Beautiful faces

New Obsession: Lip Scrub by Sara Happ

2012-06-06T00:30:00.000-07:00

I've been using my toothbrush to exfoliate my lips until I discovered Sara Happ's Lip Scrub is AMAZING! I originally picked up the scrub to replenish my professional make up kit. As a rule for stuff in my kit, I have to test it first. I am addicted to the scrub! Its a permanent fixture on my bathroom sink. Looks like I have to pick up a second pot of lip scrub for my kit.
I own the peppermint scrub (I'm a sucker for mint!) and use it about 2x a week. You put a small amount on your lips and then tissue it off - this leaves the lips super soft.

With packaging like this, who could resist picking up this lip scrub? I think this scrub would also make a fantastic gift for a friend, mother, sister, etc.

Make up Story

2012-04-29T10:57:00.000-07:00

I saw a few Youtube videos of "beauty gurus" that were doing the make up tags... Thought I'd do something similar here.

1. How old were you when you started wearing makeup?
2 years old! I used to sneak into my Grandmother's and Mother's make up drawers and play around with their make up. I also used to get into a lot of trouble for cutting my own hair. Needless to say, my make up skills were a lot better than my hair cutting skills!
I started wearing make up for school around 6th grade, then I couldn't be bothered with make up too much in high school b/c I was too sleep-deprived from all the activities I did each day. I only wore make up for dance performances and figure skating competitions in high school.

2. How did you get into makeup?
I got into doing make up because I hated people touching my face. I used to re-do the make up that my mother did on my face for dance recitals when I was a child b/c I didn't like the way it looked. When I got older, I started learning theater make up and signed up to be on crew so I wouldn't have to sit in anyone's chair! lol.

3. What are some of your favorite brands?
Stila, Make Up Forever, NARS, Fresh, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics, Origins, and Body Shop

4. What does makeup mean to you?
Make up is a wonderful way to enhance natural beauty. It is also fun to mix it up and try a new look b/c at the end of the day, you can wash it off!

5. If you could only wear 4 products on your face what would they be?
OCC Tinted Moisturizer, Stila's Cherry Crush lip/cheek stain, Alison Raffaele's Transparent Finish to go, Shu Uemura mascara

6. What is your favorite thing about makeup?
The ability to lift a mood, look and feel fabulous, and the confidence it brings.

7. What do you think about drugstore makeup vs high end makeup?
I'm a make up snob/junkie/hoarder - I love good quality products so tend to stick with products I've tested on myself and that it works well. I'm also transitioning my make up to also be cruelty-free b/c bunnies don't deserve to be mistreated and tortured for the sake of cosmetics. There are so many products that humans are willing to try and test out if it works.

8. What is one tip of advice you can give to a beginner?
Hone in on the skills you are good at and focus your energy on that. You can't do everything.
I'm not an FX make up artist, nor a body painter, or do fantasy type make up but have tried all those things out. I'm just not good at it and there are so many more talented artists who can do that kind of work. My best skills is in beauty make up and airbrush make up applications. I like continuing to expand my skills so I practice a lot and have done some pretty interesting transformations during Halloween for clients and friends.

9. What is one makeup trend you never understood?
Eyelid taping. This is predominant in Asia, I had to tape an Asian brides lids a few times because they wanted a "double lid" effect. This changes the way the eyes look and I never understood the phenomenon of looking completely like a different person when this trend has been done as well as using make up to transform the entire face especially when it comes to weddings. Its just weird to me. I understand that you need to transform the entire face for a theatrical production or a film/tv show and embrace the joy that make up can do that but for an everyday look or a wedding?!?!?! Thats just living behind a mask.

10. What do you think about the beauty community on YouTube?
Some of the videos make me cringe but its like watching reality tv shows, you just can't help but watch it. This video is really cute though....

The color everyone is raving about...

2012-04-11T20:28:00.006-07:00

Orange! Coral!

It's the new "it" color of the season that everyone seems to be talking about these days... I've been rocking the coral color when everyone was rocking the bright red lips a few years back. My favorite combination is orange lips, coral cream blush, gold lids, and fluttery lashes.

Believe or not Orange is a universally flattering color for most skin tones if done correctly. I think Coral blush is the easiest one to pull off.

Here are my fave products:

FACE Stockholm
Creme Blush in Shanghai
$25

#1 Rule for creme blush: Blend Blend Blend! Make sure you start with the smallest amount possible and build from there, otherwise you run the risk of looking like a sunburnt tomato

Alternative: NARS Multiple in Portofino, $39

I also use the creme blush excess from my fingers over my lids and will also put creme blush on my lips. Talk about multiple uses!

