Red Lips

This is a simple look that can easily be achieved by anyone.
The key necessity for this is a red lipstick flattering to your skin tone. 

*Tip*: When wearing red lipstick, it is wise to tone down eye makeup, but a pair of natural looking false eyelashes will hwlp feminize your look without being overpowering. 

For this look, I used:

 

MAC Lipstick in “Red”
Price: $14.00

and 

MAC Lipliner in “Brick”
Price: $13.00

Concentrating on the lips first, it is important to start off with fresh lips devoid of dry skin and flakes.
To achieve this:
1) Wash your lips with warm water (no soap, just water) and with a soft toothbrush, gently scrub your lips until they are soft and supple.
2) Apply a layer of petroleum jelly or chapstick in order to retain moisture. Let it stay on your lips for about 5 minutes before wiping it off.

Your lips should be soft and moisturized at this point. 

Now it is time to apply your lipstick:
1) Apply your favorite red lipstick as accurately as possible.
2) Outline your lips with your lipliner (which should closely match your lipstick) 
[I like to extend my lipliner beyond my natural lip line in order to achieve the illusion of plumper lips]

Now your lips should look a little glossy from the lipstick. Because my lips are already big, I like to tone down the sheen by applying a layer of MAKEUP FOR EVER’S  translucent HD Powder on top of my lipstick. 

MAKEUP FOR EVER HD Microfinish Powder .35oz
Price:  $30.00

1) Using your fingers, apply more or less (depending on your lip size) of a pea-sized amount of powder onto your lips. The powder will look white on our lips until you gently rub it in. This should instantly mattify your lips.

If a matte look isn’t what you desire, another swipe of lipstick will achieve a shinier look. 
Either way, setting your lipstick with powder is vital to the lasting power of your color.

Now, go out, have fun and enjoy your new sexy red lips  

 

 

 

Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion

Urban Decay’s Eyeshadow Primer Potion .034 oz
Price:  $17.00 (SEPHORA)

- This eyeshadow primer is the best on the market
- Eyeshadows do not crease or slide when used over this primer
- Swipe a small amount on each lid and spread the formula over the areas where you will be applying eyeshadow and eyeliner
- The only con is that this primer is not actually finished when it seems empty.  (Extract all of the remaining primer by cutting the bottle in half. Scoop everything out and put inside a small container. Get your money’s worth!)

Rimmel London’s (Good & Cheap) Eyebrow Pencil

Rimmel London’s Professional Eyebrow Pencil
Price: Approximately $3.00 at any drugstore or beauty supply store
Ex.: $3.19 (Ulta)

- A surprisingly good buy for those who are watching how they spend their money
- Available in three different colors: Hazel, Dark Brown, and Black (I use black)

*Note(s):
- Use light, feathery strokes when applying this on your eyebrows (lest you end up looking like Groucho Max!)
- Build up the amount of how many strokes you use, depending on the boldness you desire
- I noticed that a duller pencil point is better at achieving a more natural look.

Here is a picture of where my eyebrows are penciled in using the Rimmel London eyebrow pencil:

And here is me sans the Rimmel Eyebrow pencil:

As you can tell, there is quite a difference in the appearance, neatness, and symmetry of my eyebrows.

I prefer bold eyebrows on women, but if the darkness of my eyebrows isn’t what you desire, I would still suggest purchasing this pencil, but to just use a lighter application.

Enjoy!

CVS Oil-Free Makeup Remover: A Cheaper Alternative to Leading Brands

Hey, Recessionistas…
Sometimes drug-store brand products can be just as good and effective as the leading brand.

Take hold:

CVS’s Oil-Free Makeup Remover
Price: $5.99 (CVS)

- Comparably cheaper than Neutrogena’s Oil-Free Makeup Remover ($7.99) and Clinique’s Take the Day Off Makeup Remover for Lids Lashes & Lips ($17.50).
- Just as effective in washing off stubborn, waterproof makeup (ie: waterproof eyeliners and mascaras such as MAC Fluidline, Dior and Lancome waterproof mascaras).

*Note(s): – Shake the bottle for every use to mix the two ingredients together.
- I prefer using an extra-large cotton ball to wipe my eye makeup off.
- After wetting your cotton ball, hold cotton ball over your eye for five seconds before wiping off. This will reduce stressing the skin out from excessive rubbing, thus aiding in preventing wrinkles.

Best Eyeliner

MAC Fluidline 3 g./.01 oz
Price: $15.00 (MAC Cosmetics)

-The best gel eyeliner to date. I have used Stila smudge pots, but they quickly dried out on me. This small jar lasts for almost an eternity.
-Will last for hours without needing any touch-ups. Even ideal for oily eyelids. Smudge-proof. Waterproof.
-Must be applied with a brush. You can purchase the MAC #263, 266 or 210 brush depending on the size, shape, and control you are seeking.
-When applied with a brush, winged eyes are effortless to draw on.

