The Indian Make-up Diva

Anastasia Brow Pencil: I Think I Hear a Stampede

2009-06-29T08:44:00.000-07:00

Most brow pencils are quite pigmented and they require some finesse so that you don't overdo it. I would know, I have very thick brows which are no-so-thick as they approach my nose. Enhancing my brows there is like walking a thin line between naturally-born female and 'wow, that operation wasn't exactly a success.' I tend to skip enhancing my brows altogether simply because I end up looking so ridiculously severe and angry. Enter Anastasia's wonderful brow pencil.

Because of this pencil, I no longer have to dread being questioned on my femininity or my friendliness. The pencil is hard and waxy and I think this is what keeps my eyebrow hairs in place all day. I also am guessing that this is what also makes the brow pencil a bit sheer, which is exactly the reason it is so perfect.

Brow pencils for people with black hair are usually too severe, too dark, too brown, too gray, etc. Anastaria's brow pencil in Brunette is a perfect natural enhancer to my dark brows. Since the product is sheer, it really gives you the ability to build up to the look you want. Even then, it takes a lot of work to look like your brows are anything but natural with this brow pencil.

The sparse-r area near my nose is a true test to whether a brow pencil is worth its weight in blush. Anastasia's brow pencil has surpassed this test. I can fill in the inner corner of my brows and the result is so unbelievably natural that I went out to get a back-up of this. Oh, and did I mention it lasts all day? Run or stampede your way to get this brow pencil. It's a dark-haired girl's best friend (brow-wise anyway).

Sonia Kashuk Blending Sponge Part 2

2009-06-25T19:04:00.000-07:00

Here's a continuation of the Sonia Kashuk Blending Sponge tutorial. Hope you like it.

Step 1:

Dab some bronzer onto the pointy side of the Blending Sponge. Don't scoop up too much but I like to apply it from the sponge onto the face rather than dab it on the face and then blend out. For some reason, I find that this gives you a more natural finish and control.

Step 2:

Place the sponge on the apple of the cheek and slowly blend the cheekbone and temple.

Step 3:

With light, fluttery strokes (doesn't this line sound like it came from a Fabio-drenched-drenched-in-oil-and-hair-ablazin'-with-hapless-heroine-in-tow-romance novel?) blend the bronzer all the way into the temple. This is where the shape of the sponge really helps. I love using the slope/point to follow the line of my cheekbone and can really direct where I want to place the bronzer. It also allowes for great precision blending.

Step 4:

With the round side, 'bounce' the sponge over the bronzer. This sheers it out a bit and blends it seamlessly into the skin. If you want to add intensity repeat the process until you get the desired depth.

Final Result:

Ta-dah! Here is the final result.

Using the Sonia Kashuk Blending Sponge Part 1

2009-06-18T22:18:00.000-07:00

Here is the promised tutorial on using the Sonia Kashuk Blending Sponge. Excuse the stains on mine. No matter what I do, the stains don't ever go out.

Step 1:

Dot foundation on your face. I like to do this because I find that I use less product than if I were to put it ont he back of my hand and then transfer it to my face with a brush or sponge.

Step 2:

Bounce the round side of the blending sponge over the foundation. Keep bouncing it to spread the foundation.

Step 3:

Dot some concealor on problem areas with the pointy side of the sponge.

Step 4:

With the pointy side, blend the cocnealor into the nooks and crannies of the area. I love this side of the sponge as it really lets me get great application on my under-eyes and the sides of my nose.

Step 5:

With the round side, bounde the sponge gently over the concealor to blend it into the foundation.

Work Essentials Part 3: Cheeks

2009-06-07T20:09:00.000-07:00

Now that we're still not up to date with the promised updates (I know they should be here soon. So sorry, been sick and had a sinus infection), I have an update on my work essentials.

Bobbi Brown Pink Truffle Rouge Pot

This is my favourite cream blush of all time. I don't think I can think of any other blush that is as flattering on my nc45 skin as this one. The texture is a little thicker than your average cream blush but it blends out easily. The finish you get is a dewy, this-is-all-part-of-my-natural-skin glow that helps me look less like the groggy undead when I wake up after a sleepless night where the neighbour's car alarm goess off 6 times (This is a true story. I hate my neighbour). The colour is a perfect dusty rose that is both non-offensive and subdued while adding the right amount of colour to brighten the face. The colour can easily be built for extra drama. This is one of the few staples that I think almost all desi women, regardless of skintone, can wear.

