Royal & Langnickel Brushes

A few weeks back I was invited to a Royal & Langnickel Blogger Breakfast where they would have a complimentary breakfast, a presentation by Kevin James Bennett and complimentary gift bags.  Inside the gift bag was a Royal & Langnickel S.I.L.K Pro Synthetic 12 Piece Set and a Majestic 7 Piece Paint Brush Set.  I know what you're thinking, Paint Brush Set?  As someone with an art background (drawing, painting etc) I've purchased art store paint brushes to use in my makeup kit.  Sometimes the art store quality has been better than some of the beauty brushes out there.

Royal & Langnickel is a family owned business that started out making paint brushes and within the past few years started making Beauty Brushes as well.  One of their best sellers is the S.I.L.K Pro collection and I have to say these brushes are absolutely amazing.  They're soft to the touch and literally just glides over the face for a flawless finish.  The construction of the brush itself says a lot.  The ferrule (the metal part that connects the bristles to the handle) is made of chrome-plated brass which pretty much guarantees that the metal wont deform or rust and because the ferrule is pressed twice into the hard wood barrel handle, your brush handle will stay put and never become loose or fall off.  My favorite brushes from this set is the Angled Eye Shadow Brush and the Blush Brush.

SILK Pro 12 Piece Set

The SILK Pro 12 Piece Brush Set Includes:

Powder Brush

Blush Brush

Eyeshadow Brush

Foundation Brush

Smudger Brush

Liner Brush

Eye Fluff Brush

Eyeliner/Brow Brush

Flat Liner Brush

Brow/Lash Brush

Concealer Brush

Lip Brush

Majestic 7 Piece Round Short Handle Paint Brush Set

The Majestic set is also super soft and already I've used them for applying foundation on face and body, concealer (both large and small areas), smudging eyeshadow and applying lipstick/gloss.  Another thing that I love about this brush set is that the handle comes with a slanted end which is absolutely perfect for scooping out product (in the case that you don't have a spatula or mixing knife).

Majestic 7 Piece comes with brush no. 2, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20 & 24.

As for the event, the Royal & Langnickel staff and president were so nice and helpful in answering any questions I might have had.  Here are some photos for your viewing pleasure.

For more information on Royal & Langnickel, their brushes, brush sets and instructional how to videos please visit www.royalbrush.com.

A Secret Weapon for Skin Care

A Secret Weapon for Skin Care
by Laura DeAngelis, NASM CPT, AFAA Group Exercise Instructor 


No doubt you visit Yisell’s blog and website for great tips about how to keep your skin looking its best. Whether it’s a skin-smoothing body scrub for the shower, oil-free foundation for the face or night cream to keep those Crow’s feet at bay, many of us invest in products to maintain a healthy glow from head to toe. Well, guess what? There’s a secret weapon that can help these products do their jobs even better. It’s called exercise.

There are a several ways exercise can improve your skin’s appearance:  

1. Bye-Bye Toxins! Whether you break a sweat with a morning run, after-work interval training on the elliptical machine or a Zumba® class, sweating cleanses the body of toxins that can actually clog pores and cause breakouts.
2. Boost Your Blood Flow! One of the countless benefits of exercise is that it increases blood circulation throughout the entire body. That means better delivery of oxygen and nutrients to all your organs, and your skin happens to be the largest organ in the human body. Considering many of us purchase skin care products based on the beneficial nutrients they contain, exercise is a way to compliment those products from the inside out by pushing essential nutrients to the skin so your skin can radiate a  natural glow.
3. Get Rid of Stress! It’s no secret stress has a laundry list of negative effects and wreaking havoc on your skin is one of them. I can honestly say a good workout has always been able to right whatever ailed me whether it was a stressful day at work or a challenging time in my personal life. Stress can also lead to flare ups of certain skin conditions including psoriasis, so exercise can be one way to this aggravating factor in check.

One final note: It is crucial to keep your body fueled with the right foods if you want your workouts to produce maximum benefits, including healthier-looking skin. As a lifetime Weight Watchers member, I follow what I call the “everything-in-moderation lifestyle,” and my daily diet is filled with healthy options like fruits, veggies, whole grains and lean protein. Here’s a link to an article that lists some specific foods that have been linked to better looking skin.  

