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Thursday, October 30, 2014

Last-Minute Halloween Makeup Tips

Halloween is one of the most fun holidays of the year. You’ll have fun dressing up in a costume or getting your little ghosts and goblins ready for a night of trick-or-treat. Before leaving the house on October 31, make sure all that makeup is set to stay in place no matter what. Take these last minute Halloween makeup ideas to help you and your little ones stay in character all night long:

Setting Oil-Based Makeup
Don’t give in to the temptation of using cheap, water-based makeup this Halloween. It doesn’t set well and will smear or melt when exposed to moisture such as rain, snow or sweat. Instead, use grease paint. Professional face paints are affordable and easy to find, and you can also pick up makeup like this at a hobby store year round. Once you have a good set of face paints, let your creativity run wild. Then take the time to set the makeup before you leave home.

To set oil-based makeup, you need an old sock, cornstarch and a spray bottle filled with water. Fill the sock with cornstarch, and play with it a bit to make sure the cornstarch will come through pores in the sock. Then spray the made-up face evenly with water. Use the sock to apply cornstarch to the face. Once the face is coated, spray again with water. Use a cotton swab to remove any clumps of excess cornstarch. Once the face is dry, that makeup won’t come off until it’s time to remove it using cold cream at the end of the evening.

Setting Traditional Eye Makeup
Traditional makeup or stage makeup can be more difficult to set. If your look for Halloween involves smoky eyes or other sexy makeup from the drugstore counter, start with a clean face as your canvas. Apply makeup. Then spray the face with hairspray to set it.

Halloween fun is always better with a great costume. Now that you know how to keep makeup looking fresh all night long, you're sure to have a great All Hallows Eve.

Wednesday, October 29, 2014

How to Choose the Right Moisturizer

Knowing how to choose the right moisturizer is an important skill to have for both men and women. Moisturizer is a versatile product, and there are many available options that cater to various skin types and have different effects on the skin. There are three important factors to consider when selecting a moisturizer: skin type, ingredients and price.

Before even looking at different moisturizer, a person must know his or her skin type to prevent any unneeded reactions to the product. Those who have oily, dry, sensitive and/or acne prone skin face more difficulty in finding a moisturizer that won't have any adverse effects. Although this type of skin will rule out the majority of any cheap drug store moisturizers, it certainly doesn't mean that there's no choices out there.

When a person has sensitive skin, the composition of the moisturizer is highly important, but the same goes for those who aren't prone to skin issues. Most moisturizers are made with some type of fragrance to improve smell, but some of these perfumes can highly irritate the skin. For those who have oily or dry complexions, selecting a water-based moisturizer will ensure that the product is gentler on the skin and keeps it hydrated. There are many makeup brands that sell additional products made specifically for those who have difficulty with their skin. Also, selecting a moisturizer that is also a sunblock and has SPF.

Lastly, it's ideal to consider the price of the moisturizer. Someone shouldn't purchase a product based off its expensive brand name alone. Some of the most popular could contain ingredients that are harmful or irritant to the skin, while others may be worth the investment as the higher cost can contribute to the formulation and quality of the compounds used in the moisturizer. Whether someone decides to spend more and invest in a moisturizer or save on a more economical brand, the most important thing is selecting a product that works for them and leaves the skin hydrated, healthy and rejuvenated.

Monday, October 27, 2014

Popular Lip Colors for Fall

As the weather changes and Fall takes the place of Summer, makeup routines change, as well. With the Fall comes a change of coloring and a change of look. Popular colors for Fall must now come into play, and this includes lip colors. Keep reading to hear about some of the popular lip colors for Fall.

Bold:
When Fall comes around it is time to let go of the peachy, soft colors of summer. It is time to move on from the bright and the pastel. It is time to move on to the bold. It is time to move on to the dark.
The popular colors for Fall include those that are dark and moody, colors such as plum and burgundy. Your lips are going to be the focal point on your face as fall rolls around, and they are going to be colored in bold and classy colors.

Matte:
Fall weather inspires more than boldness, it inspires a simpler look. The popular lip colors for Fall aren't just bold, they are also matte. The popular colors are not shiny and bright, they are understated - but in a bold way. Fall lips don't shine, they simply look beautiful for the color that they are.

