Tips on How to Make the Most of Your Beauty Budget

Do you know that the 'average' woman spends about $600 a year on skin care and color cosmetics, according to the beauty industry? Whether she uses only cleansers and lotions or has an array of beauty products, shopping can be time-consuming and expensive. So, here are some quick tips on how to make the most of your beauty budget.

Part of the 'secret' is to insist on quality for those items that matter ... and the most important items are those that help you care for your skin. Look to see if the product line includes the following steps: cleansing, exfoliating, refining or toning and moisturizing. Then review the ingredients for compatability with your individual skin type and sensitivities. If you're not sure how your skin will react, ask for samples and test them on your forearm.

Quality isn't necessarily costly though you may spend a little more to find a product line that is the most effective for you. Conversely, expensive isn't necessarily the best choice. Very high-priced product lines typically contain rare substances that may or may not work for you. Unless you are already using optimum products for your skin, you should notice a difference within two weeks to a month of starting a new regime. Your skin should appear clearer, smoother and well-moisturized.

After skin care, the right foundation or powder and concealer are important beauty buys. Depending upon the amount of coverage you want, select a foundation, creme to powder foundation, dual coverage powder foundation, pressed or loose powder and concealer that blend as closely as possible with your face. (With foundation, test the shade along your jaw line to compare the color with both your face and neck; watch to see if it ?disappears? into your skin.)

Another part of the 'secret' to making the most of your beauty budget is spending less on color products that change with the seasons such as eye shadows, blushes and lipsticks. Most product lines will offer the lastest hot colors, which tend to be similar, so comparison shop. Another idea is to accumulate a palette of primary eye colors which can be mixed to create your own hot colors.

There's no need to spend too much to look your best!

? Copyright 2005. Charlotte Maddox. All rights reserved.

Charlotte is an experienced independent beauty consultant with Mary Kay Inc.

Register on Charlotte's Mary Kay Inc. web site to receive a monthly email newsletter, Beaut-e-News(tm), with tips & techniques and a seasonal mailing of the The Look catalog with free samples plus the latest in skin care and color looks (complete privacy ensured).

http://www.marykay.com/charlottemaddox

Foundation Top Picks!

Hi, I'm the Fashion & Beauty Consultant for Estate Jewelry International where we don't just sell jewelry but pamper the whole you!

It's always tough finding the perfect foundation for your skin type, color, and texture. Some products are heavy,some don't cover so well, others don't blend well. We'll review a few of the products which we tried.

Tinted Moisturizers

* Laura Mercier tint moisturizer that leaves your skin feeling fresh. Comes in 7 shades all very natural. It has an SPF of 20 and is fortified with age-defying antioxidants.

* Elizabeth Arden tint moisturizer blends easily with enough coverage that you don't feel naked. It doesn't build up on dry patches. Demotologist tested. It has a SPF of 15

* Hydramax tint moisturizer is a lightweight hydrating lotion balancing moisture and coverage with natural-colour tint. Extract of Butterfly Lavender helps boost hydration by stimulating the water-trapping proteins essential for skin's proper moisture balance. Comes in 2 shades.

* Bobbi Brown tint moisturizer won the Best New Foundation award in Nov 2004 in Health Magazine. This formula is rich and luxurious so its perfect for anyone with extra dry skin. It blends easily and gives skin light coverage. Deeply moisturizes skin, to help reduce the look of fine lines. Dermatologist tested.

* Avon tint moisturizer is great for younger skin, however it has a tendency to stick out like a sore thumb on dry skin. I tried applying it as a foundation with a make up sponge and as a moisturiser using my fingertips and both times my skin looked terrible. It has a nice feel and a pleasant floral scent but the overall look it gave me was not natural in any way, the dry spots on my face seemed to show badly. Perhaps better suited for pre 40's skin. Liquid Foundations

* Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk liquid foundation is lush yet feather light with a very sheer texture. It is exceptional at correcting discoloration, elimating redness and blotchiness. Comes in 14 shades.

* L'Oreal True Match liquid foundation is a nice light weight and has terrific texture. No oils, fragrences or pore clogging materials. Contains vitamins B & E as well as glycerin to nourish the skin. Available in 24 colors.

* Laura Mercier liquid foundation is water based yet exceptionally creamy with a nice smooth finish. It has great coverage for a non oil based product. It isn't greasy or drying and the color matches well. Application is best with a sponge, and you can get more or less coverage depending on how much you apply. Takes a few minutes to set.

* Revlon Age Defying liquid foundation has great coverage and does not feel heavy. It does have a fragrance which does not go away. May hot be the best choice if your skin is at all oily. By mid day face may tend to feel oily and some experience zit outbreaks. It has an SPF of 30. Limited colors.

* T Leclerc Hydrating Fluid liquid foundation is best applied with a sponge or fingers. Its super thin so you hardly know its there. Comes in 6 shades. It has an SPF of 8. Mousse Foundation

* Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse is my all time favourite foundation. It gives great coverage but you feel like you've got nothing on. It's lighweight and easy to apply. I find it's best applied with fingers. If your skins a little on the dry side apply a moisturizer and then the mousse and it says light weight. It lasts all day and I've never had a break out using this product. It's advertised as a revolutionary whipped formula and that describes its texture perfetly. Available in 10 shades.

* Elizabeth Arden Flawless Finish Mousse is easy to apply and it never looks cakey or thick. Good coverage for such a sheer foundation. Great for dry skin. If you have oily or dry skin you may find yourself oily by mid day. I must say the smell can be a little harsh. If your at all sensative to smells have a whiff before buying. Dermatologist, clinically, allergy tested. Recommended for all skin types, except extra-oily.

* Erno Laszlo Absolute Finish Finishing Mousse Foundation is water free, air whipped providing flawless coverage. It is good for almost all skin types except for very oily skin and those that have a sensitivity to salicylic acid. Its very light and coverage can be sheer to complete. Stays on all day. Its a water free air whipped. Contains Emu Oil and essential fatty acids for non greasy moisturizing. Antioxidants vitamin A, C, & E to defend against free radical damage. It has UVA and UVB protection, and it is Dermatologist tested.

Wouldn't life be grand if one product worked for all of us. However, that's not the case so although I try and review products I cannot tell you how they will work on your skin. Most reputable cosmetic companies will refund or exchange a product if you are unhappy with it. When you find a product that works for you stay with it.

Remember your fashion statement includes the whole you from your hair to the polish on your toes, from your hat to your shoes, from your earrings to the rings on your fingers. So be sure to let the world know who you are and Make Your Fashion Statement!

Sher Matsen from Estate Jewelry International have been serving customers for over 20 years, providing affordable estate jewelry, and a wealth of information on jewelry, fashion, designers, and beauty with on staff industry professionals. Please visit us at http://www.estatejewelryinternational.com/

Skin Deep Cosmetic Beauty: Permanent Makeup and Eyebrow Design

The importance of eyebrows as a powerful beauty asset is often overlooked. Eyebrows can be shaped to pull together all of the elements of the face into balance, giving your best features glory and the flaws respectful supporting roles. People with thin, partial or no eyebrows often choose to use pencil or powder to create their eyebrows daily and even multiple times daily since this makeup tends to smudge or disappear. Many of these people are ending that daily ritual with permanent makeup. Permanent makeup, also known as cosmetic tattoo or micro pigmentation, is used to create a variety of changes in the face. Eyebrow enhancement is an extremely popular permanent makeup procedure.

Eyebrow Design Need Only Be Done Once

In her book Bobbi Brown Beauty, Ms. Brown writes, ....a well-groomed, well-defined brow can be extremely flattering and add considerable strength to a woman's eyes. It can open up her face so that she actually needs less makeup. A well-shaped brow can also help lift deep-set eyes or maximize small eyes. There are even instances where a lifted, manicured brow has had the same effect as a surgical eyelift. Good brows are rarely accomplished by guesswork. A permanent makeup artist must be adept in the art and the science of designing the shape, color and placement for beautiful symmetrical eyebrows that enhance through the decades. A well-chosen neutral eyebrow will flatter you through all your hair color changes. Adjustments in the color of your permanent makeup can be made, if necessary, when you have a touch up on it every one to five years.

Cosmetic Tattoo, A Versatile Solution

The causes of missing hair in the eyebrows are many-genes, illness, over-plucked, age related hair loss and physical trauma for instance. An inspired and talented cosmetic tattoo artist can work with the landscape of the brow area be it totally blank, scarred or deeply wrinkled. A lifting arch can be put into straight or droopy eyebrows, width into thin ones, length into short ones and symmetry into asymmetrical ones. Whatever the case may be, tattoo offers a precision that is difficult to obtain and keep with regular makeup. Tattooed eyebrows stay put whether the design is strong and precise or subtle and natural looking. Eyebrows can be applied in delicate hair strokes, a powder fill or a combination of the two, always using more than one color of pigment to create the illusion of dimension. As much as possible of one's natural brow hair is incorporated into the design. The solution of permanent eyebrows is used by men, as well as women.

Make A Statement

Eyebrows not only frame the eyes, but when shaped appropriately for a face they bring the entire face into focus, giving a person more presence. The eyebrow design may even serve to qualify that presence as, for instance, down-to-earth, glamorous, soft or assertive. In other words, eyebrows can influence the way people perceive you. In fact, eyebrows can influence the way you perceive yourself. Even when you know beauty is on the inside, you want to look your best. Confidence can change the impression you leave in all of your social and professional interaction. Positive, healthy self-esteem allows you to focus on important goals, instead of stress about looking old, tired or unattractive. Legendary makeup artist Kevyn Aucoin said, the most dramatic thing you could do to change your look is to shape your eyebrows.

Always Plan Ahead

A permanent makeup procedure is a process that most commonly requires two sessions, usually three or four weeks apart for permanent eyebrows. In the first session the design is applied and in the second session color, shape and detail is refines. Building the eyebrows in stages can minimize or eliminate altogether that oh-so-scary dark eyebrow stage. You need not feel self-conscious about your appearance at any point in the process. If you are planning to have surgery to lift the brow, eyes or full face complete the surgery and the healing process before adding permanent cosmetics to your face. When planning to have Botox, chemotherapy or radiation therapy get your cosmetic tattoos applied first. In regards to laser treatments, discuss these during your consultation.