MAC Blushbaby

If I had to choose between all my MAC blushes (every time I write something about choosing between my blushes I have to remind myself that this is only hypothetical and it won't really happen), I would choose Blushbaby. This mauvy-rose blsuh is matte and looks uneventful in the pan but once worn gives my cheekbones definition while adding the right hint of colour. It doesn't look the least dull or flat on my cheeks. Do not be afraid of the seemingly unpigmented state of the blush as it has the right balance of colour to enhance my nc45 skintone. All in all, the perfect work neutral.

image source: maccosmetics.com, handbag.com

Parvathy Omanakuttan at Cannes

2009-05-21T21:47:00.000-07:00

I'm not quite sure through which virtues Parvathi Omanakuttan got invited to attend Cannes but she managed to stun the world wearing a gown made out of King Midas's (golden) pet crocodile's hide. If you squint enough, you'll notice that her make-up is also stunning-in a good way. I adore her make-up and think it's perfect for many occasions.

Recommended Products:

Monistat Chafing Relief Powder Gel
Aveda Inner Light Tinted Moisturizer
Translucent powder of your choice
Make-up Forever Full Cover Concealor
Shiseido Accentuating Stick in Glistening Flush (S3)
Becca cream blush in Terracotta
NARS blush in Dolce Vita
MAC eyebrow pencil in Stud
Urban Decay Primer Potion
MAC eyeshadow in All That Glitters
MAC eyeshadow in Bronze
MAC pencil Technakohl in Graphblack
CoverGirl Volume Exact
Vincent Longo lipstick in Boccacino
MAC Clear Lipglass

Recommended Tools:

Sonia Kashuk Blending Sponge for the tinted moisturizer, concealor, blush, and highlighter.
MAC 239 for patting on shadow
MAC 217 for blending and crease shadow
MAC 219 for smudging the eyeliner
MAC 187, 188, or 116 (use a light hand for Dolce Vita with this brush) for blush

Face:
Prep your skin with the Monistat Chafing Relief Powder Gel (yes I'm actually serious about my claims on this) or a primer of your choice. Then, 'bounce' on the Inner Light tinted moisturizer with the blending sponge. I really like this tinted moisturizer as you need little to get a polished look and it gives you the glow we're after for this look.

Check to see what all problem areas need some extra help and blend in some Full Coverage Concealor with the blending sponge.

Don't apply translucent powder just yet. Apply it only after you're done with the cream blush.

Highlight:
Apply the highlighter after you're done with foundation. Blend out the Glistening Flush accentuating stick with either your fingers or the sponge. Place the highlighter on top of your temples and blend outward. Add a bit to the apple of your cheeks as well. Also apply the Glistening Flush on the browbone, bridge of your nose, and your cupid's bow and blend.

Cheeks:
Add warmth and definition with the Terracotta cream blush placed on the cheekbone and slightly under it. Blend outwards and towards the temple while smoothing out the edges.

Smile and apply the Dolce Vita blush lightly onto the apple of the cheek to give your cheeks a slight, warm pop.

Now apply translucent powder to set the make-up.

Eyes:
Pat on some Primer Potion to prep lids for colour.

Brows:
Parvathy's eyebrows are strong, clean, and dramatic . So pluck away any stray hairs and follow the natural arch of your eyebrows. Next, slightly make the brows thicker (and darker if you're comfortable with it) than you're used to. You don't want to go overboard thickening your eyebrows, just make them a slightly more dramatic version of what you were gifted with. Set with a brow gel if needed.

Eyelid:
Apply All That Glitters to the lid and blend into the crease.

Crease:
Define the outer third of the crease with the Bronze eyeshadow and blend outwards toward the browbone.

Highlight:
I like to keep the browbone highlight subtle for this look so I would leave it with the highlighter we already applied. However, if you want some extra drama, apply the shadow of your choice very lightly to the browbone.

Eyeliner:
Rim the lower lash line and waterline with Graphblack. Line the tip lid from the inner corner to the outer corner. Start with a thin line and gradually thicken the line as you get to the end. Make sure to keep the line thin-medium. Smudge the liner to soften the look and reapply Graphblack on the smudged areas to get soft drama.

Mascara:
Curl lashes and apply Volume Exact generously to create Bambi-lashes. You can apply individual lashes at the outer corner for exagerated drama.

Lips:
Apply the Boccacino lipstick and top off with clear Lipglass for extra shine.

image source: www.rediff.com

A Variation of the Swine Flu? Jessica Biel Complains About Being too Good Looking

2009-05-21T21:25:00.000-07:00

I seem to be swarmed with beauty-news lately (highlights and lowlights following soon and the previously promised posts will be up, I promise again), but this was too hilarious not to post. I recently came across a post where Jessica Biel opened her mouth only to have her wordings become verbal diarrhea when she inserted her foot into her mouth. Here is an excerpt from Jessica Biel's interview in the new Allure magazine:

. . . Biel is so frustrated when she misses out on plum roles that go to Scarlett Johansson and Natalie Portman because directors find her look to be too modern.

