Sunday, December 5, 2010
2010 X-mas Gift Certificates
Tis the season to find fantastic gifts for friends and family. If you're looking for something different Enchantment Makeup Artistry is offering gift certificates available in any amount. This is a perfect gift for people who have upcoming special occasions, weddings, or someone who just likes to be pampered. To see the complete list of services offered check out http://www.enchantmentmakeupartistry.com/.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
2010 Makeup and Beauty Gift Giving Guide
For anyone who is a beauty junkie like me, recieving any kind of gift set from a store like Sephora is heaven. Here is a list of holiday must-haves, perfect for gift giving!
Bath and Body
1. Any Philosophy Gift Set. Philosophy has numerous holiday scents packaged into cute little gift sets. This years scents include: Gingerbread, Candy Cane, Peppermint, Cinnamon Icicng, Marshmallow, and Snow Angel.
If you've never experienced a Philosophy scent you''re missing out! They are highly fragranced and smell exactly like what they say they smell like. Philosophy has sets containing an all-in-one shower gel, bubble bath and shampoo, matching lotion and lip gloss. Definetly check out their gift sets to WOW your loved one.
2. Bliss Bubble + Butter Spa Blends in Orange and White Pepper. Sephora says: This perfect skincare duo in Bliss' invigorating Blood Orange and White Pepper scent delivers a rich lather and moisturizing benefits for your softest skin yet. Soapy Suds cleanses while nourishing skin with aloe and vitamin E. Body Butter features a super-absorbent, non-greasy formulation with coconut oil to soften skin and sodium hyaluronate to lock in moisture. I say: Sodium hyaluronate is one of the best things for hydrating your skin and the smell is said to be like The Body Shop's "Satsuma". $35
Makeup
1. Sephora Endless Color Blockbuster: This is Sephora's biggest holiday set to date, with 13 new products added I bought the set for myself last year and I love it. It's my go to palette for lip colours. This is a must have set for any makeup artist or junkie. This set includes 98 x original, iridescent effect eyeshadows, 70 x shiny lip glosses, 6 x cream eyeliners, 2 x lip liners, 3 x eyeliners, Mascara, 4 x applicators. $48
3. Sephora Favourites Glitz and Glam: This is a deluxe sample makeup kit with products that sparkle and shine. This is a perfect kit for holiday makeup. $39
4. Stila Lip Glaze Set: A collection of 8 gorgeous lip colours, in a clickable pen package. This set includes 4 top-selling colours as well as 4 new limited edition colours. This set is a fantastic value and will thrill any lipgloss addicted girl! $25
Skin Care
2. Philosophy The Joy of Great Skin. A collection of Philosophys award-winning products. The set includes, cleanser, exfoliator, moisturizer and lactic peels. This brand is also formulated without parabans, sulfates and other other preservatives and synthetic materials. $85
NailsStocking Stuffers
Friday, November 26, 2010
5 Pieces That Makeup My Life
After thinking carefully about which products I use every single day no matter what I came up with this list...
www.enchantmentmakeupartistry.com
- Concealer: How any woman can live without concealer is beyond me! It's a miracle in a jar, stick, tube, pot- however you use it. Concealer is what covers all imperfections without looking cakey(if applied right). It conceals dark circles, redness, pimples, scars...so again how does anyone live without this??
- Foundation: This goes hand in hand with concealer. While some people like to use one or the other, the way to get the most from these products is to use them together! No matter what type of foundation you choose to use it will blend your skin tone to make it look like you have perfectly even skin. Because you have already covered your imperfections with concealer, all that's needed with your foundation is a light application and your set!
- Blush: If I had perfect skin this would be number 1 on list! Blush gives your face an instant glow. If you were to apply concealer and foundation with no blush it tends to make you look washed out and as some people would say- dead.
- Mascara: I'm sure this is in most womans top 5! A quick swipe of mascara can take you from looking tired to wide awake! Not only does it make your lashes longer, thicker and fuller but it opens up your eyes making you appear less tired.
- Lip gloss/stick: Everyone should keep their lips moisturized- why not add shine&colour while doing it! Plus, gloss makes lips look extra luscious...who could resist that!
www.enchantmentmakeupartistry.com
Monday, November 22, 2010
To Prime or Not to Prime
What is a primer? Just like paint, makeup needs a primer. Would you paint a wall or a canvas without first priming it? Probably not. Adhesion, hide, and colour retention are reasons why you use a primer before painting... so doesn't it seem logical that you should use a primer on your face as you are ultimately painting your face? Foundation primers have many benefits which include: creating a perfectly smooth surface to apply your makeup to, filling in fine lines, creating a base for your makeup to adhere to so it doesn't rub off half way through your day, and providing an easier application of concealer and foundation as they glide over your skin instead of building up product resulting in a "cakey" look.
Most prestige brands now have one or more primers in their product line, some of course are better than others. While I would absolutely love to be able to try every primer and write my opinion about it I don't have the time or $40+ per bottle to experiment! I will however write about the primers I have used as well as knowledge I have gained from doing some online research about primers I haven't tried.
The few brands I have tried are Smashbox, Faces, and Laura Mercier.
Smashbox: They are said to be the undisputed leader of the pack with one of the very first primers available. Smashbox now has 5 different primer formulas spanning from the 1st edition to colour correcting. As a makeup artist I started out with a smashbox makeup kit, primer included. So what's my take? I wasn't a huge fan! While Sephora reviewers give this product 4.5 out of 5 stars, I wasn't crazy about it. Yes it did what it was supposed to do by prepping a face for makeup and yes it was smooth and makeup did glide on but if the user doesn't get the exact amount of product needed it rolls off of the face in balls leaving it not so smooth. Perhaps you would disagree, but I was not sold.
Faces: This has to be one of my favourite primers. It feels so nice being spread onto your skin, with a creamy, thick consistancy. This product does contain silica which some people have a problem with but I don't mind. That is what gives it such a rich, smooth feeling. If you take too much product, no problem it blends right into your skin!
Laura Mercier: I bought a Laura Mercier gift set while at Sephora which included their primer. This is not my favourite primer but I do like it and it gets the job done. It creates a smooth base and feels more like a moisturizer than a primer. It is enriched with vitamins and is not greasy. I may or may not purchase this again, I haven't decided. They currently have 5 formulas of primers incuding regular, oil-free, hydrating, mineral liquid and mineral powder.
www.enchantmentmakeupartistry.com
Most prestige brands now have one or more primers in their product line, some of course are better than others. While I would absolutely love to be able to try every primer and write my opinion about it I don't have the time or $40+ per bottle to experiment! I will however write about the primers I have used as well as knowledge I have gained from doing some online research about primers I haven't tried.The few brands I have tried are Smashbox, Faces, and Laura Mercier.