If you’re still looking for some motivation to incorporate fitness into your life, hopefully knowing you’ll be on your way to achieving that healthy glow from the inside-out will get you moving and start your journey to have fun, be fit and feel fabulous!

Laura DeAngelis is an independent personal trainer in New York City who received her certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). She’s also a certified Group Exercise Instructor through the Aerobics & Fitness Association of America (AFAA) and a Licensed Zumba® Instructor. When she’s not training, Laura currently works as the Director of Production at West Glen Communications, Inc. where she also hosts “Health & Home Report.” For more of Laura’s health and fitness tips, check out her blog at LauraLovesFitness.com

Makeup for Mature Skin

Photo Copyright of Blue Hair Salon

Mature skin is very different from young skin.  The skin is less elastic & looser, shows signs of lines & wrinkles and needs to be hydrated.  It also tends lose color and becomes very thin.  The makeup should always looks radiant and not dry.  It should bring out the natural glow of the skin, not hide it.  Caking on foundation doesn't look good on anyone especially mature skin.  In fact, makeup for mature skin should always be less heavy.  The more makeup, the more it tends to settle into fine lines and wrinkles making your canvas look older.

So, what type of products should you use?

Skincare
I've hardly encountered a woman over 45 who already didn't have her own personal skin care products that she swears by and has used for years.  Most of the time I end up using what they use in the attempt to make my client feel at ease and comfortable.  But I have met some women who've spent 50 years of their life with nothing but chapstick in their purse and absolutely no clue as to which products they should try.  In those cases I carry:

Moisturizer
Both of these products pack a punch so a little goes a long way.  We don't want overly hydrated skin either or the makeup will move around and not stay on.
     * Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè (24-Hour Miracle Cream)
     * Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Creme

Toner
I only tone mature skin if absolutely necessary.  If I do, I always use a hydrating toner, never an alcohol based.  Remember, we're trying to hydrate the skin, not dry it out.
     * Kiehl's Ultra Facial Toner

Foundations
I am a firm believer that foundation should be used to even out skin tone instead of being caked on to cover imperfections.  This is why we have concealer.  Depending on the thickness/thinness of the foundation, it should be used sparingly.  I love to apply it with the beauty blender.
     * MUFE Liquid Lift Foundation
     * Laura Mercier Silk Creme Foundation
     * FACEatelier Ultra Foundation
     * Elizabeth Arden Intervene (Never used it myself but know many senior artists that LOVE this foundation for mature skin)

Concealer
I hardly use correctors but when I do it's either to cover tattoo's, bruises, broken capillaries or very dark under eye circles.  Green to cover reds and orange to cover browns and blues.  The concealer/corrector you use is really up to you.  I don't carry any special ones for mature skin.  I just use what I feel is best depending on how much coverage is needed.

Extras
Eyeshadows
I stay away from anything too shimmery or frosty and lean towards pearlescent and matte.  No one wants to see a mature woman with shimmery eyeshadows.

Lipsticks
I lean towards colors such as burgundy, amethyst, coral and dusty rose.  No baby pink lips please.

Eye Creams
I'm not a huge eye cream user.  If under eyes are a bit dry I just mix some of my moisturizer into the concealer.  If the client has their own eye cream that they like to use, I just use that.

Powders
I generally don't powder mature skin and if I do, I do it on the T-Zone only using a translucent powder.  Which brings me to cheek color.  I don't use powder blushes either.  Cream or gel blushes are key and should not have a powdery finish.  The only powder I've used that I feel works best for mature skin is the Laura Mercier Invisible Loose Setting Powder.  I've even dusted very, very little to the under eye area.

Beauty Breakdown

Many have asked what type of products I use to create that clean, glowing and supple skin.  Well, for the first time I'm going to list exactly what I used in the photo above.  As always, any questions please put them in the comment section below.

Skin Care
Witch Hazel as toner, Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè (24 Hour Miracle Cream), which I let set for 5 - 7 minutes before applying any makeup.

