Summer Must-Have: Laura Mercier Matte Radiance Baked Powder

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Summer is all about bronzed, glowing skin. The only product needed to achieve this is Laura Mercier’s Matte Radiance Baked Powder. Available in four bronzing colors and one highlight, one is able to mimic the sun’s rays without the damage.

• Highlight 01 – Golden nude
• Bronze 01 – Fair to light skin tone
• Bronze 02 – Light to medium skin tone
• Bronze 03 – Medium skin tone
• Bronze 04 – Tan to deep skin tone

Titled “Matte Radiance Baked Powder,” this product is far from the stark matte bronzers of the past. Laura Mercier’s Matte Radiance Baked Powder warms-up the skin revealing a healthy glow. No glitter or shimmer but a beautiful glowing sheen.

The ultra-smooth formula provides natural color with absolutley no orange tinge. The modern, multidimensional matte finish reveals a hint of soft luminosity and the sheer, buildable coverage lets you customize your glow.

Easy to apply, these bronzers leave skin looking naturally radiant. Coming from a bronzing addict – this is the most natural finish and color-range I have experienced. It instantly warms up the face and creates healthy looking skin.  Laura Mercier’s Matte Radiance Baked Powder is my in my top 10 Summer Must-Haves for 2013.

Spring Sun: Illamasqua Cream Blusher in Zygomatic

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Illamasqua Cream Blushers. The most pigmented, creamy and long-lasting cream-based product I have used.

For my first purchase I decided to go a bit conservative. This was extremely difficult as there are so many tempting colors. I wanted a color I could wear everyday that would give a natural dewiness. Enter Zygomatic. A “naked pink brown” as described by Illamasqua. Subtle yet on the skin it creates the perfect pinkish tan glow like you have soaked up a little Spring sun.

This product blends beautifully and creates a healthy dewy finish. Use alone or as primer for your powder blushes. This will create even longer staying power.

Lastly… If you are thinking about trying an Illamasqua Cream Blusher – go to your nearest Sephora – as the color swatches on the websites are inaccurate.

Currently Coveting: Promise and Rude.

Q&A: Jouer National Makeup Stylist – Neil Scibelli

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Yin and Yang, “shadow and light”, is an ancient Chinese philosophy used to describe how polar opposites or seemingly contrary forces are interconnected. Jouer Cosmetics has found this balance with two exceptional and  exceptionally different products, Luminizing Moisture Tint and Matte Moisture Tint.

Jouer’s best-selling Luminizing Moisture Tint contains light-diffusing minerals that give skin a soft, healthy glow. This product is formulated with powerful antioxidants like ginseng and ginko biloba leaf extract to improve the skin and SPF 20 to protect it. Jouer’s Luminizing Moisture Tint provides the perfect amount of “glow.” Sometimes products that claim a “luminizing” or “dewy” finish, just end up making you look sweaty. This product perfects the look of healthy skin.

Allure recently gave Luminizing Moisture Tint it’s coveted “Best in Beauty” seal.

The counter part to a glowing complexion is found with Jouer’s new Matte Moisture Tint. This is the first matte-formula I have used that does not make my face flat. The lightweight formula blurs imperfections, moisturizes the skin and provides a velvety, soft focus finish – that looks amazing on the skin. Enriched with Vitamins A, C and E, this formula delivers rich antioxidants to the skin. The oil-free formula absorbs oil and reduces shine throughout the day.

As a special treat, Jouer’s National Makeup Stylist – Neil Scibelli has provided all the answers needed on using, applying and selecting cream-based products.

Jouer National Makeup Stylist, Neil Scibelli, for Glow-T.com

Q: What are the benefits of using cream-based products?

A: Cream based products have the ability to leave a more dewy finish to the skin. A lot of cream based products have built in moisturizers, so I recommend them to women with dry skin.

Q: Can all skin-types use them?