"I just want an opportunity," she states in Allure's June issue. "If you don't like the audition, then don't hire me! But if you don't want to even see me -- that's hurtful." Find out what else Jessica has to say about her looks, marriage, and living life under a microscope.

Is being too good-looking really a problem for an actress? "Yeah, it really is a problem. I have to be blunt."

I'm not a doctor, but I know when someone has caught the Evangeline Lily virus where the victim cries themself to sleep out of frustration that they cannot fathom what it is to be ugly like the rest of the world (if at this point you think I'm making this up, google Evangeline Lily and her infamous Elle interview). Seriously, if things get worse doctors might need to deflate Jessica Biel's head!

image source: www.eonline.com

Work Essentials Part 2: Eyes

2009-05-15T07:14:00.000-07:00

In my effort to continue the work essentials I have come to LOVE (yes, that's right. these products make me unleash the power of my caps lock button), here is a list of eye make-up that make the day prettier.

L'Oreal Lineur Intense in Carbon Black

This is such a gem by L'Oreal. My friend calls the depth of the black liquid liner almost 'paint-like' and I can't agree more. It's a rich, intensely black liner that stays on for more than 10 hours. The felt-tip applicator really makes getting control over the liner easy; I can make a thin or a thick line with the least amount of effort possible. It's also extremely gentle on the eyes as I can even tightline my eyes with it. The Lineur Intense is such a great buy that I don't really see the need to purchase the colour equivalent of Lancome's Artliner.

YSL Effet Faux Cils

I tried so hard not to fall in love with this mascara but it's impossible. I've worn enough false lashes in my life to know that no mascara will ever reach such rapunzel-ian lengths, but this mascara is pretty fantastic. With just one swipe, I get thick, long bambi lashes. The formula is very wet in the beginning so be careful as it will smear onto your eyelids when you apply. As the mascara gets older, it seems to clump on me more. However, just wash the wand in hot water and you'll be back to madly in love with this mascara. I mean, it's a deep, glossy black that makes my lashes look divine and doesn't flake or smear all day. What's not to tumble hopelessly in love with?

Covergirl Volume Exact

This is another great, less wallet-intensive love of mine. This gives me great separation, length, and volume. It's not as dramatic as the YSL mascara, but it's a winner in its own right. The wand separates my lashes and emphasizes every one (even the tiny ones on the inner corner). The formula is the right consistency and wears like steel during the day. I like it to its dramatic counter part, Lash Blast, because it doesn't weight down my lashes or make them break off. By far my favourite drugstore mascara.

Bobbi Brown Long Wear Cream Shadow in SandcastleHere's a shocking truth about me that doesn't involve the number of blushes I own: I hate eye-shadow primers. For some reason, they always dry out my very oily eyelids and make me look like I spent years trying to gain wisdom but, alas, only ended up with crepey eyelids from thinking deep thoughts. I like to use a good cream shadow that will hold my eyeshadow in place instead. Bobbi Brown's cream shadow in Sandcastle is a more sophisticated shade of my lids and is a great primer. I pat it on in the morning with my MAC 242 brush or my fingers if I'm feeling lazy and then apply shadow. My eye make-up lasts as long on me as it does when I use Urban Decay's Primer Potion and my eyelids look less like I am trying to recreate a rugged desert landscape.

image sources: www.nordstrom.com, www.sephora.com, www.dugstore.com

Deplorable Article on Aishwarya Rai and Make-up

2009-05-13T14:55:00.000-07:00

In recent beauty related news, I came across an article that churned my stomach. I didn't believe it at first but since it seems to be popping up everywhere, I'm going to rant til my nailpolish chips on this one.

The article in question is on Zeenews stating that "Ageing Aishwarya Rai insecure without make-up." Here's an excerpt from the article:

"The worst nightmare of a beautiful lady is to wake up one fine day and find herself old and haggard. Same goes for gorgeous Aishwarya Rai, who is becoming insecure with age and time. Few years back, the lady ruled supremely and was admired for her flawless beauty. But now she needs her powder and rouge to look beautiful. Recently, the lady had a face-off with director Mani Ratnam over her make-up."

A woman's worst nightmare is getting old and haggard? Really? Because the way I see it you can either get "old and haggard," or, well, not grow any older and celebrate birthdays eternally among the angels. I mean truly, the only logical alternative I can find to ageing is dying. You either live and get older, or die. So now that we have set the bar of beauty to "living" over "corpse,"I think these claims of no make-up are even more ridiculous.

