product: moisturizer, primer, serum, foundation, and sunblock.  Asian BB creams are also usually formulated to include skin-whitening properties as flawless glowing porcelain skin is highly prized in Asia.  Most Asian BB creams are limited in the number of shades available to match your skin - the reason being Asian BB creams are formulated to oxidize to match the user's skin.  This is why I don't concern myself with the grayish tint/cast of the cream itself as it later oxidizes to match my skin tone.

Western brands of BB creams tend to function as a cosmetic product with skin care properties (opposite of Asian bb creams).  A few brands I've taken note of due to their healthier ingredients are Smashbox's Camera Ready, Boscia, and Tarte.

Multi Purpose
This all-in-one product can be used alone like a tinted moisturizer or as a base for foundation.  To increase its staying power, apply powder to set the cream.

Verdict




I tested a lot of BB creams, both Western and Asian brands.  I enjoyed using Dr. Jart's Black Label Detox BB Beauty Balm the instant I applied it to my skin.  I found this BB cream to have the most coverage out of all the BB Creams I tried.  I stippled extra product onto my problem skin areas to conceal my blemishes.  Unlike the Missha and Skin79 BB creams, Dr Jart's BB cream does not have a grey tint or cast that requires oxidation.  However, because this BB cream comes in only one color, it isn't ideal for darker skin tones.  I am one who always has to set my foundation with powder (the joys of having combination skin!).  However, I would be ok with just applying this BB cream without setting it with a powder.

As for the skin benefits, I noticed a difference in my pores once the BB cream set:  my pores shrank, my skin tone evened out, my skin appeared "brighter", and the formula had a satin finish.  It was hydrating (the only skin product I used prior to applying this cream was toner) without leaving my skin greasy.

This product definitely functions as a BB cream should: provide skin benefits with some cosmetic properties.  I was surprised to learn that Dr. Jart, despite its name, is actually a Korean bb cream.

Coming in second to Dr. Jart's Black Label Detox BB cream is Missha.  I'd wear Missha alone and set with a powder.  Skin79 is another popular line of BB creams.  I may be the odd man out but I was unimpressed with this line's staying power (and I tried the pink, gold, and diamond lines).  However, the Skin79 BB creams functioned fantastically as a primer and kept my foundation beautifully matte and long lasting.


Missha BB Cream in #23



Skin 79 BB Cream line

I was most disappointed with Smashbox's Camera Ready BB Cream.  While the line boasts of a range of colors to suit all skin tones out there, it really just functioned as a tinted moisturizer with some skin benefits.  This alone wouldn't be a problem BUT the point is to function as a bb cream.  When using that standard, Smashbox falls short.  It also couldn't match the staying power of Dr. Jart and Missha.

With all of that said, I'd like to issue a disclaimer: my reviews are based upon how these products worked for ME.  Obviously, everybody is different.  Plenty of my friends adore and love the Skin79 bb creams.  Smashbox's BB cream is also highly rated and raved by other makeup artists.  It all depends on what you want from a BB cream - do you prefer one with skin benefits over cosmetic benefits or vice versa?  Also, the BB creams themselves may also be inherently limiting for users - some only come in one color, which excludes a number of skin tones.  The point of this post is to just give you a bit of insight and overview of BB creams so that you are armed with information to use to select the best bb cream for you.

Which BB Cream(s) have you tried and which BB Cream is your holy grail?

Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Makeup for Katie - Daytime Look



Katie wanted her makeup done for a daytime birthday event.  The look achieved: Neutral eyes with bright lips.

Face
Dr Jart's Black Label Detox BB Beauty Balm
Coastal Scents Eclipse Concealer
**No powder was used - the BB cream set beautifully on Katie's skin, which is combination skin. 

Eyes
MAC paint pot in Painterly
MAC e/s in Soft Brown
MAC e/s in Wedge
MAC e/s in Woodwinked
Urban Decay Naked Palette 2 - e/s in Busted
Urban Decay Naked Palette 2 / Naked Basics Palette - e/s in Blackout
Urban Decay Naked Palette 2 / Naked Basics Palette - e/s in Foxy
MAC fluidline in Blacktracks
Maybelline Volume Mascara in Black Black

I left her eyebrows alone believe it or not!