Classic:
As Fall rolls in, so do classic lip colors. Summer might be the time for trying out new and daring colors that are fun and flirty, but Fall inspires a look that is more classic and traditional.

Just as the season changes and fashion changes, makeup changes, as well. The lip colors that are most popular in the Fall are different from those that are popular at other times throughout the year. If you want to go with what is popular during the fall, you are going to choose lip colors that are dark, classic, and matte.

Friday, October 24, 2014

False EyeLashes 101: When to Use False Lashes

False eyelashes first appeared on the scene---and on the screen---in the early 1900s to emphasize actors' eyes in silent films. However, by the 1960s, false eyelashes were popular with many women to add drama to date night. Today, with a variety of subtle choices that include corner-only lash pieces and even individual strands, false eyelashes can easily be worn during the day, even in corporate settings. Still, many women may not know when to use false lashes.


The Basics of False Lashes

False eyelashes emphasize eyes with timeless feminine flair. They also help the wearer appear more awake and alert. Full-strip false lashes come in varying shapes and lengths to subtly change the appearance and even the shape of eyes. For example, some lash strips are thicker at the corners, while others have thicker lashes to be positioned over the center of the eye, the perfect choice for women with deep-set eyes.


Strands or Strips?

Individual strands of false lashes in shades of blonde and brown create a polished and pretty yet natural daytime look that's perfect for everything from lunch with friends to a business meeting. False lash strands in lighter shades are meant to enhance natural lashes rather than create drama. Healthy-looking, thick lashes are always appropriate. However, women with darker complexions and hair may want false lash strands in black, even for daytime.

False eyelash strips create a more dramatic look, one that not every woman may want to wear into the corporate board room. Even in shades of dark brown for women with light natural eyelashes, false eyelash strips add a touch of exaggerated, old-Hollywood glamor to a woman's face. Therefore, many women may want to reserve full strips of false lashes for evening wear, dates, and special occasions.

Ultimately, the question of when to use false lashes is an individual choice, because with the right type and color, false lashes can be worn anytime to make eyes stand out and add glamor and femininity. 

Thursday, October 16, 2014

What Are The Best Products For Sensitive Skin?

For those with sensitive skin, it can be a challenge to properly care and hydrate it throughout the year with common products that are available on the market. From breakouts to rashes, there are a number of ways that beauty products can be too harsh on the skin. To keep look radiant and beautiful without losing your natural glow, there are a few products that are most ideal if your skin is intolerant of different ingredients.

Avene Extremely Gentle Cleanser for Intolerant Skin

To gently wash your skin in the morning and at night without causing damage, the Avene Extremely Gentle Cleanser for Intolerant Skin is a must-have that will remove dirt from clogged pores without stripping the skin of its natural oils. For those with irritated skin, the cleanser offers a cooling effect that feels refreshing due to the minimal amount of ingredients that are used.

Avene High Protection Tinted Compact

This item is one of the best products for sensitive skin due to the protection that it offers with sun exposure. The compact offers a tint of color for a natural glow that will allow you to look tan without baking from the sun rays. The product is also paraben-free, hypoallergenic, and fragrance-free with UVA/UVB protection.

Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Gel Masque

The Peter Thomas Roth Cucumber Gel Masque uses botanical extracts to soothe the skin and hydrate the pores. Papaya, sugar cane, cucumber, sugar maple, pineapple, lemon, orange, chamomile, and bilberry are all used to help to soften the texture of the skin and reduce irritation. This product is best used each day to reduce redness that can occur with waxing or shaving. It can also help to remove puffiness under the eyes for a well-rested look that feels rejuvenating.

La Roche-Posay Anthelios SX Daily Moisturizer

Keep your skin subtle with this high-quality moisturizer that works on all skin types and offers protection against UVA rays. The light, oil-free texture is easy to apply and feels comfortable on the skin when used under makeup or at night. With four-hour hydration, it also reduces the appearance of wrinkles and eases creases in the skin.

Monday, October 13, 2014

What is the Obagi 360 System?

The Obagi 360 System is for those individuals who are looking to preserve their youthful skin. The system can be used by both men and women, but more women have found success with it. The system is a complete approach to diminishing fine lines and wrinkles and promoting beautiful, taught and firm skin. It’s meant not only to stop the hands of time in terms of aging skin, but also to reverse any effects of aging that have already occurred on the face and neck.