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Lip Tar
Grandma, $14

OCC lip tars are amazing! You only need a tiny amount and it can cover your entire lips. Thats the beauty of the highly pigmented products from OCC.

Nars has a new Tinted Moisturizer worth checking out!

2012-03-12T11:16:00.001-07:00

Just in time for the summer NARS has a new tinted moisturizer with an SPF 30 added to it. I'm fair skinned and burn easily so always wear sunscreen on top of my moisturizer before heading out the door.

I currently love the Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics tinted moisturizer but my bottle has run out so I'm in the market for a tinted moisturizer that feels just like silk and provide coverage for everyday usage that doesn't feel heavy.

I used to combine my moisturizer with the NARS sheer matte foundation but that extra step to combine foundation with a moisturizer sometimes can get messy. I'm currently combining my Kett airbrush foundation with my moisturizer. Its not working so well b/c my moisturizer is thick and doesn't blend well with the foundation. I like my foundations to be on the watery side b/c I use moisturizer and sunscreen underneath; I just don't like that cake-y feeling traditional make up feels on top of my skincare regimen. (Thats why I love airbrush make up applications & recommend it for special events)

Can't wait to check the NARS tinted moisturizer the next time I'm in the NARS store on Bleecker or a Sephora.

Cleaning your make up brushes

2012-03-07T15:28:00.005-08:00

I've been teaching quite a bit of private make up lessons the past few months and its come to my attention that the average woman doesn't clean her make up brushes! How often should we clean our personal make up brushes? This is my formula...
After every use, I swipe my brushes onto a tissue paper to get the surface gunk out.
Once a month, I do a deep clean with a brush cleaner. I like Cinema Secrets brush cleaner b/c I can purchase a big bottle since I deep clean my professional brushes after every use.

How to Deep Clean your make up brushes:
1) Pour Cinema Secrets brush cleaner onto a cup
2) Swirl your brush around in it
3) Squeeze out excess liquid
4) Dry it out with Paper Towels
5) Reshape the brush
6) Store in flat brush roll

Note: if the brush is still wet, you can place it by the side of the sink with the bristles facing towards the sink. You don't want to place your brushes in a cup when its still drying because the liquid will seep into the handle and damage the brush.

Photo Credit: Di Zhang Photography

3 Companies Booted Off Cruelty-Free List

2012-02-16T23:28:00.000-08:00

3 Companies Booted Off Cruelty-Free List: After two decades of touting their "no animal testing" policies, Avon, Estée Lauder, and Mary Kay have quietly resumed paying for cruel tests on animals—without letting consumers know about this stunning about-face.

As a make up artist and bunny lover, I cannot condone the act of testing of cosmetic products on animals. Why does an animal have to suffer for us to enhance our beauty? There are many cosmetic companies that don't test on animals.
Among those that are some of my favorites:
100% Pure (skincare, body products)
AHAVA (skincare)
Anastasia Brows (specializing on brow products)
Ardell (great cheap false lashes!)
Bare Escentuals (mineral make up - my fave is the mineral veil)
Bath & Body Works (great smelling hand soaps!)
Boscia (skincare - the blotting papers are the best!)
C.O. Bigelow (skincare, make up - Rose salve is amazing so is their moisturizer!)
Caudelie (skincare, body - their body scrub is divine!)
Crabtree & Evelyn (body - have been using their body products since I was tween!)
Dermalogica (skincare - my facialist uses and swears by their products and I've used them too as a result, the only downside is the smell)
Dr. Hauschka (cult skincare line coveted by many top models and celebs!)
FACE Atelier (make up - great pro product)
Henri Bendel (LOVE their candles!)
JAM Cosmetics (make up for dance/theatre - I used to freelance for this company when the owner was starting this line - pretty good product)
Juice Beauty (skincare - their cleanser smells like apples!)
Jurlique (skincare - their hydrating sprays are refreshing)
L'Occitane (skincare, body - love the smells of their products)
LaRocca skincare (I did a post about their products on this blog - Love the gold infused products, makes your skin GLOW)
Murad (skincare - good solid skincare that works and doesn't smell bad)
MyChelle (skincare - sunscreen isn't irritating and doesn't cast a whitish ring on the face)
Obssessive Compulsive Cosmetics (make up - this is a pro make up line and has an amazing line of highly pigmented products, their tinted moisturizer is the BEST, it feels like silk)
OPI (nails - they have a great selection of nail polish from neutral to whats the "it" color for the season)
Origins (though owned by Estee Lauder - does not test on animals http://www.origins.com/customer_service/aboutus.tmpl#/Products)
Smashbox (though owned by Estee Lauder - does not test on animals http://www.smashbox.com/customer_service/faq#animal_testing)
Stila Cosmetics (make up - I am a big fan of their products and have mentioned them in this blog many times)
Suki (skincare - organic line of skincare that smells great! The shelf life is less than non-organic lines though)
Tarte (make up - they have a great line of cheek stains and the mascaras are pretty decent too)
The Body Shop (skincare, body, make up - I've been using Body Shop products since my tweens and still love them to this day)
Trader Joe's Company (TJ's makes body & skincare products too - cheaply priced and smells good)
Urban Decay (make up - great versatile line and lots of colors for eyeshadows to experiment looks with - they make great palettes around the holidays!)
Yes to Carrots (skincare, body - my boyfriend uses their products and it is a good line for an affordable price)

