Bold. bold and more bold to enhance your fall 2010 look!!

Yes!!! It is official we are not having a neutral fall, we are going bold with colors!

"Everyone from Nars to Revlon is coming out with stunning shades of shimmering dark shadows, longer lash mascaras and beautiful bold lips. You can find these products in the most stunning shades of vintage gold, dark red, hunter green, and last but absolutely not least, PURPLE! Purple, in all shades, is the color on everyone’s lips this fall!" http://www.makeupgeek.com/

I personally have been all over the bold eyes look for the fall, I have been sporting blues, golds, peach and dark lashes have been a must with Maybelline Lash Blast Mascara.!

Very Light, Very Natural, Very Unique

Photos: EBM Model Lystra Edwards

In order to achieve this look, you will need the following:

1. MAC Fix +Skin Refreshener (optional)
2. MAC Oil Control Lotion (optional)
3. Tinted Moisturizer in your shade. (I used jane. nearly foundation tinted moisturizer in Medium with SPF 30) Its is oil free.
4. Powder (I used MAC Mineralized Skin Finish Natural)
5. Powder Brush (I used MAC Brush # 187)
6. Eyebrow Pencil with eyebrow brush or comb ( I used NYC Brow blender Brow & Liner in Dark brown 914A)
7. Cream Eyeshadow ( I used MAC Paints on Bamboom and Revlon Beyond Natural Quad in 520 Spice
8. Dark Brown Eyeliner
9. Mascara ( I used LOREAL Clean Definition Telescopic)
10. Nude Lipstick ( I used LORAC cream lipstick in virtue)
11. Bronzer ( I used Glimmer Bronze from Bonnebell in Gold 'N Glitz)

Procedure:

1. First spritz face with Fix +, moisturize and/or use your tinted moisturize to even out skin tone.

2. Now use an eyebrow pencil in your shade to color in your eyebrows and create the perfect shaped brows. Brush with an eyebrow brush/comb to create a natural look.

3. Next apply the cream eyeshadow in a natural shade to your entire lid, if using a quad you can put the darker shade over the balls of the lid and in the crease and then apply the lighter shade under the eyebrows and near the tear ducts.

4. Now use your dark brown eyeliner to liner the upper and lower rim of eyes.

5. Use your mascara to apply mascara to your upper lashes.

6. Finally use you powder brush to apply a layer of powder all over the face for a flawless complexion.

7. If you want you can also use some bronzer to contour the face by applying with a blush brush around the cheek bones and up around the side of your eyes.

Good luck, and much love from Enhanced Beauty Makeup (EBM) by Lydia.
Thank you to our EBM by Lydia Model Lystra Edwards

Wei East

Awesome, Awesome!!

Okay so I ordered the Wei East Christmas in July special that included not one, not two, but three sets of products. I am excited to now have and try the products because I believe that the Chinese Herbal ingredients sound awesome (hence the title!!!)

The set included:

China Herbal Hand and Body Perfection
China Herbal Foaming Cleanser
China Herbal Youth Recaptured
Chinese White Olive Lip Smoother and
Pomegranate Anti-oxidant Ex-foliating Grains

So I am going to go and try the Foaming Cleanser with the Exfoliating Grains and the Youth Recaptured Serum!!

Have a good day and much much love,
Lydia

Summer Makeup look with Minty Rose Eye shadows

New Facebook Page and Giveaway (yes, already)!!!

Hey Dollface,

I am excited to say that I have brought my Make-up and Beauty (inside and out) blogging expertise to Facebook. Yep!!! I have created a facebook page to try and reach more of you guys, so go to Facebook and fan me at: Enhanced Beauty Makeup by Lydia

Coming very soon I will be posted a riddle for those who have become a fan of the page to respond and I will send the fan with the correct answer a LORAC Mini Mocktail set of six glosses valued at $67!!!
Much, Much Love!!

The Best Drugstore Alternatives to Pricey Cosmetics by Kaboodle.com

Okay my beauties,

I am well aware that we all cannot afford some of the more pricey beauty brands out there, especially my little teenage beauties. Right? Well that us why I am known as Lyd the Discount Diva!! So that is why I am bringing to you some of the best drugstore alternatives that I try or I hear about out here in the beauty product world!! Enjoy and shop well! See below:

High-quality cosmetics don’t have to come from a department store. These days you can find some of the best makeup at your local drugstore. However, quality can be hit-or-miss so the secret is to know which items are worth purchasing. Here are a few low-priced finds that are as good as their high-end counterparts.


Magical Mascara

We were amazed with the results when we first tried L’Oreal’s Double Extend mascara ($11 at Target). The two-sided tube contains both mascara and primer, which dramatically enhances both the length and volume of lashes. Our tip: Apply primer, wait a few seconds, and follow with mascara before the primer dries. Complete one eye before starting the other.