Smashbox: They are said to be the undisputed leader of the pack with one of the very first primers available. Smashbox now has 5 different primer formulas spanning from the 1st edition to colour correcting. As a makeup artist I started out with a smashbox makeup kit, primer included. So what's my take? I wasn't a huge fan! While Sephora reviewers give this product 4.5 out of 5 stars, I wasn't crazy about it. Yes it did what it was supposed to do by prepping a face for makeup and yes it was smooth and makeup did glide on but if the user doesn't get the exact amount of product needed it rolls off of the face in balls leaving it not so smooth. Perhaps you would disagree, but I was not sold.
Faces: This has to be one of my favourite primers. It feels so nice being spread onto your skin, with a creamy, thick consistancy. This product does contain silica which some people have a problem with but I don't mind. That is what gives it such a rich, smooth feeling. If you take too much product, no problem it blends right into your skin!
Laura Mercier: I bought a Laura Mercier gift set while at Sephora which included their primer. This is not my favourite primer but I do like it and it gets the job done. It creates a smooth base and feels more like a moisturizer than a primer. It is enriched with vitamins and is not greasy. I may or may not purchase this again, I haven't decided. They currently have 5 formulas of primers incuding regular, oil-free, hydrating, mineral liquid and mineral powder.
Below are some brands I haven't yet tried but would like to...
Dior: How can a girl not love anything Dior? I have loved every product I have tried in Dior's makeup line so far so I have high hopes for their primer. Dior's skinflash Primer claims to have an anti-fatigue remedy and is boosted with Photo-smart Pigments which adapts to all types of lighting. Sephora user ratings are 4 out of 5 stars for this product!
MAKE UP FOREVER
I loveeee this brand! They have amazing eye products and ohhhh the lashes! I do own the green colour correcting primer but I only use it in clients with red toned skin and not on myself. I do like the way it goes on and it has a nice smell. Sephora reviewers say this is a very good moisturizing primer. I would liek to try the clear one for myself!
Guerlian
I had to had this to my "to try" list. Why? The fact that it is made with 24-karat gold has won me over. The 24-carat gold-infused cooling gel sinks into the skin, retaining moisture. Applied to bare skin, this skin enhancer and makeup primer smoothes fine lines and tightens facial features. Rated 4 out of 5 star on Sephora.
Sephora
Last but not least, I have added the Sephora brand to my list to try because it is the cheaper alternative to any of the primers mentioned above. This brand was also one of the highest rated at 4.5 out of 5 stars. It is said to be lightweight and non-greasy. You can compare this price of $15 a bottle to the other brands starting at $30 a bottle.
www.enchantmentmakeupartistry.com
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Holiday Makeup Trends 2010
The holidays are all about glaming it up and making sure you shine! The trend this season isn't too far off from that. We're seeing alot of smoky and glittery eyes, lusterous cheeks, and bold red lips.
Scarlett Johansson at the Dolce & Gabbana Holiday 2010 ad campaign shoot. Photo: Robert Bellamy for Dolce & Gabbana
Dolce & Gabbana's holiday 2010 advertisement. Photo: Courtesy of Solve Sunsbo
Eyes
Nothing attracts better attention than a smoky, sultry gaze. To amp up the drama, use shimmery white, silver and black shadows. If your eyes are small, keep the dark shadow close to your lash line and smoke it out. You can add a bit of glitter to the corner of your eyes to open them up and make them appear wider.
Another favourite holiday look of mine is a full lid of glitter! This is a really fun look and not for th
e faint at heart! It's a fantastic statement look and great for parties or New Years. To achieve this look line your lids with a liquid liner. When its dry apply a primer or a glitter base so the glitter has something to adhere to. Apply the glitter to your lid using as much as you desire. Note: you will have glitter that falls onto your cheek no matter how hard you try to avoid it. My advice... go with it!
e faint at heart! It's a fantastic statement look and great for parties or New Years. To achieve this look line your lids with a liquid liner. When its dry apply a primer or a glitter base so the glitter has something to adhere to. Apply the glitter to your lid using as much as you desire. Note: you will have glitter that falls onto your cheek no matter how hard you try to avoid it. My advice... go with it!
Cheeks
If you choose to go with the smoky eye, make sure to add shine to your cheeks. Luminescent skin is a must! Add a shimmer lotion, powder or gel to you face for added shine and glow. If you decide to do glitter on your eyes, don't use a shimmery product with big particles of shimmer- it will be too much.
Lips
What says "come kiss me" more then beautiful, red lips. People are drawn to red lips, and there's a reason...they're hot! To make the most out of this look line your lips with a pencil in the same colour as your lipstick. Make sure to be careful when lining with a red pencil, a slight mistake could cause your lips to look clownish. (If you make a mistake, take a q-tip dipped in makeup remover and carefully wipe away the smudge, then cover with matching concealer.) Fill you lips in with lipstick- voila! sexy red lips! To avoid looking costume-ish use your judgement, but a good rule of thumb is to either wear a dramatic eye with a nude lip, or a dramatic lip with subtle eyes. Being a holiday look, you don't have to down play the 2nd feature as much as you would on a normal day.
Dolce & Gabbana Holiday Makeup Ads 2010
Scarlett Johansson at the Dolce & Gabbana Holiday 2010 ad campaign shoot. Photo: Robert Bellamy for Dolce & Gabbana Dolce & Gabbana's holiday 2010 advertisement. Photo: Courtesy of Solve SunsboThese Dolce & Gabbana photos are a prime example of holiday makeup trends for 2010! In the first photo, Scarlett has bold red lips, with a semi dramatic eye. In the second photo she has very dramatic smoky shadows, making her eyes pop, paired with a nude, glossy lip.
Whatever look you choose to wear for this holiday season, have fun with it. There are no set in stone rules to makeup, just guide lines. And remember, don't forget to sparkle and shine!
Visit my site to view my online portfolio!
Friday, September 17, 2010
Complexion Perfection!
On a mission to find more great books for my collection I have recently picked up Kate Sommerville's Complection Perfection. What a great book! Not only does Sommerville give advice on how to deal with any skin type she adds great detail about the anatomy of the skin, how what you eat benefits or hurts or skin, and what you should look for in products. She teaches WHY you should do these things for your skin to truly help any person understand HOW to do it. In fact she covers the who, what, where, whens and how's of skincare. After reading through the book a few times I have hilighted all of the general information that really stood out to me. For more detail about you own skin type you can pick up a copy of her book at Chapters.
In order to treat our skin we need to first understand what it does and how it functions.
Protect:
We generally associate chronology as why we age but it is more of a free- radical issue. Free radicals are produced by UV rays which become highly reactive and cause damage to our DNA strands. They cause the genetic structure to change. Because the cells are no longer the perfect copies they were before they start to influence the cells underneath to form an unhealthy structure. A lot of this free radical damage could have been avoided by staying out of the sun. We all know by now that we should always be wearing sunscreen to protect our skin. Another way to get some extra SPF is to use mineral makeup. The minerals in these products protect against UV rays. They create a physial barrier from the sun and usually contain an SPF of 15-22. When you are looking for a moisturizers make sure all moisturizers and serums contains free-radical-fighting antioxidents like vitamins C, E, and green tea extracts. There are also certain foods and ingrediants to boost your SPF. Watermelon and promegrante can actually boost your SPF by several factors. Foods or supplements that contain essential fatty acids, such as omega-3, can strengthen your skin's natural barrier function, protecting the skin from within.