For the complete list please visit PETA

Favorite lip balms

2012-02-10T11:01:00.000-08:00

I love lip balms - always have since I was about 8 years old! I'm always trying out new ones. I'm not one of those women that constantly applies lip balm (but I love the tinted lip balms the best because it gives a hint of color, moisture, and sometimes a hint of gloss). I always choose lip balm over gloss b/c I don't really like the sticky feeling that some glosses have. Since Valentine's Day is coming up, get those lip soft enough for endless lovey-dovey kisses.

1) Fresh Sugar lip balm
I've talked about this one on this blog several times already. I love how soft and smooth this lip balm feels. The best part about this balm is that its not sticky, you don't have to stick your finger in it either. There isn't a gloss factor in the balm so men can also use this balm too.

2) EOS in Sweet Mint
LOVE this balm for the packaging, the texture, affordability, and convenience (get it at the drugstore!). The texture is smooth and great for those harsh cold winds! The packaging is super cute. I like the Sweet Mint flavor because the minty effect is nice and tingly yet not overpowering.

3) C.O. Bigelow Rose Salve
I have this in my professional kit and I apply this balm on my clients as part of the skincare routine right after moisturizing the face. This soft multi-purpose salve has a beautiful scent to it, a hint of gloss, and makes the lips super soft. If you have dried elbows, knees, fingers, this salve can help with the dry patches too! Cheaper than the Rosebud salve that everyone loves but works just the same (in my opinion better!) than the Rosebud salve. If you've tried the Rosebud Salve and don't like how glossy that balm is. Try this one. It isn't as glossy but still has a bit of gloss to it.

Busy time wearing a different hat

2012-01-08T16:28:00.000-08:00

I wear many different hats because I have three (or one could argue more than three) different career paths. Right now I'm in the middle of a conference that has me leaving rather sleep-deprived and cranky. I have to perform tonight and convince people that my work is worth bringing to their venue. I don't want to bore you with the details...

What to do with your beauty routine when you're sleep deprived but have to look refreshed and professional???!?!?!

I've been relying on moisturizing my face (and body at night!), tinted moisturizer, powder to set the tinted moisturizer, blush that makes my cheeks glow, curling my lashes, mascara, and a lip stain.

Some of my fave products:

EUCALYPTUS NOURISHING BODY CREAM by 100% pure cosmetics
I slather this on at night and it has been a fixture on my bedside table for over a week now. The scent of eucalyptus is calming and the moisture is much needed at night in the winter!

OCC Tint: Tinted Moisturizer
This tinted moisturizer is like silk! It is my favorite tinted moisturizer on the market. Buildable coverage, affordable price, and pro packaging (Translation: simple packaging that doesn't nickle and dime you), you must try this product! Everyone I've recommended this product to has loved it!

Body Shop: Shimmer Waves
This is a great product to have - I used it as a blush for an all over glow and an eye shadow palette. (Great for traveling!) Every time I use this product as a blush - it looks like I'm refreshed and glowing from within.

Travel friendly cosmetics in 3 oz.

2011-12-19T15:56:00.000-08:00

There are several online beauty retailers that give beauty junkies like me an option beyond the Sephora, Ulta, Space NK, Soap, and several others... The one I'm going to talk about is a beauty site geared towards getting travel friendly sized beauty products ranging from skincare, haircare, and even laundry products, vitamins.
Visit 3floz.com

The favorite feature of the site is the kits available based on skin type. I like this Air Repair kit - it contains a cleanser, a facial mist, eye cream, a beauty balm, and a rescue balm. A complete set for keeping your skin hydrated for air travel. This is a must-have if you are traveling globe-trotter. I'm not traveling anywhere by plane this holiday season but next year, I'm going to be racking up some trans-Atlantic-Pacific mileage and will most likely order this to carry on with me on those long 20 hour flights.