Superb Skincare

Department store skincare can run into the hundreds of dollars for a simple moisturizer! However, studies have shown that pricy products are often not worth the cost. For basic cleaning and moisturizing, you can’t do better than Cetaphil cleanser and Olay Complete moisturizer ($12 and $9 from drugstore.com). Cetaphil is gentle enough for even the most sensitive skins and Olay is oil-free and contains SPF to help prevent wrinkles from sun exposure. Fun fact: The majority of visible signs of aging are a result of environmental, not genetic, factors, so make sure you wear always sunscreen! That's not to say you can't have a sun-kissed glow the natural and safe way. Check out the best skin protectors and bronzers!

Fabulous Foundation

We first tried L’Oreal True Match foundation ($9 from WalMart) based on burlesque star Dita Von Teese’s recommendation on Twitter. It turned out we loved the light, buildable coverage too. And, with 24 different shades in three undertones (cool, warm, and neutral), you’re sure to find a perfect match for your skin. Our tip: Apply foundation with your fingertips and then follow by buffing your skin with a powder brush for a flawless finish.

Thanks for visiting,

Enhanced Beauty Makeup by Lydia

Essence Readers Choice Awards from 2007

So I was looking through some old magazines and found that Essence magazine had done a couple of pages spread on beauty products that readers told them they could not live without!! The magazine spread was called " The Essence Readers Choice Beauty Awards" and it was in the April 2007 issue. Well I kept that magazine spread because I love to either clip out or keep good articles I find in magazines that highlights great beauty products like make-up or skincare buys. Or even how to accomplish a look that was in the magazine.

So anyways I just wanted to revisit some of the items in that spread, because it was some good stuff that was affordable and I just have to share!! Thanks Essence, one day I will have to re-subscribe!

so in April 2007 Essence Readers chose the following:

Concealer:

winner: Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer Kit ($35, Bobbi Brown Makeup counters nationwide). "...both a base and a setting powder,...covers dark spots, under-eye circles and blemishes."

runner up was Black Radiance Concealer Stick ($2, drugstores). So inexpensive I gotta check it out!

Foundation:

winner: M.A.C Studio Fix Foundation ($25, M.A.C stores nationwide)."...smooth texture, powder finish and diverse color selection."

runner up was Prescriptives Custom Blend Foundation ($62, Saks Fifth Avenue).

Powder:

winner: Black Opal Oil Absorbing Pressed Powder ($9, drugstores). "...surefire shine solution." Since I have oily skin I gravitate to anything that says oil and absorbing, especially in the summer!!

Blush:

winner: Bobbi Brown Bronze Shimmer Brick ($38, Saks Fifth Avenue). "...cleverly combines complementary blush tones with a hint of shimmer for an instant glow..."

runner up was Iman Blushing Powder Duo ($10, Walgreens)

Eyeshadow:

winner: L'Oreal HIP Shocking Pigments ($15 DRUGSTORES). "...bold, beautiful shades pop on darker skin tone." Okay definitely still one of my favorite eye-shadows, like I would love to collect them all!!!

runner up was Revlon Illuminance Creme Shadow ($6, drugstores)

Eyeliner:

winner: Wet 'N Wild Eyeliner Pencil in Charcoal ($1, drugstores). "...beauty bag staple." I own this and wear it almost everyday and it does last. BTW I know you all have heard of the brand, extremely affordable!!

Mascara:

winner: Maybelline Great Lash Mascara ($6, drugstores)."...long, lush lashes, time after time." Well no surprise here, why? Because Maybelline has is always a leader in quality mascaras!!

runner up was Cover Girl Lash Exact Mascara ( $7, drugstores).

Gloss:

winner: M.A.C Lipglass ($14, M.A.C stores nationwide) "... shine factor, especially in Oh Baby, and earthy brown shimmer." That is too weird, no surprises here and still going strong. Every brown girl must wear M.A.C Oh Baby, what are the odds!!!

runner up was Victoria's Secret Beauty Rush Lipgloss ($7, victoriassecret.com)

Lipstick:

winner: Clinique Colour Surge Lipstick in Pure Posh ($14, Macy's) "...offers the look of a lipstick but glides on like a gloss." Wow!! That sound exciting, I don't wear lipstick but I may have to check out this one!!

runner up was MK Signature Creme Lipstick in Downtown Brown ($13, marykay.com)

Finally I want to mention some of the Readers Favorite Skincare products:

Cleanser:

winner: Olay Regenerist Daily Regenerating Cleanser ( $9, drugstores). " ...gentle exfoliating beads in this facial cleanser."

Exfoliator:

winner: L'Oreal Pure Zone Pore Unclogging Scrub Cleansers ($6.49, drugstore). "...smooths out your skin without over drying it."

Moisturizer:

winner: Mary Kay TimeWise Age-Fighting Moisturizer ($22, marykay.com). "... It moisturizes your face without leaving it greasy."

A light summer look with purple eyes

Hello Summer Babes,





So I have been having alot of fun in and out of the sun this month in MD/DC. But I wanted to write to my blog lovies about staying cute when you are out and about on a hot summer day.