A: Yes, all skin types can use cream based products. There are different categories of cream products, so choosing the right one for your skin type is key.

Q: How to pick the right colors for your skin tone?

A: I usually test a small amount of product on the lower jaw line area- to match the skin tone. I like matching the neck color.

Q: Should you use fingers or brushes to apply these products? If brushes…what are the best to use?

A: Fingers are a user-friendly way to apply cream products (like a tinted moisturizer), for those who are on the go.  From a makeup artist standpoint, I recommend using a foundation brush for applying cream products; it creates a more even, flawless finish.

Q: How to apply?

A: I put a dime size amount on the top part of my hand, and dip into it with a foundation brush to apply. This way, you have control as to how much your picking up with your brush. You don’t want to end up with too much product directly on your face, so its a good way to build your coverage up. Apply from the center, moving the product outward.

Q: Any tips or tricks?

A: To prevent a cream product from looking streaky, I recommend patting the formula into the skin. It ensures coverage, without moving the product around too much.

Q: How to make cream-based products last?

A: You can set it with a translucent powder, to lock the product in place. This helps with setting the product, and also absorbs shine in the t-zone area.

Q: Favorite cream-based products?

A: Allure’s award winning product from Jouer Cosmetics, Luminizing Moisture Tint. For a more oily skin type, try the new Matte Moisture Tint also by Jouer. They leave the most incredible natural glow to the skin. They’re both oil-free and ideal for daily wear.

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About Neil Scibelli:

Born and raised in New York, Neil Scibelli has established himself as one of today’s leading fashion and celebrity makeup artists. Growing up alongside his grandfather, an oil painter, Neil began blending colors at the young age of five.  Over the years, his passion for painting developed into a keen interest in makeup artistry.

While absorbing all of New York City’s cultural influences and style, makeup artistry was a natural calling for Neil. He studied his craft while training under world-renowned makeup companies including Yves Saint Laurent, Laura Mercier and Kevyn Aucoin. Neil has also assisted some of the industry’s top artists, such as Kate Lee and Mally Roncal.

A combination of talent, dedication and ambition allowed Neil to successfully turn his years of training into a full-time career. His work is mainly focused in fashion, television, music videos, and red-carpet appearances, with loyal celebrity clients in all genres.

Neil has keyed numerous fashion shows and presentations, including his re-occurring work with stylist Brad Goreski and the Kate Spade company.  Other recent projects include his signature glamming for model/actress Molly Sims, assisting on Beyonce’s music video ‘Party’, and grooming for recording artist John Legend.

In 2008, Neil joined the Jouer Cosmetics team as a freelance makeup artist.  Jouer promoted Neil to the role of National Makeup Stylist in 2011; a position he currently holds.

Summer Must-Have: Facial Mists

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Stay cool this summer with a tantalizing facial mist. A Summer must-have, these sprays will instantly boost your spirits and skin. Throw one in your handbag, beach-bag and/or travel-bag for a quick pick-me-up. Here are my five favorites:

TIP: Always refrigerate facial mists for extra freshness and stimulation.

Caudalie Beauty Elixir is great for those wanting a quick radiance boost. Part-toner/part-serum, this potion contains a mix of essential oils that will tighten pores and awaken the skin. Mist onto face anytime your skin feels dull and in need of a little hydration. Great for travel.

Kerstin Florian Rehydrating Neroli Water is an uplifting aromatherapy water that refreshes and hydrates the skin. Made from the bitter orange blossom, this facial spray soothes and hydrates the skin. The moment your face feels tight, one spritz will instantly hydrate and refresh the skin. Use as a toner after cleansing the face or as a body spray after showering. Perfect for après beach.

Chantiecaille Pure Rosewater ~ See full review HERE.

Avène Thermal Spring Water is a mineral-rich water, great for softening and soothing sensitive skin. Gentle and effective on irritated, sunburned and post surgery/procedure skin. This calming solution provides antioxidant protection that leaves a soothing barrier on the skin. It creates a dewy, healthy finish on the skin. Essential for sensitive skin.