Beauty and the Buffet
For a detailed list of food you should include in your diet and why check out Sommerville's book.
Anatomy of the Skin.
In order to treat our skin we need to first understand what it does and how it functions.
The top layer of your skin is called the Epidermis. There are 5 layers of cells in the epidermis. Each top layer of cells indicates what the cells being born underneath are going to be like and what they will do. For healthy skin we not only have to get rid of the damage cells on top but also manage the cells underneath.
Beneath the Epidermis is the Dermis. There are cells in this layer of skin called fibroblasts which produce elastin and collegen. These cells are bathed in hylorhonic acid-- a lubricant that holds water, giving your skin texture, bounce and a youthful look. As we age collegen and elastin break down faster then the fribroblasts can produce them. The number of fibroblasts decreases and hylorhonic acid decreases which contributes to aging and dry skin.
Subcutaneous Tissue is the next layer of fat and connective tissue. This layer tends to get thinner as we age so our skin looks less plump and smooth. Underneath this tissue is our muscle.
Kate Sommerville's My Skin Health Pyramid
Protect:
We generally associate chronology as why we age but it is more of a free- radical issue. Free radicals are produced by UV rays which become highly reactive and cause damage to our DNA strands. They cause the genetic structure to change. Because the cells are no longer the perfect copies they were before they start to influence the cells underneath to form an unhealthy structure. A lot of this free radical damage could have been avoided by staying out of the sun. We all know by now that we should always be wearing sunscreen to protect our skin. Another way to get some extra SPF is to use mineral makeup. The minerals in these products protect against UV rays. They create a physial barrier from the sun and usually contain an SPF of 15-22. When you are looking for a moisturizers make sure all moisturizers and serums contains free-radical-fighting antioxidents like vitamins C, E, and green tea extracts. There are also certain foods and ingrediants to boost your SPF. Watermelon and promegrante can actually boost your SPF by several factors. Foods or supplements that contain essential fatty acids, such as omega-3, can strengthen your skin's natural barrier function, protecting the skin from within.
Hydrate:
When people think of hydration they often mistaken it with moisturizing. Hydration is the process of getting water into the skin cells; moisturizing is the process of locking it there by applying a cream or lotion on top of the hydrated skin. For example: If you put a drop of water on a dry piece of leather, the wet patch will plump up but will soon dry out again. If you apply an oily perservative over the wet patch it will remain plump. Both of these processes are truly necessary in order to have healthy skin . The more hydrated the cells are, the healthier they are. Without the proper hydration our cells die. The products we choose to hydrate our skin should contain ingrediants that act as Humectants- to attract water to the skin, Occlusives- that keep hydration from evaporating and Emmolients- which add lubrication to the skin. Hylorhonic acid is fantastic as a topical ingredient. It acts as a humectant, occlusive, and emmolient. It binds water into the skin cells and helps them hold 1000 times their weight in water. Because we lose hylorinc acid as we age it is a crucial supplement. We also need to keep our skin from dehydrating. If you overexfoliate or overtreat your skin, you can leave in unprotected . Water will evaporate too quickly leaving your skin dry, dehydrated, and prone to infection. Along with drinking enough water, taking supplements of fish oil, flaxseed oil, or omega-3 fatty acids works to hydrate and lock moisture into the cells. Hylorhonic acid supplements combined with coenzyme Q10 are incredibly effective in attracting more water to the skin cells and locking it in by preventing evaporation. Many beverages dehydrate you skin. Caffiene pulls the moisture content out of skin cells. Simple sugars such as high-fructose corn syrup and refined white sugar take a lot of water to metabolize.
When people think of hydration they often mistaken it with moisturizing. Hydration is the process of getting water into the skin cells; moisturizing is the process of locking it there by applying a cream or lotion on top of the hydrated skin. For example: If you put a drop of water on a dry piece of leather, the wet patch will plump up but will soon dry out again. If you apply an oily perservative over the wet patch it will remain plump. Both of these processes are truly necessary in order to have healthy skin . The more hydrated the cells are, the healthier they are. Without the proper hydration our cells die. The products we choose to hydrate our skin should contain ingrediants that act as Humectants- to attract water to the skin, Occlusives- that keep hydration from evaporating and Emmolients- which add lubrication to the skin. Hylorhonic acid is fantastic as a topical ingredient. It acts as a humectant, occlusive, and emmolient. It binds water into the skin cells and helps them hold 1000 times their weight in water. Because we lose hylorinc acid as we age it is a crucial supplement. We also need to keep our skin from dehydrating. If you overexfoliate or overtreat your skin, you can leave in unprotected . Water will evaporate too quickly leaving your skin dry, dehydrated, and prone to infection. Along with drinking enough water, taking supplements of fish oil, flaxseed oil, or omega-3 fatty acids works to hydrate and lock moisture into the cells. Hylorhonic acid supplements combined with coenzyme Q10 are incredibly effective in attracting more water to the skin cells and locking it in by preventing evaporation. Many beverages dehydrate you skin. Caffiene pulls the moisture content out of skin cells. Simple sugars such as high-fructose corn syrup and refined white sugar take a lot of water to metabolize.
Feed:
Our skin is like a sponge which can absorb 60% of certain nutrients we feed it externally. Topical vitamins, minerals, anitoxidents and essiential oils have been found to be incredibly effficent in feeding the skin. Vitamins C and E are proven antioxidents which fight free radicals. Topical Vitamin A in the form of retinoic acid or retinol helps break up skin cells that are irregularly stacked, which encourages the cells to turn over and create smoother skin with fewer lines. Copper can help aid in strengthening the skin by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. Zinc, used topically is an anti-inflammatory. Of course you want to eat lot's of nutrious food to help your body absorb the minerals and vitamins internally.
Our skin is like a sponge which can absorb 60% of certain nutrients we feed it externally. Topical vitamins, minerals, anitoxidents and essiential oils have been found to be incredibly effficent in feeding the skin. Vitamins C and E are proven antioxidents which fight free radicals. Topical Vitamin A in the form of retinoic acid or retinol helps break up skin cells that are irregularly stacked, which encourages the cells to turn over and create smoother skin with fewer lines. Copper can help aid in strengthening the skin by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. Zinc, used topically is an anti-inflammatory. Of course you want to eat lot's of nutrious food to help your body absorb the minerals and vitamins internally.
Stimulate:
Vitamin A and peptides are great stimulants when used topically. These ingredients have been shown to stimualte fibroblasts, having the effect of reducing lines, smoothing texture and redness over time; strengthen elasticity; and add plumpness to the skin. Studies have also shown that trace amounts of zinc and magnesium in our diet are key factors in the chemical process to strengthen our tissue.