Whether it is a picnic, barbecue or trip to the mall, we all want to have our enhanced natural beauty shine through not sweat off, right?? Check out the summer look I put on my Enhanced Beauty Makeup, EBM Model below.



Well first I suggest using a light oil free primer or moisturizer on your face as a base. Second, I suggest using a brush and a powder as a light foundation if neccessary. You don't want to feel cakey and tied down to alot of foundation especially liquid foundation on a hot day. If you need more coverage than powder offers, try using a cream and then brush it on and the powder on top. If youhave to use liquid, go light on the application and then brush the powder on top.



Next waterproof mascara is your best bet!! I love a light natural eyeshadow, if any, on a summer day. But if you do want color, like my model in the picture above with the purple, make sure you apply an eyelid primer as well and concentrated eye pencils tend to stay on longer than eyeshadows. And please use a eyeshadow brush, see my blog posts on must-have brush type for your personal kits, because using your finger will add oil to your face and you dont want that.



For your lips use a liner and then gloss or just lip balm with sunscreen to protect your lips from the harmful rays of the sun.

One Love,

Your Lydia

My latest MAC purchases

Hello Babilicious Fans,

I am back!! I have been away from my blog for a whole month, my birthday passed and everything!! But I have been busy with school and student teaching, fun, fun right?? Well I want to talk about my trip to the MAC counter to buy some new things for myself and my makeup pro kit. As you all know, I am in the process of building up my kit and I desire to have nice variety of make-up in my kit from Josie Maran organic make-up to LORAC and hopefully very soon some Make-Up-Forever!

First, I needed something for oily to combination skin to use as a moisturizing base for myself as well as clients, so I bought MAC's Oil Control Lotion.

Second, I bought the MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural Powder in Deep Dark because I thought it was a nice versatile color that I could blend with a lot of skin tones.

Third, I bought a very expensive brush for my collection, the MAC #187, because the sales guy (who was gorgeous with his blue eye makeup) told me it was a must have!
Fourth, I bought MAC's brush cleaner, gotta protect my investment and sanitation comes first in the makeup business!

Fifth, I bought MAC's Paints in Bamboomto use as a base color for holding eyshadow on my clients all day or night long!!

Sixth and final, I bought MAC's Fix+ Skin Refreshener, I was told it sets makeup and keeps it in place, so hopefully that is true!!

So I am broke now!!

Love and Peace,
Lyd

Spring/Summer 2010 Make-up Trends

Hello All my Dollfaces,

So spring is here and summer is coming soon. It's time to start thinking about what make-up you will wear now and in the coming months, beauty trends from the runway are already hitting the stores. The make-up trends are feminine, romantic, and ultra pretty. I am excited to say we are seeing flawless skin with light waterproof foundation and super-long lashes.

Foundation:

So since flawless complexion skin is a major trend for this spring and summer. How do we accomplish this? Well to achieving flawless skin through make-up, even if your skin has imperfections, is to make your skin look untouched. Hydrate your skin, so a great moisturizer is the first step.

Cheeks:

Second, the popular trend is blush!!! With blush use ones that are sheer and contain a bit of shimmer. For blush try pink, pink, pink and even peach! Low on the bronzers and rich colored powders this 2010 season. But, pastel colors are going to be a hit. Try a soft rose, peach, light coral, or light plum.

Eyes:

As I mentioned before, the big trend in eyes are extra, extra long lashes. With or without adding false lashes! Try using a lengthening mascara that can create lashes that are dark, long and luscious lashes. No, I said no to black liquid liner, try going for a dark brown, dark blue, violet, or bluish gray. Eyeshadow, eyeshadow, eyeshadow!! Go light for a little glam or none at all. Go for a nude, soft coral, gold, or bronze with some light shimmer.

Lips:

Lips should be very light and natural. Nudes and light pastels are BIG this spring! Try pairing a bare lip with some sheer balm over any color. Lighten up on the super shiny gloss this year and instead try a lipstick/gloss combo or a nude cream gloss. Nude pinks and beiges are the top colors, with just a little bit of shine added. Say NO!!!!! to sparkly or glittery colors.

Keep in mind that keeping things soft and light this season is the key. make-up should have a natural dewy look that is fresh and not over done. Makeup is suppose to just enhanced your already natural beauty, not take over your face and be too fussy, so less is always more!!

Luv, Lydia

Natural Day Look

Hello All,

So this was a natural judges interview look that I created for the 2010 Miss Teen DC International Pageant by using tinted moisturizer, two natural shades of eyeshadow, the darker on the eye lid and lighter as a highlighter under the brows. In addition, I used a dark eyeliner and clear lip gloss.

Lydia

Makeup Tutorial for Beautiful Eyes and Nude Lip

Your First Make-up Brushes: A Girls Dream Tools!!

