Friday, September 25, 2009
Lash Application Kit
It's a great kit to have but really, you can put it together yourself for a fraction of the price. The scissors and tweezers were not the greatest to use. But their glue is pretty good. I totally recommend it.
What it is:
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Back by Popular Demand… Don’t Miss Out!
If they had this in Van, I would totally purchase for my collection. Nice and Sleek. Shown is the Drama Queen collection.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Urban Decay Ink for Eyes
I thought this would be a cool product to have but I have realized that it doesn't stay on very well. The colour tends to run and you have to keep applying.
What it is:
A cream eye liner housed in a long, sexy case—complete with mirror, brush, and smudger.
What it does:
It's everything you want in a cream eye liner: more precision than a pencil but more forgiving than a liquid. This ultra-creamy, paraben-free formula offers more control, play time, and buildable coverage. Create razor-sharp lines or smoky bedroom eyes with the double-ended angled liner brush and smudger. The secret ingredient? Nylon 12, a unique ingredient that decreases drag, creates a flawless application experience by eliminating skips or smears and also softening and absorbing excess oil. This creamy eye liner is available in a wide variety of sexy shades that stay put all day long.
What else you need to know:
Decorated with a hand-illustrated peacock, the long, lean case (complete with mirror!) is ideal for applying color with the angled liner brush.
Smashbox Reign
Reign Eye Shadow Palette
What it is:
An eyeshadow palette in shimmer and matte shades.
What it does:
Indulge eyes in opulent beauty with this luxe collection of three baked eyeshadows. Mix and match the shimmer and matte shades for a look that sizzles.
What else you need to know:
The Smashbox Reign Collection is inspired by the ruling era of the English Tudors—an imperial court mired in salacious scandal and royal indulgence. The products featured in this collection are luxe, sexy, and indulgently sensorial, giving a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyle of royalty.
Bare Escentuals Heal & Conceal Kit
I don't normally use concealer but had to try this kit out. I have to admit that it works really well and actually heals. It is really great for the occasional red spot. Just remember, this will only work if you use a mineral powder foundation. If you mix the liquid and powder combination, it doesn't look very good. A creamy concealer looks noticeable under a strictly mineral powder base, unless I have time to blend it out precisely. With powder concealers, I can put it on and dust the foundation on top with minimal blending – and time!
Monday, August 17, 2009
Preparing The Face For Makeup
Begin with these steps before applying any makeup.
Analyze the type and condition of the skin. This will determine the combination of skincare and makeup formulas to use. The condition of your skin changes each day, so make an assessment each morning.
Decide which products will improve the skin's current condition. That includes determining what weight moisturizer(s) are appropriate and whether an oil-controlling gel, a skin-soothing lotion, or a combination of skincare products is needed. Understanding how various ingredients work and the range of options available to you is important.
Choose the right foundation formula for the skin type and condition. Options include stick foundation, lightweight tinted moisturizer, denser tinted balm, fuller-coverage liquid foundation, powder, and oil-free formulas.
Select the correct foundation shade for the skin tone. It is important to select the foundation shade first.
Select an under-eye concealer one to two tones lighter than the foundation, and determine if a corrector is needed.
Select the perfect shades of powder to ensure that makeup stays fresh looking and lasts for hours, Choose a lighter powder to set concealer and that will double as an eye primer, and a deeper shade that works with the foundation tone. Test the colour of the powder on the skin after applying foundation.
Analyze the type and condition of the skin. This will determine the combination of skincare and makeup formulas to use. The condition of your skin changes each day, so make an assessment each morning.
Decide which products will improve the skin's current condition. That includes determining what weight moisturizer(s) are appropriate and whether an oil-controlling gel, a skin-soothing lotion, or a combination of skincare products is needed. Understanding how various ingredients work and the range of options available to you is important.
Choose the right foundation formula for the skin type and condition. Options include stick foundation, lightweight tinted moisturizer, denser tinted balm, fuller-coverage liquid foundation, powder, and oil-free formulas.
Select the correct foundation shade for the skin tone. It is important to select the foundation shade first.
Select an under-eye concealer one to two tones lighter than the foundation, and determine if a corrector is needed.