Dawn Willard?s extensive career in the fine and applied arts has included lettering, illustrations and photo and film styling. Twenty-three years as a photo and film stylist taught Dawn and array of artistic skills, one being makeup. Ms. Willard?s foray into permanent makeup began in 1996. She currently owns the Permanent Makeup Studio in Asheville North Carolina. She has explored a variety of techniques and has clients coming to her from Illinois, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, New Hampshire, New Mexico and numerous towns in western and central North Carolina. She can be reached at http://www.DawnColors.com or starjump@gmail.com.

Timeless Looks for the Winter Cold

I started my career as a makeup artist over sixteen years ago, and in all that time there has never been a drastic shift in seasonal makeup from one year to the next. This is a good thing! Classic color choices and techniques are subtly reinvented each year, inspiring women to create fresh, updated looks for themselves every season.

If you are anything like me, you get bored of doing the same thing with your cosmetics all the time. I look at winter as a time to get excited again about my makeup regimen. Summer is so lazy and relaxed - we look good with little or no effort. But most of us need more help looking our best in the drier winter months. Here are a few ways to reinvent your look for winter without making a huge investment of time or money:

?Start wearing foundation! It?s the base of any great makeup application and it doesn?t have to feel like you?re wearing anything at all. The right foundation will even out imperfections (we all have those during the cold winter months) and protect your skin.
?Consider wearing a makeup primer. This product prepares the skin for flawless application of foundation and ?cushions? the makeup so that it doesn?t creep into little facial nooks and crannies. It also keeps a fresh cosmetic application looking fresh all day long! I like to think of it as spackle for my face.
?Add a few new colors to your face! Put away the sheer eye shadows, baby pink lip glosses, and bronzer for blush. Grab a beautiful chocolate brown, charcoal gray, rich navy, or deep purple for your eyes. Add a little eyeliner, which we all tend to lay aside during the summer. Switch to a stronger blush. By ?stronger? I mean ?not invisible? - something to perk up sallow winter skin tones. And finally, put some color back on your lips! Just because it?s cold outside doesn?t mean you have to wear red or dark purple - a pretty, deep rose or plumby neutral can be very flattering. If the thought of wearing a full-fledged lipstick scares you, there are many sheer lip tones available. They give the lips a natural, sheer stain that?s often more moisturizing than traditional lipsticks.

So there you have it. A season change should really just signal a few minor changes in your cosmetic routine. I invite you to visit the Scott Miller store and ask for assistance in choosing the colors that will flatter you the most. Remember: makeup comes off! Have fun and play!

Sonja George is Senior Makeup Artist for Scott Miller ? a salon, spa, and store in Rochester, NY (http://www.scottmillerstyle.com). Sonja has been a professional makeup artist and licensed esthetician for more than 17 years. Through the proper use of color and technique Sonja helps empower clients to look their absolute best. Additionally she acts as an educator of clients and staff, specializing in product knowledge and industry research and development.

Sonja?s professional experiences include editorial print, runway, fashion, film, and television broadcast. A few of her clients include supermodel Niki Taylor, actor/comedian Joan Rivers, news anchor Dan Rather, sports broadcaster Jim Nantz, and actor Bruce McGill.

Keep Your Make Up Looking Fresh Using Mineral Foundation

There are so many cosmetic products on the market today with some new advances in skincare. Most recently the newest type of foundation on the market has been mineral powder foundation. This isn?t just ground up pressed power like you may be used to; in fact, it is made up of ground minerals found in nature.

Even if you?re not a naturalist, you may be interested in trying the new forms of mineral foundation.

During the hot summer months, liquid foundations can be cakey, hot, and oily, that literally melt off your skin. It really is an icky feeling, making you want to run home just to wash your face. With these new advances in mineral foundation, that icky feeling is vanished. Mineral foundation leaves your skin fresh looking all day. Mineral foundation has the consistency of a fine powder, but the coverage of a liquid foundation. It will stay on all day, even with sweating, and will not run off your face like traditional foundations.

To keep your skin fresh this summer, (and all year long) simply start your morning off by washing your face with your favorite cleanser. Follow this by applying a facial moisturizer (one with an SPF is best) and make sure to wait for your skin to dry. Apply your favorite mineral foundation with brush or sponge. You may add additional color with the many mineral blushes and eye shadows available. Like the mineral foundation they will stay on your skin all day without caking. Top off with a little gloss and your good to go.

If you are going to be out all day and evening you may want to bring a little mineral foundation with you to touch up, but you won?t need much, mineral foundations should stay on all day!

So the next time your out in the heat, and your make up feels heavy and oily, and you want that fresh skin feeling back, consider switching over to the newest mineral foundations.

Kat White is the resident Bare Minerals fan at Bare Mineral Reviews.

For more great reviews on your favorite mineral makeup visit http://www.baremineralreviews.com

Great Looking Skin ? A Simple 4 Step Skin Care Guide

Step 1: Decide what type of skin you have.

This is important so you know how to care for your skin and what products to use. There are 3 basic skin types: dry, oily and combination skin types.

Type 1: Dry Skin

Dry skin occurs when the dermis does not secrete enough oil, or sebum. The result is tight, drawn, flaky skin and a dull complexion. In more extreme cases, dry skin lacks elasticity and can be extremely sensitive to the sun, wind, and cold temperatures.

Type 2: Oily Skin

This type of skin has over-reactive oil producing glands, which makes the face shiny, especially the forehead, down the central panel of your nose and the chin (the T-zone). The pores of this skin type are enlarged making it prone to blackhead, pimple and acne. Oily skin needs special cleansing to keep the pores unclogged.

Type 3: Combination Skin

People with combination skin typically have some oily skin and either normal or dry skin on different parts of their face. Normal skin has a balanced oil and water content and feels smooth and velvety, not dry or oily. Normal skin is evenly toned with tiny, generally unclogged pores. After a wash it feels smooth and comfortable. Normal skin only occasionally breaks out in spots.

Combination: Normal to Oil

People with normal to oily skin generally have normal skin on their cheeks and oily skin with enlarged pores on their T zone, the area that stretches across the forehead and down the nose and chin. The T-zone needs extra attention as spots may often break out in this area.

Combination: Dry to Oily

This skin type is also marked by oily skin in the T zone and dry, taut skin on the cheeks.

Step 2: Develop a good daily Skincare regime.

There are 3 steps to basic daily skincare:

a. Cleansing

b. Toning

c. Moisturising

Let's break down each step.

Cleansing does just that, it cleans your skin. By cleansing, you are removing any dirt, oil, bacteria and makeup.

Toning does three things: it removes anything that your cleanser didn't already take care of, it restores the pH level of your skin and it prepares your skin to receive the moisturiser.

Moisturising helps to seal in your skin's natural oils and it acts as a barrier between your skin and the environment. Even oily skin needs a moisturiser, but chose a light product. It is best to moisturize immediately after applying toner. Moisturising is something everyone of every skin type should do, including those with oil rich skin.

Besides these daily steps you should also, less frequently, exfoliate and use a facial mask.

Exfoliation allows you to remove dead skin cells sitting on the surface of your skin. The circular motion in which exfoliating should be performed also helps to stimulate your skin allowing oxygen to come to the surface. Exfoliating is a crucial step for those with either dry skin or those with dehydrated oil rich skin.

Facial masks give you an extra boost to combat any concerns you might have for your skin. Just remember not to keep your mask on for more than 15 minutes because you could actually burn your skin. All masks should not be applied on the eyes (there are eye masks specifically formulated for this delicate area) and should be washed off with a warm face cloth.

So how often should you really be doing all of this ? Cleansing, toning and moisturising should happen twice daily; morning and night. You can exfoliate and give yourself a mask every one to two weeks depending on your skincare concerns.

Here are the steps you should follow for your day to day routine:

1. Cleanse

2. Tone

3. Moisturise

And here are the steps to be followed on the days you choose to also exfoliate and apply a mask:

1. Cleanse

2. Tone

3. Exfoliate

4. Tone

5. Mask

6. Tone

7. Moisturise

This may seem like a lot to do but your every day routine shouldn't take more than 3 minutes and your weekly routine no more than 20 minutes.

Step 3. Choose appropriate skincare products for your skin type

Your beauty specialist will be able to advise you on the best products for your skin type and skin care routine.

Step 4. Lifestyle impacts on the health and appearance of your skin, here are some lifestyle tips for enhancing your skin's appearance:

1. Avoid over exposure to the sun.

Sun damage leads to hyper-pigmentation (brown spots) which can develop into serious skin disease. Excessive exposure can also exaggerate and thicken fine lines. Use an SPF 15 or higher foundation or sun cream on all exposed skin, especially on your face.

2. Don't smoke

Easier said than done for smokers but please remember your skin is a large organ and it needs a lot of circulation. Smoking impairs circulation dramatically. That's why smokers' skin can look dull and gray

3. Get adequate rest and nutrition

Eat right and get plenty of rest. Keep vitamins such as C and E in your diet regime.

4. Protect yourself from stress - both emotional and environmental stress.

5. Touch your face less and wash your hands more!

It's very tempting to pick, poke, squeeze, and scratch in front of the mirror. But the more you traumatize the skin, the greater your risk of scarring. Apply treatment products and let them work.

6. Keep your makeup clean.

Replace the sponges in your compact on a regular basis.

7. Exercise.

Exercise promotes capillary functioning which can decrease premature aging. It also increases oxygen to the tissues which helps skin look young.

Donna is a trained makeup artist with her own beauty business. As both a business women and a mom with 2 children Donna understands the time pressures on women today and through this, and other articles, has endeavored to take the complexity out of looking great with some busy women friendly beauty tips and advice. If you would like to read more of Donna's articles check out her website: http://www.coloursandscents.co.nz

Makeup Artist Tricks of the Trade Skincare Advice and Makeup for Your Wedding or Special Event

Skincare - in preparation to your wedding this should be an essential part of your planning its just as important as choosing the right venue or dress, as all eyes will be on you and your bridal party so you want to look and feel great!