Foundation
After moisturizing I apply Make Up For Ever HD in #118

Concealer
Make Up For Ever 5 Camouflage Cream Palette #1, dusted with Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder

Powder
Camera Ready Oil Control Pressed Powder on the T-Zone area only

Bronzer
NARS Bronzing Powder in Laguna on the hollows of the cheeks

Blush
PowderPuff Squad Blush Palette (product discontinued)

Eye Shadow
Nixie Eyeshadow in Island (product and line discontinued)

Eye Liner
MAC Cosmetics Eye Khol in Smolder used in the upper water line, 3 Custom Color Eye Pencil in Light Clarifier used on bottom water line

Mascara
CoverGirl LashBlast Volume Blasting Mascara in Very Black on both upper and lower lashes

Eyebrows
Tarte emphasEYES Amazonian Clay Waterproof Brow Pencil in Taupe

Lips
Laura Mercier Lip Glace in Sparkling

Highlight & Contour
MAC Cosmetics Bronzing Powder in Matte Bronze on temples, left & right side of nose and jaw area, NARS The Multiple in Copacabana on bridge of nose and lip cupids bow

Additional
Body Makeup: St.Tropez Gold Skin Illuminator on collar bone, shoulders and arms, Bliss Blood Orange + White Pepper Hand Cream

St. Tropez Bronzers

I was recently invited to attend a St. Tropez event last month where I was able to walk away with a wonderful goody bag of some of their products.  I've heard of the brand before but never had the pleasure to try it personally.  Now, I've tried several bronzing products before but never quite fully satisfied.  While most products have pro's and con's, I found that the St. Tropez products have a lot of pro's.  Here are some of the products I received and tested:

Self Tan - Bronzing Mousse
I tried this on myself, at night and after my shower.  I applied it only once with no re-application whatsoever.

Pro's:
* Lasts about 3 - 4 days
I believe it really all depends on the soap you use, how many showers a day you take, how much you apply (or reapply) and if you use a loofa/sponge.  Obviously the more you shower, the faster the product wears off.

* Doesn't rub off
As stated, I applied the product about an hour before heading to bed.  There was no product residue on the sheets or my clothes.

* No streaks
Unlike many bronzing products, St. Tropez goes on evenly and leaves no streaks on the skin.

* Not orange
Thank goodness because my first fear was that I was going to wake up looking like an Oompa Loompa.  Not the case here.  The color you first apply is the color that sticks with you, even as the color starts to fade.

* Lighweight
Love that the skin really absorbs the product and leaves you feeling as if you never applied anything at all

Con's:
* The smell
It's not a bad smell, but it does have a tiny hint of "tanning product" smell on it.  I suggest applying at night about an hour before showering (or you can apply after your shower - just shower in the morning *duh*).  The smell doesn't really stick to the sheets much and I found that it fades after a day and half.  I do have to say that my husband didn't really enjoy the smell much.

Self Tan - Bronzing Gel
Again, tried on myself after showering.

Pro's:
Almost as same as above
* Lasts about a week
* Doesn't rub off
* No Streaks
* Not orange
* Stronger color

Con's:
* Takes a bit to dry
I find that the gel feels a bit heavier than the Mousse.  Not a sticky heavy, just more like a wet type of heavy.  It's better to apply this product a good hour before showering.  Once showered, the heavy feeling goes away.

* The smell
Again, not a bad smell but it's definitely stronger than the Mousse.  Better applied at night at least 1 hour before showering.  If you apply this after showering or right before heading out for the day, forget applying any perfume.  My husband hated the smell of this one.

Wash Off - Instant Glow Body Lotion
Because this product is only for a temporary tan and washes off with one shower, you have no choice but to apply it the day of, right before heading out.  This is a great product if you don't feel you want to commit to a whole week of being tan or just want to tan certain areas.

Pro's:
* No streaks

* No commitment
Great for just bronzing some parts such as shoulders, filling in tan lines or if you're doing a shoot and don't want to commit your model/client to a whole week of being tan.

* Buildable
I love that you can choose to have a light tan or something a bit darker.  If applied and you feel that you want to go a bit deeper in color, wait until the product is completely dry and set in before applying another layer.

* Translates nicely on film/photos
What you see is what you get.  No weird flashbacks of white or orange.

* Not orange
No Oompa Loompa effect (always a plus).

* Doesn't rub off
Although it's a lotion, once dry and set into the skin (give or take about 5 - 7 minutes), it will not rub off onto your clothes!  You don't see this a lot with temporary products so it's nice to know that you can wear light colors and feel confident that your tan won't wind up on your clothes.

* Lightweight
No heavy or sticky feeling.  Feels just like any regular lotion.