I'm also a fan that the products on their site are from brands that I covet in my medicine cabinet. Go Smile, AHAVA, Malin + Goetz, Murad, Oscar Blandi, The Laundress, Tocca, Fekkai, etc.
I'm sure that you'll find a brand you recognize within the offerings.

Beauty gifts to give the women in your life

2011-12-07T10:00:00.000-08:00

Beauty gifts are a no-brainer to give women around the holidays as a main gift or a stocking stuffer. There are rules though. You don't want to give the wrong type of gift and there are a few things that are not good gifts to give unless you really KNOW the receiver. There are also gifts that are neutral that are enjoyed by both men and women that wouldn't offend the receiver. Think: Candles, Bath products, Lotions, Soaps, Lip Balms (non- shiny, non-sticky of course), Hair products, Tools: Combs, nail clippers, facial brushes, etc., and of course remember the packaging is important too.

Here are my favorite gifts for the women in your life.

1) Mom
My grandmother and mother taught me at a young age that skincare products is very important in maintaining a youthful skin as well as staying out of the sun.
I'm giving my mom some awesome beauty products..

Stila in the light palette
Retail $39

I am obsessed with Stila eyeshadows and this is a beautiful palette. Stila's eyeshadows are really long lasting and I always use it as a under eye make up base to make my eye make up last all day. The colors in this palette is beautiful!

I've taught my mother how to do make up several times but she always goes back to her way of doing make up (mom, if you're reading this - you better listen!) so this palette will be a fool-proof way of keeping the make up beautiful, youthful, and simple. I also like the no smudge eyeliner that comes with the palette.

2) Sister (younger sister)
My little sister is still in 8th grade and very much not into wearing make up. She does like to curl her lashes though, unlike me, she is blessed with gorgeous feathery long lashes.

Shu Uemura Eyelash Curler
Retail $19

The cult favorite eyelash curler among make up artists and beauty junkies alike. I've been using Shu Uemura eyelash curler for about 8 years and cannot see myself switching anytime soon unless there is an eyelash curler that is better for straight Asian lashes.

This would also make a great stocking stuffer!

3) Best Girlfriends

Anything that has really pretty packaging, universal, smells delicious, luxurious ingredients but doesn't break the bank... here are some of my faves. (Also great as stocking stuffers!)

Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment
Retail $22.50

Fresh came out with four colors that stem from this original in the past few years. However, this is the best one to get. With its luxe buttery texture, lemon-y scent, and pretty packaging - you can't help but constantly reapply dry winter lips with it.

I got my mother and my boyfriend's mother hooked on this lip treatment. It is really amazing! I also like that its not sticky or glossy so men can also use it.

Origins Peace of Mind on the spot relief
Retail $11

If you've ever set foot inside at an Origins store and the sales associates give you a temple massage with this product placed on your temples and behind your ears - you know that this stuff is so relaxing!

Give this to your overworked friends and coworkers!
Extra points if you pair it with a scalp massager...

Head massager by Kikkerland
Retail $3.99

I have a scalp massager and it is especially good when you've spent all day staring at the computer. The best part about this massager is that you don't have to rely on anyone else to massage your scalp.

A cheap thrill but the rewards are priceless!

Christmas Wish List

2011-12-04T23:54:00.000-08:00

I always drool at the products and gift basket beauty options that come out every holiday season. This season is no different. Here is my list...

1) Stila Holiday Dream Palette
How can you not love the presentation of this palette? All the colors, the packaging, and variety of eye shadows and blushes with an added bonus of an eyeliner.
This palette is $39.
This would also make an excellent beauty gift for the girl who loves make up.

2) T3 Singlepass Whirl Wand

No this is not some kinky vibrating device. This is a curling wand that is perfect for longer hair to create beach sexy hair or classic finger curls. I love the T3 technology and my 1.5" inch flatiron is used for making big waves in my hair. T3 irons are the only ones that seem to be able to give me long-lasting curls on my slippery, super fine Asian hair.
Retails for $160 - I think this is a little steep but definitely cheaper than getting professional blowouts every time you want long-lasting beautiful curls.