There are so many products out there that we are bombarded with choice. A salon is usually a good place to start as you can talk to someone who has specifically trained in skincare and will use a high quality range of products.

If you?re not doing it already cleansing and toning the skin is an important step in maintaining a healthy skin. Soaps tend to dry the skin out and are a fantastic breeding ground for bacteria, so avoid using on your skin and go for a gentler option such as a foaming face wash or face wipes if you want a quick cleanse.

Along with this, part of your everyday ritual should include twice daily moisturising even if your skin is oily you still should use a good moisturiser but one with a mattifying effect, which can help to control excess sebum production.

The day before the wedding make sure you exfoliate the skin so there is a good base to work on. Exfoliating gets rid of excess dead skin cells which cling to the surface and prevent your products from doing their job as effectively. Your makeup will look much better on a smoother skin. Makeup - Choosing the right makeup is the next step.

What colours should you get and what will last?

I would always recommend using a qualified beauty therapist/makeup artist for your wedding as from experience many brides have found it a great help. A trial should be offered so you can view the products and the makeup will be applied therefore you can see what the finished look will be for your special day. A general rule that older members of the bridal party such as the mother of the bride should go for a light base nothing too heavy which may draw attention to fine lines and matte eye shadows. The bride can choose from many different looks, matte and flawless, the dewy look for a healthy natural appearance. When having the makeup done on the day it is fun and helps your morning run smoothly so when you are all made up you feel confident and ready to go.

If you decide to do your own makeup then you can have a makeup lesson to learn some of the tricks of the trade. Here are just a few, use a daker blusher in a tan colour under the cheekbones to lift them and make them appear higher and deeper ( I call this the cheekbone effect. Apply eyeshadow with a damp brush for longer wear and stronger colour for precise application. The best foundation I have come across during my time as a makeup artist has such a flawless finish but doesn?t look heavy or caked, it covers redness and is also water resistant. A foundation like this is ideal for brides as being perspiration proof when you get hot in the evening dancing the night away your skin will still look perfect.

If booking a makeup artist always plan ahead these services get booked quite far in advance as do popular venues and other wedding services. Have fun preparing for your wedding and its a great excuse to get on top of a good skincare regime.

Lucy Orrey fully qualified beauty therapist/mobile makeup artist to Surrey and west Sussex RIPHH BTEC ND BABTAC For more advice , products available, wedding packages and treatments visit http://www.harmonyinbeauty.co.uk

The Health Advantages of Permanent Makeup

The art and science of permanent makeup goes by many different names: micropigmentation, permanent cosmetics, derma pigmentation, intradermal cosmetics, dermagraphics and cosmetic tattoos. As the procedures associated with permanent makeup become more main stream the public becomes more aware of the benefits, especially for individuals that suffer from illness, disease, injury or scarring. In my recent article Building a Bridge: Cosmetic Surgery and Micropigmentation I explored the relationship between cosmetic surgery and permanent makeup. I would now like to discuss how permanent makeup can work as part of the solution for a variety of medical conditions.

Physicians as Partners

According to the Third Edition of Medical Issues for Permanent Cosmetic Technicians published by the Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals permanent cosmetic professionals are part of a new and exciting trend in the aesthetic medical arena. It goes on to say that plastic surgery and dermatology centers are now offering permanent makeup procedures in order to attract new patients. At times physicians recommend permanent makeup to compliment other cosmetic procedures, such as Botox or a face lift, but it also helps the patient feel better about themselves and the way they look during or after a difficult illness or injury. The artistic eye of a trained permanent makeup practitioner can analyze color and form to achieve the best look when the doctor has exhausted medical and surgical options.

Know Your Medical History

It is important that the permanent cosmetic professional inquire into a client's medical history. For specific medical related issues the physician should approve the procedure. Healing time and the strength of the immune system are incredibly important. Some of the most common medical conditions that warrant permanent makeup are cancer patients experiencing hair loss due to chemotherapy and areola repigmentation after breast reconstruction. It is preferable to have permanent makeup applied before chemotherapy or in the early stages of treatment to reduce stress and promote healing. A Doctor's release should be provided. Permanent makeup can also be used to assist patients that suffer from Vitiligo-the absence of pigmentation in the skin, Trichotillomania-a condition that causes compulsive plucking of hair or Alopecia-a condition that leads to complete or partial hair loss. Permanent makeup can also help Hypothyroid patients who have thinning eyebrows. Individuals who have recently had a facelift or plastic surgery should wait until their physician has determined they are healed, this can take six months or more, but patience will guard against infection. Anyone with medical issues that create a higher risk for infection, such as an artificial hip, mitral vale prolapse or autoimmune disorders should be on an antibiotic. If you are on medication consult your doctor, it is essential that you do your homework.

Toxicity Issues and Camouflaging Scars

Permanent makeup is also a viable alternative for individuals that suffer from allergies or toxicity issues. Patients should talk with their doctors about potential side effects related to pigments then consult a trained permanent makeup practitioner. In many situations the pigments are less toxic than applying conventional cosmetics every day. Individuals that suffer from arthritis, loss of vision or neurological problems that cause painful or unsteady movement of the hands can also enjoy the freedom achieved through permanent makeup. In her book The Essence of Beauty Dr. Adrianna Scheibner, M.D. says in Chapter 9 the applications of the procedure [derma pigmentation within the realm of medicine are numerous. In the past few years, Scheibner continues, corrective camouflaging has emerged as a useful service to dermatologists and plastic surgeons when they can no longer medically improve a patient's appearance. Camouflage, applied by an experienced permanent makeup professional, is a tricky procedure. In the Procedures of Macro-Theory Dermagraphics printed by the American Institute of Permanent Color Technology it states that the application of camouflage is unlike any other procedure...when applying camouflage you actually are taking something away, or diminishing something that already exists, from the skin. Because of this, camouflaging is an imperfect procedure. Camouflaging is difficult and the results never exact. Camouflaging strives to recreate the skin?s natural appearance; realistic expectations are essential with this type of procedure. Also, when seeking assistance with scar camouflage the procedure should be done when scars are a pale white color, not red or pink.

There are many potential issues when a candidate for permanent makeup suffers from illness or injury. The permanent makeup professional you choose should have experience and provide you with referrals from previous clients and a portfolio. An experienced permanent makeup professional will know the right questions to ask during your initial consultation and will guide you through the safest and healthiest way to looking your best. To learn more about permanent makeup visit my web site www.DawnColors.com.

Dawn Willard?s extensive career in the fine and applied arts has included lettering, illustrations and photo and film styling. Twenty-three years as a photo and film stylist taught Dawn and array of artistic skills, one being makeup. Ms. Willard?s foray into permanent makeup began in 1996. She currently owns the Permanent Makeup Studio in Asheville North Carolina. She has explored a variety of techniques and has clients coming to her from Illinois, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, New Hampshire, New Mexico and numerous towns in western and central North Carolina. She can be reached at http://www.DawnColors.com or starjump@gmail.com.

Perfect Lips

Nothing impresses your friends more than a perfect lip line, because it is the hardest makeup application to do.To get it, avoid applying the lip pencil too heavily, which will be difficult to blend and soften into the lipstick. Keeping your mouth closed lightly trace the lip line with the lip pencil so it can barely be seen, but can be used as a guide line.

Hold the brush horizontally to trace along the lip line, and do a little bit at a time, backing up and going over it again. Don't try to get the whole line in one stroke. The best lip brush is a sable with a slightly tapered edge, not straight one.

This provides more control and a cleaner line.If you are really pressed for time, apply lipstick only on the bottom lip and press your lips together. Then, blend out to the lip line with the edge of a lip brush, not the tip, for a precise line, or use a dampened cotton swab for a soft, natural lip line.

When finished, instead of blotting the lips by biting a tissue, lay the tissue across both lips while your mouth is closed. This will imprint your lips, including the edges of the mouth where lipstick usually bleeds. Perfect!

Mina Dimakis-Lev
BeautyImagebyMina.com

Toxic Ingredients in Cosmetics and Skin Care Products

Have you ever examined the ingredients listed on the labels of your cosmetics or other skin care products? Do you know what those ingredients are?

What you may not realize is that many of the skin care products and cosmetics you are buying contain ingredients that are not only harmful to your skin, but also to your long term health. Many of these ingredients are known carcinogens (cancer-causing substances) and are used by the cosmetic industry simply because they are cheap!

Harmful Ingredients Commonly Found in Skin Care Products and Cosmetics - The following are just some of the synthetic chemicals that have been identified by scientific studies to be harmful to our health.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS) - Often described as being derived from coconut to disguise their toxic nature, these chemicals are commonly used in shampoos, toothpaste, foaming facial and body cleansers and bubble bath. SLS and ALS can cause severe skin irritation, and are easily absorbed into the body, building up in the brain, heart, lungs and liver, leading to potential long term health problems. SLS and ALS may also cause cataracts, and prevent children's eyes from developing properly.

Paraben Preservatives - Parabens are widely used in cosmetics, deodorants, skin care and baby products to prolong their shelf life. They are known to be highly toxic and have caused rashes and allergic reactions. Recent scientific studies in the UK found a strong link between the use of parabens and the increasing rate of breast cancer in women. Researchers found a high concentration of parabens in 90% of breast tumors tested.

Propylene Glycol - Found in many beauty creams, cosmetics and cleansers, Propylene Glycol can cause skin rashes and contact dermatitis, and has been shown to cause damage to the kidneys and liver.

Isopropyl Alcohol - Alcohol is used as a solvent in many skin care products. It causes skin irritation and strips the skin of its natural acid mantle, promoting the growth of bacteria, moulds and viruses. It may also cause premature ageing of skin.

DEA (Diethanolamine), TEA (Triethanolamine) and MEA (Monoethanolamine) - These substances are harsh solvents and detergents that are used in cosmetics and face and body creams as an emollient. They can cause allergic reactions, and long term use of DEA-based products (such as Cocamide DEA) have been linked to an increase in the incidence of liver and kidney cancer.

Aluminum - A common ingredient in antiperspirants, aluminum has been linked to Alzheimer's Disease.