Vitamin A and peptides are great stimulants when used topically. These ingredients have been shown to stimualte fibroblasts, having the effect of reducing lines, smoothing texture and redness over time; strengthen elasticity; and add plumpness to the skin. Studies have also shown that trace amounts of zinc and magnesium in our diet are key factors in the chemical process to strengthen our tissue.
Detox:
Cleanse daily; Exfoliate two or three times a week; spa or at home facials; and sweat from excersing or steaming. Pure unfiltered cranberry juice diluted with water is a great way to cleanse your kidneys. A squeeze of lemon juice added to a glass of water throughout the day will help neutralize excess acidity. Green tea is excellent for cleansing and immunity. A great way to get an effective cleanse is by cutting out certain food from your diet for just three days. This food includes: caffiene, alcohol, sugar, added salt, meat, and processed food. Drink only water, freshly squeezed juice or herbal tea. Load up on raw, fresh produce. For protein have a handful of nuts, low fat yogurt or cottage cheese. If you smoke – STOP IT. When you puff on a cigarette your're drawing in more than 4000 toxins. Smoking also eats up free-radical-fighting vitamin C in your body.
Cleanse daily; Exfoliate two or three times a week; spa or at home facials; and sweat from excersing or steaming. Pure unfiltered cranberry juice diluted with water is a great way to cleanse your kidneys. A squeeze of lemon juice added to a glass of water throughout the day will help neutralize excess acidity. Green tea is excellent for cleansing and immunity. A great way to get an effective cleanse is by cutting out certain food from your diet for just three days. This food includes: caffiene, alcohol, sugar, added salt, meat, and processed food. Drink only water, freshly squeezed juice or herbal tea. Load up on raw, fresh produce. For protein have a handful of nuts, low fat yogurt or cottage cheese. If you smoke – STOP IT. When you puff on a cigarette your're drawing in more than 4000 toxins. Smoking also eats up free-radical-fighting vitamin C in your body.
Beauty and the Buffet Of course we know that eating healthy is great for our bodies but it is also great for our skin.
Alkaline vs Acidic:
In today's world we eat a lot of acidic food. Food that falls into this category are mostly items we already know are unhealthy such as processed food, saturated fats and oils, and sugary drinks. For a full list of alkaline vs acidic food you can check out this link http://www.energiseforlife.com/list_of_alkaline_foods.php
Sommerville talks about how her father-in-law was diagnosed with stage 5 prostate cancer. Instead of participating in radiation treatments he decided to go with a different approach. His treatment regimen focused on orangic foods, immunity-boosting supplements and drinking nothing but lots of purified water. He maintained an all alkaline enviroment inhis body. By maintaining this he he increased a healthy PH balance and reduced the disease-causing acid waste in his system. The theory (which is not supported by the traditional medical community) is that cancer cells don't grow in an alkaline enviroment. After being completely devoted to the program his cancer disappeared in less that a year's time. Sommerville explains this story to us because not only did she see that big change happen but she also saw incredible changes to his skin. Brown spots and sun damage has completely disappeared from his face in the same way that cancer had. While the restricitions he followed were quite extreme, Sommerville explains that in order for clients to experience extreme skin changes, lifestyle changes have to be made.
Organic Food
50 years ago are food was a lot more nutrious than it is now. Industrialization has impacted the nutritional value of everything we eat. Organically grown fruits and vegetables have been proven time and time again to have higher levels(about 30% more) of anti-oxidents, proteins, and nutrients. Meat is in the same category. Many animals are fed food that arent natural to their diet to fatten them up as soon as possible along with hormones to make them gro bigger. Having unnatural horomones in our food can result in disruptions to our own horomonal balance. This causes all kinds of issues, including skin disorders. Of course we are not expected to eat healhy 100% of the time but we should try and follow the 80/20 rule. Eat your healthiest 80% of the time and allow for other foods you enjoy for the other 20%.
Alkaline vs Acidic:
In today's world we eat a lot of acidic food. Food that falls into this category are mostly items we already know are unhealthy such as processed food, saturated fats and oils, and sugary drinks. For a full list of alkaline vs acidic food you can check out this link http://www.energiseforlife.com/list_of_alkaline_foods.php
Sommerville talks about how her father-in-law was diagnosed with stage 5 prostate cancer. Instead of participating in radiation treatments he decided to go with a different approach. His treatment regimen focused on orangic foods, immunity-boosting supplements and drinking nothing but lots of purified water. He maintained an all alkaline enviroment inhis body. By maintaining this he he increased a healthy PH balance and reduced the disease-causing acid waste in his system. The theory (which is not supported by the traditional medical community) is that cancer cells don't grow in an alkaline enviroment. After being completely devoted to the program his cancer disappeared in less that a year's time. Sommerville explains this story to us because not only did she see that big change happen but she also saw incredible changes to his skin. Brown spots and sun damage has completely disappeared from his face in the same way that cancer had. While the restricitions he followed were quite extreme, Sommerville explains that in order for clients to experience extreme skin changes, lifestyle changes have to be made.
Organic Food
50 years ago are food was a lot more nutrious than it is now. Industrialization has impacted the nutritional value of everything we eat. Organically grown fruits and vegetables have been proven time and time again to have higher levels(about 30% more) of anti-oxidents, proteins, and nutrients. Meat is in the same category. Many animals are fed food that arent natural to their diet to fatten them up as soon as possible along with hormones to make them gro bigger. Having unnatural horomones in our food can result in disruptions to our own horomonal balance. This causes all kinds of issues, including skin disorders. Of course we are not expected to eat healhy 100% of the time but we should try and follow the 80/20 rule. Eat your healthiest 80% of the time and allow for other foods you enjoy for the other 20%.
For a detailed list of food you should include in your diet and why check out Sommerville's book.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Summer Makeup
I think it's safe to say summer is finally here! Long days at the beach, parties, ice cold drinks... What else could a girl ask for? I absolutely love summer. I live for the hot, sunny, carefree days. Summer is about taking advantage of everything that comes along and not worrying about a thing- including your makeup. Gone are the days where makeup will melt right off of our faces. There are makeup options for everyone... even for girls who can't live without full coverage.
For me summer means sheer foundation, bronzer, blush and lip gloss. I definitely don't want to walk around on a hot day with a full face of makeup but I do like to have foundation on to even out my skin tone. Some girls can get away with wearing no foundation- I'm not that lucky. If you're like me, follow these tips to help give you a nice summer glow without a ton of makeup. If you have gorgeous skin, leave the concealer/foundation out.
Step 1. WASH your face! Summer is definitely the time when you really want to make sure you are properly cleansing your skin as the heat stirs up more bacteria and sweat on your face than in colder months. Check out my "Importance of Skin Care" post to find the right product for your skin. Follow by toning and moisturizing.
Step 2. SUNSCREEN! If you are going to be outside for the day make sure you apply sunscreen underneath your base coat. Not only will this help to avoid skin cancer but you will also spare your face the wrinkles.