Hello,

So you feel like you are ready for make-up brushes, but you keep hearing about MAC brushes and all these numbers like "209 eyeliner brush", "228 mini shader brush", etc. So therefore, you are intimidated and overwhelmed!!

But don't be afraid, I am here to help you figure out what the five, yes only five basic brushes you need for a brush starter kit.

I will give you a MAC option, and then an example of a less expensive version, that I believe does the job well for those of us on a budget.

1. Powder Brush:

MAC option, pay 34.00 and buy #129."All-purpose for blush or face powder. This brush is particularly good for blush application. The fibers are soft and form a full, rounded shape. M·A·C professional brushes are hand-sculpted and assembled using the finest quality materials. They feature wood handles and nickel-plated brass ferrules."

Ecotools Powder Brush, 7.99, Drugstores nationwide

2. Blush Brush:

If you prefer MAC, you can pay $32.50 and buy the #116. "Tapered for shading and highlighting cheeks and face with blush. The bristles on this brush are soft and form a full, rounded shape."

Maybelline Expert Tool Blush Brush, 3.99 at Drugstore.com or drug stores nationwide.

3. Eyeshadow Blending Brush

MAC option, pay 22.50 and try the #217 or pay 28.00 and try the #224, #217- "For shading or blending of colour or creamy products. This brush has fine, densely packed fibers that are arranged in an oval shape."

#217- "For controlled eye shadow application. This brush has soft fibers which taper to form a medium size dome shape."

Maybelline Expert Tools Eye Shadow Brush, 3.99, drugstore.com, drugstores nationwide

4. Eyeshadow Liner Brush

MAC option, pay 23.00 and try #219, "For precision shading on lid, in eye crease or along lash line. The soft, smooth fibers of this brush are gathered into a pencil-shaped tip. It is ideal for blending eyeliner into eye shadow to create a smoky looking eye."

Professionnel Angled Liner/Eyeliner Brush #15. 16.00, this brush defines your lids with a thin line of color.


5. Eyebrow Brush

Sephora Platinum lash and Eyebrow Brush #21, 10.00, This tool brushes, grooms, and separates lashes and eyebrows.

EcoTool-1205 Bamboo Lash& Brow Groomer, 5.95, Drugstores

Now as you build your fun beauty products, you can get a lash brush, a Kabuki brush, contouring brushes, angled brushes and etc.

Love, Lydia

Pretty Prom Face (Coral n Salmon Shades)

Strong eyes that can be paired with just gloss or with a neutral matte lip: I used HIP eye shadows (Playful and Sassy) over "Blend n' Glow" Bonnebell base cream powder, then finished off with black eyeliner and lengthening black mascara on top and lower lashes.

Make-up ideas for teens

My Enhanced Beauty Tips for Teenage girls new to make-up or self-acclaimed experienced:

1. Make sure you start by taking care of your skin, cleanse and moisturize daily. I believe it is very important that you cleanse your face at night and wash away all that daily dirt and crime!!

2. If using foundation, make sure you go for natural foundation. I recommend tinted moisturizers for teenagers, if you have discoloration you want to hide you can use some spot concealers. But no cakey foundation all over your face, it is not necessary. I am 27 and I don't even use all that foundation on my face.

3. Instead of foundation, you can give yourself a glow by just using blush and bronzers. Just a little, not heavy because we don't want you looking like a clown!!

4. Save the drama and funky colors for the eyes. I heart eyeshadow, any kind, so don't be afraid. You can use dark colors, light colors, glitter or just shimmer.

5. Finally the lips, I personally prefer, lip gloss or tinted lip balm for teenagers. But if you want to try lipstick for special occasion, I would say use a moisturizing shine lipstick in a fun flirty color, or nude shade. Save the red and burgundy for the past generation. I love bonnebell(www.bonnebell.com) and lipsmackers (www.lipsmackers.com) both of which you can find at your local drug store for under five dollars.

* Please note, that if you want eyebrows I suggest that you go with your natural brow shape. Lightly getting rid of stray hairs can be done, but no dramatic eyebro shaping. Also, very light on the mascara and I would prefer a clear or brown shade with a more natural look for young teens.

So I hope this was useful. Thanks for reading!!!

Lydia

Making up the inside and out

I believe that self confidence is very important for early adolescent and teenage girls to build. Webster defines "Self-Confidence" as :confidence in one's powers and abilities". Building self-confidence is very important for female teenagers to build by most important working on the inside, but also caring enough about themselves to work on the outside.

Tips on grooming, hygiene and even beauty cosmetics are fun ways that teenagers can display confidence in themselves on the outside. From years of watching "What Not To Wear" on TLC I have heard people say, "if only I knew I could look this good". I want to inspire young girls to discover their inner and outer fabulous and realize that they all can look and feel as good as they want to and nobody can take away the power they can have to love and care about themselves.

So therefore, please stay tuned as I channel my love of educating and instilling confidence in pre-teen and teenage girls as well as make-up into something rewarding.