When did an actress who claimed to not wear any make-up actually go bare-faced? There's always some form of foundation, contouring, powder, etc. going on, not to mention the camera filters, lighting and the sorts. I'm finding an increasing number of articles aimed at Aishwarya's age that seem to imply that she is less attractive because she's growing older. I don't ever hold the notion that Bollywood, Hollywood or any other filmdom is not ageist but I can still find it insulting. What do you think of the article?

Work Essentials Part 1: Complexion

2009-05-05T20:53:00.000-07:00

I get asked often to try to veer off from my naturally dramatic tendencies and recommend some make-up that would work well for a conservative office. Here are some essentials that I have found work really well for work.

Monistat Chafing Relief Powder-Gel
When I first started using this my friend couldn't believe I was putting something meant for various other regions (I paraphrased) on my face. However, it's not just meant for places that I used to be too scared to mention by name (still the same it seems). This is a silicone gel to powder that doesn't aggravate my sensitive acne-prone skin. In fact, it mattifies my skin and I often find that this and a bit of pressed powder is enough to give me a polished, clean look. It also is a fabulous primer that makes a noticeable difference with regards to how long my make-up stays on. After a long day, and by that I mean longer than 8 hours, my make-up is still on. My make-up slides on much more smoothly and lasts a very long time. if you've been aching to try a primer like Smashbox's, try this first.

Chanel Poudre Douce in Peche Tendre
My first thought when I heard of this finishing powder was what in God's name is this supposed to do other than make my wallet bleed and cry? Then the make-up artist put the powder on me and I changed my mind. The Poudre Douce powder gives me a soft sheen that isn't exactly in the realm of glowy, but rather a satin sheen that makes my skin look healthy and well rested. The powder is incredibly finely milled and has light diffusing properties. it doesn't provide coverage but because of the light diffusing properties I can wear this and manage to fool people into loving the way my skin looks. When I do wear this over foundation, I get an airbrushed finish with no chalkiness in sight. I'm not sure if Chanel squeezed the essence of endangered dragons at the third full moon every leap year to make this product, but I cannot rave enough about this powder. Everytime I wear this powder I get compliments on my skin. All this without foundation or a powder with coverage.

image source: www.drugstore.com, www.bloomingdales.com

Can I just take a moment to cry?

2009-04-30T22:29:00.000-07:00

I was updating my site with 3 windows of posts I was editing as well as a video tutorial. Blogger sometimes doesnt save my progress and it didn't this time either. I was being a bit cocky and kept putting off my runaround way of saving (creating a new post and pasting the original into it. My computer froze because of the video editing. I lost all my work! Here's mu question to the technologically gifted: any idea how to get the progress back? Sorry for the cry for help but I worked so hard on the posts and it took me forever to get one of them correct. Any and all ideas are appreciated.

Upcoming Posts

2009-04-29T21:04:00.000-07:00

I know I had said I would have tons of updates up today, and I have them all saved. I have a couple of posts on celebrity make-up but I also have this tutorial on the Sonia Kashuk Blending Sponge that I want to have up first. hence the delay. It will be up *very* soon (think less than 24 hours).

Sonia Kashuk Blending Sponge

2009-04-29T20:44:00.000-07:00

I know I told you earlier that I was kinda sorta attracted to the Beauty Blender sponge and I kinda sorta wanted to get to know it better. But I also told you I was kinda sorta scared to take the plunge. Sounds like a sordid high school romantic movie starring Drew Barrymore as the lead doesn't it? But it's the truth. I couldn't bring myself to actually take the plunge on a sponge since I never use make-up sponges. However, we all know this situation is a brief courting phase between me and the product so fear not. In the mean time, I decided to test the waters with the Sonia Kashuk Blending Sponge and I cannot tell you how much I love this thing.

The sponge comes feels a lot more foamy but sturdy than your usual sponge and at first I didn't quite know how the shape of the sponge would work for the contours of the face. However, as it turns out, the middle section is great for control and the two sides are really effective in making my foundation, concealor, and cream blush look flawless.

The rounded edge is meant to be used to 'bounce' the foundation onto the skin. I usually use my trusted MAC 192 or 187 brush but I have to say this sponge beats the two by a long shot. It's quick, easy, and my skin ends up looking completely airbrushed without any streaks. If you dampen the sponge just a little before applying, you can get a sheer veil of foundation that lets your skin shine through.

The pointed edge is perfect for concealor and it is surprisingly easy to apply concealor on the under-eyes and other nooks and crannies of the face. At this point, I was already sold. I didn't need anymore convincing. And then, following along our teen romance I mentioned before, the Blending Sponge developed a crush on me. It applied my cream blush in the most flawless, lit from within way possible.