Step 4. PRIME your face with a foundation primer. This will help your concealer glide across your face avoiding the cakey look, protect your skin from environmental factors, and also keep your makeup in place so not only will it stay where you want it to but it won't sink into your pores causing you to break out.
Step 5. CONCEAL any blemishes and red spots to even out your complexion. You do not need a lot just enough to blend your skin tone.
Step 6. APPLY a sheer powder foundation. Look for a loose powder that has a glow to it to keep you looking radiant and ready for summer. I am in love with Sheer Glow by Faces. Smashbox also makes a powder called Halo but it is very pricey at $72 a compact and doesn't have as nice of a glow as Sheer Glow does. Sheer Glow also has an SPF of 25.
Step 7. BRONZE! Apply bronzer to give your face a natural looking tan without the sun damage.
Step 8. APPLY a peachy-pink blush to the apples of your cheeks for a nice summer look.
Step 9. THIS is where I would apply a coat of mascara. I have no eyelashes so I need mascara. If you have full, long lashes you can skip this step as some mascaras are sticky and melt off your face in the heat.
Step 1o. LIPGLOSS! Choose a summery lipgloss shade and apply.
These steps will give you the perfect, carefree look everyone wants during summertime. You can use these steps as a guide to summer time evening makeup as well, just apply shadow to your lid before the mascara and anything else you can think of to glam up your look!
For me summer means sheer foundation, bronzer, blush and lip gloss. I definitely don't want to walk around on a hot day with a full face of makeup but I do like to have foundation on to even out my skin tone. Some girls can get away with wearing no foundation- I'm not that lucky. If you're like me, follow these tips to help give you a nice summer glow without a ton of makeup. If you have gorgeous skin, leave the concealer/foundation out.
Step 1. WASH your face! Summer is definitely the time when you really want to make sure you are properly cleansing your skin as the heat stirs up more bacteria and sweat on your face than in colder months. Check out my "Importance of Skin Care" post to find the right product for your skin. Follow by toning and moisturizing.
Step 2. SUNSCREEN! If you are going to be outside for the day make sure you apply sunscreen underneath your base coat. Not only will this help to avoid skin cancer but you will also spare your face the wrinkles.
Step 4. PRIME your face with a foundation primer. This will help your concealer glide across your face avoiding the cakey look, protect your skin from environmental factors, and also keep your makeup in place so not only will it stay where you want it to but it won't sink into your pores causing you to break out.
Step 5. CONCEAL any blemishes and red spots to even out your complexion. You do not need a lot just enough to blend your skin tone.
Step 6. APPLY a sheer powder foundation. Look for a loose powder that has a glow to it to keep you looking radiant and ready for summer. I am in love with Sheer Glow by Faces. Smashbox also makes a powder called Halo but it is very pricey at $72 a compact and doesn't have as nice of a glow as Sheer Glow does. Sheer Glow also has an SPF of 25.
Step 7. BRONZE! Apply bronzer to give your face a natural looking tan without the sun damage.
Step 8. APPLY a peachy-pink blush to the apples of your cheeks for a nice summer look.
Step 9. THIS is where I would apply a coat of mascara. I have no eyelashes so I need mascara. If you have full, long lashes you can skip this step as some mascaras are sticky and melt off your face in the heat.
Step 1o. LIPGLOSS! Choose a summery lipgloss shade and apply.
These steps will give you the perfect, carefree look everyone wants during summertime. You can use these steps as a guide to summer time evening makeup as well, just apply shadow to your lid before the mascara and anything else you can think of to glam up your look!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Importance of Skin Care: Part One
How many times have you come home late at night and went straight to bed with a pile of makeup on your face? We're all guilty of it. Doing this once or twice every so often isn't a big deal (although I still don't recommend it) but making this a habit is a definite no-no! Why? Well you should think of your face as a piece of canvas. Would DaVinci have painted the "Mona Lisa" on a canvas that was peeling or full of bumps and spots? No.So why would you want to apply makeup to your face hoping to mask the problems instead of fixing them?
Skincare should be your number one priority if you're looking for your most beautiful face. Makeup offers some great quick fixes on its own but used in conjunction with the right products for your skin type it can be wonderful. You may even be able to opt out of wearing certain makeup if you can adress your skin issue and solve it.
1. Normal to Combination Skin
Cleansers: Consider using a foam cleanser that concentrates on removing makeup, unclogging pores, and balancing your skins oils. Because foam cleansers are less concentrated they aren't as harsh on your skin as a gel cleanser. Using a cleanser too strong for your skin will cause your skin to over produce sebem(oil) resulting in breakouts.
Toners: When deciding whether or not you need a toner will be up to you. There are many debates between makeup artists about whether toners are necessary or not. Some say you absolutely need a toner to wipe away any leftover dirt, makeup, or film that your cleanser may leave behind. Others say if you have normal skin all you need is to splash your face with cold water after cleansing to tighten the pores. I have tried both options and feel that when I use a toner my skin is cleaner and less blemishes appear. Personally I would suggest to use a toner but it's not the end of the world if you decide not to.
A good toner to look for for your skin type is something that will balance your skin. When you cleanse the PH levels in your skin change. Using a toner will help to restore the PH levels back to normal. You will also want to look for something that contains vitamins and minerals to give your skin an extra boost of radiance.
Moisturizers: A good moisturizer for your skin is something light enough for to wear in the day when you tend to sweat, touch your face, and deal with stress. You want to be able to put your moisturizer on without it feeling heavy or greasy halfway through the day. You should look for something packed full with antioxidents to help fight free radicals.
2. Dry Skin
Cleansers: Unfortunetly for 6 months of the year I have dry skin. The best type of cleanser for dry skin is a cream cleanser. The reason for this is that it moisturizes as it removes dirt and makeup. Most cream cleansers contain vitamins and/or antioxidents, look to see which ones include these and make sure to pick them up! You can also get some cream cleansers with exfoliating particles mixed right it. This is a good option for dry skin because it scrubs away all of the dry, dead skin while it cleanses and moisturizes. Cream cleansers should more often then not be reserved for people with dry skin as it may be too heavy in spots for people with combination skin.
Toners: When using a cream cleanser you should always try and use a toner with it. Cream cleansers tend to leave product behind because they are not always water soluable. Using a toner will help remove the leftover product and dirt. Toners are also great for prepping your skin for moisture which is something your dry skin craves.
Moisturizers: Dry skin will most likely need a heavier moistrizer. Lighter moisturizers will evaporate too quickly. Look for a moisturizer that has all day protection and ingredients like glycerin which moisturizers and protects. Use a heavier night cream rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidents. Our skin cells have a higher turnover rate while we sleep so it's the perfect time to soak in these wonderful ingredients.