Mineral Oil - Derived from petroleum (crude oil), mineral oil is commonly found as a main ingredient of face and body creams and cosmetics. Baby oil is 100% mineral oil! It coats the skin like a plastic film, clogging pores and stopping the skin from eliminating toxins, which can lead to acne and other skin disorders. Other petroleum based ingredients include paraffin wax, paraffin oil and petrolatum.

Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) - Used as a thickener in skin care products and cosmetics, PEGs interfere with the skin's natural moisture balance, causing an increase in ageing and leaving the skin vulnerable to bacteria.

Talc - Talc is a soft mineral used in talcum powders and cosmetic powders. Scientific studies have shown that routine application of talcum powder to the genital area is linked with a three-to-fourfold increase in the development of ovarian cancer. Inhaling cosmetic powders containing talc may also be harmful to long term health.

How To Avoid These Toxins - Examine the labels of your cosmetics and skin care products carefully, and learn to recognize ingredients that are harmful to your skin and to your health. Many web sites have lists of potentially harmful ingredients in addition to those shown above (e.g. Environmental Working Group).

Don't be fooled by the words 'natural' or 'organic' on the front of the label. Many products contain at least one or two natural or organic ingredients, but they may also contain harmful synthetic chemicals as well.

Whenever possible, choose products with 100% natural ingredients such as essential oils and herbs. Your skin will love you for it!

New! Hollywood beauty professionals and celebrities reveal exactly how they get the perfect hair, skin, nails, make up, and bodies... Super model Sarah Jane reveals for the first time insider access to exclusive Hollywood beauty secrets and advice... Discover advice for: Hair Styles, Makeup Application, Nails, Skin Care, Body and Shape, Weight Loss, Exercise, Fashion and Style Inner Beauty And More!

The Secrets of Celebrity Makeup Artists

Who hasn?t looked at the perfect beauty of a model on the cover of a magazine or seen the flawless beauty of movie star on the red carpet and wished that they too could possess such ultimate beauty? Now with these surprisingly simple secret techniques used by Hollywood?s top makeup artist on some of the world?s most famous celebrity faces you can discover your own star quality and possess flawless beauty as well.

Model High Cheekbones ? To create model high cheekbones after applying your foundation apply a very thin line of highlighter in a diagonal line on the top of your cheekbones starting at the center of your pupil and ending at the end of your cheekbone, blend thoroughly. Next apply a very thin line of contour shadow or cream in a diagonal line directly underneath your cheekbones starting at the center of your pupil and ending at the end of your cheekbone, blend thoroughly.

Ready For Your Close Up Flawless Complexion ? To create a flawless perfect complexion that can stand up to the closest close up, mix color correctors with your concealer apply after moisturizer and before foundation. Color correctors counteract specific flaws in facial complexions, hides imperfections, evens out skin tones, and covers blemishes. Mint Green Correctors neutralizes redness. Lavender Correctors covers sallowness. Orange Correctors covers blue tones such as veins, dark circles, and bruises.

Cover Girl Perfect Brows - To create cover girl perfect brows pluck clean the area underneath the brow bone and shape the brow with widest part of the brow at the inner corner of your eye and the brow getting thinner has it goes out toward your temple. The highest part of the arch should be just above the outer edge of your pupil.

Dramatic Movie-Star Eyes ? To create dramatic movie-star eyes apply a matte nude eye shadow over the entire eyelid. Next apply dark brown eyeliner to highlight your upper and lower eyelids from the inner corner to the outer corner. Finally apply another layer of eye shadow two shades darker to the crease of your eye and blend it upwards to your eyebrow.

Sexy Starlet Lips ? To create sexy starlet lips trace the outer edge of your mouth with a lip pencil that matches your lips. Next, apply a slightly lighter lip color over your lips, and then blot. Finally, purse your lips and dab a little white eye shadow right in the center of them

Eileen Hammel is a Nationally & Internationally Recognized Image, Style and Beauty Expert Ms.Hammel is President of Smarter Image, Smart Skin Care - Smart Cosmetics by Smarter Image. http://www.smartskincaresmartcosmetics.com/

DermaPro: Botox Alternative and Foundation Set

Women who wear makeup and want to apply a treatment method for wrinkles are limited in the products available. Many products on the market are oil-based. Using these products with foundation can be messy at best. Most products formulated to treat wrinkles are oil based. It can be difficult to apply foundation over products that are oil based. In addition, the oil can eventually seep through the foundation, giving the skin an uneven appearance. Instead of having to go without foundation, women who use foundation should use an alternative treatment.

The good news about DermaPro is that not only allows women who wear foundation to treat their skin for wrinkles, but it actually facilitates better foundation application. It actually prepares the application process to be smoother. DermaPro is an alternative wrinkle treatment for women who use foundation, but it is also a Botox alternative in general. DermaPro works similar to Botox in that it is formulated to relax the muscles so that wrinkles and fine lines become smoother and less visible to the eye. When you apply DermaPro prior to using foundation, your skin will also appear smooth. So, you can treat you skin while looking beautiful. DermaPro goes a step further and actually improves the way your foundation looks.

It takes a powerful product to treat wrinkles. Most products of this type have a particular ingredient that does all the work. In relation to DermaPro, the active ingredient is Thalassine. There are many chemicals available that can smooth skin afflicted with signs of aging. Although the Thalassine in DermaPro works similar to Botox, it is not a toxin. Dermapro is so light that you can apply it along with a moisturizer, sunscreen and foundation. A 1-ounce bottle of DermaPro costs nearly 100 dollars, which may be considered expensive. However, you won?t use but a minimal amount of the product.

Detailed information about botox alternatives, including tips on wrinkle reduction, are available at Botox alternative.

Makeup Tips For Green Eyes

Green eyes are really fun to work with. They have such a wide color range from turqouise to chartreuse to forest green to bright light green and on and on.

These tips are designed for the magority of green eyes, but of course there are exceptions to every rule. My best advice is to try every color that you're interested in. You'll be surprised what looks good.

Choosing An Eyeshadow

These colors are some of the most popular for green eyes.

Try different browns, especially chocolate tones. Browns and dark greens with copper or gold highlights are also a great choice.

Apricots and taupes are good choices for highlighters.

Dark purples, plums and metallics work too. Coppers and golds will make a really glamorous evening look for makeup tips for green eyes. I personally really like the way deep purples look with dark green eyes.

Colors To Avoid

When you're learning makeup tips for green eyes, it also helps to know what colors you might want to avoid.

First up, blues. Any color of blue doesn't do green eyes justice. I would recommend avoiding light blues, dark blues and even some colors (purples or pinks) with blue undertones.

Pinks are also a hard color to judge. Some can look really, really good and others can look really, really bad. This is usually a matter of trial and error.

Silvers are not a good choice either. Leave them for the blue eyes.

Eyeliner Colors

Unless you really like black eyeliner, it's usually a color to avoid. Try steely grays or chocolate browns. Use gold or white to open up the eye if your eyes are small.

The Rule Of Thumb

A good rule of thumb when choosing a color for makeup tips for green eyes is to focus on warm colors and avoid cool colors.

Like I said, there are exceptions to every rule, but this should provide a nearly fail-safe method for choosing eyeshadow colors to bring out the beauty of your green eyes.

The Application

How you apply your eyeshadow depends how many colors you're wearing and what the occasion is.

For basic every day wear, here's what you do.

1. Apply a highlighter like crystalline to the entire eye from the bottom of the crease to the eyebrow.

2. Use a taupe or apricot next and apply it to the whole eyelid and blend it just above the crease with the crystalline.

3. Then use your third color (chocolate brown, dark green, copper, etc.) and apply it one of two ways:

a. Apply it from the middle of your eyelid from the eyelash to just above the crease. Blend it well. You can even blend it under the lower lashes for a more dramatic look.

b. Apply it from the inner corner of your eyelid and sweep it out to the outer corner of your eye. It will get thicker the further out you go. Blend well.

4. Apply eyeliner and mascara as you normally would.

And there you go! Great makeup tips for green eyes.

Lynn Starner is the proprietor of Beauty Bliss Mineral Cosmetics at http://www.beautyblisscosmetics.com as well as http://www.ultimate-skin-care-tips.com

Beauty Tip How to Get Rid of Tired Puffy and Dark Circled Eyes

If you're feeling a little under the weather, people tend to notice right away. That's because they see it in your eyes. Your eyes are the single most demonstrative part of your face. When you aren't happy, it shows in your eyes: they don't smile. When you are excited or thrilled, it's obvious by the sparkle in your eyes. Best of all, you can flirt without moving any muscle except a single eyelid?up, down, in a bold wink. For all the things your eyes do for you, you want to keep them healthy, shiny and bright. Here's how:

Eye makeup beauty tips for tired, puffy, dark circled eyes There are all sorts of make-up hints for brightening the eye: you can try white eye liner on the inside corner to widen your eyes, and there are eye creams made to reduce darkness, puffiness or lines that may obscure your eyes. But there are other ways to brighten your eyes without buying a thing at the cosmetics counter. You can ease puffy eyelids by taking the teabags out of the pot, letting them cool, and placing them, still damp, on your closed eyes. The tannin in the tea (or if it's herbal tea, the essential oils in the herbs), soothe the delicate skin of the eyelids and moisturize your eyes. You can use cucumber slices instead, but teabags are an easy pick-me-up for morning when you're drinking your tea anyway. And, in a pinch, a cool, damp washcloth feels just wonderful on those burning, overworked orbs.

Drink more water and prevent sleep deprivation Getting enough sleep reduces redness in the eye and puffiness around the lids, which makes napping and essential part of beautifying your eyes. Finally, drinking plenty of water keeps your eyes from drying out, preventing them from becoming bloodshot or bleary. One way to brighten your eyes is to avoid drinking alcohol and substitute mineral water instead. Smiling is one way to brighten up not only your eyes, but your whole face. When you're smiling, your eyes crinkle, twinkle and dance. And for the ultimate in starry eyes, throw in some candlelight, soft music, and a fond companion.