I was in a hurry and didn't have any of my trusted 73 different blush brushes handy (I do kid about the total number of blush brushes if only slightly) so I applied my cream blush with the conical sode of the sponge and then 'bounced' the rounded side on my blush to soften it up a bit. Here's where my heart stopped. In fact, it's why I couldn't write before today: I have never, ever, EVER (hear that scream?), had my complete face look this good with this little effort.

I will post a tutorial I've been working on with regards to application with the Blending Sponge which I will have up tomorrow. But for now, trust me on this: run-hell fly-to your local Target to get this sponge. It is truly worth it.

image source: www.target.com

Posts coming tomorrow, I promise

2009-04-27T21:16:00.000-07:00

I have been so swamped with work, but I will have tons of updates tomorrow. I will tell you though, I will have a tutorial up with the Sonia Kashuk beauty blender-like sponge. O-M-G, it's amazing, btw. Will have everything up tomorrow, I promise.

Olay ProX Line: Friend to Some Foe to Others

2009-04-12T19:15:00.000-07:00

I recently got the Olay ProX line and I have had some mixed feelings on this one.

The Eye Cream
I actually like this the most out of all of the ProX products that I've tried. It's moisturizing without being greasy, soaks into my skin well, and feels great on my under-eyes. The reason I like it so much is because it keeps my under-eyes looking fresh throughout the day. I can't say I've noticed much of an improvement on my dark circles because, well, not a single product in the world has done anything to clear up my under-eye circles. However, it is a great under-eye cream that works really well under make-up. After a long day, a little bit of this cream really helps in making my under-eyes feel better. I actually really recommend this cream to everyone because it's fairly good at what it's supposed to do.

The Night Cream
This product came so highly recommended in magazines and the ads seemed very promising. I think I even read an article where a dermatologist said she wanted to bathe in this. To be fair the list of ingredients is very impressive and it does sound like it would really help your skin if your skin can tolerate the cream. Here's the bad part: my skin couldn't. I broke out horribly with cystic acne. Here's the worst part: I gave it to a friend and her skin looked amazing with one week's worth of use.

I can't tell you what type of skin she has for comparison because this is the first time she's ever used something other than body lotion for her face. Her skin started to peel after a couple of days but within a week it subsided and her skin looked fresh and dewy. And it continued to do so all the while that I was recovering from my cystic acne. So while this incident could serve as proof that some higher power hates me, I am ambivalent on this product. It seemed to do wonders for my friend but was disastrous to my skin. Proceed with caution and may the beauty gods not hate you.

image source: drugstore.com

A Quick, Low-Key Look. 5 Minutes Tops, I Promise

2009-03-18T09:12:00.000-07:00

I know I was supposed to do a quick look for work but while that's on its way, here's a very quick look that's understated but not too boring I hope. I think it's very appropriate for an everyday look that isn't fussy but still polished.

Also, this pic was taken in India (hence the bindi) where I had my green contacts. After which, I scratched the white of my right-eye, had a doctor tell me 'you can still see right' when I repeatedly told him my vision was strangely clouded by a white haze, and had another doctor try to dig into my eye with a piece of cardboard lying on the floor. Don't worry I went to a hospital afterward and everything turned out OK, but I ditched the contacts because of this incident. And I looked demonic in real life.

Products Used:

Make-up Forever Full Cover Concealor. Read my raves about this stuff, it's amazing.
A random black eyeliner. Any pencil eyeliner will do.
Lancome Definicils mascara
Chanel Tweed Ambre blush
Chanel Great Copper lipstick

Tools Used:

MAC 129 brush to apply blush
Bobbi Brown concealor brush

Step 1:
Apply the Full Cover concealor where needed and blend it into your skin. Make sure the concealor matches your skin colour perfectly. I blended concealor under my eyes and around my nose.

Step 2:
Line your top lid and your lower waterline. Blend the liner on the top lid with a q-tip to create soft definition.

Step 3:
Apply mascara generously on top and bottom lashes.

Step 4:
Smile and apply the Tweed Ambre blush to the apple of your cheeks and blend outward towards the temple. Tweed Ambre is a beautiful amber and coral blush that makes olive and golden undertones glow, so less is more and start off by layering thin layer of blush.

Step 5:
Apply the Great Copper lipstick to complete the look.

Revlon's Polling on Rihanna as a Covergirl

2009-03-18T03:09:00.000-07:00

In possibly the most tasteless beauty news on the planet, I read a report on TMZ which stated that:

"An online survey is circulating by the folks over at Harris Interactive. The survey -- which we've learned was commissioned by Revlon -- features a Covergirl commercial for mascara. It then questions people if they are aware of the person in the commercial (without saying Rihanna's name), if they've heard about her in the news lately, if they have an opinion about the person and if they feel the person is "an appropriate spokesperson" for the product. The obvious implication here -- are women pissed off that Rihanna got back with Chris Brown and therefore would be less likely to buy Covergirl products? That's what we're thinking."