3. Oily Skin
Cleaners: Foam and Gel cleansers are the best forms for oily skin. You also want to look for an oil-free cleanser. Depending on how oily your skin is will determine if you should use a foam or gel cleanser. Foam is good for people with oily skin that is easy to control. It is gentle enough that it won't strip any of the natural oil from your skin and is also oil-free so it won't add any either. If you have a hard time controlling the amount of sebem your skin produces try a gel formula. They are stronger than a foam cleanser, getting rid of more oil, while again not adding any oil to the skin.
Toners: Oily skin needs a toner to balance out the PH levels after using a strong cleanser. Look for one with an astrigent such as witch hazel or benezol peroxide to remove any remaining oil and clear the pores. Try to avoid toners that contain alcohol as no matter what your skin type is, they can be too drying.
Moisturizers: Even people with oily skin should use a moisturizer. There are many different kinds out there but I would say the best ones for really oily skin would be an oil-free mattifying lotion. This gives your skin the moisture it needs without adding oil- something your skin doesn't need anymore of.
Part 2 coming soon to include: How to treat specific skin problems, miracles in a jar, my personal favourite products, popular products.
www.enchantmentmakeupartistry.com
Skincare should be your number one priority if you're looking for your most beautiful face. Makeup offers some great quick fixes on its own but used in conjunction with the right products for your skin type it can be wonderful. You may even be able to opt out of wearing certain makeup if you can adress your skin issue and solve it.
1. Normal to Combination Skin
Cleansers: Consider using a foam cleanser that concentrates on removing makeup, unclogging pores, and balancing your skins oils. Because foam cleansers are less concentrated they aren't as harsh on your skin as a gel cleanser. Using a cleanser too strong for your skin will cause your skin to over produce sebem(oil) resulting in breakouts.
Toners: When deciding whether or not you need a toner will be up to you. There are many debates between makeup artists about whether toners are necessary or not. Some say you absolutely need a toner to wipe away any leftover dirt, makeup, or film that your cleanser may leave behind. Others say if you have normal skin all you need is to splash your face with cold water after cleansing to tighten the pores. I have tried both options and feel that when I use a toner my skin is cleaner and less blemishes appear. Personally I would suggest to use a toner but it's not the end of the world if you decide not to.
A good toner to look for for your skin type is something that will balance your skin. When you cleanse the PH levels in your skin change. Using a toner will help to restore the PH levels back to normal. You will also want to look for something that contains vitamins and minerals to give your skin an extra boost of radiance.
Moisturizers: A good moisturizer for your skin is something light enough for to wear in the day when you tend to sweat, touch your face, and deal with stress. You want to be able to put your moisturizer on without it feeling heavy or greasy halfway through the day. You should look for something packed full with antioxidents to help fight free radicals.
2. Dry Skin
Cleansers: Unfortunetly for 6 months of the year I have dry skin. The best type of cleanser for dry skin is a cream cleanser. The reason for this is that it moisturizes as it removes dirt and makeup. Most cream cleansers contain vitamins and/or antioxidents, look to see which ones include these and make sure to pick them up! You can also get some cream cleansers with exfoliating particles mixed right it. This is a good option for dry skin because it scrubs away all of the dry, dead skin while it cleanses and moisturizes. Cream cleansers should more often then not be reserved for people with dry skin as it may be too heavy in spots for people with combination skin.
Toners: When using a cream cleanser you should always try and use a toner with it. Cream cleansers tend to leave product behind because they are not always water soluable. Using a toner will help remove the leftover product and dirt. Toners are also great for prepping your skin for moisture which is something your dry skin craves.
Moisturizers: Dry skin will most likely need a heavier moistrizer. Lighter moisturizers will evaporate too quickly. Look for a moisturizer that has all day protection and ingredients like glycerin which moisturizers and protects. Use a heavier night cream rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidents. Our skin cells have a higher turnover rate while we sleep so it's the perfect time to soak in these wonderful ingredients.
3. Oily Skin
Cleaners: Foam and Gel cleansers are the best forms for oily skin. You also want to look for an oil-free cleanser. Depending on how oily your skin is will determine if you should use a foam or gel cleanser. Foam is good for people with oily skin that is easy to control. It is gentle enough that it won't strip any of the natural oil from your skin and is also oil-free so it won't add any either. If you have a hard time controlling the amount of sebem your skin produces try a gel formula. They are stronger than a foam cleanser, getting rid of more oil, while again not adding any oil to the skin.
Toners: Oily skin needs a toner to balance out the PH levels after using a strong cleanser. Look for one with an astrigent such as witch hazel or benezol peroxide to remove any remaining oil and clear the pores. Try to avoid toners that contain alcohol as no matter what your skin type is, they can be too drying.
Moisturizers: Even people with oily skin should use a moisturizer. There are many different kinds out there but I would say the best ones for really oily skin would be an oil-free mattifying lotion. This gives your skin the moisture it needs without adding oil- something your skin doesn't need anymore of.
Part 2 coming soon to include: How to treat specific skin problems, miracles in a jar, my personal favourite products, popular products.
www.enchantmentmakeupartistry.com
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Latest Sephora Trip
Last night my boyfriend Jesse and I travelled across the border so I could go on a trip to Sephora. Boy, do I love that place! Unfortunetly the closest Sephora is a good 45-60 minutes away from me. Although my credit card thanks me I try to make the best out of my once in a while trips there!
Last night I purchased Philosophy's " the big skinny" self-tanner, "microdelivery mini peel pads", and Lorac's " Tantalizer". I had a sample of Tantalizer that I used on New Years. I loved the way it made my skin look. It's a body bronzer so it washes off after 1-2 showers. It gives your skin a nice glow and a shimmer. Used over self-tanner you have a better then red carpet glow!
If you have read any of my posts before you know that I'm a huge self-tanner. I decided to try something new so I went with the big skinny. It's not only a self-tanning lotion but a firming lotion as well. I read great reviews on the Sephora website and I love Philoshophy's products. So far I love this lotion! It has a wonderful chocolately cocoa bean smell, liek a Tootsie Roll. There's no self-tanner smell! I've tried many brands and this is the best smelling lotion so far! The colour so far looks amazing. I can tell that once I apply it 1-2 more times I will have the exact colour I'm looking for.
While in the store I was browsing for anything else that I might like to pick up. I came across the mini peel pads and tried the tester on my hand. Immediately it felt sooo soft. It has lactic acid in it so it works to take the top layer of skin of while still remaining gentle. I couldn't stop feeling the top of my hand the whole night. I was so excited to use the product on my face to see what it could do. So far it feels super soft and is a good product to prepare for moisturization.
Once I have gotten more familiar with using these products I will post on how I feel about them and if I will purchase them again. :)
www.enchantmentmakeupartistry.com
Last night I purchased Philosophy's " the big skinny" self-tanner, "microdelivery mini peel pads", and Lorac's " Tantalizer". I had a sample of Tantalizer that I used on New Years. I loved the way it made my skin look. It's a body bronzer so it washes off after 1-2 showers. It gives your skin a nice glow and a shimmer. Used over self-tanner you have a better then red carpet glow!