Find more simple beauty tips, advice and secrets for women and teen girls to bring out your natural inner and outer beauty. Sign-up for our free beauty tips weekly newsletter to receive more eye makeup tips, beauty tools and technique advice.

Natural Mineral Makeup is the Savvy Women's Winter Sun Protection

The holidays are here, that means sleding, tubing, skiing, building snow men, and snowball fights with frineds and family. Many people forget to wear sunscreen this time of year because it's not the hot days of summer. But going without sunscreen in a snow covered environment is in many ways worse than no protection in the mid summer sun.

The fact is that snow reflects light in a blinding fashion. If you've ever walked through snow and had to shade your eyes from the glare of the snow then you know what I mean. That light is also hitting your unprotected skin and causing sun damage. The glare from the snow is usually many more times magnifined then the sun is on it's own. This means the damage to your skin could be greater in the winter than in the summer.

Using sun protection in the winter is for this reason very important. Using water proof sun protection like Mineral Makeup is a great alternative for winter use. Because the natural minerals in the makeup are water resistant and bond to the skin they won't wash away, smear or melt when you sweat or when rain or snow lands on your face. In fact, mineral makeup is so effective that it takes some amount of soap to really remove mineral makeup. Water alone won't remove it completely.

The two primary ingredients in mineral makeup - Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide are natural full spectrum UV sun blockers which gives you complete coverage from the damaging rays of the sun glaring off the snow. Titanium Dioxide is also the second most reflective mineral in the world, next only to diamond. This reflective quality gives your face a radiant glow that many faithful mineral makeup fans rave about.

Mineral Makeup also helps fight acne by keeping bacteria feeding moisture out of the pores. The minerals are also non organic, which further prevents them feeding bacteria. And not to worry about the minerals clogging pores. They are so finely ground that they are smaller than the pores on your face, in fact they come in a powder form that you simply dust on your face for a light natural coverage. Because the minerals are in powder form they blend seamlessly into the skin for a very natural look.

If you're health conscious then you will love mineral makeup because it is all natural with no dyes, chemicals, or preservatives. These qualites make mineral makeup one of your best sun fighting winter friends.

Look fabulous this holiday season with our Natural Mineral Makeup Complete 9 Piece Starter Kit...

4 Step Eye Makeup Application Technique For Beautiful And Attractive Eyes

Eye makeup is one of the most important parts in the overall cosmetic application technique. If you know how to apply eye make up which is suitable for your own; you could highly cheer up your appearance and attractiveness.

Here are the 4 important steps in eye make up application technique,

1. Choose the right eye shadow suitable for yourself

Eye shadows are mainly classified into cream type and powder type. Powder type eye shadow is more suitable for higher age or with oily skin type. A matured lady may have more wrinkles around the eyes. It should be noted that cream type eye shadow would be more easily hidden into the wrinkles and darken the lines around the eyes. Besides, the cream type eye shadow would be more easily dissolved in oily skin and is less long-lasting.

2. Choose the right color

A brownish eye shadow is generally a natural selection for daytime. If you are attending some formal nighttime party, then it have to be matched with your dress?s color and usually a brighter color is suitable. It is not necessary to match exactly the same color with your dress, but they should be under the same color ranges. Although there are a lot of colors for choice on the market, you may not find the one which is most suitable for yourself. Then you could utilize your creativity to develop your own color by mixing 2 different colored eye shadows. You could simply do it by brushing the powder type eye shadows onto the back of your hand and mix the color thoroughly before you apply it to your eyes.

3. Skillfully apply the eyeliner

After you finished applying the eye shadow, the next step would be wearing the eyeliner. Choose of eyeliner application includes eyeliner pencil, eyeliner liquid and eyeliner cream, and they have different usage and functions. Eyeliner pencil would be the most easily to use, and have the most naturally effect. However, it is comparatively less long-lasting and would be most easily to dissolve. Eyeliner liquid is more long lasting but the appearance would be less natural, and it is more suitable for on-stage use. When using the eyeliner cream, the eyeliner brush should be dampened first and then apply with a little drop of eyeliner cream. It needs the highest skill because a shaking hand will easily result two or more eyelines in one application. If you want your appearance to be younger, a natural brownish colored eyeliner should be applied starting 1/3 from the inside corner and all the way to the outside corner of eyes. Besides, the eyeliner should be applied closely to the eyelashes.

In general, eyeliner pencil is the most commonly used, and below is the tip to make it longer lasting,

After finished applying the eyeliner with the eyeliner pencil, a minute black color or dark grey eyeshadow could be brushed on top of the eyeline. It is acted as protective layer for the eyeliner and makes it more long lasting.

4. Framing with mascara

The final step is applying mascara to make your eyes look with beautiful flaps of thick, dark, long eyelashes. The most commonly problem encountered would be dirtying the lower eyelid by mascara during blinking. It would be easily solved by applying small quantity of dry powder onto the lower eyelid. It would absorb excessive moisture and oil around the eyelid, and prevent dissolving the mascara. If you want to have thickened and attractive eyelashes, you should apply a minute quantity of dry powder onto the eyelashes first and then apply the first layer of mascara. You could repeat this procedure one more time after the first layer of mascara is dried. Use a small eyelash brush to separate the thickened eyelashes.

You may choose the mascara which contains ingredients for nourishing the eyelashes. In case you love swimming activities or you would be easily cried in a movie, you may also choose the water-resistant mascara. But be sure that you have the special removal cream for those water-resistant makeups since general makeup remover may not do the work.

About the Author: Alice Calandra has been the beauty consultant and makeup artist for more than 15 years. She has high reputation in the beauty industry, and she is now working as the Director of the Beauty Department in GeniusChoice.com. To find more beauty tips and respective information on trendy cosmetic products, please visit website:

Sun Smarts: How to Safeguard Your Skin This Summer

Like many abusive relationships, America?s love affair with the sun is littered with the wrecks of romantic images. From Coco Chanel?s Deauville glow to Farah Fawcett?s sun-kissed skin, bronzed beauty was de rigueur for generations?until scientists in the 1980s exposed it as a destructive trend with irreversible, DNA-altering effects.

?Photodamage and skin cancer can, in part, be attributed to the belief that tans are fashionable,? says Dr. Andrea Lynn Cambio, a New York?based dermatologist and fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology. Equally insidious is ?the notion that having a tan is being healthy,? notes Dr. Alison Ehrlich, director of clinical research and assistant dermatology professor at George Washington University. The fact is, a ?healthy? glow is anything but; it?s the visible manifestation of skin damage.

Light Trap
Today some Americans are still lost in a tan warp, but most are aware of the sun?s dangers, including burning, premature aging, and skin cancer. Sunscreen sales are at an all-time high, but so too are rates of UV-related illnesses. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 1 million new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year. The depleting ozone layer, earlier detection, and the aging population have all been cited as factors, but many dermatologists believe the greatest culprit is human behavior?the fact that people aren?t adequately protecting themselves.

?Many people believe the myth that sunscreen allows them to stay outside all day without accumulating sun damage,? says Dr. Susan Sweeney, fellow of pediatric dermatology and dermatologic surgery at UMass Memorial Health Center. Although it?s important to wear sunscreen, she also stresses that these products offer just one layer of defense. Moreover?and contrary to what?s often printed on product labels?dermatologists emphasize that there?s no such thing as ?sunblock.? And similarly, no sunscreen is capable of guaranteeing all-day protection; even a sweat- or water-resistant formula must be applied repeatedly over the course of the day.

Equally unsettling is the fact that most people select a sunscreen based solely on its SPF (sun-protection factor)?a number that only tells part of the story. According to Sweeney, ?SPF refers only to protection from UVB light? (the wavelengths that are primarily responsible for sunburn). Although scientists once believed that UVB was the sole wavelength to blame for long-term skin damage, studies have now shown that UVA is also a dangerous carcinogen.

Saving Your Skin
There?s no safe haven from the sun (even daylight in indoor spaces can be harmful). But with a little diligence and a preventative plan, you can take significant steps toward safeguarding your skin.
Broaden your horizons: ?Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with both UVB and UVA protection, an SPF of 15 or higher, and ingredients such as titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which scatter and absorb UV light,? Cambio suggests. According to Sweeney, sunscreens that contain avobenzone (Parsol 1789), such as Jan Marini Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant SPF 30, may also be helpful in protecting against UVA rays.
An ounce of prevention: All too often, people don?t apply enough sunscreen for the product to be effective, or they opt to spot-protect just their faces or shoulders. Sweeney recommends using at least a full ounce of sunscreen to cover the entire body.
Make it a habit: ?Many people remember to wear sunscreen at the beach, but they should be wearing it every day,? says Sweeney. For best results, incorporate it into your morning routine.
Over and over: Because sunscreen loses its efficacy throughout the day, it must be smeared on again and again. ?Apply it 30 minutes prior to exposure, then reapply every two to four hours,? says Ehrlich.
Run for cover: Clothing, hats, and sunglasses are potential lifesavers outdoors, Ehrlich explains. If you?ll be outside for an extended period of time, Cambio suggests seeking out shady areas.
Watch the clock: The best way to screen out the sun is to circumvent it, especially during peak exposure times (from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.). When possible, Cambio recommends avoiding the midday sun.

Safer Screening
Today's sunscreens are giving women what they want?greaseless, broad-spectrum protection in clever, convenient packages. In some cases, they?re even doing double duty as moisturizer, foundation, or lip gloss.

For lightweight, full-body coverage, try Phytomer Og?nAge Protective Anti-Aging Cream Sunscreen SPF 30, Hampton Sun SPF 30 Lotion, or Clinique UV Response Cream SPF 50. For faces, look for vitamin-rich formulas that moisturize and protect, such as Cellex-C Sun Care SPF 30, MD Formulations Total Protector SPF 30, or Clinique Super City Block Oil-Free Daily Face Protector SPF 40. To protect the delicate skin around the eyes, try a specially formulated sunscreen such as Carita Paris Eye Control Suncare SPF 15 or Clarins Sun Wrinkle Control Eye Contour Care; for lips, BeneFit and Kiehl?s each offer SPF moisturizing lip balms in sheer and tinted formulas. And for a safe sun-kissed look, self-tanners such as Biotherm Sunfitness Protective Self-Tanner Tinted Cream SPF 15 impart an instant-gratification glow, while DuWop Revolution Tinted Body Moisturizer with Shimmer SPF 15 offers both UV protection and a hint of sparkle.