As a woman, we must realize that everyone of us is beautiful, make-up just enhances your beautiful characteristics!

Offering Glam Prom Pre-Party

Enhanced Beauty Make-up by Lydia will come to you on ypur prom night!!! Yes, gather a group of at least six girlfriends for a Glamorous Prom Pre-Party they wont forget. Choose a location of your choice and my make-up case and I will come to you. You can also include hairstyling with your package for an additional fee per guest!!!

(Courtesy of http://www.ehow.com/how_2063624_throw-preprom-party.html)

All-Out Glamorous Gathering

Step 1 Invite your friends to bring their families along so that parents and siblings can take pictures and be involved in the pre-prom festivities.

Step 2 Mark the spot by tying balloons to your mailbox or hanging a banner to welcome prom-goers.

Step 3 Rent a white tent or a gazebo and set it up in your yard so that friends and couples will have a pretty place to pose. Set flower arrangements on either side of the entrance.

Step 4 Lay a red carpet down from the street to your house so that your glammed-up friends can have an actual "Red Carpet" moment.

Step 5 Hire a professional photographer to capture the experience on film. Your friends can later purchase any photos they would like to have.

Step 6 Set up card tables on the porch or around the yard to hold punch and hors d'oeuvres as refreshment for your guests.

Step 7 Hand out party favors to commemorate the event. Give your friends a silver picture frame with the date and event printed within (or, as a pricier alternative, engraved on the outer frame) or a personalized tin of mints.

Prom Makeup

For great prom makeup ideas visit : http://makeup.lovetoknow.com/Prom_Makeup

3 All- Natural Skin Cleansers

3 All-Natural Skin Cleaners
with Natasha Levitan (Source http://video.about.com/beauty/3-Natural-Skin-Cleaners.htm )

Want to beautify your skin with the most natural products around? Look no further than your kitchen and medicine cabinet to try these quick and easy recipes: witch hazel cleansing tonic, honey nutmeg scar remover, and citrus blackhead treatment.

Witch Hazel Cleaning Tonic

Witch hazel has long been known to have astringent qualities. The liquid you can find in the shelves of drug store is an herbal extract with exceptional cleansing, soothing, and healing properties. It was originally used by Native Americans, who used witch hazel bark and twigs in many therapeutic applications and passed on their knowledge to the settlers.

To make your own old fashioned witch hazel astringent, combine 1 cup of witch-hazel with 2 tablespoons of alcohol and apply it to your skin with cotton ball. If you are sensitive to alcohol, you can substitute it with 1/4 cup of white vinegar.

Honey and Nutmeg Scar Remover

Another natural tonic is honey and nutmeg scar remover wash. This treatment is meant to help heal the scars caused by skin eruptions, skin accidents, and acne.

To make honey and nutmeg scare remover, combine 1 teaspoon of nutmeg with 1 teaspoon of honey, and mix them together. Apply them to your face and leave them for 20 minutes. Then, rinse it with cool water. Use it twice a week.

Citrus Blackhead Treatment

Removing blackheads can easily be done with lemon. Citrus is naturally exfoliate, which makes lemon useful when it comes to fighting blackheads in your cleansing routine. Cut the lemon in half then rub it directly on your face before going to bed.

You can also extract lemon juice with a citrus reamer, remove the seeds and then add 2 tablespoons of rosewater. Mix the lemon juice and rosewater together and your tonic will be more fragrant.

Thankyou to About.com

New Makeup Supplies

I recently purchased some Lorac (http://www.loraccosmetics.com/) and I have to saw I bought some fabulous stuff.

First I bought the Glam Rocks loose Metallic Eye Shadow in Gold and in copper.
Second since nude lips will be in for the Spring 2010, I bought two Cream Lipsticks in Karma and Virtue. Which are both nude lip shades.
Third I purchased these fabulous little Lip Polishes in Delicious and Groovy Fruit, two very spring like shades.
Fourth I purchased two spring pink shades of the Cheek Stamps in Pink Paradise and Hisbiscus.
Finally I bought the Love & Money Eye IT KIT
and the Pink Python kit
This makeup will be fabulous for doing some prom faces as the prom season approaches!!

They are here

Hello everyone,

So in the course of three days I received three UPS packages and I love packages. First I received my camcorder, which I had sent into the company to be repaired, so yeah!!! I can make videos with my video camcorder now!

Then second I received the Nixie professional pallet which came with 2 powder blush refills: "small talk" and "elegance". It had 4 mineral eye shadows refills; "starlight", "city", "visage", and "stevie". So excited to try these colors out. My only dilemma is once i set them in the pallet I dont remember the names of the refill.

I also received my "%100 Pure" package from Hautelook, I had ordered the 6-piece Fruit Pigmented Strawberry Box and the 8-piece Fruit pigmented Color cosmetics box. So awesome and I cant wait to try out %100 Pure vegan products.