3) Nagauta Kabuki Brush Set

How beautiful is this brush set!?!?! If I received this under the Christmas tree, I would feel like a refined Geisha performer applying make up for a performance every time I would use this. I love that this comes in a Bento Box and is held in place just so perfectly. NARS is one of my favorite make up lines ever!
$225 is the steep cost for this beauty but it is definitely well worth it to feel like a Geisha princess everyday :-)

4) White Gold Detoxifying Crystal Salt INA crystals

Bathing in white gold!?!? Wow. The ultimate luxurious bath.
"This deep penetrating detox bath contains minerals small enough to penetrate the cells and be absorbed to help the body expel internal toxins accumulated over time through pollutants in the air, alcohol and processed foods. The White Gold Crystal and the detoxifying essential oils of basil, fennel and juniper cleanse deeply whilst improving the sense of well-being." - Space NK besteller
This sounds great after a month of indulgence in food and drink.
Retails for $85

5) Muscle Relief Bath Soak Life NK

Ok, I said that this was going to be a wish list not a must-have list or an already-own list. I couldn't help myself but put this product on this list because I LOVE THIS BATH SOAK! I'm a sucker for Eucalyptus, Lavender, Peppermint, Rosemary combination scents. I've been taking baths almost every day since the temperatures have dropped. I use this bath after rehearsal and I always feel so relaxed and start my wind down.
I have found my go-to bath product! (I also like Fresh's Sake bath but I'm not always in the mood to feel detoxified in a "ofuro" hot bath.)
Retails for $30 so its pretty affordable!

Happy Thanksgiving & Hi-Def

2011-11-21T12:03:00.000-08:00

Fall wedding season and holidays are here - I've been getting booked more frequently this fall. I've also taught several private make up lessons and had wedding guests come to my studio for make up applications. I like it when people come to my studio to get their make up done because my back doesn't require a pummeling on the massage chair for hauling my kit around the city. I also have my entire kit here so the possibilities are endless.
I'm very thankful for the space and location I now have my home studio in. The windows let in a lot of light.
I had a client early this morning come in to have a make up lesson and prep her on how to do make up for HD TV and Film. One of the most important aspects to HD TV, Film, and Photography is how the light will hit your face. HD doesn't lie and will always look scary if you apply make up with a very heavy hand. It brought to my attention the importance of products that work. One of the best things to put on the face is a good mattifying primer. The last thing you want is looking like a flashlight on TV. Check out Givenchy's Mister Mat. This is a good mattifying primer for that T-zone. Another favorite HD product is Make up Forever's High Definition Microfinish Powder - a little on the messy side but an excellent product b/c the powder is so fine, gives a translucent finish, and gives a smooth surface.
The best make up for HD is the airbrush foundations by Kett, Obessessive Compulsive Cosmetics, and Temptu - I like the watery, fast-drying, and natural looking finish these foundations give applied by the airbrush gun, brush, or fingers. All three of these brands are available online. If you don't have access to these brands or they don't deliver to your location, you can try Make up Forever's HD Finish Foundation. Apply with a light hand and only add extra coverage where you need it the most and blend everything well!

Thanksgiving and my birthday is coming up this week so Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

The brush that cleans your face

2011-11-11T15:33:00.000-08:00

My face broke out really badly mid-September and I'm still recovering from the after effects - not quite sure what is going on but I have dry patches, splotchy patches, and an area of my face where there are break outs! (ick!)
Off to Sephora I went to try to find something that would deep clean my face so all the nasty stuff would just leave my face alone. I've always been curious about the Clarisonic brush but definitely turned off by the price tag. The makers of the Clarisonic brush came out with a smaller and cheaper version (still pricey in my opinion!) of the Mia. I decided to give it a try because I was tired of seeing problem spots on my face. I purchased the Mia last month and all I can is that this brush provides exfoliation so should be lightly applied throughout the face otherwise it can cause to much abrasion and cause sensitivity. (I learnt that the hard way...) I only use the Mia once every 2 days now b/c and don't apply any pressure. I just glide over the areas with the brush. This method seems to be working the best.