Con's:
NONE

Misc.:
I can't really put this into a pro or a con because everyone has a different sense of smell.  For me, it just has a bit of a lotion smell but not terrible.  You can definitely wear your perfume and not worry about having 2 different smells on.  I did find that there is a bit of an after smell (again not terrible) about 2 hours after application.  I didn't really mind the smell and neither did my husband.

Skin Illuminator - Gold
Gorgeous light shimmer and beautiful on pretty much any skin tone.  Great if you want a hint of luminescence and best used on shoulders, collar bone and legs.  A little goes a long way so careful not to over do it.  No crazy smells either.

Applicator Mitt
While it's not necessary to have this little accessory, it is nice to the touch.  Has a velvety feel to it and really does help the product go on evenly (especially the Self Tan products).  Since the Self Tans are semi-permanent,  I don't suggest using your bare hands to apply it.  Another alternative to buying/using the mitt is to use a fluffy brush to apply.  Something dome shaped like a Kabuki Brush, in a circular motion and making sure to blend.

I feel the Mitt is best for personal use and a brush is best if on set.  The Mitt is washable so if you feel you like that better, I suggest having more than one.

All products available at http://www.sttropeztan.com

Get Naked 2?

When the first Naked Palette was released I remember not being able to find it anywhere in stores or online because it was sold out!  Now, there are talks about a Naked 2 palette that according to Urban Decay's website and Twitter page, is "coming soon".  Rumor has it that its in December, while others say that it's in February just in time for Valentines day.  I'm going to bet that it's in Dec just in time for the holidays.

Naked 1 came with a Good Karma Eyeshadow Brush and a mini Eyeshadow Primer Potion.
Naked 2 is said to come with a Duel Ended Brush and a Lipgloss in "Naked".

Here are some product shots that have been circling the interwebs for a couple of days.

Colors from Left to Right:
Foxy
Half Baked (which is in the first Naked Palette)
Bootycall
Chopper
Tease
Snakebite
Suspect
Pistol
Verve
YDK
Busted
Blackout

I have to admit that I don't really see too much of a big change here except for the black color (Blackout).  Nothing I don't already have in my kit (or something close).  First off, they're using Half Baked AGAIN and second...can we say SHIMMER BOMB?!  I would have loved to see Naked 2 filled with beautiful matte colors.  As an artist who works mostly doing catalogs, TV/Film, Corporate etc., shimmer shadows aren't always appropriate.  But for a consumer, this is heaven!

While I love my Naked 1 palette to death, I don't think I'll be getting Naked 2 (no pun intended, ha!).  For those of you who will probably get it anyways, I'd love to hear your feedback on the product.

Hidden Gems That Make Me Smile

Laura Mercier Limited Edition Mini Lip Glace Set

Colors: Quartz, Sparkling, Rose, After Hours, Blush

First of all I have to commend my bestie for finding this gem.  As we're aimlessly walking through Sak's 5th Avenue, swatching things on our hands and testing out lipglosses on ourselves, she comes up to me and says "What do you think of this?"  She pouts her lips and I immediately fall in LOVE (with the color, not her lips haha!).  She's wearing the color "Sparkling".  She then shows me that they come in a cute little mini set.  Of course I pretty much DIED by just looking at the colors.  I just had to get them!

And so I did!  For $48 you can't go wrong here.  These glosses are greatly pigmented so they're wonderful both alone and with lipstick.  The longevity is great (last longer when mixed with lipstick), they don't bleed out of the lip area and they're not sticky (if you know me you'd know that I HATE sticky glosses).  And don't let some of the sparkles fool you, they're so minimal that it works for everything (TV/Film & Print).  In fact, the "sparkles" add the effect of fuller lips.

They're a great addition to both a pro kit and personal use.  "Rose", "Sparkling", "After Hours" and "Blush" are great TV/Film, commercial, corporate, lifestyle and bridal colors.  "Quartz" is an amazing evening color and looks fabulous on women of color.

Available at: Saks, lauramercier.com, Bergdorf Goodman

Note: Just because it says "Limited Edition" doesn't mean that you still can't pick these up in regular size.  Only the Mini set is limited edition.