Three Custom Color Specialist

Step by Step Bridal Makeup from Three Custom Color Specialists

Face:

Begin by creating a smooth, flawless canvas. Cleanse the skin and moisturize well. Once your moisturizer has had a chance to absorb, begin to Conceal.

Conceal - apply our Creme Concealer where you need it. Start in the center of the face and blend outward with a sponge. With the Concealer Brush, apply around the eyes, nose and lips. Always place the brush first where you need it most and blend outward.

Set - with our soft face powder puff, press face powder into the skin to set the concealer. If you want face powder with coverage, try our #'s 1-5. No coverage, use our Translucent Powder.

Eyes:

Base shade - should be applied all over the eye with the All-Over Blending Brush. Liner Shade - Wet the Pointed Eye Liner Brush and apply your Liner shade along the upper lash line. Keep any lining under the eye to a minimum. Allow to dry. ** pencil liner could also be used here

Crease Shade - Buff out the liner (to soften it) with the Countour brush and apply the same shade (dry) in the outer third of the crease.

Highlight - Use the Detail Brush to dust the Highlihgting Shade on the brow bone on the highest point of the eye lid.

Line - Swipe Light or Dark Clarifier pencil on the inner rim of the eye to brighten and widen.

Lashes - Last step - mascara. Be sure to use waterproof!

Cheeks:

Highlight - with a fluffy brush, dust your high-lighting Eye Shadow shade to the upper cheek bone for definition and shine.

Color - Apply Marry Me Lip & Cheek Stain (in Cool or Warm) with the fingers. Focus on the apples and blend back towards the ears.

Contour - to create the illusion of a more prominnent cheek bone, apply a small amount of Cool or Warm Bronzer below the cheek bone. This can be used under the jaw line as well.

Glow - If you are feeling a little pale - with our face powder brush, generously dust our Bronzing Powder over the face, neck and decollete for a natural , healthy look.

Brow:

Brows should be well defined, but not too dark. Choose a brow powder the same shade as your hair or slightly lighter. Brush on lightly with Brow Brush or Spoolie Brush for more color. Use wet with Pointed Eye Liner Brush to fill in gaps, if necessary.

Apply clear brow gel to set the shape.

Lips:

Line - Follow the natural lip line with Cool or Warm Pink to define and to form a barrier for the lip color. Avoid re-shaping unless absolutely necessary!

Color - Apply one coat of Lip & Cheek Stain - be sure to blend well with the lip liner. Blot. Apply another coat of lipstick and blot lightly. This will ensure a solid seal of your base lip color. Apply lip gloss and eapply for shine when necessary.

http://www.threecustom.com

New Palettes! New Palettes!

Last night I ordered three new Palettes, that I cant wait to try and review then let you know how they are once they arrive. I have my heart set on the Urban Decay "Alice in Wonderland" Palette, which I initially heard of from Kandee Johnson (I like her looks a lot) but alas I didn't buy that one yet.

What I did buy was a Nix'ie Pro Palette with four eye shadows from http://www.nixiecosmetics.com/ and two blushes (and yes ethnic ladies we can wear blush) and I ordered two palettes the Giovi Boutique Eyeshadow and Princessa Make Up Kit

WOW My first you tube video!

I did it I created my first you tube video, and it is called a sophisticate day look, so check it out and leave a comment and please let me know what you all think. love, ya'll.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-oGS0dKt6ZQ

My friends wedding bridesmaid look

This is a picture of me at my friends wedding, the makeup was fierce. Luv it. I think the makeup artist used mostly MAC stuff. To recreate this look use concealer and foundation to create a flawless canvas, then light on the eyeshadow, but heavy on the liner with false lashes. Enjoy!!

Scandalous Beauty refered inmykit.com

Hey I want to give a quick shout out to Erin at scandalous beauty, I watch her You tube videos all the time and just saw the one where she told about www.inmykit.com. Luv that site, it gives honest opinions on alot of cosmetics from drugstore brands to professional. If you are a fan of skin care and cosmetics and/or building a collection to freelance (like me) it is a must check out.

Makeup Tips: How to Create your Own Makeup Tool Box

"Bring out the makeup artist in you with a good collection of makeup brushes, sponges and curlers. Even the most expensive and quality makeup in the world won't look particularly great without the correct makeup tools. For a professional finish you need the right tools. This means investing in a set of good brushes and applicators. Here's your basic cosmetics tool kit .

1. Makeup Sponge

It is best to have a wedge-shaped makeup sponge, so you can use the finer edges to help blend in foundation round your nose and jaw line, while the flatter edges are great for the cheeks, forehead and chin. However, if you prefer not to use a synthetic sponge try the small, natural ones instead.

2. Powder Brush

Get used to using a powder brush each time you put makeup on. To prevent a caked or clogged finish to your face powder, use a large, soft brush to dust away any excess.

3. Blusher Brush

Use to add a pretty glow to your skin with a light dusting of powder blusher. A blusher brush is slightly smaller than a powder brush to make it easier to control.