Tara Mattarazzo is the editor-in-chief of Beauty Addict Magazine http://beautyaddictmag.com For more articles on beauty, hair care, skin care, makeup, fashion, shopping, fitness, women's health, and more, visit Beauty Addict Magazine at: http://beautyaddictmag.com/

Think Pink! Makeup Trends for Spring 2006

There's two words for makeup this spring. Think PINK! Not a traditional pink, though, but a more refined, dynamic pink!

Pinks in the past have been either bubble gum Betty or too pale and close to dead. The new makeup colors for spring 2006, however, have found their middle ground - more than visible on the lips but also refined and elegant, giving pink a new found respect.

Most progressive cosmetic lines are now on the pink bandwagon - coming out with luscious, pale, but dimensional pinks, taupey pinks or warm pinks, all which contain just a hint of yellow in the color mixture. This gives them their flesh tone and salmon warm richness. And these new expressive colors are now housed in sleek, slim compacts for busy women on the go.

Bobby Brown has the express face which contains three shadows, three lips stains, and a blush to help keep you perky throughout the day. The size of the color wells are perfect: not too tiny so that you run out before the next season, and not too giving so that you tire of the products. And don't be afraid of the new shimmery eye shadows that Bobby has available for women over 30! They're so refined, that if the skin is hydrated and the eye shadow is worn properly, crepeing will never be an issue.

Overall, the look for spring 2006 is fresh and colorful with an emphasis on lashes and gel liners, either worn thin and crisp or thicker at the end of the eye, smudging to a halt. The real skin look is still being respected too- that slightly over powdered look has been tossed in a shoe box and is now sitting on a shelf somewhere. And with the new breed of foundations and gel cream blushes available in multiple shades, achieving this fresh skin look has never been easier.

When I studied makeup in 81 the founders of Mac Cosmetics had not yet (through their frustration) revolutionized colors & formulations in North America. Foundations were overly watered down or heavily oil based - reminiscent of the salad dressing I used at home! Blushes were either loud or chalky, and some were so unrefined that they sat on the skin instead of looking like part of it. Silicone is now being called the new oil, and foundations glide on with superior coverage yet are extraordinarily light to the touch. This is something I have never seen before. Some silicone foundations set without powder, encouraging that natural flawless second skin look that women adore.

Blush for spring is still playfully visible, coordinating with your lipstick shade. The silicone cheek pots by STILA are from another world. Initially they behave like a cream, but before you can blink they've dried to a silky powder. Gone is the overly dewy wet cheek, now replaced with a satiny matt elegance.

On a final note, you should be able to find your signature shade of pink lipstick at the makeup counter very easily. Just remember two things: If you or the sales person must convince yourselves that the new shade you're wearing is kind of hot- it's not for you. You should love your lips pretty much after the first take. Secondly, make sure the depth of the lipstick is in harmony with the depth of your hair. Obviously blonds will have more fun wearing a lighter pink lipstick, whereas the dark haired diva may introduce some blue or smokey brown undertones in her version of pink. This is to accommodate the depth of her hair color which frames her face.

Welcome the new pink... it's hipper than you think!

Robert Closs is the founder and managing director of The School of Professional Makeup in Toronto, Canada. He has been a successful makeup artist for 25 years, and is currently appearing on Life Network?s popular makeover show So Chic with Steven Sabados and Chris Hyndman. For more makeup tips and advice, or to post your own tips, please visit my Makeup Blog.

A Dozen Don'ts To Look Younger

Tired of always being told you have to do more and spend more too look younger? How would you like to do less and spend less yet look younger? Well now it's possible. All you have to do is avoid these 12 most common beauty mistakes made by women over forty and you will look younger, healthier, and more attractive.

1.Don?t use foundation that's lighter then your skin color. You will look pale, washed out and unhealthy.

2.Don't use powder foundation it tends to collect in creases and make wrinkles more prominent

3.Don't use frosted eye shadow, because its frosted particles settle into lid lines accentuating wrinkles.

4.Don't use iridescent eye shadow it attracts light and draws attention to lines.

5.Don't use brown eye shadows they tend to age the face and create a tired appearance.

6.Don't use black eyeliner it is to harsh and will emphasize any fine lines around the eyes.

7.Don't use overly light under eye concealer this will illuminate any imperfections and lines in the under eye area.

8.Don't over pluck your eyebrows; a very fine brow gives your face an aged look. .

9.Don't use too pale, too dark, or too bright color cosmetics. Anything bold, unnatural, and overpowering on the face makes it appear older and unattractive.

10.Don't apply your blusher too high or too low. If you want to create a natural, younger lift look to your face never apply blush any lower than the bottom of your nose or any higher up than the outside corner of the eye.

11.Don't apply your makeup too heavy because as the skin ages it starts to lose its firmness. Heavily applied makeup tends to slide into and accentuate lines and furrows.

12.Don't over exaggerate your lip line it will look phony even clown like.

Eileen Hammel is a Nationally & Internationally Recognized Image, Style and Beauty Expert Ms.Hammel is President of Smarter Image and Smart Skin Care - Smart Cosmetics by Smarter Image http://www.smartskincaresmartcosmetics.com/

Lipstick: Love The Look Hate The Work!

It was not near lunch yet and I was already reapplying my lipstick. Usually, this was a mindless routine task, but on this morning something snapped. I was all alone and thought to myself in annoyance, I wish I could just tattoo my lips a natural color and be done with it. The thought was completely foreign to me and I took a second to consider the possibility. Interesting concept, I thought and then I forgot about it. Tattoos of any kind were way out of my box and one on the lips seemed unthinkable. Two days later, while casually thumbing through a magazine, I discovered there was such a thing as tattooed lipstick. It is called permanent makeup, cosmetic tattoo, dermal pigmentation or micro-pigmentation. Now, after years of freedom from applying lipstick, or practically any makeup, I find it unthinkable to be without my cosmetic tattoos.

Beauty Is Not Pain

I expected a lot of pain when receiving permanent lip color. In fact, it took me five years to muster up the nerve to do it. Finally, while doing extensive training with a permanent makeup practitioner, I decided to trust and put my face in her competent hands. I liked that she is an artist, as I am and her skills as a technician were being clearly and impressively demonstrated to me. It went surprisingly well. For the most part the topical anesthetic worked to block the discomfort, except for small twinges. One especially sharp twinge of pain brought tears to my eyes, but it vanished as quickly as it came. There was no fumbling about, her hands moved efficiently and with an instinct garnered from experience. For an hour or two afterwards my lips felt hot, tender and huge, more than they looked. Nevertheless, I got up from the chair and immediately went to a fine restaurant with a friend, enjoyed myself and took care not to order spicy food. The cosmetic tattoo procedure was simple and caused no inconvenience.

Make Your Lips Look Their Best

There are different options for permanent lip color. The first is a lip line; a single color in a crisp outline around the mouth. The second is a lip shaper; a lip line that is softly blended into the natural lip color. The third is full lip color. The fourth is a combination of full lip color with a lip line or shaper in a slightly darker or different color than the fill. Most lip colors can be achieved, but a good eye and the effective application of basic color theory is essential to success. You will not get the brilliance of topical makeup because permanent makeup is viewed through a veil of skin. Lip balm or gloss will give permanent lip color a lipstick-like sheen. One with sunscreen is always recommended.

The Best Kept Secrets About Permanent Lip Color

The first secret is augmentation. Cosmetic tattoos can create any number of effects on the face. When applying permanent lip color you make small, crisp and precise adjustments in shape that can create symmetry. You can also make lip curves more sensuous, adjust the balance between the upper and lower lip, make the mouth appear slightly larger or smaller, cover scars and even give the lips a subtle upturn. The second secret is based solely on my personal experience and that of some of my clients. It concerns age lines that radiate out around the mouth and tend to fill up with the lipstick you wear. Skillfully applied pigment into the edge of the lips, called the vermilion border, detracts from age lines and may stop or minimize lipstick from bleeding. Granted, it is not often that I apply lipstick, but when I do it stays put. A well-defined vermilion border is not only youthful, but I have been told consistently over the years that my age lines are not visible. I don't believe people were just being nice. The lines are still there, but visually the lips themselves dominate.

Cosmetic Surgery Considerations

What if you wish to address similar lip issues with medical cosmetic procedures? If you choose to get any kind of lip filler, then have permanent makeup done first so the lip shape is clearly established. If you already have lip filler, let it go away completely before having permanent makeup applied. If you wish to treat age lines around the lips, treat them first and then have permanent lip color added later. With these simple tips you can get the most out of your lips and look your best.

Dawn Willard?s extensive career in the fine and applied arts has included lettering, illustrations and photo and film styling. Twenty-three years as a photo and film stylist taught Dawn and array of artistic skills, one being makeup. Ms. Willard?s foray into permanent makeup began in 1996. She currently owns the Permanent Makeup Studio in Asheville North Carolina. She has explored a variety of techniques and has clients coming to her from Illinois, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, New Hampshire, New Mexico and numerous towns in western and central North Carolina. She can be reached at http://www.DawnColors.com or starjump@gmail.com.

How To Apply Makeup For Everyday Wear

One of the questions women most frequently have regarding makeup is how to apply makeup for everyday wear. The key to applying makeup for everyday wear is do so in a way that does not look like you are wearing makeup at all. Everyday makeup applications should apply the principle of subtlety and moderation.

Before starting be sure to wash your face and apply a moisturizer to help your foundation glide on evenly. Choosing the right colors for your eyes is equally as important. Depending on the time of day or the function you are attending will help you decide which types of shades you should be using. Subtlety is very important in how to apply makeup for everyday wear. While special occasions may require a more dramatic look, everyday wear lends itself more to subtle makeup applications that enhance your best features while simultaneously minimizing your undesirable features. For everyday wear you want to apply your makeup in a way that is not obvious but does improve your appearance. Using complementary shades that work well with your skin tones are some of the best ways to create a subtle yet beautiful appearance.