Cheeks
Benefit - Hoola as contour
Nars - Orgasm blush

Lips
OCC's Lip Tar in Pretty Boy

Sunday, March 24, 2013

FAVORITES: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Eye Pencils

Update: Beginning March 26, 2013, Urban Decay will be releasing a 24/7 Glide On Eye Pencil Vault that will include 40 full sized eye pencils that will retail at $295.  It has a value of $760.  Here's your chance ladies!





In 2011, Urban Decay turned 15 years old.  To celebrate, they released this 15 Year Anniversary Collection 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils set.  Included in this set are 15 full sized 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencils.  Each pencil currently retails at $19.










The set also includes Urban Decay's Grind House sharpener, which currently retails at $10.  It would normally be in the bottom left corner compartment of this set, but I forgot to put it back in when I took the above photo.  Anyway, I included a picture of the sharpener to the right.  






When I purchased this fabulous set back in 2011, it was specially priced at $92.  Its retail value would be $295.  Worth the investment, right?  (Note: this is why palettes and sets like this are worth your investment, assuming it's a quality product.)

The colors include:
  • Stray Dog: taupe brown
  • Corrupt: dark brown
  • Bourbon: glimmering dark brown
  • Midnight Cowboy: shimmery champagne peach 
  • Baked: coppery bronze
  • Stash: antique gold
  • Mildew: deep forest green
  • Perversion: matte blackest black
  • Electric: bright iridescent teal
  • Binge: midnight blue
  • Ransom: bright iridescent purple
  • Asphyxia: fuchsia violet
  • Rockstar: dark purple
  • Zero: black
  • Uzi: gunmetal silver

Formulated without parabens, sulfates, and phthalates.  These pencils glide on like butter.  They have a creamy application that prevents tugging and pulling on the eye area, which is important as it won't promote wrinkles.  Upon application, it stays soft for blending for a short period time (advertised at 30 seconds).  When it dries, it remains waterproof.  Highly pigmented, these liners have gorgeous color pay off.    

The beauty of these eye liners is that they are multi-functional: You can wear them as eye liner, wear them as eye shadow, or use them as a base for eye shadow resulting in long lasting eye color.  I've used these liners as a base for eye shadow from the Naked Palettes. The Baked eye liner, for example, pairs perfectly with Half Baked from the Naked Palette 1.  It also pairs beautifully with Chopper from the Naked Palette 2.  

Should you choose to wear them as eye shadow, be sure to blend out the edges so that there are no harsh lines.  I recommend using a synthetic brush to blend out the harsh edges.  See my post about Real Technique Brushes for an explanation as to why I prefer synthetic brushes to blend out a creamy product.

For those searching for a fantastic black eyeliner, Perversion is one of this line's best sellers.  If you prefer a liquid liner, Urban Decay does sell Perversion in liquid form (24/7 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner).  I am so obsessed with Perversion and Zero that I have one of each in my purse, my makeup train at home, and my makeup train for clients.  

The eye liners are available at: Sephora, Ulta, Macy's, urbandecay.com (free shipping on all orders over $25 until March 31, 2013).  However, this palette is no longer available as it was a limited edition.

Thursday, March 7, 2013

Understanding the Color Wheel and Makeup



I don't have a background in graphic design or anything in the art field.  In fact, if you ask me to draw something, even my stick figures will look pitiful.  However, when you delve into the world of makeup, a basic understanding of the color wheel is necessary.  After all, makeup doesn't just involve brush technique and skin care, it's about mixing colors onto a human canvas.

I'm going to assume everyone knows that the three primary colors are Red, Yellow, and Blue.  On the color wheel, colors opposite from one another are complementary colors.  For example, the complementary color to yellow is violet.  Yellow and violet will pair very well together since they are...complementary.

In my previous blog post, I had a few people ask me if Alma had used contacts after her makeup was complete.  The answer is no.  The reason why her eyes stand out so much is because of the pairing of purple with her eyes.  Her brown eyes have specks of yellow in them.  Thus, the purple eyeshadow complemented her eyes, making them stand out.



When choosing which eye shadow colors to pair, looking at the color wheel to play with complementary colors is a great start.  However, feel free to stick to colors that match your eye color as well.

Now how does this relate to the application of products to your face?  Not all of us are blessed with beautiful picture perfect skin like Hollywood actresses.  We wake up with dark circles under our eyes; we suffer from acne; we have a natural red flush; we get skin discoloration; etc.  All of these "skin problems" gave rise to colored concealers.  These colored concealers will neutralize your skin and or blemishes depending on the color of the skin problem.  Rule of thumb: USE THE COMPLEMENTARY COLOR of the color of your skin problem.