This has got to be possibly the sneakiest, most underhanded marketing strategy around at this moment. Regardless of how stupid I think Rihanna is, this study has to be the most insensitive, vile thing I have heard of in a long time. I do agree with others in that CoverGirl will probably end up dropping Rihanna as their spokesperson but Revlon's study is so classless that I actually feel like making sure no Revlon product comes my way ever again. While I'm not sure how strong my resolve will actually be, I'm curious to hear your responses about this.

image source: www.rihannabuff.com

25% off at Bobbi Brown

2009-03-17T23:02:00.000-07:00

Enter INSTANT during checkout at Bobbi Brown Cosmetics for 25% off your entire purchase.

Drumbeat Red, a Lipstick Marching to the Beat of my Heart

2009-03-17T22:03:00.001-07:00

I was very excited to get a few new red lipsticks. Why? Because I can only unleash my fierce passion for all things red lipstick here on my blog. I'm currently confined to my room, sitting and writing this post with a gorgeous red shade on my lips. The moment I step out, I know I'm a target for all those with disapproving looks for my love of red lipstick. I think I heard of one person who came down with a case of hives at the sight of me wearing red lipstick but I just chalk that up to some weird evolutionary mishap where no appreciation-for-red-lipstick-gene was passed on. I digress. Here's a review of a gorgeous red shade that would look lovely on many lovely ladies.

L'Oreal's Drumbeat Red is a creamy, satin finish, blue-based red lipstick. The colour is almost a strawberry red and feels a bit vintage. This red is not for the faint of heart as it's a bright red that I could see flattering especially lighter skinned women. I know most of you will have probably already written off this lipstick but trust me, it's a high maintenance red that's worth it.

Firstly, the formula is divine. I don't know if there's some unmentioned rule that cosmetic companies adhere to regarding red lipsticks, but I usually find the formula very dry. Drumbeat Red however, is very creamy and moisturizing. I don't end up with bright fuchsia flakes on my lips that look like I contracted some mysterious disease in the Amazon. I can even skip balm with this lipstick, which is quite a feat for a red lipstick. The pigmentation could be deeper, as I have to apply a few layers to get a nice, thorough coating of lipstick on my lips. Also, as the lipstick is so creamy I also have to touch up more but I'm not really that picky about needing to touch up(touching up make-up for a beauty junkie like me is akin to asking a chocolate addict if they'd mind terribly if the could share a fresh from the oven chocolate cake with chocolate icing with you). The lipstick is not any higher maintenance than any other creamy lipsticks in an eye-catching shade.

The formula of the lipstick does have the trademark L'Oreal smell but thankfully it wears away within a few minutes. I don't believe make-up should have smell, but that's a personal issue I'm working on (I write affirmations for this everyday).

The colour is a great shade to have, it's glamorous, bold, and eye-catching. It looks show-stopping with a flick of black winged liner, lots of mascara, some highlighter on the top of the cheekbones, and hair pulled back into a high ponytail. In other words, it's a bright red that looks amazing once you get the confidence to wear it. And when you do wear it, it's the make-up equivalent of wearing a pair of shiny patent leather black boots with some serious heels that make your legs look to-die-for while everyone around you is wearing worn out flip flops with chipping pedicures.

Help Natural Disaster Victims

2009-03-11T18:36:00.000-07:00

Buy a T-Shirt by 11 a.m. Eastern - Help Natural Disaster Victims!

Total Beauty is in a race to raise money for natural disaster victims -- all proceeds fund this amazing program that takes washing machines to families hit by natural disasters. Go to http://www.totalbeauty.com/editors_blogs/Buy-a-TShirt-by-9-pm-Eastern-Help-Natural-Disaster-Victims here for more! Or you can just go buy a cute "Loads of Hope" T-shirt http://tide4.com/ here for $20.

Brush Heaven: MAC 187

2009-03-10T10:23:00.000-07:00

I looked back at my posts on make-up brushes and I cannot believe I haven't posted more than a grand total of, well, one. A brownie (to calm down my nerves) later, I decided in my chocolate haze to write about my favourite brushes so brace yourselves.

I know I raved about the foundation brush (and before you throw tomatoes at me, I haven't changed my mind, it is still an essential), but the MAC 187 brush is almost even more essential to my life. I know most of you will probably be opening up MAC's website and looking at the brushes and then going "she's mad" when you see the price. It's OK. It's happened before. But here's the thing, the fact that I'm a beauty junkie notwithstanding I have 3 of those. Deep breaths. There's a reason why I have so many of them.