Sephora Collection Shimmer Harmony Gloss Palette

While hanging out with a makeup buddy of mine, we stumbled into Sephora and she told me about this little lipgloss set that she has in her kit.  This particular friend is one of the makeup artist for the Nate Berkus Show so I buy anything that she says works!  And boy does this little gloss set work!  You get 6 little color squares that look amazing on TV.  Just like the Laura Mercier, don't let the sparkles fool you.  They're really not that intense.  If you're looking for sparkle this is NOT the palette for you but if you want gloss that works, picks up great in camera and isn't sticky, this palette is perfect.

The colors here are a bit more sheer so if you're thinking that the last color to your right is too dark, think again.  Super great alone but I personally love to use them on top of lipliner.  I color the whole lip in with the lipliner of my choice and put the gloss on top.  I also love to mix the colors together and make my own color. The possibilities are endless with this palette.  All for $12!!

Available at: Sephora

My Favorite Drugstore Items (& some randoms)

I always stress how pro cosmetics are the way to go when working in the industry.  I stand by this 100% but, I do admit I have a few drugstore items that I use both in my kit and for personal use.  Some are great for both, some are only good for personal use.  Either way, they're probably items that you'd never think were any good just by looking at them or judging them by brand.  Here are a few items that I use:

MAYBELLINE

1. Expert Eyes 100% Oil Free AND Expert Eyes Moisturizing Eye Makeup Remover

It so happened that one time I forgot to pack my MUFE Sens'Eyes Makeup Remover for a job and I was kind of freaking out.  Remembering that on the way to the job I passed by a drugstore, I set up and excused myself for a quick 5 minutes while I ran like a bat our of hell to that drugstore.  I saw this product and with desperation I grabbed it.  Things happen for a reason because I fell in love with this makeup remover.  I even use it for more than removing eye makeup.  I remove lipstick with it too!

Use: Personal & In My Kit

2. Color Sensational Lipstain
I was curious about these lipstains because I've tried other lipstains before and have never been completely satistfied.  So in looking for a product that works for me I decided to give this a try.  Glad I did because it's awesome!  This stuff really does last!  I've put it on early in the morning, worked, talked, chew gum, drank, ate, talked some more and my lips STILL had color on them!  I like to pair it up with a tad of one of the many lipglosses I own (we'll get to that later).
Use: Personal
Colors I own: Feelin' Rosy, Cranberry Crush


3. Define-A-Line Eyeliner
A friend of mine was over and left her eyeliner behind.  I thought it was pretty interesting that she chose this as an eyeliner.  So, of course what do I do?  I test it (on the back of my hand).  I liked the smoothness of it and picked it up for myself.  I love to use it on the lash line the best and then use the smudger for a light smokey eye.  It's not waterproof but it has pretty good staying power.  I don't recommend you use it for the water line.  Because it's not waterproof, it'll bleed down to the under eye section and you'll have raccoon eyes in no time.
Use: Personal
Color I own: Ebony Black


4. Define-A-Brow Eyebrow Pencil
For my kit I use the Tarte emphasEYES brow pencil but I was looking for something more for ME.  I would be using this daily and didn't want to dish out $20 for the Tarte everytime I had to renew it.  So I pick up this little guy in hopes that it comes close to the Tarte one.  It's pretty close and totally worth it.
Use: Personal
Color I own: Dark Blonde


5. Define-A-Lash Volume Mascara
To me all mascara's are pretty much the same formula wise.  So when I buy mascara I tend to buy it because of the wand.  Yes I love that this mascara is waterproof (great for weddings) but I love the wand the most.  In fact, whenever I replenish, I keep the wand and throw the rest away.  I wash the wand thoroughly and keep it in my kit instead of buying disposable wands. I, of course have a good 4 or 5 wands I rotate and I always clean them between clients.  I feel like this wand really adds the volume it promises and it gets into those little inner corner hairs that are usually difficult to get to.  It's become my night time mascara.
Use: Personal & In My Kit
Colors I own: Very Black

COVERGIRL

1. Wetslicks Fruit Spritzers Lipgloss

I love it when I find lipglosses that aren't sticky!  One of my pet peeves is sticky, gooey and gross lipgloss that stretches out like saliva when you talk.  Gross!  Well you wont get that with the Covergirl Fruit Spritzers.  They're great alone or on top of lipstains or lipsticks.  They smell great and moisturize your lips.  Can't really go wrong with these.

Use: Personal (I don't have it in my kit but if I was ever in a situation where I needed a lipgloss, I'd use these).