Select the perfect shades of powder to ensure that makeup stays fresh looking and lasts for hours, Choose a lighter powder to set concealer and that will double as an eye primer, and a deeper shade that works with the foundation tone. Test the colour of the powder on the skin after applying foundation.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Skincare Glossary
There are many terms and ingredients associated with skincare products. What follows is only a basic list. While there are no miracles when it comes to the skin, a clear understanding of how ingredients function will help you select the right skincare products.
ALPHA HYDROXY ACIDS (AHAS) are naturally occurring acids found in fruits and milk, used topically to reduce the appearance of fine lines. AHAs help speed up the skin's natural exfoliation process, helping it shed dead skin cells. They can improve the texture of skin, unclog pores, and help prevent breakouts. Glycolic acid is one of the commonly used AHAs. Do not use products containing salicylic acid (a beta hydroxy acid), which is too harsh for general exfoliation, as they are intended for use only on problem skin areas.
ANTI-AGING: The best anti-aging formula is a healthy lifestyle. Nothing will stop the clock. Poor diet, excessive drinking, smoking, lack of exercise, and sunburn all accelerate the effects of aging on the skin.
ANTIOXIDANTS help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, molecules with an unpaired electron. They cause oxidation that can damage cellular material. Vitamins A, C, and E, beta-carotene, green tea, and grape seed extract are all highly effective antioxidants.
BALMS are super-rich moisturizers that target dry patches of skin on face, hands, feet, and body. Look for ingredients such as avocado extract or shea butter. For a subtle glow, I warm some in my hands and pt on the cheeks after applying makeup.
BASE is a term that generally refers to a product applied under foundation to smooth and protect the skin. Bases often contain a mix of vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-aging ingredients. Previous generations referred to foundation colour as base.
BRIGHTENER: Makeup products sometimes contain light-diffusing particles and/or ingredients that inhibit oxidation. Both of these are referred to as brighteners.
COLLAGEN is a fibrous protein found in skin. When collagen levels in the skin are high, the skin appears firm. Levels of collagen decline as we age. As the support proveded by the collagen is reduced, wrinkles begin to form. Injections temporarily replace lost collagen. The topical application of peptides may have a similar effect.
EMOLLIENTS (squalane, avocado oil, wheat germ oil, glycerin, lanolin, petroleum, shea butter, and others) hold moisture in the skin and make the skin soft and supple.
EXFOLIATORS are designed to help slough off dead skin cells. Look for scrubs designed for the face.
FIXERS are sprays that set makeup. Makeup is also typically set with powders.
GREEN TEA EXTRACT (Camellia sinensis) is a powerful antioxidant found in many anti-aging products that may slow down photo aging.
HUMECTANTS (glycerin, algae extract, sodium hyaluronate, urea, lactic acid, panthenol and others) absorb water from the air and help the skin retain moisture.
HYALURONIC ACID (sodium hyaluronate) is a fluid that surrounds the joints and is found in skin tissue. Aging slows the production of this acid, so it is often supplemented as an anti-aging treatment. It is used as filler for wrinkles (injection) and can be applied topically or taken in pill form. It is often added to moisturizer and works to hydrate skin.
OXIDANTS are unstable molecules caused by pollution, smoke, ultraviolet light, toxins, and other environment factors. Also known as free radicals, they attack and damage the skin, leading to premature aging.
PEPTIDES are two or more amino acids bonded together, forming a linear molecule. The molecules can transfer biologiclly active agents (green tea, vitamin E, copper) to cells, renewing them. Algae peptiees are used in some firming formulations. Copper peptides have been used for years to aid in wound healing. Labels might indicate that a product contains pentapeptides (five peptides) or polypeptides (many peptides).
PHOTO AGING is sun damage.
RETINOIDS (Retin-A, retinal, Renova) are powerful vitamin A derivatives used to fight acne and help build collagen to reverse visible signs of aging. The drug is effective in reducing fine lines around the eyes and mouth, not deep wrinkles. Inflammation and peeling are common side effects from use, which can last from two weeks to months. Because the drug makes skin more sensitive to the sun, use of a sunscreen is essential. Pregnant women and those planning a pregnancy should avoid this drug, since it is not known how much Retin-A is absorbed through the skin, and high doses of vitamin A can cause birth defects. Natural sources of retinoids include yams, tomatoes, fish-liver oils, melon, squash, and leafy green vegetables.