Mineral Mate

2011-11-09T13:50:00.000-08:00

We all love Mineral make up but its so messy. The solution is the Mineral Mate. You can also use it as a sanitary mixing palette (esp. fun for make up artists!)
As a make up artist, I am constantly custom blending colors because I believe that every person is unique and the colors on a person's face should be customized to suit them and if there isn't a color that is just perfect then make it yourself! This versatile palette allows me to play with highly pigmented colors and then mix it with a different texture such as a clear lip gloss to make a truly customized color.
I recently also used Mineral Mate to put my brush cleaner solution so I can clean my brushes. Prior to the mineral mate, I used a ceramic cup filled with the solution but the problem was that the brushes would get drenched in the solution and take forever to dry. With the mineral mate, it was just enough solution to clean and disinfect but also didn't drench my brushes so I could use the brushes within 5 min. of drying on a paper towel.

Products in this review were given to the blogger by Minerals Mate. All opinions belong to the blogger.

2011-09-20T16:53:00.000-07:00

I would love to feature a picture of your make up bag contents in my beauty blog. Please email me a picture of your make up bag & contents. Pick out your favorite product and tell me why its your favorite! alaine83@gmail.com

My favorite item from my professional make up kit is my airbrush machine!
I love it because it creates the flawless beautiful skin that we all dream of without the cakey feeling of regular make up. I use the Kett Cosmetics and Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics for my airbrush.

Fashion's Night Out 2011

2011-09-08T23:57:00.000-07:00

After last year's craziness with Fashion's Night Out, I picked a few stores to head to this year. It just so happens that I picked Beauty stores b/c as you know, I'm pretty much a product junkie when it comes to make up and skincare. I love to find out what is new and what brands are break through finds.
The break through product I found this evening that is special to Fashion's Night Out is Nars silver eye liner "Via Crispi". I had it on my hand and it is a bright silver. Amazing pigment! This would be a product that is perfect to brighten up the eyes for the holidays, date night, party, special event, etc. Place this eyeliner in the inner corner of your eye for a subtle pop that is not overpowering or too dramatic for day time.

I also stopped in Fresh and VMV Hypoallergenics to check out their products.
Fresh came out with a new lip balm in their Sugar line, appropriately titled Passion. It is a beautiful subtle red that is flattering on most skin tones because it gives just enough flush. How can you not love an addicting lip balm like Sugar and add that with a subtle color. I'm a big fan of tinted lip balms because it is moisturizing and not sticky at all. They have Rose, Plum, and Honey as their Sugar lip balms. You also cannot deny the fact that the packaging of Fresh products is absolutely gorgeous. If you looked in my bathroom, you would see the soap dishes I purchased from Fresh on sale, a bottle of Sugar Lychee fragrance, Sake bath, Sugar Lychee sugarbath cubes...
VMV Hypoallergenics is a fairly new brand for me. I tried the hypoallergenic spray deodrant and it didn't sting my underarms! My underarms are fairly sensitive when it comes to deodrants and the skin gets irritated but this one didn't seem to irritate me so I'm going to try it. I was also curious about the mascara because it smells like pie! The brush looks non-clumpy, I always have my eye out for an awesome mascara that doesn't require me to take a plane trip/train/bus to Canada/Europe/Asia for my beloved Shu Uemura mascaras. So far, I've only found the Origins brand mascara works for me that is available locally in the US. I received the mascara as a free gift last night as part of Fashion's Night Out and can't wait to try it!

Think girly: Pink Lipstick makes a comeback

2011-03-06T12:56:00.000-08:00

Its been a while since my last post... I haven't really been excited about too many things in the beauty world.
I've been a subscriber to Allure Magazine for 5 years now and I was reading the Feb. issue. There was a highlight on pink becoming the new red. I was skeptical at best b/c pink lipstick was what I wore as a kid. (I loved a bright fuschia lipstick in my mother's make up drawer and wore it around the house very often!)
Pink lipstick also conjures up memories of the bright cosmetics that were so "in" during the 80s. But then again, the 80s have been making a comeback the past few years so its not surprising that pink lipstick will be back. I scoured the aisles of Sephora looking for the perfect pink and I found two lipsticks. No. 38 by Make Up Forever and Schiap by NARS.
The Sephora store I visited didn't have No. 38 anymore so I purchased Schiap. Love the bright color against my pale skin tone (I'm pale w/ very pink undertones but I'm Chinese and supposed to have some yellow undertones too but its not very dominant). I love how it just brightens up the face. Just like a beautiful red lipstick, pink lipstick can also brighten up the face.
Pair pink lipstick with beautiful dewy skin, black mascara, and highlighter on the cheek bones & brow bone. Add more drama by adding a black eyeliner in the cat-eye fashion or to add more fun, use a navy or deep purple liner!