One demographic that loves this skincare line is younger people in their 20s and 30s. These individuals may think that they have nothing to fear about getting older. At their age, they haven’t seen many fine lines or wrinkles show up yet, but by the time this age group reaches their late 30s, wrinkles will be coming on in full swing.

At this point, it is sometimes too late to go back to that perfect skin, but if 20 and 30-somethings start using a proactive skin care regimen now, they may be able to stop aging in its tracks. If young men and women start taking care of their skin in their 20s and 30s, they may not see the first signs of fine lines and wrinkles until they are in their mid to late 40s.

In addition to great benefits for anti-aging, the Obagi 360 System is also excellent for simply adding much needed moisture to the skin. It helps to prevent sun spots and wrinkles, but it also moisturizes and evens skin tone. For those individuals who are suffering from adult acne, this system can even help with that. With this unique skin care regimen, your skin will be fresh, clean and glowing day in and day out. Many women have even stopped feeling that they have to wear makeup!

The kit comes with a wonderful exfoliating cleanser to unplug clogged pores and slough off dead skin cells, a retinol cream to rejuvenate the skin and a broad spectrum SPF 30 HdyraFactor moisturizer to protect skin from the damaging effects of the sun’s UV rays. Shoppers can find this amazing skincare system online.

Friday, October 10, 2014

When Should I Start Using Anti-Aging Products?

There is quite a bit of debate as to when a woman should start using anti-aging products and how strong the products should or shouldn't be when they are used. Most experts and lay persons agree that a woman can start seeing a change in her skin in the mid to late 20’s. The face is less plump and more sculpted. The skin may become dryer than in the past. Some young women may notice small wrinkles forming around the eyes, mouth or forehead. How quickly these things show and to what degree are affected by personal habits such as smoking and by how much sun damage has occurred when failing to use sun screen.

Up to this point, a good cleansing and moisturizing routine along with daily use of sunscreen would be sufficient. Most dermatologists agree at this age that you do not need to start using heavy duty treatment products such as a woman in her 40’s or 50’s, these products may actually cause more damage or problems than they fix. Heavy duty creams or moisturizers may aggravate acne prone skin. Overly zealous use of products that exfoliate or peels can strip moisture out of your skin and actually accelerate the aging process. If you do start using an anti-aging product, experts recommend that a light cream or serum containing retinol to help exfoliate dead skin cells, promote collagen production and repair sun damage would be a good place to start.

The reality is there are no set rules on how soon a woman should start using anti-aging products. For the average woman, a “less is more” approach would be best. Prevention is the best way to avoid skin issues. If a woman starts to see signs of aging, step up to the lightest treatment option available. Only increase in strength and power of the treatment as she progresses in age. A little research can show beauty treatments geared toward the woman in her 20’s, 30’s, 40’s and beyond.

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Transform Damaged Hair in One Week

Dry and damaged hair plagues millions of people all over the world. Whether caused by frequent hair-coloring treatments or swimming pool chemicals, people visiting salons worldwide are asking, “What Can I Use for Damaged Hair?” Fortunately, there are several effective ways to restore the moisture, shine and overall health of one’s hair. Here are four ways to transform damaged hair into sleek, healthy and lustrous hair in one week:

1. Emollients. Oils are very effective emollients that coat the hair, smooth it out, and give it luster. Coconut oil, castor oil, neem oil and almond oil are the most frequently used emollients. Neem also has antibacterial qualities and soothes an itchy scalp. Once this week, massage one of these oils into your scalp and leave it in for an hour.

2. Rebuilders. Damaged hair has weak spots that need to be filled in by a protein-rich substance that rebuilds the keratin. Eggs are a great source of protein and can provide benefits from both consumption and topical application. Once this week, beat an egg with some oil and leave it in your hair for twenty minutes before washing it off.

3. Humectants. Avocado, glycerin and hyaluronic acid are rich humectants that help hair by attracting water molecules. Avocado is also a good emollient because of its fat content. Once this week, apply a conditioning agent with one of these ingredients, and rinse it off after twenty minutes.