The MAC 187 is a duo fibre brush, a skunk brush in most people's terminology, that buffs make-up beautifully into skin. I use it for foundation, powder, cream blushes, powder blushes, and highlighters. It's truly a multifunctional brush because it spreads the product in thin layers and allows you to spread the product seamlessly. This allows you to layer products without it becoming cakey. And the finish? Flawless.

Foundation
In my foundation tutorial, I used the 187 to buff in foundation. The best way to do this I've found is to first stipple dots of foundation onto skin (nose, forehead, chin, cheeks...) and then buff it in a circular motion. This way you don't get any hard edges that you need to blend in. I've found that I use the least amount of foundation with the 187 brush and so I also end up with the most natural finish. I then add concealor where necessary and set with powder. I get the most natural, least made-up look with this method.

Powder
The 187 adds a wonderfully thin layer of powder as well. It works well for loose and pressed powder of all sorts. Again, it dusts the thinnest layer of powder so I don't get a dry cakey face when I use the 187 to apply. However, if you want more coverage with a powder foundation you can always add more product to get the desired coverage.

Cream Blushes
I absolutely love using my fingers for cream blushes, but the 187 is also quite useful with them. Because the 187 applies product in such thin layers you are less inclined to overdo a bright blush with this brush. I usually pick up a little product with my brush, place the majority of the product on the apple of my cheek and then blend outward to my temple. It gives a very light flush that you can build up if you want a pop of colour.

Powder Blushes
You will thank your lucky stars you got this brush when you see how beautifully it helps you apply pigmented blushes. I always use the 187 with blushes like NARS Taj Mahal, Exhibit A, Crazed, MAC Frankly Scarlet, Cargo Panama and the likes. With the 187, you can apply the thinnest veil of a pigmented blush, thereby virtually eliminating the clown-effect. I find that you can only ever bring out the beauty of pigmented blushes if you have enough control over them. Here, I will take a solemn oath to attest that the 187 transformed my blush-life. It is the only brush I use for pigmented blushes.

Highlighters
I know I'm one of those people who drools uncontrollably at the sight of highlighters but I don't like to be told that I should sit in another room because the light bouncing from my shiny face is blinding those around me. Like with pigmented blushes, highlighters should be applied discreetly. The 187 really allows me to stop at the point where I have glowing skin rather than sweaty, tired, and oil looking skin. For example, Bobbi Brown's shimmer bricks make me look like I'm on a glitter-induced mania if I don't use the 187. In all, it helps otherwise difficult-to-use products more accessible.

Washing and Drying
The washing instructions that I stated for the foundation brush still apply. Refer to the article if you will. The only thing I'd like to add is that the white fibers stain quite a bit. My pigmented blushes and even foundation see to tint the white fibers and I can't always get the stained effect out. I don't want to use anything harsh on my brushes so I leave it be. Eventually the fibers become more white as I wash the but it is something that I feel I should add. If someone has a magic formula they'd like to share on getting the stains out in one go, please let me know.

image source: www.nordstrom.com

Dev Patel's Look at the 81st Academy Awards

2009-03-05T08:37:00.000-08:00

I got this in the email too and thought I'd throw it in there. Let me know if you find it useful at all.

HOW TO GET DEV PATEL’S LOOK

Jeffery Paul used the Aveda Men Pure-Formance hair care line to create a simple yet architectural look with natural movement for Patel.

Begin by washing hair with Aveda Men Pure-Formance Shampoo and Aveda Men Pure-Formance Conditioner.
Work Aveda Pure-Formance Grooming Clay into hair with both hands to add shape and texture, pulling the front of hair up and bringing the sides forward. “This is hair in motion, an architectural look,” said Paul.
“Dev loves Aveda Pure-Formance Grooming Clay because it gives texture and hold without heavy shine. Dev’s hair already has a lot of shine to it so I wanted something lightweight and matte yet strong enough to add shape and let me really play with movement.”
Finish with Aveda Air Control Hair Spray to hold the look.

image source: www.daylife.com

Freida Pinto's Hair at the 81st Academy Awards

2009-03-05T08:32:00.000-08:00

I just got an email on how to get Freida Pinto's hair at the 81st Academy Awards. Hope you like it.