I don't like itchy dry skin in the fall/winter

2010-10-27T13:49:00.000-07:00

I started skiing two winters ago and can't wait to go skiing again this winter but I don't like getting sunburnt on the mountain and getting itchy dry patches of skin. I was introduced to Skin MD's Shielding Lotion a month ago but haven't really been able to properly test it out. The weather has been kind of crazy lately with cold blasts of wind to rainy to warm and humid (gotta love East Coast fall weather!). This lotion smells a little like baby powder mixed with sunscreen, absorbs really fast, and doesn't leave a sticky residue. The idea behind this Shielding lotion is to shield the skin of irritants thus preventing moisture-loss.

According to their website:

Shampoos, antibacterial soaps, cosmetics, fragrances, colorants and other irritants bombard and penetrate the skin. These harsh chemicals and irritants can break down the skin's natural protective ability. Some strip away moisture, while others lodge in the pores where they cause irritation and other negative reactions.

This lotion is dermatologist tested, made in 100% solar powered facility, eco friendly, paraben free, free of animal products and animal testing (read: vegan friendly). I think this is the perfect lotion to take with me when I hit the slopes or ice rink this winter. I just wish they had a smaller travel-sized bottle so I can put it in my pocket.

Products in this review were given to the blogger by Skin MD Natural. All opinions belong to the blogger.

Tips for a Brighter Smile

2010-09-21T13:49:00.000-07:00

Its no secret that we want soft, kissable, bright white teeth.
I love Go Smile for a fresh minty breath, a whiter smile, easy application, and those little mini ampoules are super cute! I've been using Go Smile whitening system and maintenance since 2006 and there's quite nothing like it in the market. I also love the fact that you can easily stash one in your gym bag, make up bag, evening clutch, pencil case (does anyone still carry one these days beyond grade school?). Its a no mess application and the maintenance system doubles as a way to freshen your breath after a delicious flavorful meal.
Go Smile just came out with their new speed whitening system which comes with a pre-whitening gel. This will speed up the whitening process from 14 days to 4 days! Perfect for pre-wedding whitening!

Fashion's Night Out 2010

2010-09-11T23:23:00.000-07:00

I spent last night in the midst of a Soho chaotic mess that is Fashion's Night Out event. There were tons of people! I started the evening with friends coming over for a couple drinks then we walked over (in heels) to the Ace Hotel's Opening Ceremony store - there was already a small crowd inside. Upon exiting, the food trucks from the Breslin (restaurant for the Ace Hotel), Van Leeuwen ice cream truck, Baohaus, and another food truck which I can't remember the name of... A line formed (while chowing down a delicious bao) to enter into the Ace Hotel for Opening Ceremony that wrapped around the building (a forecast for the rest of the evening).
We headed down towards the flatiron bldg (still in heels) for Argo Tea's event with MS Apothecary to get our fake lashes & make up touched up by Mary Schook who is super personable. Mary and I talked shop for a little bit.
Hopped on the train to Soho.
Upon exiting the station it was PURE CHAOS! I've never seen Soho this packed in the evening. (ok, maybe after the Halloween parade)
We made it to the Ben Sherman store where they checked IDs and free beers abound (how very frat-boy-esque). Not after passing by the pop-up Piperlime store where Rachel Zoe, the celeb stylist, was anchoring herself down for the evening. There were so many people there, I thought a riot was going to break out. (more on that later)
My gal pal and I went to the Kate Spade store after parting w/ part of our group (which included men so I can understand why this was so not their scene). Tim Gunn was signing autographs for his book. I took a picture of Tim Gunn but I think its a bit blurry. His book sold out by the time we got there. We hung around for a bit at Kate Spade b/c the drinks and appetizers kept flowing. Plus there were comfy plush couches for us to sit on.
A quick trip inside Uggs, Molton Brown, Illori before seeing Karl Lagerfeld and then a stampede broke out in front of Chanel. My friend grabbed me and we ended up following Karl's posse before getting shoved around, but we made it to the front of the line. (lots of crazed ladies out) Chanel was madness, I stood in another line to get a free manicure and it took FOREVER. My feet were killing me in the heels. (why did I decide to wear heels? I should invest and really hot flats so I don't end up in my sparkly fit flops which is not exactly appropriate for events like these). By the time I got my manicure FNO was almost done, and I wanted to purchase the green khaki color but the manicurist said it was SOLD OUT (FML!).
On a random note: My friend also got her iPhone stolen in Chanel while getting her make up retouched (WTF!)