4. Occlusive agents. Hair needs protection from the sun, chemicals and other environmental factors. Occlusive agents form a barrier between the hair and the environment and protect it from damage. This week, before you spend time out in the sun or in the swimming pool, apply a leave-in conditioner that contains sunscreen, and protect your hair from ultraviolet rays as well as chlorine.

With these tools and a diet rich in vegetables and nuts, there is no reason to live with dry and damaged hair after this week. The next time you visit the salon, it will be the hairdresser’s turn to ask you, “What Can I Use for Damaged Hair?”

Friday, October 3, 2014

Waxing is Bliss

It’s a common feeling—no one wants hair in unwanted places. Women and men search for products to eliminate ingrown, bikini area and underarm hair; however, finding spa quality products to use in the comforts of home is no easy feat.

Hair in unwanted places can be embarrassing, frustrating and extremely uncomfortable. Yet, the expense increases with frequent trips to the spa or the use of other hair removal services, not to mention the pain often accompanied by hair removal.

The Bliss Waxing Set diminishes those worries. At a reasonably low price, with spa quality, the wax painlessly removes unwanted hair, and the results are unbelievably smooth skin for weeks.

The set is designed for at home use. The Bliss Poetic Waxing Kit includes a 5.3oz cup of microwavable wax and two 1oz skin cleansers to use before and after the wax. The set also includes The Bliss Ingrown Eliminating Pads (approximately 1 jar/50 pads). Designed with beta hydroxyl acids and soothing oat extract, each pad includes an exfoliating alpha to do away with those irritating ingrown hairs. And, when the products are used collectively they send those often stubborn and unnecessary hairs heading for the hills.

From personal hair removal, bikini area, electrolysis, eyebrows, ingrown and underarm hair—this waxing set is a power hair removal tool that provides spa quality with the comforts of home. This waxing set will not disappoint. Its world famous formula is used in spas and people are in awe of the results.

To use the product effectively and for the best results, ensure the directions are followed accurately. The contents are powerful and will get the job done.

Shaving, treading, tweezing, painful waxes and frequent spa trips, are a way of the past. Say good-bye to those unwanted hairs and purchase The Bliss Waxing Set today, where waxing is bliss!

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

Our Favorite Skinceuticals Items

Skinceuticals
With all the skin care products available on the market today, it can be hard (and expensive) to try and find the right products for your face. After a lot of research, trial and error, we have discovered a line of products that has something, literally, for everyone. The line is called Skinceuticals. Here are some of our favorite Skinceuticals items:

LHA Gel Cleanser
First of all, what is LHA? LHA is very similar to salicylic acid. It is a β-lipohydroxy acid and is great for decongesting pores and exfoliating without being too harsh. Skinceutical’s LHA Gel Cleanser is so gentle it can be used twice a day.

LHA Solution 
LHA Solution is a biomedic corrective toner that removes excess residue from your face, aids in exfoliation of surface cells and debris, and unclogs pores. This solution was designed for aging skin that still has problems with breakouts. It diminishes discoloration, wrinkles, fine lines and rough texture. It comes in a spray, which is convenient if you get breakouts on your back or upper arms. To use it on your face, spray a small amount on a cotton ball and apply.

Blemish + Age Defense
THIS is a product you will not want to live without once you’ve tried it. It is one of our very favorite Skinceuticals items. Blemish + Age Defense is a salicylic acid based serum that speeds up the exfoliation process, basically giving you brand new skin cells every time you use it. Not only does it reduce breakouts, it practically eliminates them. Used faithfully, you will notice those fine lines and wrinkles GONE. Your skin will look brighter, more clarified and smoother. Who wouldn’t want that?

Redness Neutralizer
The Redness Neutralizer is another lifesaving product from Skinceuticals. It is a lotion based product that protects your skin from the environmental triggers that cause discomfort, irritation and redness. It is also good for people with rosacea, as it has anti-inflammatory ingredients and protects and strengthens the skin’s own natural barrier. Redness Neutralizer is formulated with Skinceutical’s patented NeuroMed Complex which is nothing short of miraculous!

Conclusion
As you can see, it doesn't take a pantry full of products to take excellent care of your skin. These four listed here cover the basics: Cleanse, Tone, Moisturize and Correct, and are some of the best we've found. With top of the line skin care, you often get what you pay for. If you haven’t tried Skinceuticals, we highly recommend you do!