HOW TO GET FRIEDA PINTO’S LOOK

Celebrity stylist, Jeffrey Paul, created a fresh and elegant red carpet hair look for Frieda Pinto. Radiant in John Galliano, Pinto’s hair is divided into three parts and twisted back into an architectural, couture flower shape on the right side of the head. “This look has a beautiful architecture; hair is twisted back into a youthful, feminine flower shape that complements Frieda’s face shape and stunning Galliano gown.” Here’s how to get Pinto’s look:

Start with Aveda Pure Abundance Volumizing Shampoo and Aveda Pure Abundance Volumizing Clay Conditioner.
Mix a cocktail of Aveda Phomollient Styling Foam and Aveda Light Elements Defining Whip. Work the product into wet hair to add texture and volume. “When creating an updo, it’s important to use products that give thickness and body,” said Paul. “Pinto’s hair already has a lot of shine. The cocktail of Aveda Phomollient Styling Foam and Aveda Light Elements Defining Whip provided just the right amount of hold, body and texture without weighing hair down.”
Blow dry hair back to add lift and height at the roots.
Create a left side part and divide hair into three sections: three quarters of hair in one section on the right and the remaining hair into two smaller sections.
Pull the right section of hair back into a low ponytail just behind the right ear above the nape of the neck.
Twist the ponytail, working Aveda Light Elements Defining Whip into hair. Wrap the ponytail around the base, creating a flower shape. Secure in place with pins.
Work Aveda Light Elements Defining Whip into each of the remaining sections and twist back and around the flower shape, creating a layered, rose-like effect. “The three twists flow together for beautiful movement,” said Paul.
Finish the look with Aveda Air Control Hair Spray.
Lastly, shake the head a bit to loosen up the look and provide a sense of natural movement.

image source: daylife.com

Your Must Have Tools

2009-02-28T20:53:00.000-08:00

I know I rant and rave about make-up so much I have no more feeling at the tips of my fingers from slapping the keyboard so hard with them. However, I'd like to do a feature on your favourite make-up tools.

All this curiosity was brought on by my highly unfulfilled desire for the beauty blender sponge. I just keep looking at it because it looks so cute but aimless/pointless really. However, since I've heard so many raves about it I know I will one day break down and get it (and call it my sixth sense if you will, but I feel that day is approach very fast). So right now I'd like to know what your must have tools are in your daily beauty routines.

DiorSkin Forever Extreme Wear Flawless Make-Up. Halfway to Monica-Bellucci-dom

2009-02-28T19:47:00.000-08:00

You know those deceptive Dior ads where Monica Bellucci poses oh-so-alluringly at you, telling you that you're just an eyeshadow away from looking like her. And then there's that familiar anger that swells within you when you realize it's all a lie. You need to have Monica Bellucci's face to look like her, not any of Dior's make-up, dammit.

While I'm not a fan of foundations much as I have crazy sensitive skin that is currently undecided on what it's goals in life are, Dior's Forever foundation is a new favourite of mine that definitely deserves to be heralded.

Let me start off with the worst part of this foundation: the colour selection is very limited, especially for us darker skinned girls. However, if you do find a matching shade, count yourself among the blessed (one tier lower than Monica Bellucci though). The foundation has a very light gel-like consistency that spreads well and sets as it dries. It feels like nothing on and yes, it does wear throughout the day. The foundation dries to a lovely velvet finish and provides medium to full coverage that you can sheer out easily.

The best part of the foundation is the effect you get wearing it. I look like I have perfectly flawless skin naturally, without the help of make-up. Even though the formula has spf, my fotos don't have the dreaded whitish cast so I don't look like I am trying to compensate for any lack of fair-and-lovely in my world. To me, this is one of the most beautiful, natural looking foundations out there.

L'Oreal's Ever Pure Sulfate-Free Moisture Shampoo and Conditioner

2009-02-28T19:24:00.000-08:00

I'm not usually one to claim that I posess any knowledge of shampoos and conditioners except that sulfates makes my scalp flake (I don't hold back on details so enjoy my descriptions) and silicones coat my hair making it look nice temporarily before it withers away into a greasy hell.

My usual holy grail is Frederic Fekkai's glossing shampoo and conditioner. So when I got the L'Oreal duo I wasn't expecting much. Thus far, nothing had trumped Frederic Fekkai. Thing changed the moment I stepped out of the shower. The shampoo and conditioner as both pretty thick, in keeping with their promise ofbeing moisturizing. The scent is non-offensive and fades fast. Thankfully, the usual overpowering and lingering scents Herbal Essences and L'Oreal infuse into their hair products was not present.

There is a small amount of silicone in the duo but thankfully it doesn't weigh down my hair. In fact I don't need to make mt monthy clarifying shampoos more frequent to combat the silicones. When I dried my hair, I was left with what I called a 'goddess hair' moment. My hair was so soft, moisturized, velvety, and shiny that I have fallen head (another pun, please snicker) over heels in love with this shampoo and conditioner. It ranks right up there with Frederic Fekkai's glossing line and much higher than his shea butter deep conditioner. I will post a pic of my hair as soon as my camera starts working again if you need reassurance. I actually went out and bought back ups so that should be a testament to how much I love it.