Suti Peppermint Water is a cooling burst of refreshing hydration. Known as the “wake-up” water, this facial spray stimulates the senses as well as the skin. Made with organic peppermint leaves this facial spray relieves redness, inflammation and is famous for it’s anti-inflammatory properties. It instantly energizes and replenishes the skin creating a healthy glow. A beach-bag must-have.

GLOW-T AWARDS: Jergens Natural Glow Express

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BEST DRUGSTORE SELF-TANNER: Jergens Natural Glow Express

Jergens Natural Glow Express is a gradual self-tanning lotion that delivers hydration, dark color and leaves skin glowing. Even better… it is available at the drugstore.

Formulated with antioxidants, this thick lotion has the same consistency of a body butter. It is available in two shades: Fair to Medium and Medium to Tan. The Fair to Medium is much too light and develops a yellow-based tan. In just one to two applications, the Medium to Tan creates a natural-looking, dark tan. It leaves a nice sheen on the skin and reflects a healthy-glow.

This lotion has a slight “self-tanner” smell but nothing too evasive. It can be mixed with your favorite moisturizer to mask the scent and extend the life of the small 4 oz tube.  I have used this product for years and always bring a bottle when I travel. It is quick and easy and I never worry about streaks or stains.This gradual tanner will extend and preserve the life of your tan all summer long.

Read my post: Application Tips & Tricks

Summer Favorites: Blush

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In the summer, bright and vibrant shades of cheek color is a surefire way to look younger and healthy. Use these products to emphasize a tan, create a youthful flush or mimic a lit-from-within complexion.

Start by choosing the right shade for your skintone. To find your go-to blush shade, pinch your cheeks and then pick a color that mimics your natural flush. This trick will ensure that you’re choosing the most flattering color for your skin tone. If you have fair skin, try a cool pink. Medium skin looks great in vibrant apricot/peachy hues, and darker skin tones look radiant in fuchsia.

Cream blush is a great way to instantly look fresh and dewy. Although it’s staying powder is not the best, especially in higher temperatures, cream blush is a nice alternative for dry skin. To ensure staying power on oily skin, first prime the skin and then set with a powder blush or translucent powder. To apply cream blush, smile and lightly focus the blush onto the apples of your cheeks. Then blend softly back and up toward the hairline. If you apply too liberally, tone down heavy application by blotting the excess color with a clean makeup sponge. Or, use a sheer, luminizing powder to diffuse excess color. The blush then looks like it came from within the skin versus sitting on top of it.

FAVORITES:

Dior Rosy Glow Healthy Glow Awakening Blush: I am a sucker for these gimmicky products. However, this one is fantastic. The formula magically adjusts to your skin’s natural chemistry to create a universal shade. It produces an angelic pink glow that makes you look “lit-from-within.”

It Cosmetics Vitality Cheek Flush Powder Blush Stain in Peony: The most long-wearing powder blush I have tried. The waterproof formula mimics the lasting power and glow of a cheek stain with the easy application of a powder. Packed with anti-oxidants and anti aging properties, this blush gives new definition to a “healthy glow.”

Youngblood Crushed Mineral Blush in Rouge: These blushes are incredibly pigmented and easy to work with. They blend beautifully and last all-day. They feel lightweight on the skin and never settle into lines. A small amount goes a very long way, apply with a light hand for a sheer wash of color or add more for vibrant glowing skin.

Kevyn Aucoin The Pure Powder Glow in Myracle: Full Review HERE.

NARS Cream Blush in Cactus Flower: On trend for summer, this bright coral blush is beautiful on both the lips and cheeks. The velvety texture is extremely easy to blend and apply. Subtle gold shimmers hide in the coral to help create perfectly flushed, luminous skin.