Knowing how to apply makeup for everyday wear also requires the principle of moderation. Again nighttime activities or special occasions may present the opportunity to use an abundance of makeup to create a more dramatic look but this is not attractive if used during inappropriate occasions such as running errands during the day. You may wish to use several products such as mascara, eye liner, eye shadow, lip liner, lipstick and blush but it?s important to not go over the top with any of these products and use it excessively.

Jennifer Puffer is the owner of http://www.ultimate-beauty.com. A successful website focusing on providing information and products on topics that include beauty, skin care, make up, hair, mineral makeup and much more. Jennifer invites you to find more information on makeup application at http://www.ultimate-beauty.com/mineral-makeup.html

Wedding Hair Styles How To Avoid Disaster

WEDDING HAIR TIPS OTHER SALONS WON?T TELL YOU

Wedding Hair Styles- Your wedding hair planning has begun. It seems that there are so many details you must complete at the same time. You?ve imagined that you?ll have the most beautiful of wedding hair styles.

But will it match with your wedding dress and wedding hair accessories and will it be complimented by the bridal hair styles of your bridesmaids? All of this wedding stuff already has you almost overwhelmed, so you think, ?I need help?.

You?ve come to the right place. I?ll help you look like the stunning, romantic, storybook bride that you always fantasized that you?d be. You see, for over 20 years I have helped brides with their wedding hair and bridal makeup.

Finally I will give you some inside information that other salons don?t want you to know regarding wedding hair styles services and contracts.

WEDDING HAIR STYLES- WHERE DO YOU START?

Wedding hair styles and bridal makeup plans should be formulated at least 3-4 months before the event. Have your hair stylist show you some pictures of their work on brides or of special event hair styles. Bring the wedding hair pictures displaying the styles you like the best.

Pictures of wedding hair styles are one of the best ways to avoid bridal hair disasters. Pictures will help eliminate misunderstandings between you and your hair stylist.

Be practical. Try a style that is comfortable for dancing and moving around. Consider the wedding location?s climate (humid, dry, wet, cold, too hot). Make a selection from wedding hair styles that will match with the style of your dress. Keep your desired bridal hair styles in mind when picking out accessories.

ACCESSORIES AND BRIDAL MAKE UP

Wedding Hair Accessories like hair ornaments and headpieces should not overpower your wedding hair. If you plan to wear a more elaborate headpiece, your wedding hair style should be simple. Bridal Tiaras can be very flattering.

Very simple jewelry will do for the bridesmaids. Stick with earrings, bracelets, or rings, but avoid necklaces. The entire bridal party should have one theme for the wedding hair styles and bridal make-up. However the bridal party could all have different hair lengths, color and texture of hair.

Your bridal make-up should emphasize the eyes, lips, and skin-tone as these parts should be camera friendly at all times. Remember that bridesmaids are to compliment the bride and are not there to overshadow her.

WEDDING HAIR STYLES TYPE

It is not a bad idea to have an up-do, if your dress covers all the way to the neck. Don?t be afraid of a short hair style especially if you are petite. Short hair can be one of the more sexy wedding hair styles.

It is usually better to not to request a classic hair do with a contemporary wedding dress. If you have your heart set on one of the classic wedding hair styles, then it should be a casual one.

For a modern or classic Victorian style, one of the beach wedding hair styles is better when it is a basic chignon or down hair style with simple, loose curls. Soft curls give you a very romantic look. This goes for the bridesmaids as well. It is better that they all follow the same pattern.

The bridal party should wear the same color and style of dress as well as a similar hairstyle. For example, either all the bridesmaids should wear flowers in their hair or no one should at all.

WEDDING HAIR STYLES TRYOUT SERVICE

What?s the best way to check the look of all the wedding hair styles in your bridal party? Easy, it is to have your entire bridal party make a visit to a salon for a wedding hair style tryout.

Salons usually give a tremendous discount for wedding hair style tryout service since they know you will like their work and that subsequently you will book your wedding party with them. It is common for salons to present a contract to brides.

WEDDING HAIR STYLES CONTRACTS

Make sure to read your contract carefully before signing. Read every word and make sure to ask questions if you don?t understand something. If you are uncomfortable with the wording, it is fair to ask that the contract be changed.

Don?t just gloss over the details of the contract. It should include important information such as the date of your wedding, the types of wedding hair styles and bridal make up services to be rendered.

Many salons will ask for a deposit to hold the appointment in advance. Some contracts will state that deposits are nonrefundable.

If your wedding hair styles contract has such a clause determine if there is a grace period. Pay a percentage of the service and not the whole price. Also make payment with a credit card. Should there be a problem or dispute, you will have a better chance of getting your money back.

CONGRATULATIONS ARE IN ORDER!

Congratulations on finding your husband to be.

In this article I gave you great tips that will help perfect your wedding hair styles and bridal make up. I?ve also given you some inside information that other salon owners don?t want you to know regarding services and contracts.

Now, take a deep breath and breathe out all of your wedding anxiety. Relax; it's just easier to turn over bridal hair styles planning to a professional, isn't it? Of course it is. Telephone Next Salon at 310-392-6645 in Santa Monica, California in order to get answers to your questions and to book an appointment for perfection with your bridal makeup and wedding hair styles.

Noori Daili is the founder (1988) and owner of Next Salon at 2400 Main Street in Santa Monica, California 90405. Call 310-392-6645 to book now & mention this article to get 10% Bridal Party Savings. For more savings check out her new Blog at BeautyHair SalonSalonsSanta Monica, CA 90405Los Angeles. Online appointments are welcome. For more info visit our special bridal page at Wedding Hair Styles.

Mineral Makeup Applications

This article is meant as a self help, general know how for the application and uses of mineral makeup.

Foundations:

The best way to apply essential mineral foundation is with a kabuki brush, or you can use a powder brush if the hairs are not to loosely apart. You can either tap some mineral powder in your lid and swirl the brush in the powder or dip your brush in the powder and then swirl it in the lid. Gently tap off excess powder on the edge of your lid, with bristles pointed upward. Then begin at the jaw line and in circular motions apply in thin layers until you get the desired coverage you want. You don't want to begin at the center of your face, or the powders will get into your lines and creases. If you still have a few spots that need covering, just take your concealer brush, dip into powders, and apply to necessary areas. Foundations may also be applied with a damp sponge.

Finishing Powders:

Finishing powders are applied as you would a foundation. You may also use heavier coats on oily areas.

Blushes:

Using your blush brush simply swirl and tap in your lid and apply to cheeks. You can also use to contour different parts of the face such as jaw line, parts of brow, nose, ect. You can apply more than one coats if you desire more color intensity.

Bronzers:

Tap some powder in your lid, swirl and tap your brush, and apply lightly to forehead, cheeks, nose and chin. You can also use for contouring jaw line and parts of brow. In the winter you can also use your tan foundation as a light bronzer.

Multi-Use Colors (Shimmers and Mattes)
Eyeshadow:

Use a small brush or sponge applicator to apply shadow over your eye lids, or in the creases, for contouring effect. Apply more than one color if desired. Cover whole lid from lash line to eyebrow, then add another color to lid (lighter color), then one in the crease of the eye lid first using color as a highlight on brow bone blend color just where the meet. Mix matte and shimmer color together. Apply wet for a more dramatic effect or use as an eyeliner. There are too many different ways these shadows can be used, experiment and have fun. If you have any further questions, you can always visit www.cmhessentials.com.

christina harris is the owner of CMH Essentials pure mineral makeup with a website @ http://www.cmhessentials.com

Using a Flocked Sponge with Mineral Makeup

Mineral makeup behaves differently to ordinary makeup, and it will take a few goes and experimentation to work out what method of application is best for your skin type.

It's important to know how to use a flocked sponge for mineral makeup application effectively. The advantage of this type of sponge is that your makeup doesn't end up looking messy, streaked or uneven. It's perfect for blending.

Check out the following tips:

- Before applying the makeup, ensure that your face is cleansed and that the moisturiser you have applied has been fully absorbed by your skin.

- Apply the makeup in thin layers. This will avoid an uneven appearance.

- Apply your makeup, and then use the flocked sponge for blending the makeup in a stippling motion, with light, short strokes for best results.

- Only use the sponge for the initial application if you desire a heavier coverage. In this case, pick up the powder with the flocked sponge, press it into your skin, then buff for a smooth finish.

- An alternative method is to drop a few drops of water on the lid of your powder, pick up the powder with the sponge, and use it to mix the combination to your desired consistency. Or pick it up with the sponge and lightly spritz the sponge with water and apply it to the skin with light strokes until well blended.

- A flocked sponge can be used with any makeup - powder, foundation, eyeshadow and blush.

- You can wash and re-use some brands, however check the supplier for their recommendations.

Angela Page writes about Natural Skin & Beauty Care. For further information and products visit http://www.mybeautyfocus.com. You may reproduce this article only in its entirety, together with the link to the author's website, from which this article is sourced.

Mineral Makeup The Latest Trend in Cosmetics

Mineral Makeup is made from pure minerals from the earth. Unlike regular liquid foundations, mineral foundations have a powder consistency but are much different than your usual pressed powder. Mineral makeup foundations have the same coverage as liquid, without the oily mess you may be used to. Mineral makeup is all natural and is made up of crushed minerals and inorganic pigments found in nature. They contain no oils, and are light on your skin. This is perfect if you have sensitive skin.

Not only does mineral makeup give great coverage, but it has also been found to be good for your skin. Since Mineral makeup contains no oils it is less likely to clog your pores and cause breakouts. There is also a natural SPF found in most mineral makeup that will help prevent sun damage on your skin.

Another one of the great benefits of mineral makeup is that it won?t run off your face in the heat like most liquid foundations. Mineral makeup is great in humid weather, so even if you sweat, your makeup will stay in place.

Most major cosmetic companies are starting their own lines of mineral makeup. Most lines include foundations, concealers, blush, eye shadows, and even eyeliners in the most popular shades for the season.