Overall, my fave experiences were getting my lashes, hanging out at Kate Spade, drinking free champagne. Next year, I'm going to do more of the spa-like activities like the free hair blowouts, make up touch ups, and manicures. I ended up not purchasing anything the entire evening b/c the lines for everything was INSANE!

Smooth Skin for your mama

2010-09-08T15:40:00.000-07:00

This weekend I had the pleasure of doing make up for 3 generations. For mama of the bride, I prepped her skin with Sleek Skin's skin solution Enhance. The results was fabulous smooth skin! She was instantly 10 years younger even before the airbrushed make up. This solution is geared towards mature sensitive skin and it makes the skin feel soft and smooth. I didn't have to cover up much. Amazing results!

Fall Trends 2010

2010-08-29T21:55:00.001-07:00

I've been watching some Fall trends that have been recurring once the temperatures drop and the leaves start to change color. This year there seems to be a vampiress trend. hmmm.. could the latest movies and tv shows have something to do with it...Twilight, True Blood, Vampire Diaries...

1) Dramatic Red Lips
Exfoliate your lips, I recommend taking a damp toothbrush and lightly brushing it over your lips. Apply lip balm. Line your lips with red lip liner. Apply matte red lipstick. Top it off with a red gloss.
Added tips: For longer lasting color with less maintenance, before applying lipstick add a lip stain. That way when the gloss and lipstick wear away the lips are still a brilliant juicy color. I would also blot the lips a few times and then reapply until your lips have fully absorbed the color.

2) Plum lip stain
Follow the same steps as above

3) Dark rimmed eyes with lots of lashes!
Line your inner rims with a dark eyeliner (Note: I did not say black, feel free to experiment with navy, dark green, maroon, purple liners). I recommend gel liners since it is easier to control than liquid liners yet also can be smudged to make a sexy smokey look. Curl your lashes. Apply lots of mascara.

Alcone Make up wipes

2010-05-23T15:33:00.000-07:00

I picked these up from The Make Up Show last Sunday at the Metropolitan Pavilion and had a chance to try them out last night b/c my friend and I were out late and were lazy to wash our faces off so we resorted to wipes. (hah!) I can't believe I didn't discover these sooner! This wipe is so gentle and divine against the skin. It literally takes everything off and smells like fresh cucumber slices. I also love the fact that its individually wrapped so its super sanitary, will not go dry, and you can pack it in your gym bag, purse, luggage, etc.
I don't know why it isn't a part of my kit already. I'm definitely a fan of the Alcone Make up remover cloths. I also love the fact that you can purchase them in bulk. I will probably include a wipe for my bride's emergency touch up kit. They will love the scent and how it feels against the skin at the end of the day!

An Invigorating exfoliator

2010-02-08T06:55:00.000-08:00

Last fall I attended Eco-Fashion Week that was coinciding at the same time as the regular fashion week and had a blast attending a couple shows.See my post on The Luxury Spot about one of the shows here.

I received a goody bag at the show and I am pleased to discover suki's exfoliating cleanser. The cleanser is infused with organic ingredients like sugar, lemongrass, and rice flour. This cleanser smells like ginger and is invigorating to the skin with an added aromatherapy kick. Every time I used the cleanser I feel awake and my skin looks brightened. This is particularly key during the last remaining winter weeks. I also use this when I'm feeling stressed out and it helps relax me. I definitely recommend this product.

Organic Beauty

2009-11-10T15:45:00.000-08:00

Some of you that are close to me know that I've been seeing a holistic nutrition counselor from Holistic Health Fusion. (Hi Monica!) and I've been getting "assignments" to work on bi-monthly from her. A couple weeks ago, I received a list of Lifestyle Suggestions. I've started incorporating more organic beauty lines into my skincare regiment, however have not yet experimented with Organic Cosmetics since most of the Organic Cosmetic lines are made for the regular consumer and do not have a broad line that make up pro's such as myself really look for.

I came across Nvey Eco Organic make up. I used their creamy concealer for my under eyes (note to self: I must sleep earlier so I can get more sleep), and was pleasantly surprised to find that formulated are creamy enough to not feel like sandpaper unlike some other concealers *cough cough*, dense enough for medium to full coverage, you can even apply it with a finger. I would prefer it applied with a brush but let's be realistic here, when you're running out the door and don't have time for carefully crafted make up application, the fast and easy applications will be the ones that will get you out the door faster. The blush that Nvey Eco Organic make up has is also very pretty. I have blush # 954 and it just gives you a pretty healthy flush on the cheeks.

If you're into the organic/natural lifestyle, definitely check out Nvey Eco Organic make up.