SERUMS are concentrated, corrective skin treatments that are packed with highly effective active ingredients that address specific skin concerns like dullness and uneven skin tone. Ingredients commonly found in serums include vitamin C, green tea extract, and white birch extract. For best results, serums should be applied after cleansing, before moisturizer.
SPF (sun protection factor) measure the degree of protection a product provides against the sun's UVB rays. The formula used divides the minutes it takes to burn wearing a thick application of the product by the minutes the same person takes to burn without any sunscreen. There is no current rating system for UVA protection.
SQUALENE (natural, unsaturated) is derived from shark-liver oil. It is very emollient and has some germicidal benefits.
TYROSINASE INHIBITORS (kojic acid, hydroquinone) all prevent browning or age spots on the skin. Licorice (glycyrrhiza glabrd) has been used for centuries to lighten and brighten skin.
VITAMIN B3 (niacinamide) is a water soluble vitamin found in yeast, eggs, liver, and vegetables that helps increase the amount of fatty acids in the skin, promoting exfoliation and firmness.
VITAMIN C (ascorbic acid) is an antioxidant that can reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and create a more even skin tone. It protects the skin from atmospheric pollution and from ultraviolet light. Vitamin C also helps convert inactivated vitamin E back to the active, antioxidant form of vitamin E. Vitamin C is involved in the formation of elastin and plays a role in converting proline, and amino acid, into collagen. Vitamin C increases collagen manufacture, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. The production of malanin is an oxidative process that causes pigmentation. As an antioxidant, vitamin C counteracts the oxidative process. High doses of vitamin C reduce the pigmentaiton of scars and make them less noticeable. Vitamin C is found in fresh fruits and vegetables.
VITAMIN E (tocopherol) provides antioxidant protection. All the cells in the body contain fatty acids that need protection against oxidation, which causes disease and symptoms of aging. Vitamin E protects the fatty acids (oils) against oxidation and rancidity. Vitamin E has been shown to act as a mild sunscreen, with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 3.
VITAMIN K helps to reduce ruddiness and promotes faster healing of bruising, swelling, and skin irritation.
ALPHA HYDROXY ACIDS (AHAS) are naturally occurring acids found in fruits and milk, used topically to reduce the appearance of fine lines. AHAs help speed up the skin's natural exfoliation process, helping it shed dead skin cells. They can improve the texture of skin, unclog pores, and help prevent breakouts. Glycolic acid is one of the commonly used AHAs. Do not use products containing salicylic acid (a beta hydroxy acid), which is too harsh for general exfoliation, as they are intended for use only on problem skin areas.
ANTI-AGING: The best anti-aging formula is a healthy lifestyle. Nothing will stop the clock. Poor diet, excessive drinking, smoking, lack of exercise, and sunburn all accelerate the effects of aging on the skin.
ANTIOXIDANTS help protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, molecules with an unpaired electron. They cause oxidation that can damage cellular material. Vitamins A, C, and E, beta-carotene, green tea, and grape seed extract are all highly effective antioxidants.
BALMS are super-rich moisturizers that target dry patches of skin on face, hands, feet, and body. Look for ingredients such as avocado extract or shea butter. For a subtle glow, I warm some in my hands and pt on the cheeks after applying makeup.
BASE is a term that generally refers to a product applied under foundation to smooth and protect the skin. Bases often contain a mix of vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-aging ingredients. Previous generations referred to foundation colour as base.
BRIGHTENER: Makeup products sometimes contain light-diffusing particles and/or ingredients that inhibit oxidation. Both of these are referred to as brighteners.
COLLAGEN is a fibrous protein found in skin. When collagen levels in the skin are high, the skin appears firm. Levels of collagen decline as we age. As the support proveded by the collagen is reduced, wrinkles begin to form. Injections temporarily replace lost collagen. The topical application of peptides may have a similar effect.
EMOLLIENTS (squalane, avocado oil, wheat germ oil, glycerin, lanolin, petroleum, shea butter, and others) hold moisture in the skin and make the skin soft and supple.