Favorite Loose Powder

Make Up Forever’s HD Microfinish Powder 0.35 oz

Price: $30 (Sephora)

-Although this powder is white, its translucent qualities blend perfectly into light or dark skin. 

-Has a smooth application and is more effective in controlling oil and preventing makeup from sliding (especially during these hot summer days) than other powders I have used.

-I have noticed that skin will look more flawless in pictures. You don’t get that ashy white cast either!

-You could wear this with or without foundation. 

-Talc-free, so it won’t dry-out skin. 

-100% silica

-Very ideal for oily skin

-Considerably less touch-ups throughout the day

*Note: 

-Use tiny amounts with a fluffy brush and gradually apply more powder to avoid using too much. 

-You could store this inside a small powder sifter container for travel purposes or if you wanted to tote this around for an everyday occasion.

Enjoy!

Getting Clear Skin

Not everybody has the money to splurge on a dermatologist, so here are simple ways to treat and maintain your skin, especially if you are acne-prone :

1) Use a gentle cleanser
2) Use a facial brush
3) Invest in a toner
4) Treat your acne with either Salicylic Acid or Benzoyl Peroxide
5) Exfoliate with a scrub once or twice a week
6) Moisturize with a non-comodogenic (non-pore clogging), oil-free moisturizer
7) Nourish your skin with a face mask once a week

1) Cleansers
A common misconception that many people with acne-prone skin have is to use the harshest cleanser they can buy. It is important to treat your skin gently without irritating it any further. The point of a cleanser is to wash off the impurities that you’ve accumulated throughout the day without stripping your skin of its moisture and pH balance.

Aveeno’s Positively Radiant Cleanser
Price: $7.99 (CVS)

-It has a gentle scent that isn’t overpowering and disappears upon rinsing your face
-1-2 pumps will suffice as you don’t need much for this to effectively cleanse off dirt, oil, and makeup
-Has a rich soy-extract to even out skin tone that won’t over-dry your skin either
-Hypoallergenic, soap-free, oil-free, and noncomodegenic

Aveeno’s Foaming Cleanser Ultra-Calming
Price: $7.99 (CVS)

-Great for acne-prone, sensitive skin with Rosacea
-Won’t over-dry, extremely gentle (customized to tailor sensitive skin)
-Fragrance-free (perfect for those prone to skin irritations and breakouts due to fragrances), hypoallergenic, noncomodegenic, and soap-free

Decleor Cleansing Milk
Price: $36.00 (SEPHORA)

-Has a pleasant floral scent that will make you feel like you’re pampering yourself each time you wash your face
-Has a thick consistency that will not over-dry
-Perfect for those with sensitive skin, Rosacea, dryness, and combination skin
-Will not leave a residue
-Effective in removing makeup
-Especially great for cold seasons

2) Facial Brush

Using a facial brush while cleansing your face will loosen and decrease the amount of dead skin cells on your face, which in turn will decrease the amount of acne (due to clogged pores).
With DAILY use, the facial brush will improve circulation on your skin, helping it become more receptive to skin treatments and moisturizers.
Your complexion will be noticeably healthier and radiant.

Round Handle Facial Brush
Price: $3.00 (The Body Shop)

-The bristles are soft enough to not damage your skin, but strong enough to be effective in unclogging pores of oil and dirt
-Suitable for all skin types
-Nylon bristles and 100% vegetarian
-CHEAP
-Small and convenient for travel

Note: Wash this everyday with soap and water before or after using this. An easy way to do this is to first rub your cleanser into the palm of your hand, apply the cleanser to your face, and then swirl and cleanse your brush with the remaining cleanser in your palm. Afterward, rinse it under warm water to rid of makeup and dirt before using it on your face.

3) Toner

Many claim that using a toner is moot, but toning the skin cleanses your skin from leftover impurities that your cleanser may have missed. Toners also have the ability to soften and tighten pores, prepping your skin for treatment and moisturizers.

Wise Woman Softening Toner
Price: $17.50 (The Body Shop)

-Effective in softening skin and tightening pores
-Extremely beneficial and moisturizing to those with dry skin
-Ingredient include witch hazel, a natural astringent which also decreases puffiness
-Soy oil helps stimulate cell turnover and maintain collagen levels

Note: Instead of applying this with a cotton pad, you may squeeze a dime-sized amount into the palm of your hand, rub it into your face in circular motions , and gently pat it into your skin to stimulate circulation.