If you have read any of my posts before you know that I'm a huge self-tanner. I decided to try something new so I went with the big skinny. It's not only a self-tanning lotion but a firming lotion as well. I read great reviews on the Sephora website and I love Philoshophy's products. So far I love this lotion! It has a wonderful chocolately cocoa bean smell, liek a Tootsie Roll. There's no self-tanner smell! I've tried many brands and this is the best smelling lotion so far! The colour so far looks amazing. I can tell that once I apply it 1-2 more times I will have the exact colour I'm looking for.
While in the store I was browsing for anything else that I might like to pick up. I came across the mini peel pads and tried the tester on my hand. Immediately it felt sooo soft. It has lactic acid in it so it works to take the top layer of skin of while still remaining gentle. I couldn't stop feeling the top of my hand the whole night. I was so excited to use the product on my face to see what it could do. So far it feels super soft and is a good product to prepare for moisturization.
Once I have gotten more familiar with using these products I will post on how I feel about them and if I will purchase them again. :)
www.enchantmentmakeupartistry.com
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Fake It: My Guide to Self-Tanning
Ok everyone, everyday I read someones facebook status about them going tanning and I think "whyyyy do girls continue to put themselves at risk day after day just for tan?" Don't get me wrong I loveee the feeling of the warm sun and the glow that your skin has after tanning but is it really worth the risk of cancer, premature aging, & even immune system changes? There's a myth that going tanning in a bed is better than tanning outdoors because it is in a controlled environment... that's very wrong. The UVA rays you get from a bed are 2 to 3 times more powerful(aka harmful) than the UVA rays you get from the sun. You are also only 5 inches or so away from the bulbs where as the sun is quite far away. Either of these options are harmful to your skin but if you must tan, stick to the sun. The best way to get a nice dark colour without the damages of the sun is to self-tan. I know, I know.. "self-tanning turns you orange." In some cases, yes... but not always. If you know how to do it, you can do it right. I'm going to list the steps I follow which I have learned from trial and error and tips I have picked up as well.
Step 1. Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate! If you miss this step you may end up with a blotchy tan. This happens because we have dry patches of skin on our bodies that absorb all the moisture and colour from the tanner resulting in a darker patch of skin. You want to exfoiate to get rid of all the built of skin cells your body has accumulated so you have a nice smooth surface to work with. My favourite exfoliater is The Body Shop's Spa Wisdom African Body Scrub.
Step 2. Make sure you are completely dry before you apply the tanner. You can either wear a pair of gloves for this step or just wash your hands really well after your done. I used to wear gloves but found it easier to just apply it with my hands. Apply the tanner all of your body making sure to rub in completely. If you leave any moisturizer not rubbed in you can bet you will have a streak of darker colour there.
Step 3. Wash your hands. Make sure you get the insides of your fingers as this is a spot that tends to build up and is usually missed when washing. You WILL notice if your forget to do this.
Step 4. If it's possible try not to put any clothes on right away. You want to make sure the tanner soaks in before you put clothes on. It is a good idea to self-tan at night so that you can sleep without your clothes rubbing against your skin. If you have to get dressed right after...it won't kill you.
Brands I love: Clairns- get the one in the tub. It's a thick moisturizer that smells like coconut. It's the best smelling self-tanner I've ever smelt and you don't need to mix it with a lotion.
Marcelle: This is a gel tanner. To get the best results mix this with a lotion for easier application and longer use of the product.
I tend to stay away from the gradual lotions like Jergens or Olay because I have found that instead of just fading away like self-tanners do, they get spotty after a shower because parts of the lotion come off while other parts stay on your skin. I love polka dots... but not on my skin!
If you find that you do have some blotchy spots don't worry. Take a cotton pad with some toner on it and rub it over and of the darker spots of tanner that you see. This won't remove the colour completely but it will blend it in better with the rest of your skin.
I don't want to lecture anyone about tanning. I'd be quite the hypocrite if I did as I used to tan all the time and I still enjoy sitting in the sun during the summer. Now I don't use tanning beds, I wear sunscreen on my face and I moisturize all the time to keep my skin healthy. Even if I don't develop skin cancer I don't want to look like I'm 50 when I turn 30. At the very least wear sunscreen on your face... you can always match your makeup to the rest of your body and you know you will have a nice wrinkle free face when your older. :) Suncreen is the number 1 way to avoid wrinkles!
Step 1. Exfoliate, exfoliate, exfoliate! If you miss this step you may end up with a blotchy tan. This happens because we have dry patches of skin on our bodies that absorb all the moisture and colour from the tanner resulting in a darker patch of skin. You want to exfoiate to get rid of all the built of skin cells your body has accumulated so you have a nice smooth surface to work with. My favourite exfoliater is The Body Shop's Spa Wisdom African Body Scrub.
Step 2. Make sure you are completely dry before you apply the tanner. You can either wear a pair of gloves for this step or just wash your hands really well after your done. I used to wear gloves but found it easier to just apply it with my hands. Apply the tanner all of your body making sure to rub in completely. If you leave any moisturizer not rubbed in you can bet you will have a streak of darker colour there.
Step 3. Wash your hands. Make sure you get the insides of your fingers as this is a spot that tends to build up and is usually missed when washing. You WILL notice if your forget to do this.
Step 4. If it's possible try not to put any clothes on right away. You want to make sure the tanner soaks in before you put clothes on. It is a good idea to self-tan at night so that you can sleep without your clothes rubbing against your skin. If you have to get dressed right after...it won't kill you.
Brands I love: Clairns- get the one in the tub. It's a thick moisturizer that smells like coconut. It's the best smelling self-tanner I've ever smelt and you don't need to mix it with a lotion.
Marcelle: This is a gel tanner. To get the best results mix this with a lotion for easier application and longer use of the product.
I tend to stay away from the gradual lotions like Jergens or Olay because I have found that instead of just fading away like self-tanners do, they get spotty after a shower because parts of the lotion come off while other parts stay on your skin. I love polka dots... but not on my skin!
If you find that you do have some blotchy spots don't worry. Take a cotton pad with some toner on it and rub it over and of the darker spots of tanner that you see. This won't remove the colour completely but it will blend it in better with the rest of your skin.
I don't want to lecture anyone about tanning. I'd be quite the hypocrite if I did as I used to tan all the time and I still enjoy sitting in the sun during the summer. Now I don't use tanning beds, I wear sunscreen on my face and I moisturize all the time to keep my skin healthy. Even if I don't develop skin cancer I don't want to look like I'm 50 when I turn 30. At the very least wear sunscreen on your face... you can always match your makeup to the rest of your body and you know you will have a nice wrinkle free face when your older. :) Suncreen is the number 1 way to avoid wrinkles!
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Upcoming Photoshoot!
Well it's definetly been awhile since I've written anything ! I just wanted to write a quick post about how excited I am for my upcoming photoshoot. We are doing an Alice in Wonderland type theme which will be super exiting. My boyfriend Jesse will be doing the photography and I will of course be doing the hair and makeup as well as directing the shoot and set design. Will defiently post pictures of the shoot as soon as it's it's completed. Don't want to give too much away before you see it!