4. Eyeshadow Brush

Smooth on any shade of eyeshadow with this brush.

5. Eyebrow Tweezers

It is essential to have a good pair of tweezers for regularly tidying up the eyebrows
.

6. Eyeshadow Sponge

An sponge applicator is great for applying a sweep of pale eyeshadow that does not need much blending or applying high lighter to your brow bones.

7. All-in-one eyelash brush/comb

Great for combing through your lashes between coats of mascara for a clump-free finish. Flip the comb over and use the brush side to seep your eyebrows into shape, or soften penciled-in brows.

8. Lip brush

Use to create a perfect outline for your lips and then use to fill in the shape with your lipstick.

9. Eyelash curlers

Once used, they'll soon become a beauty essential! Curlier eyelashes help open up your eyes and make a huge difference to the way you look."

Courtesy of www.free-makeup-tips.com

MAC Makeup Tips: "It's all in the eyes"

Hello Today

I wanted to share some MAC (a popular cosmetics brand) makeup tips that are courtesy of makeup.lovetoknow.com. I personally like MAC, but if, like me, you can't afford alot of MAC, just purchase a couple unique pieces, mix them into your makeup supply and you are good to go. This tip is using the brow finisher, which can be purchased at Macy.com for $15.

Hope it is useful and I will be back with more:


"One of the unique products sold by MAC is their brow finisher, which can contribute to some pretty amazing MAC makeup tips. This wax-style eyebrow groomer is designed to shape and hold your brows in place while still administering a sheer and conditioned-looking finish. Unlike other eyebrow grooming tools, it will not leave behind a sticky mess and is super easy to use.

You can utilize the eyebrow finisher to top off either your daytime office look or to pave the way for dramatic shadow and liner for an evening out on the town. A great way to get your makeup looking its best is to have shaped and accentuated the contours of your natural face. If you don't exfoliate your skin, or in this instance tame those brows, then anything you put on afterward will simply be attempting to "cover up" and provides only half of the glamour you deserve."

I am totally feeling Urban Decay

Hello Luvs,

I got into Urban Decay from watching Kandee Johnson videos on Youtube.com (luv her!), so I wanted to share the brand with those who havent heard of it. By the way you can buy Urban Decay at Sephora.com as well as there own website!

Urban Decay is beauty with an edge. It is feminine, dangerous, and fun...appealing to anyone who relishes her individuality and dares to express it. Known for their daring shade names and innovative products (which are all cruelty-free), Urban Decay carries one of the widest selections of color at Sephora—a main reason their brand is so much fun! From a myriad of unique eye products, to performance foundations, and lickable, sexy powders, Urban Decay has always found new ways to excite beauty junkies and makeup artists alike.

I am really sad I did not get one of the "Alice in Wonderland" Sets!!

BUXicon « BUXOM Confessions

BUXicon « BUXOM Confessions

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Say NO to Contamination at Home or at the Studio

To keep your cosmetics from becoming contaminated and old, follow these tips from Makeup Artist Linda "Shadows" Shonning from Boca Rotan, FL.

For more information e-mail Linda

How long do cosmetics last?

Here's a list of commonly used cosmetics and their expected shelf life...
1. Mascara - will usually last 2 months or when the label is worn off, it clumps, specks, or becomes dry or smells bad
2. Foundation - has a shelf life of 18-24 months.
3. Powder - Expect 2 years unless it becomes dry or has an odor other than its original fragrance. You can protect your powder from contamination by being sure to change your sponge or powder puff after every application. Sponges are a haven for breeding bacteria and the fastest way to pass on germs.
4. Lip Pencils -1 year- Always dip in alcohol-kills germs
5. Eye Pencils -Typically 3 months. Always sharpen or dip in alcohol after each use. Either of these methods will kill germs.
6. Eye Shadow and Blush - dry, loss of pigment. Always wipe off with alcohol
7. Brushes - When your brushes start to look like fans and the tips become colored. Keep brushes clean with brush cleaner or alcohol. I use alcohol for sterilizing my brushes and applicators. Use an alcohol with a strength of 90%. To clean brushes use a good brush cleaner. You can use soap and water but soap and water has a tendency to dry out brush bristles and reduce the longevity of your brushes.

TIP* If you want to bring back the original shine on your makeup containers use Pledge furniture polish. Pledge shines a faded container and makes it look brand new.
TIP* Put a small piece of tape on the back of containers, and record the date you purchased it. This will assure that you will not use after the recommend expiration date.

"Sanitation is the most important process we, as Makeup and Hair artists, must implement if we are to keep our makeup, brushes and kits germ free. As working artists, we are constantly moving from face to face and head to head. The opportunities we have to pass germs and viruses from person to person are numerous. Therefore it is our responsibility to safeguard our clients and practice diligent sanitation techniques. By doing so we set a standard of excellence that goes far beyond just doing great makeup and hair! " Linda "Shadows" Schonning

To view Linda's portfolio click here

Josie Maran

I am totally into Josie Maran and I just got the "My Favorite Lips Palette" on Sephoras website for my clients, it is a lip collection with four sheer lip glosses and four conditioning lipsticks.