Shiseido Benefiance Balancing Softener
Price: $42.00 (SEPHORA)

-Recommended for dry/combination skin
-Helps moisturizer absorb better. Will help eliminate oil and dry patches
-Ginseng extracts, chlorella extract, and Bio-Hyaluronic complex help soothe and soften skin
-Improves skin texture with daily use
-The bottle’s small opening prevents wasted product

Nivea Visage Moisturizing Toner
Price: $6.99 + Free Shipping (DermStore.com)

-This product is no longer being carried in most stores, which is extremely unfortunate because this was the best toner I have ever used
-Does not contain alcohol
-Very moisturizing -water and Glycerin are it’s first two ingredients-but, it is still suitable for oily skin
-Contains calming and soothing agents such as chamomile and aloe
-Extremely effective at cleaning off excess dirt and makeup

4) Salicylic Acid and Benzoyl Peroxide

Salicylic Acid (SA) is a beta hydroxy that unclogs pores, aiding in preventing acne
It works as a keratolytic, by thinning, loosening and shedding the skin that is being treating
Because it is a beta hydroxy, it may be used in conjunction with Glycolic Acid, Sulfur, and Retinol without negating the effects.

Benzoyl Peroxide (BP) is effective by working as a peeling agent, increasing cell turnover, clearing the pores, and oxidizing skin. The ingredients kill acne-causing bacteria, preventing pimples from arising in the future. Some users may experience initial drying and sensitivity within the first week or so, but most build a tolerance after a week. Do not use with Retinol, for it negates the effects of both treatments.

Clean & Clear’s Invisible Blemish Treatment-Maximum Strength .75oz
Price: $6.49 (Clean&Clear.com)

-Apply after cleansing and toning, and moisturize right after to avoid dryness
-If your acne is not too severe, it may be best to apply this on at night as the clear and shiny formula may accentuate acne during the daytime
-Salicylic Acid 2%

Clean & Clear’s Persa-gel 10
Price: $5.99 (CVS)

-Most effective drugstore acne prevention treatment for those with severer acne problems
-Use this twice a day after cleansing and toning
-Must use a good moisturizer in conjunction due to its drying effects
-Great as an over-night spot treatment
-It is wise to gradually build a tolerance by first using it sparingly and increasing the amount used over time
-10% Benzoyl Peroxide

5) Exfoliation

Exfoliating is an important part of your skincare routine. It helps maintain skin brightness, softness, tone, complexion, and helps eliminate dead skin cells. You should only exfoliate once or twice a week to avoid irritation.

It is important to note that you should always use micro refined crystals as opposed to large jagged exfoliants such as St. Ive’s exfoliator. Large and jagged exfoliants will damage and irritate your skin, and may even exacerbate acne. REMEMBER, you must be GENTLE with your skin in order for your skin to improve.

Vitamin C Micro Refiner
Price: $25.00 (The Body Shop)

-The 2.5 fl oz. bottle is worth the price since it lasts you for a long time
-A pea-sized amount is sufficient enough to exfoliate your entire face
-Micro refined crystals are gentle enough to not damage your skin
-Vitamin C encourages production of collagen
-Shea butter increases softness and smoothness

6) Moisturizers

Moisturizing is one of the most crucial parts of your skin regimen. A moisturizer that is not comodogenic will clog your pores and will most likely break out sensitive skin. The right moisturizer for the right climate and skin type is imperative to maintaining clear skin.

Amore Pacific Moisture Bound Refreshing Hydra-Gel Oil-Free
Price: $100.00 (SEPHORA)
(This is hands down the best moisturizer I have ever used)

-The oil-free gel does not clog pores, nor does it leave the greasy residue that most moisturizers leave behind
-Will still leave skin FULLY moisturized even in conjunction with Clean&Clear’s persa gel, which dries out skin
-Is not fragrance free (the scent is pretty strong)
-Perfect for humid climates

Clinique’s Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief Gel-Creme
Price: $34.00-$46.50 (SEPHORA)

-This is a cheaper alternative to Amore Pacific’s gel, however this is not as hydrating
-The gels glides onto your skin and neither leaves it greasy nor heavy
-Very suitable to mix your foundation into as a tinted moisturizer
-Can be used under or over makeup or as a moisture mask
-Oil-Free – is unlikely to cause breakouts

Ponds Dry Skin Cream
Price: $4.99 (CVS)

-The mineral oil in this cream allows this cream to be sold cheaper
-Extremely moisturizing for dry skin
-Preferably for more arid and dry climates
-Will not clog pores
-For those who find it too greasy, you can use this as a basic eye cream

Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Cream For Face SPF 55
Price: $34.00 (SEPHORA)

-Water and perspiration resistant
-Leaves skin feeling softer with its retexturizing ingredients and antioxidants
-Leaves no white residue or stickiness
-The most important thing is that it helps protect you face from sun and cell damage and dryness
-Best for combination/oily skin
-Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation

7) Face Masks

Face masks are important in giving your skin that extra oomph! When used once a week, your skin’s complexion and overall health will improve.