Colors I own: Grape Splash, Berry Splash, Raspberry Splash

2. LashBlast Length Water Resistant Mascara

As silly as this may sound I bought this mascara because I love the ad with Drew Barrymore (the one with the 80's mesh gloves) haha!  It has become my favorite mascara of ALL TIME!  That wand is absolutely unbelievable!  Lashes looks super long and no clumping!  I keep this wand as well once I replenish the mascara.  I think I have 2 of the Maybelline ones and 4 of the CG ones.  I have to say...BUY THIS MASCARA!! 

Use: Personal & In My Kit

Colors I own: Very Black, Black Brown

3. Liquidline Blast Eyeliner

I actually recently ran into these at the drug store while picking up a lipstick for a bride.  Figured I'd try it out and possibly add it to my list of "drugstore items I love".  Well I love this.  Slides on like butter and its waterproof.  It smudges well and once settled it stays all day.  It kind of reminds me of the Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colour.  I'm not a big fan of the smudger it comes with so if you want to smudge I suggest using a brush or q-tip to get the effect.

Use: Personal & In My Kit

Color I own: Brown Blaze

4. Makeup Masters 3-in-1 Sharpener

I own lots of sharpeners (I tend to lose/misplace them and then somehow find them again).  I bought this one because it's needed to sharpen the Liquidline Blast Eyeliner but I kind of ended up really loving that although it has 2 different hole sizes it sharpens up to 3 different pencil sizes.  I can sharpen my jumbo Nars velvet lip pencils as well as regular sized lip/eyeliners all with one sharpener.

Use: Personal & In My Kit

RANDOMS

1. Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush Lipgloss

Let me start by saying that I am obsessed with this lipgloss.  So obsessed that it's all I've used since I can remember.  I love that its creamy and not gooey and sticky.  Which is why when Victoria's Secret decided to discontinue the one and only flavor I liked I was depressed for a week.  Then I freaked out because I didn't know what to do!  I went to eBay and bought like 4 of the same flavor (Cocoalicious).  But, they have lots more flavors.  This lipgloss ROCKS my socks.  I just happen to love chocolate and I felt the others were to fruity for my personal taste.

Use: Personal

Flavor I own: Cocoalicious (discontinued)

2. Bath & Body Works Liplicious Seasonal Core Lipgloss

Says it right in the title...SEASONAL.  I'll be stocking up on these because believe it or not, they are the exact same texture as the VS ones!  So, while I'm not ready to replace my cocoalicious, I do feel at ease that I have found myself a secondary option.  It comes in all sorts of yummy flavors such as "Whipped Vanilla" and "Frozen Daiquiri" to name a few.

Use: Personal

Flavor I own: Cocoa Creme (just can't resist that chocolate)

3. Jesse's Girl Cosmetics Liquid Glass

A funny but not unusual thing happened for me to pick up this lipgloss.  Again, went out, switched my purse and forgot to take any of my color lipglosses with me.  So while on the way to meet my hubby for dinner, I sneaked into whatever drugstore I saw first and picked the first "sexy looking lipgloss" not really knowing if I'd like it.  Well I do!  I was amazed that I spent $3 and came out with a pretty amazing gloss.  It's all sparkly and sexy looking.  The longevity isn't that great (most glosses aren't anyway) but the color is really nice.  So if you're ever in a pinch, know that you can pick up this gloss and not be disappointed.

Use: Personal

Color I own: Idolize

Colored Mascaras and Liners...Oh My!

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Who said Mascara and eyeliner had to be only Black and Brown?  I think I speak for a lot of people when I say that black and brown get really boring, REALLY fast!  With so many companies (both cheap and expensive) out there making colored mascara and eyeliners, you have no excuse to not get these and fill the world, and your eyes, with a bit of color.  Here are a few of my favorites.

1. Benefit - Bad Gal Mascara in Blue $13 - $19

The over sized brush does all the work and makes your lashes super long.  The blue color makes your eyes whiter and brighter.  

2. Sue Devitt - Luxura Lash Mascara in Black Lavender $22

This awesome purple mascara not only makes your lashes look sexy but it has all these amazing things like Hydrolyzed Keratin for a longer, fuller, shiny look and soothing Orchid Extract for ultimate hydration.