BECCA Beach Tint in Guava: This is the perfect color for summertime. It resembles the act of playing in the sun a little too long. The water-resistant formula can be used on both the cheeks and lips. Produces the most natural-looking flush and smells like summer.

Urban Decay Afterglow Glide-On Cheek Tint in Quickie: A lightweight cream blush that does not pull or disrupt a base. It can be used on top of foundation, powder… anything. The formula is sheer but buildable. The staying power is not the best, but I am obsessed with this color. Quickie is a sheer bubble gum, electric, cotton candy pink. The minute it is applied, it creates instant youthfulness.

Summer Makeup Collections 2012

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Summer Makeup Collections are my absolute favorite. The bright colors and fun, free-spirited nature embody what the summer should resemble. The color-palette in these collections are always inspired by some exotic destination and being swept away to a beach with blue skies, hot sun, pristine white sands and tropical surroundings. The following six collections embrace summer with delightfully sunny shades, bronzed/sun-kissed skin and vibrant bursts of color.

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Summertime De Chanel 2012 is currently available online and at your local counters. Peter Philips, Creative Director of Chanel Makeup, replicates the natural glow of radiant, sunbathed skin. The collection includes two bronzers, an eyeshadow duo, eye crayons, lipsticks, lipglosses, and nail polishes (all limited edition). It is saturated with luminous bronze, gold and copper shades with a pop of coral perfection.

Must Have: Soleil Tan de Chanel & Rouge Coco Shine in En Vogue (bright coral)

Dive into summer with Yves Saint Laurent Summer Collection 2012. Available online and at department store counters May 2012, the collection features both limited edition and permanent collection items. The collection consists of universally flattering hues that aim to boost the radiance of the complexion and emphasize natural beauty.  The collection combines discrete nudes infused with subtle shimmer and pops of aqua blues.

Must Have: Mascara Volume Effets Faux Cils Waterproof in Majorelle Blue

Dior Summer 2012 Croisette Collection is a magnificent compilation of limited edition and permanent items available May 2012. La Croisette is French for Little Cross Drive, the name of a prominent street in Cannes that stretches along the shore of the Mediterranean Sea. This collection is inspired by a walk down the famous La Croisette, the colors of the seaside mixed with the glamour of the French Riviera. The Croisette Collection interlace tranquil aquatic shades with soft pastels and shimmering silvers.

Must Have: 1-Couleur Eye Gloss in Sunset & Tan

Guerlain + Emilio Pucci Terra Azzura Summer 2012 Collection is now available and is exclusive to Sephora and Nordstroms. Guerlain teams up with Italian fashion house, Emilio Pucci for a new color range that is inspired by “summertime on the Italian Riviera”. The collection features a bronzer/blush palette, an eyeshadow quad, a mascara, three lip glosses, two nail polishes, a blush brush and Guerlain’s famous powder pearls (Meteorites Perles d’Azur) packaged in and designed by Pucci.

Must Have: Meteorites Perles D’Azur

NARS 2012 Summer Collection is available now online and wherever NARS is sold. The collection features intensely pigmented earth inspired hues that are spiked with a bit of shimmer to illuminate the complexion and create a healthy glow. From icy peach to terracotta this collection is extremely chic and versatile.

Must Have: Liberté Blush

Thakoon for NARS Founder and creative director Francois Nars has partnered with fashion designer Thakoon Pachnigul to develop a limited edition nail polish collection inspired by Thakoon’s Spring 2012 collection shown at New York Fashion Week. The new polishes include 6 bright colors that were inspired by the spices found on Indian markets – bold, spicy and vibrant.