DDF Sulfur Therapeutic Mask Sulfur 10% Acne Treatment
Price: $38.00 (SEPHORA)

-This is perfect for people who have acne-prone skin
-The sulfur, aloe vera, purified clay, and aromatic extracts help your skin’s clarity and softness
-It can also be used as an over-night spot treatment for acne
-This product is great for oily-skin as it helps control oil production and helps clean pores
-The price may be daunting, but a little goes a long way, so it is a great steal

Chanel Precision Mask Force Hydratante
Price: $49.95 (Amazon.com)

-It is a hydrating creamy gel
-Great for those who work in air conditioned/heated environments because it will help control your skin in dryer climates
-Suitable for sensitive – dry skin
-Gentle fragrance (peaches/apricot)
-Plumps skin and leaves it moisturized for an extended period of time
—–
Although this information may seem a lot to absorb, the effects (if done on a DAILY basis) are worth it! I have helped a lot of people who have come to me with complaints of acne and a poor complexion, and with a strict adherence to these tips, their skin has literally transformed in a month.

Be diligent, patient, and you will see results!

My Holy Grails (HGs) of Hair Care

CHI’s Keratin Mist
Price: Approximately $12.00 at CVS

-This leave-in strengthening treatment not only leaves your hair SOFTER, but it leaves it MANAGEABLE without weighing it down.
-Helps control frizzies.
-Hair will straighten easier with an iron. My hair is stubborn to straighten if I do not use this product!
-First spray this over damp hair and comb your hair afterward with a wide-tooth comb. Style as desired.

Matrix’s Biolage Bodifying Creme Gel
Price: $14.00 (Ulta)

-This gel is the best gel I have used so far. It is so LIGHT-WEIGHT that it won’t weigh my hair down even if applied at the roots, but strong enough to tame hair.
-Rub approximately a pea-sized amount through palms and apply to entire head of damp hair, from root to tip (or tip to root if you want more volume). Style as usual
-Great for people with bangs. Use a small amount while running through damp bangs.

Frederic Fekkai’s Glossing Cream
Price: $20-27 (4-7oz) (SEPHORA)

-This product will soften hair while giving it a healthy sheen.
-Ideal for all hair types, especially dry hair. Dry hair will feel healthier upon use.
-Use sparingly in your application because the olive oil in the product will weigh hair down if you use too much.

Oscar Blandi’s Dry Shampoo Spray
Price: $11-21 (1.4-3.2oz) (SEPHORA)

-Dry shampoo will sop up oils that your hair naturally produces over the course of the day.
-A great refresher for your hair when you don’t have time to wash your hair and you’re on the go.
-Can be used as a volumizer when applied or sprayed at the roots while styling hair.
-Ideal for people with BANGS. I throw the travel sized dry shampoo into my bag when I need to refresh my bangs on the go (especially when you have an oily-forehead).
-Ideal for hotter weather when hair is more prone to greasiness.

Dry Brushing Techniques

The skin is our body’s largest organ. It eliminates over one pound of acid waste per day in the average adult. It’s responsible for 1/4 of our body’s detoxification each day. And even though it’s the last organ to receive nutrients, it’s the FIRST to show signs of imbalance and deficiency!
So, it is only logical to treat our skin the best way we can!

DRY BRUSHING helps detoxify your body of its toxic wastes. It helps stimulate detoxification in your kidneys, glands, and transportation systems. As a result, dry brushing may help minimize cellulite due to fluid retention.

*Remember to brush TOWARDS your heart, as it is the goal to push fluids towards your heart, since the heart will be detoxifying your system.

STEPS:

1) Buy a soft, natural bristled brush

2) Starting from the feet, brush your skin upwards in small circles (to direct fluids and toxins towards your heart), avoiding cuts, rashes, and sensitive or thin skin such as your inner thighs and face.

3) After you’re done with both of your legs, start brushing your arms starting at your fingertips. Gently brush up your arms in small circles again.

4) When you are finished with both arms, begin brushing your back at the nape of your neck, brushing downwards towards your heart.

5) Afterward, begin from your stomach to your heart. Brush your chest in small circles as you push fluids to your heart.

6) Take a shower! (You will have shed skin cells during the process and as a consequence, your skin will feel smoother too!)

This entire process should take approximately 10-15 minutes.

I find that waking up in the morning and immediately drybrushing feels invigorating :]

Happy dry brushing

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