3. YSL - Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils $30

Although a hefty price to pay for a mascara, I have to say that this mascara is like the Rolls Royce of colored mascaras.  Not only are the colors rich but it comes in EIGHT different shades (5 of them being actual colors).  But what makes this particular mascara worth it is the Triple-Film Complex.  1 film coating for intensity, 1 conditioning film for curve and 1 fixing film for long lasting effect.

4. Make Up For Ever - Smoky Lash $22

What can I say?  It's Make Up For Ever!!  You can't ever go wrong with them.  The pigmentation in their products never disappoints.  This mascara lengthens, volumizes and curls the lashes all in one swipe!  Oh and did I mention that it comes in GREEN!? 

5. Prestige Cosmetics - Liquid Eyeliner $8 - $10

I have to say that I'm not a huge fan of most drugstore cosmetics but this particular brand I was in awe with.  Although not waterproof, I have to say that it gets the job done, the little fiber tipped applicator provides great control and it comes in a wonderful array of colors.

6. Make Up For Ever - Aqua Eyes $18

This ultra pigmented eyeliner is waterproof on both the lash line and the water line, wont run or fade.  No more runny eye syndrome and comes in an incredible 25 shades (19 colors).  Now the only question is...which color to choose?

*Note: The products listed above are just favorites of mine.  There are other lines such and L'Oreal, Buxom, Physicians Formula, etc. that carry colored mascaras and liners and are a bit more pocket friendly. 

Colored Neutrals - The Palettes

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Neutrals will always be a favorite and "go to" of mine but Fall doesn't necessarily have to mean the end of all color.  Fall is the perfect time to take out and play with muted and dark colors.  Play up the eyes during this holiday season with colors such as Navy, Plum, Forrest Green and Burgundy to name a few.  Pair up a color with a neutral to create a sensational and dramatic smoky eye.


1. Make Up For Ever - Smoky Palette $45
No one does it the way Make Up For Ever does.  This limited edition palette has 8 highly pigmented colors to choose from.  A matte black and 7 satin finish eyeshadows.  It even comes with two exclusive brushes to help create a smoky finish.

2. Smashbox - Photo Op Eye Enhancing Palette $42
One of the reasons I love this palette is because there is more than just one color palette option and it targets a specific eye color (choose from Hazel, Brown and Blue Eyes).  The top 3 shadows are perfect for an everyday look, while the bottom 3 are perfect for an intense smoky eye.

3. Kat Von D - True Romance Eyeshadow Palette $24 - $35
Whether you love blues, purples or greens, Kat Von D's palettes have it all.  Also coming in more than one color palette option (choose from True Love, Metal Orchestra, Sinner, Poetica, Beethoven and Ludwig) these are a favorite in my book.  I carry a palette in my kit and I even have one for personal use because I love it so much.

4. Urban Decay - The Black Palette $36
Known for their amazing Naked Palette, Urban Decay does it again!  Don't let the name fool you, this palette is anything but "black".  With 5 Jewel toned shades and a matte black shadow, you'd be crazy not to add this to your collection.  Comes with a travel size Primer Potion and 24/7 Eye Pencil in Zero.

5. Dior - 5 Colour Eyeshadow in Mystic Smokys $59
Although Dior carries a variety of shades I have to point out that the Mystic Smokys palette is my favorite here.  The dark violet and ivory colors are so luxurious, goes on like butter and looks amazing on pretty much anyone!  Did I mention that the ivory has little speckles of gold?  It makes for one awesome holiday palette.

6. Lorac - Private Affair Palette $38
The name alone is intriguing.  Packaged in a chic croc palette and with colors such as Deep Wine, this palette will make those peepers look incredibly sexy.  This set also includes an eye primer and a double ended brush tucked neatly away in a mini compact drawer under the palette.  Perfect for those sizzling Private Affairs.

*All products can be found at Sephora

Beautiful Glowing Skin

For a long time, the question I get asked the most is what do I use to make the skin so beautiful and glowy and for a long time I had decided to keep that secret to myself but today I'm going to share it with all of you.  Why am I sharing my secret?  Well because I've realized that even if you know what I use, actually executing it is a totally different ball game.  I'm only telling you what I use, the technique in which you use it is completely up to you and works different for every one.  Besides, I want people to experiment and learn to do things their own way.  Practicing and trial and error is really the only way to learn and feel comfortable with whatever technique you choose to use.