Must Have: Koliary Nail Polish  (cyan blue)

Set sail for summer with MAC Hey Sailor! Summer 2012 Collection. Available May 24 (North America), May 2012 (International) this entire collection is limited edition. Hey Sailor! is a nautical-inspired collection combining vintage pin-up looks with nautical/aquatic shades. Decked out with stylish sailor-striped packaging the collection features a fleet of eye shadows, lipsticks, lipglass, powder blushes, pigments, Powerpoint eye pencils, Pro Long Wear lip pencils, nail lacquers and a new mascara – Zoom Water Fast Lash. Also featured in the collection are a boat-load of bronzing powders, Pro Long Wear bronzing powders, High-Light powders, MAC to the Beach body oil, Suntints and a new face blender brush 167SH.

Must Have: Zoom Water Fast Lash Mascara

Glow-T’s Mineral Powder Foundation Awards

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Glow-T’s Mineral Powder Foundation Awards. 

Trust me, I have tried them all. I am a true fan of mineral powders for texture, coverage, finish and added benefits. To date, here are my picks:

BEST TEXTURE: Korres Wild Rose Mineral Foundation

This talc-free, loose powder foundation contains Korres signature Wild Rose Extract, a natural source of vitamin C that helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and skin discolorations. The texture is lightweight and feels like it allows the skin to breathe. It glides on the skin with a silky-smooth texture. The coverage is very sheer which makes this the perfect setting powder, for the brightening benefits and SPF 30.

BEST COVERAGE: Youngblood Natural Mineral Foundation

Originally developed with leading doctors and for use in a medical setting, Youngblood minerals are some of the finest available. The Natural Mineral Foundation is no joke. The ultra-fine powders provide the most full-coverage I have seen, yet still feels light on the skin. It produces a flawless, glowing complexion and covers any blemish or discoloration properly. Perfect for all skintypes, it is enriched with minerals that provide UVA/UVB protection and is completely free from talc, perfumes and chemical dyes.

BEST FINISH: Laura Mercier Mineral Powder SPF 15

This finely milled powder is composed completely of natural elements with 15 active amino acids. It helps to clear the skin of toxins, promote healthy skin-cell growth and fight the aging process. The real selling point is the amazing satin finish this product produces. It makes skin look incredibly youthful and luminous. While buffing this product into the skin, it almost feels like a cream and smooths over the skin effortlessly. The water-resistant powder is long-lasting and provides medium coverage and the shade selection is full of neutral tones that look natural on the skin.

BEST IN SHOW: PRIORI CoffeeBerry Perfecting Minerals

The All-In-One mineral powder foundation. Treat/Cover/Protect. The only mineral line that contains CoffeeBerry, a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals and the causes of aging skin. This foundation feels weightless on the skin. It contains light-diffusing minerals that reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles producing a smoother more perfected complexion. It not only evens-out skintone and redness, but treats the underlying causes. Recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation, this is the best choice for broad spectrum UV protection: SPF 25, UVA 10, PA+++. When I wear this foundation, I think of it more as skincare than makeup. It gives me the perfect coverage and glow, in which I even feel comfortable wearing it to the gym. This is my pick for a Mineral Powder Foundation, it is truly in a category of it’s own.

Tried & Tested: Urban Decay All Nighter

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Urban Decay All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray

Urban Decay All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray is a must-have product for people who need their makeup to last.

In an exclusive partnership with SKINDINÄVIA, the originator of the makeup setting spray, All Nighter promises to keep makeup fresh for 16 hours. Originally used on movie sets in Hollywood, so makeup artists would have fewer touchups through long days of filming, setting sprays prevent makeup from melting, creasing, sliding or caking.

But does it work?

A night of dancing with the girls proved this product’s legitimacy. At the end of my makeup routine, I had sprayed the super fine-mist on my face, about three sprays. The product felt nice on the skin and there was an immediate cooling/setting sensation. Fast-forward to end-of-night, after dancing for about 2-3 hours, makeup was still intact and I was left with a “healthy glow.”

All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray is allergy tested, dermatologist tested, vegan, cruelty free, and free of oil, parabens and fragrance.

If you are planning on getting married, going to prom or out-on-the-town – pull an All Nighter.