Once you try mineral makeup you will not want to go back to regular foundations and concealers. The benefits of mineral makeup far outweigh what traditional makeup has to offer.

Kat White is the resident Bare Minerals fan at Bare Mineral Reviews

For more great reviews on your favorite mineral makeup visit http://www.baremineralreviews.com

Tips for Beautiful Makeup

Beautiful makeup tips are useful to know what you should do to make the makeup work to its fullest capacity, for, makeup done unprofessionally and without any thought would not be able to give you the desired results. Before applying the makeup that you hope would create a magical aura around you, consider these following tips for beautiful makeup:

Beautiful Makeup Tip 1

It is better to use toner on your face first. Use of a good moisturizer is also a good option, as this helps in proper and better blending of foundation. This is where most of people do not put proper care and end up in a mess of things, as the foundation does not give desired results!

Beautiful Makeup Tip 2

Use your fingers for working the foundation on one area of your face. It is better if you are moving your fingers in circular motion, and after you have finished this finger-walk, you can use sponge for the final working of the foundation.

Beautiful Makeup Tip 3

It is advisable to use a translucent loose powder to set the makeup with the help of a soft brush. When you are using the brush, dust the makeup in downward motion.

Beautiful Makeup Tip 4

If you are using blusher for your makeup, care needs to be taken in its application, for, it is better to apply in circular motion with fingers along the bottom of cheekbones. Mind you, application of blusher over the line that would pass from the center of your eyes is always prohibited!

Beautiful Makeup Tip 5

If you want to provide more natural look, you can fend the brush after you have loaded it with the blusher to remove the extra blusher.

Beautiful Makeup Tip 6

It is better to opt for a colorless eye shadow as a base. Darker colors need to be applied on outer side of eye shapes, and if you have already used more than required, you can use translucent or colorless coating over the already made.

Beautiful Makeup Tip 7

Sometimes, people get carried away with the colors of their clothes and try to match the color of makeup with it. Mind you, this may not look beautiful, so, it is better to opt for colors that actually suit your complexion. Using mild colors can lend a rare beauty to your face.

Beautiful Makeup Tip 8

If you are using eyeliner to make your eyes attractive and talking, it should be applied close to base of eyelashes, so that it can make them look thicker.

If you follow these tips for your makeup, the possibility of finest outcome for your face is more and you will enjoy the place for which you have intended the makeup!

Tony Smith

For more Makeup Tips vist http://www.makeup-guide-plus.info

How to Wear Make Up and Still Look Natural (Part 1)

There are some who wouldn't be caught dead in public without make up and then there are some who refuse to wear make up at all and prefer the natural look.

Some people have told me they like to let their skin breathe. Well don't worry about it! There's plenty of skin on your body, let the rest of it do the breathing! Your skin is fed from the inside and won't suffer so long as you make sure you cleanse at the end of the day.

But you can actually create a natural look using make up. That way you can have that clean fresh appearance while being able to disguise those flaws that you (and probably only you!) dislike.

So let's have a basic lesson on how to apply make up to create a fresh natural look.

Natural make up techniques

We'll look at base (foundation), concealer, powder and blush this time and in part 2 go on to how to apply make up for the eyes and mouth.

In the case of applying make up the term less is more definitely applies! If your going to enjoy a big night out on the town that's different - use your bright eye shadow, lippie and glittery mascara. You can put on a bit more foundation too, to create a flawless palate on which to paint your masterpiece!

But during the day whether you're at work, at home or hitting the shops you don't want to look like Coco the clown! Too much makeup can actually appear very ageing.

So let's start with a really clean face. For daytime use a moisturizing sunscreen or sun block. If your skin is oily use a non oily one, if it's very dry use both moisturizer and sun block.

Make up base (or foundation) comes in many types, liquid, stick, cream etc. Mostly this is a matter of preference although the stick or solid base usually has a better coverage and will hide things like broken veins almost completely. The liquid bases have a lighter coverage and will give a more natural look.

If your skin is oily, the dry compact bases work well, or opt for an oil free liquid one. Dry skins like the cream bases which give a moist 'dewy' appearance.

Make sure the base you choose matches the colour of your skin as closely as possible. Don't try and create a darker sun tanned look with your base, there are bronzing powders specially created for this. Go outside the store when selecting different colours and make sure they look ok in natural light. It's best to test on your jaw line rather your wrist.

Don't buy pre-packaged make-up bases from the supermarket, you'll not be able to try them on!

Concealers are great for that natural look, you can cover blemishes and broken veins with a concealer without having to use a heavy base all over your face.

Concealers also come in different forms but they all do the same job. You can buy them with built in sunscreen and also with anti bacterial additives if you like. Try to find one just slightly lighter than your skin tone. Pat the concealer onto the area you wish to cover. Don't rub hard or it will disappear into your pores. Make sure it is blended well and has no tide marks.

Now dot the base onto your face. Use the sheerest one you can. Don't use too much at first, you can always add more.

Blend really well. Some make up artists recommend a damp sponge, but fingers work just as well. Make sure you blend into the hairline, sides of face, around the nose and particularly the jaw line. Don't just stop at the jaw, your face will look like a mask. Just blend away to nothing before your throat, that way you won't get make-up stains on your collar.

Powder is optional but I like to use it as it sets your make-up and absorbs excess oil. Press the powder onto your face with a puff or you may prefer to use a powder brush. After a couple of minutes brush the powder off using light downward strokes.

Next apply blusher. Brush this lightly on the apple of your cheeks and up towards the temples. Don't put too much on your brush, you can always go over it again. If you are using a cream blusher, apply this before powder. Dot onto the apple of your cheeks and blend in up to the temples. Blend really well!

Now for my special tip. Place a cool damp (not wet) face washer over your face and press very gently. this will give the whole face a fresh look - Gorgeous!

Copyright 2005 Wendy Owen

Wendy Owen is a health researcher and author. For advice on absolutely natural skin care visit http://www.just-natural-skincare.com

How To Apply Your Makeup

How To Apply Your Makeup

STEP 1: FOUNDATION: After Cleansing, Toning and Moisturizing your face apply a small amount of foundation to the tip of your index finger, dot on forehead, nose, cheeks and chin then blend in an upward and outward motion without leaving a line. Be sure to apply foundation over your eyelids and blend without leaving a line. Glance in the mirror to ensure there's no line. You can use a concealer to cover imperfections such as blemishes and dark spots. You can use our NATU-CLEAR to remove dark spots, even skin tone and skin discoloration.

STEP 2: TRANSLUCENT POWDER: Using a Powder Brush apply Translucent Powder in a downward motion for a smooth finish. Translucent Powder helps eye makeup and blush to go on smoother and blend better. It also keeps your face looking fresh and your Makeup will last longer.

STEP 3 EYE MAKEUP: Starting at your lash line, apply your Base Color first, then apply your crease color in the crease area. Apply your Highlight Color in the highlight color area, below the brow bone. Finally, blend the colors with a cotton ball or your fingertip to remove any obvious line. If the colors are too bright tone them down with a little Translucent Powder then apply your Mascara, and dust your entire face downward with Translucent Powder.

STEP 4 BLUSH: Your Blush should go on the apples of your cheeks to radiate when you smile. It should go no closer to your nose, but directly beneath the iris of your eye; below nostril-level and into your temple hairline. A good Blush Brush that's tapered for precise placement, is a must.

STEP 5 LIPSTICKS: Define the outline of your lips with a professional lip brush or lip liner pencil that closely matches the color of your lipstick. Then apply your lipstick and blend the liner with a lip brush. Start from the center working outwards.

For more HOW TO Makeup and Skin Care Tips and advice visit http://www.beautysensation.com

Julia Anderson, Beauty Consultant and Makeup Artist
Free Newsletter http://www.beautysensation.com

The Revolution in Skin Care

Q: With so many skin care products on the market today, how do you know which one is right for you?

A: I encourage you to become a label reader.

The latest trend in skin care marketing is anti-aging. Many women today are concerned about reversing the signs of aging as well as prevention of the aging process. With so many well known brand name products out there, it may be difficult to find the perfect most beneficial one for you. That is why I encourage you to be a label reader and know what you are putting in and on your body.

The difference between botanically based products and those that only contain botanical ingredients is simply in the recipe. Botanicals can be added to a base of ingredients such as mineral oil, drying alcohols or animal by-products. In a base like that, your skin won?t benefit from the botanicals. You are paying for useless added ingredients that do not benefit your skin or health. For example 98% of cosmetic companies use some type of petrolatum by products, mineral oil, petrolatum or petroleum, in their products. Have you ever turned your products over and read ?animal by products?? No, but the labels might say collagen, elastin and lanolin. Remember that the next time you lick your lips.

Furthermore, what you put on your body, you are essentially putting in your body. Don't believe me? Put a piece of garlic between your toes, you will taste it in about fifteen minutes. Wouldn't you like to be putting something on your body that aids in beauty as well as health? The ingredients are just a important as the effects.

There is hope, I have found a company with a Swiss formulated skin care line for the whole family*. These products are hypoallergenic and formulated without dyes, chemicals, or synthetic fragrances. They are also PH correct, which is part of their pure, safe and beneficial guarantee. It is not beneficial to use a product that makes you feel squeaky-clean because the PH of skin is 5.5 and we have an acid mantel that keeps down the bacterial infections. PH balanced is what most products advertise and that is about a 7, which is too drying for our skin. A lot of the clear soap that people use on their skin is actually a 14 on the ph scale, the same as perm solution.

I hope you come away from the article with a greater understanding of the importance of skin care and the products used to achieve healthy skin. At least, I hope you have become a label reader and are aware of what you are using and what you should be using.

*Please refer to my Bio and Resource Box for more information.

Michelle Burke an Independent Consultant for Arbonne International, is a small business owner in the Consulting Services industry. My team of consultants and I have a combined experience of eight plus years in this industry. I have extensive knowledge of Arbonne's Swiss skin care line and nutritional products, and would be happy to provide advice based on your particular area of interest. You may visit my website for more information: http://www.gohealthyshop.myarbonne.com or contact me via Email: chellemybelle@pldi.net or Ph:405-694-4766.