BTW:
"Josie Maran My Favorite Lips Palette includes Josie's favorite shades from her natural lip line. You can use each hue alone or layer and blend for endless possibilities. Josie's signature ingredient, 100% pure organic Argan Oil, replenishes and repairs skin cells while other natural and organic ingredients, such as Coconut Cream and Jojoba Oil, moisturize and protect the lips. The packaging is a chic, biodegradable compact that's easy to take anywhere you go."

Maybelline's Beauty Cheat Sheet

I wanted to share the Maybelline beauty Cheat Sheet with my brides, see below:

GENERAL BEAUTY TIPS

Save your skin from premature lines and wrinkles.

Always wear an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen. Make it easy with foundation that has a built-in SPF, such as Instant Age Rewind Foundation with SPF 18 to protect skin. Protect lips, too, since they’re the area most prone to environmental damage. Moisture Extreme Lipcolor combines SPF 15 with the moisturization of a lip balm.

Take off your makeup every night.

Remove eye makeup first, then the rest of your makeup. Use dedicated removers such as Expert Eyes 100% Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover or Expert Eyes 100% Oil-Free Makeup Remover Pads for regular mascara, Expert Eyes Moisturizing Eye Makeup Remover for waterproof mascara and Superaway Lipcolor Remover for long-wearing lipcolor.

Don’t expose makeup to germs.

Never share makeup. Never add liquid to a product, or you may add bacteria as well. Close makeup caps tightly after use. If you have an eye infection, don’t use eye makeup and throw away all the products you used when you discovered the infection. The same rule applies to lip products if you get a canker sore.

Apply acne treatments first if you need them.

Put them on before you apply moisturizer or foundation, so they can get to work on your skin.

Wash your brushes to avoid breakouts and to help bristles last longer.

Wet the brush head, lather well with shampoo, rinse with warm water and lay flat on a towel to dry. Brushes for liquid and cream makeup, such as lipcolor, foundation, concealer, cream eye shadow, should be washed daily. Wash all other brushes once a week, or at least every two weeks. A neat tip between washings: Swipe the bristles with antibacterial wipes after each use. The brushes will dry in about three minutes.

Choose mascara if you only have time for one product.

Apply one coat to make eyes look bigger, better and brighter.

Don't let airline travel dry out your skin.

Flying can dry out your skin. If you’re traveling, apply a face cream and a lip balm before you take off. Reapply to replenish your skin and lips. Drink lots of water and skip caffeine, alcohol and salt to stay fresh and hydrated.

FACE MAKEUP TIPS

Opt for yellow-toned concealers.

They’ll help camouflage red or purple tones in blemishes—and complement any skin tone.

Apply concealer in a thin layer.

Put a light dab directly on any imperfections and repeat if necessary to build coverage.

EYE MAKEUP TIPS

Curl lashes to open up your eyes.

Always curl lashes before mascara for a big boost to your lash look.

Use short, feathery strokes when applying eye pencil.

This way you’ll get the most precise and mess-free look.

Don’t pump your mascara or it’ll dry out faster.

Just insert the brush into the tube and gently swirl for the most even distribution of mascara.

Groom and set your brows.

Clear mascara works well without leaving a trace.

Make it easy to remove stubborn mascara under your lower lashes.

A cotton swab moistened with eye makeup remover quickly gets rid of mascara smears.

Apply foundation on lids before you put on shadow.

This prep step will smooth the skin’s surface and prolong eye shadow performance.

LIP MAKEUP TIPS

Exfoliate lips weekly with a baby toothbrush.

You’ll see a smoother, healthier lip surface that should help lipcolor stick on and stay put.

Choose lip liner shades that match your natural lips, not your lipcolor.

When you line your lips, contour with soft, feathery strokes. Don’t draw a bold line.

Eye Make- up trial from January 14th

Photo #1

On January 14th I did a silvery eye trial as seen in these photos.

Photo #2

Photo #3

A close-up shot

Make-up Consulting and Application

On your wedding or any special event day you want to look your best because you’ll have your wedding photos forever and your memories of looking flawless. A flawless yet natural face is one you’ll always look back on with the happiest memories! To ensure that you look your best I can assist you and your bridal party with a wonderful service of make-up.

Enhanced Beauty Make-up by Lydia commits time to their brides, I travel to your wedding location anywhere in the Philadelphia and surrounding area to apply makeup for the bride, bridal party, and mothers. Enhanced Beauty by Lydia creates a beautiful look that works well for photographs and/or videos. When applying bridal makeup, your make-up consultant/applicant knows there are special details to consider so each participant needs undivided attention. I take pride in my work so the finished bridal make-up applied looks wonderful with an signature attention to detail or your money back guaranteed.