  • Green concealer = neutralizes red skin and or blemishes (green is opposite of red on the color wheel)
  • Blue concealer = neutralizes orange-y skin from fake tans (blue is opposite of orange on the color wheel)
  • Purple concealer = neutralizes yellow tones (purple is opposite of orange on the color wheel...see a pattern?)
  • Yellow concealer = neutralizes pink undertones (yellow is opposite of purple and blue and close to red).  If you have a bruise (purple and blue!), a yellow concealer is great to help cover it up.  Blue and purple under eye circle?  Pop on a yellow concealer to neutralize the raccoon look.
  • Pink concealer = neutralizes green veins.

    After you apply the colored concealer to neutralize your skin problem, you can then proceed with your usual concealer that matches your skin. 

Saturday, March 2, 2013

Makeup for Alma






"I want purple eyes and nude lips."

And her wish was my command!  I had tons of fun doing Alma's makeup for a black tie event.  It is AWESOME when a client gives me no limit as to how she wants her makeup done.  I went smokey on the eyeshadow and winged out her eyeliner.  The effect?  Well, you be the judge.

FACE:
Make Up For Ever Face Primer
Make Up For Ever Face and Body Foundation
Make Up For Ever Full Cover Concealer


EYES:
Urban Decay Eye Primer
Sigma Paris Palette - Elysees
MAC eye shadow - Satellite Dreams
MAC eye shadow - Carbon
MAC eye shadow - Beauty Marked
MAC eye shadow - Pink Freeze
MAC eye shadow - Mylar
MAC eye shadow - Parfait Armour
Urban Decay Naked Palette - Half Baked

EYEBROWS:
Make Up For Ever - Aqua Brows #25

CHEEKS:
Benefit Hoopla
Sigma Paris Palette - Peche

LIPS:
MAC lipliner in Barely Nude
MAC lip stick in Pink Plaid
MAC lip gloss in Kiss Me Softly

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Makeup for Gem



One of the challenges of doing makeup for someone who doesn't wear makeup at all is to balance the client's desire for a "natural look" while ensuring her features are highlighted in a natural way for photography.

Gem is your typical au naturele gal who leaves the house everyday comfortable in her own skin.  This young mother definitely was not use to wearing a full face of makeup - including false lashes (for the first time!).  Luckily, I was able to play up features that were already pretty to begin with with an amount of makeup she was comfortable with.

Face:
Makeup Forever Mat Velvet Plus - shade #40
MAC NW 20 concealer
Bare Minerals Mineral Veil

Eyes:
Urban Decay eyeshadow primer
MAC eyeshadow in Soft Brown
MAC eyeshadow in Carbon
MAC eyeshadow in Bronze
MAC eyeshadow in Mylar
MAC fluid liner in Blacktrack

Eyebrows:
Make Up For Ever Aqua Gel #25

Cheeks:
Nars - Laguna
Nars - Orgasm
Sleek contour palette in Light

Friday, February 1, 2013

Las Vegas Wedding - Jennifer and Lance








Like many other brides on their wedding day, Jennifer did not get much sleep the night before.  Still, this gorgeous and down to earth bride was nothing but smiles, jokes, and preoccupation with her vows during the morning of her wedding.  With a scant 3 hours of sleep, she understandably was concerned with how her makeup would turn out.  She opted for a natural look.

Quite frankly, when you have features as gorgeous as Jennifer, you don't need much makeup.  She made a gorgeous bride walking down the aisle.  Face aglow with happiness, she was surrounded by a sea of people who were as equally happy to see her marry her best friend.  Their vows were heart felt yet still delivered the right amount of humor.  It was touching and truly an honor to be in attendance.

I had a fabulous time not only doing Jennifer's makeup but her entire bridal party.

Face:
Make Up For Ever HD Foundation
Make Up For Ever Duo Matte Powder Foundation in 207
Tarte Concealer

Eyes:
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Baked
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Bourbon
Urban Decay Half Baked Eye Shadow (Naked Palette)
Urban Decay Dark Horse Eye Shadow (Naked Palette)
Urban Decay Blackout Eye Shadow (Smoked Palette)
MAC Mylar Eye Shadow

Eyebrows:
Makeup Forever Aqua Gel - #15

Cheeks:
Nars Laguna
Sigma Paris Palette Rouge & Peche blushes
Sigma Paris Palette Lumiere highlighter

Lips (not shown in photo):
MAC Creme Cup