I use a number of different things.  Sometimes I mix it with the foundation, sometimes I apply it only in certain areas and sometimes I do both.  It really depends on how I feel, the texture and skin color of the model and what the job calls for.


1. Stila's Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer

I love that you can use this product alone or mixed with foundation.  Perfect for summer since it's lightweight.

2. Revlon Skinlights

Note: This product is discontinued and I stocked up on like a million of them before they were gone.  I believe you can still purchase them on Ebay.  

3. Make Up For Ever's Uplight

I'm currently obsessed with this.  Seriously an amazing product and captures beautifully in photos.

4. MAC's Glimmershimmer

Has beautiful speckles of gold in it which makes for a beautiful highlight on women of color.

Note: This product has also been discontinued.  Again, Ebay is your friend!

5. NARS Multiples

I use this A LOT for lots of things.  It's worth the price due to its multi functionality.  You really can't go wrong with this product plus it comes it all sorts of amazing shades which makes it really difficult to just get one. 

*Most of these products can be found at Sephora.  For discontinued items please check eBay.

Bye Bye Shu Shu

Shu Uemura Pulling Out of the US Market

Sad but true.  With most of their profit in Asia, Shu Uemura has decided to pull out of the US Market and close all boutiques and Department Store counters.  Does this mean the end of all Shu products?  Absolutely not!  You can still order from their online store.  The Art of Hair products will remain unaffected by this change and will remain available in salons.

But what does this mean for the Pro Makeup Artists and their discounts?  As far as I know, you can still use it for your online purchases but ONLY if you're purchasing in bulk.  The program allows you to purchase $500 worth of product so with the 40% discount, you'll only be charged $300.  Sign up and see all the pro discount info here.  If I happen to find out more about the pro discounts I will update ASAP.

Until then, goodbye Shu and thank you for being so great to us here in the US.  You are and always will be AWESOME.

Bright is IN

As I walk through the streets of NYC, I've noticed that more people are wearing brighter lipsticks.  Why?  I'm not sure.  Perhaps it's because the 80's are coming back at full force this year and its the new trend?  Or maybe people have finally realized that wearing clear gloss ALL the time is boring?  Whatever the reason is, I think its super AWESOME that women are finally opening up to brighter and bolder lips.  Here are a few color choices that I think would look great for both the Spring and Summer season (and that I'm currently sporting as well)

OCC - Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics
Anime
Pageant
Demure
Hoochie (currently my signature color)
Katricia
NSFW

Make Up For Ever
501 - Sepia
203 - Orange Fluo Pink
204 - Orange Red
202 - Blue Fluo Pink
201 - Fluorescent Orange
217 - Rust Orange

Ramy
Sheer Joy
Moxy!

Yaby
Disagree
Untouchable
Chilli Hot Hot
Stop
Hidden Danger

Newest Lip Tars

Today I went over to the OCC Studio to pick up the NEW Lip Tars and I have to say they are nothing short of AMAZING (but we already knew that).  I love the new colors especially Complex.  I was mixing to create that nude color but now I don't have to anymore (which is great when you're pressed for time).

Here's what the NEW colors look like:

If you're a Lip Tar lover I highly recommend picking up the new colors.  Available at www.occmakeup.com

Make Up For Ever HD Blush

For those of you who haven't tried the Make Up For Ever HD creme blushes I have one word...A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!  I'm not a huge fan of creme blushes because to me they always seem to go on weird.  Either too spotty, blotchy or just kinda dry.  But not the MUFE HD blush.  I bought one just to try it out and the application is seriously amazing!

Here's how I apply it:
Squeeze a pea size amount onto the back of your hand, dip your finger into the product and put about 2 or 3 dots on the cheekbones and use the stipple brush to blend, blend, blend...and viola!  It looks like you've airbrushed the blush on.  It takes a little time to get used to so don't get frustrated if you don't get it the first couple of times.  Just keep practicing.

Another way to apply it is to just spread and blend with your fingers.  If you're using your fingers and no brush to blend, remember that all of the product is on there and there is no brush to pick up any of the product therefore you'd have to use less because a little goes a LONG way (think half pea size amount).

Next time you're near a MUFE spot, pick yourself up one of these babies.  I guarantee you'll love it!