Take a look a some pictures of my most recent Photoshoot with my friend Katrina and I. Photography by Jesse James http://www.jessejamesphotgraphy.ca/
Take a look a some pictures of my most recent Photoshoot with my friend Katrina and I. Photography by Jesse James http://www.jessejamesphotgraphy.ca/
Friday, January 29, 2010
The Body Shop: Vitamin E Line
Ever since I switched skin care products around 6 months ago I started breaking out like crazy. I was using the Vichy Normaderm line. Thinking that this was just because it was a new product that my face was adjusting to I continued to use it thinking it would get better. I was wrong. I stopped using that and still found that no matter what product I used my skin still wasn't clear like it used to 
be. In fact it was far from clear. The only thing I could think of was the cleansers I was using were just too harsh for my skin, making it overproduce oil and causing it to break it. I went into The Body Shop and decided to try their Vitamin E line. Since vitamin e is a natural antioxident, it mositurizes and helps to protect against premature aging and environmental factors that damage the skin such as pollution and the sun. Because it is a cream cleanser it adds moisture to your skin. Something I desperately needed! It's the perfect way to protect your skin for the future as well as taking care of it right now.
Another fantastic product in this line is the cream exfoliator. Unlike other exfoliators that can be harsh on your skin, The Body Shop provides the perfect amount of creaminess and exfoliation to leave your skin feeling fresh as well as soft and moisturized. It unclogs your pores without irritating your skin. It's by far the best exfoliator I have used so far. 
What to do after you exfoliate? Moisturize of course. I can't say it enough moisture, moisture, moisture!! If your skin is really dry if you live in a cold winter climate like myself you have to try the Vitamin E Intense Moisture Cream. It's a silky moisturizer that locks in hydration and protects the skin. Some of the ohter ingredients it includes are olive oil and shea butter which are both community traded; another good thing about the body shop!
Looking for something not so heavy? Try the Vitamin E Illumintaing Moisture Cream. It provides a healthy luminous glow and also helps to minimize the appearance of fine line.
What's even better about this line? Compared to other skin care products this line is a steal! With prices ranging from $14.00- $20.00 you can't go wrong. While it may be more then the common drugstore brand, its much less then what you would get in the Derm section of your drugstore and in my opinion, so much better.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Candy Inspired Makeup
I don't know what it is right now but I'm obessed with candy inspired makeup. Paul Innis's "Candy Land" is what had originally inspired me. The way he brought the colours of candy as well as textures such a coloured sugar and sprinkles onto his models faces amazes me. This has led me on the path of discovering new materials that can be applied to faces and not just relying on makeup itself.
These lips are my favourite piece from "Candy Land". I'm going to recreate my own version of this and post it here soon. Other textures I want to incorporate are coloured sugar, cake sprinkes, caramilk filling, icing, candy canes, and maybe even cotton candy. I'm really excited about this upcoming photoshoot. My boyfriend is an amazing photographer who helps me out whenever I need or want a photoshoot :). www.jessejamesphotography.ca Hopefully I can do this soon and then I can start working on my next photoshoot idea. Be sure to check back soon to see!
www.enchantmentmakeupartistry.com
These lips are my favourite piece from "Candy Land". I'm going to recreate my own version of this and post it here soon. Other textures I want to incorporate are coloured sugar, cake sprinkes, caramilk filling, icing, candy canes, and maybe even cotton candy. I'm really excited about this upcoming photoshoot. My boyfriend is an amazing photographer who helps me out whenever I need or want a photoshoot :). www.jessejamesphotography.ca Hopefully I can do this soon and then I can start working on my next photoshoot idea. Be sure to check back soon to see!
www.enchantmentmakeupartistry.com
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Best Beauty Books
When I first decided to turn my passion for makeup into something I could share with other people I went out and bought every makeup related book I could find. I was in love with the first book I picked up. Not because it was the 1st real makeup manual I have ever read but because I truly believe it is a makeup bible.
The "Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual" covers everything from beginner to pro. It's an easy to follow step-by-step manual with everything from tools, skin care, techniques and face charts. It also has a section on how to get into the makeup artist business which I have not seen in any other book. This section includes they key skills required to do this job. She even includes tips on how to break into the business, how to put together a professional portfolio and covers different areas such as photography, a professional makeup kit, and advance makeup application.
I haven't seen another book that covers so many applcation processes in so much detail. Need a definition? You'll find it. Want to know what to do with that product you bought but just can't figure out? She'll tell you. You have fair skin, light eyes, dark hair or medium skin, dark eyes, light hair? However you look, be sure that you will find the perfect colour guide for you.
While reading through the professional makeup application sections Bobbi Brown shares her personal makeup tips and tricks with you. I really do recommend this as my top makeup book choice for anyone who just wants to learn how to apply makeup on themselves or for people like myself who want to take their passion to the next level.
Another great book I have come across is "Jemma Kidd Makeup Master Class". Jemma Kidd also includes skin care, colour for each skin tone, and application. So what's the need for both books? Style. Every makeup artist has his or her own creative style. There are no rules to makeup, just guide lines.
Pick up a couple books and read what these artists have to share with us. You will never stop learning in the world of makeup. Jemma Kidd includes 36 pages with a variety of different looks and how to achieve them. It is also customized for your skin colour.
I truly fell in love with both of these books and even though I've read them many times I always find myself going through them again and again!
www.enchantmentmakeupartistry.com
The "Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual" covers everything from beginner to pro. It's an easy to follow step-by-step manual with everything from tools, skin care, techniques and face charts. It also has a section on how to get into the makeup artist business which I have not seen in any other book. This section includes they key skills required to do this job. She even includes tips on how to break into the business, how to put together a professional portfolio and covers different areas such as photography, a professional makeup kit, and advance makeup application.
I haven't seen another book that covers so many applcation processes in so much detail. Need a definition? You'll find it. Want to know what to do with that product you bought but just can't figure out? She'll tell you. You have fair skin, light eyes, dark hair or medium skin, dark eyes, light hair? However you look, be sure that you will find the perfect colour guide for you.
While reading through the professional makeup application sections Bobbi Brown shares her personal makeup tips and tricks with you. I really do recommend this as my top makeup book choice for anyone who just wants to learn how to apply makeup on themselves or for people like myself who want to take their passion to the next level.
Another great book I have come across is "Jemma Kidd Makeup Master Class". Jemma Kidd also includes skin care, colour for each skin tone, and application. So what's the need for both books? Style. Every makeup artist has his or her own creative style. There are no rules to makeup, just guide lines.
Pick up a couple books and read what these artists have to share with us. You will never stop learning in the world of makeup. Jemma Kidd includes 36 pages with a variety of different looks and how to achieve them. It is also customized for your skin colour.
I truly fell in love with both of these books and even though I've read them many times I always find myself going through them again and again!
www.enchantmentmakeupartistry.com
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)