EXFOLIATORS are designed to help slough off dead skin cells. Look for scrubs designed for the face.
FIXERS are sprays that set makeup. Makeup is also typically set with powders.
GREEN TEA EXTRACT (Camellia sinensis) is a powerful antioxidant found in many anti-aging products that may slow down photo aging.
HUMECTANTS (glycerin, algae extract, sodium hyaluronate, urea, lactic acid, panthenol and others) absorb water from the air and help the skin retain moisture.
HYALURONIC ACID (sodium hyaluronate) is a fluid that surrounds the joints and is found in skin tissue. Aging slows the production of this acid, so it is often supplemented as an anti-aging treatment. It is used as filler for wrinkles (injection) and can be applied topically or taken in pill form. It is often added to moisturizer and works to hydrate skin.
OXIDANTS are unstable molecules caused by pollution, smoke, ultraviolet light, toxins, and other environment factors. Also known as free radicals, they attack and damage the skin, leading to premature aging.
PEPTIDES are two or more amino acids bonded together, forming a linear molecule. The molecules can transfer biologiclly active agents (green tea, vitamin E, copper) to cells, renewing them. Algae peptiees are used in some firming formulations. Copper peptides have been used for years to aid in wound healing. Labels might indicate that a product contains pentapeptides (five peptides) or polypeptides (many peptides).
PHOTO AGING is sun damage.
RETINOIDS (Retin-A, retinal, Renova) are powerful vitamin A derivatives used to fight acne and help build collagen to reverse visible signs of aging. The drug is effective in reducing fine lines around the eyes and mouth, not deep wrinkles. Inflammation and peeling are common side effects from use, which can last from two weeks to months. Because the drug makes skin more sensitive to the sun, use of a sunscreen is essential. Pregnant women and those planning a pregnancy should avoid this drug, since it is not known how much Retin-A is absorbed through the skin, and high doses of vitamin A can cause birth defects. Natural sources of retinoids include yams, tomatoes, fish-liver oils, melon, squash, and leafy green vegetables.
SERUMS are concentrated, corrective skin treatments that are packed with highly effective active ingredients that address specific skin concerns like dullness and uneven skin tone. Ingredients commonly found in serums include vitamin C, green tea extract, and white birch extract. For best results, serums should be applied after cleansing, before moisturizer.
SPF (sun protection factor) measure the degree of protection a product provides against the sun's UVB rays. The formula used divides the minutes it takes to burn wearing a thick application of the product by the minutes the same person takes to burn without any sunscreen. There is no current rating system for UVA protection.
SQUALENE (natural, unsaturated) is derived from shark-liver oil. It is very emollient and has some germicidal benefits.
TYROSINASE INHIBITORS (kojic acid, hydroquinone) all prevent browning or age spots on the skin. Licorice (glycyrrhiza glabrd) has been used for centuries to lighten and brighten skin.
VITAMIN B3 (niacinamide) is a water soluble vitamin found in yeast, eggs, liver, and vegetables that helps increase the amount of fatty acids in the skin, promoting exfoliation and firmness.
VITAMIN C (ascorbic acid) is an antioxidant that can reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation and create a more even skin tone. It protects the skin from atmospheric pollution and from ultraviolet light. Vitamin C also helps convert inactivated vitamin E back to the active, antioxidant form of vitamin E. Vitamin C is involved in the formation of elastin and plays a role in converting proline, and amino acid, into collagen. Vitamin C increases collagen manufacture, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. The production of malanin is an oxidative process that causes pigmentation. As an antioxidant, vitamin C counteracts the oxidative process. High doses of vitamin C reduce the pigmentaiton of scars and make them less noticeable. Vitamin C is found in fresh fruits and vegetables.
VITAMIN E (tocopherol) provides antioxidant protection. All the cells in the body contain fatty acids that need protection against oxidation, which causes disease and symptoms of aging. Vitamin E protects the fatty acids (oils) against oxidation and rancidity. Vitamin E has been shown to act as a mild sunscreen, with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 3.
VITAMIN K helps to reduce ruddiness and promotes faster healing of bruising, swelling, and skin irritation.
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