Blog Archives
Rockstar Bronzer: Kat Von D Everlasting Bronzer
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Kat Von D’s Everlasting Bronzer promises up to 24-hours of color and the rich pigment offers buildable, custom coverage for every skintone. This I had to try.
Available in two shades:
1. Shady Business 1: pearlized brown with gold shimmer
2. Shady Business 2: pearlized dark brown with gold shimmer
The fade-proof formula is smooth, velvety and blendable. It glides onto the cheeks effortlessly and provides a radiant glow.
The color is the real ‘hero‘ of this product. It leans more red-toned than orange, avoiding “oompaloompa face.” It has tiny gold sparkles that create a subtle glow, boosting the complexion and mimicking the rays of the sun.
Boasting 24-hour wear, the formula is absolutely long-wearing. It lasts an entire work day and remains true-to-color without oxidizing.
These bronzers are very comparable to NARS Laguna and NARS Casino. However, I find the Kat Von D version to add more warmth to the skin while NARS bronzers can look “muddy.”
Brush on sun-kissed radiance with Kat Von D Everlasting Bronzer.
Hair Healer: Living Proof Restore Targeted Repair Cream
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Living Proof was created with a simple ambition – challenge conventional wisdom to solve the toughest beauty problems. Made up of an alchemy of brilliant scientists and industry veterans, Living Proof invent and patent new molecules that change how the hair behaves.
Living Proof Restore Targeted Repair Cream is a moisture-rich cream that can be used on both wet and dry hair. Formulated with OFPMA, a patented molecule that creates an exquisitely thin, weightless shield around each hair strand. This shield repairs damaged cuticles and protects from further damage and breakage so hair has time to heal. The Targeted Repair Cream replaces lost ceramides to restructure, strengthen and seal the protective outer layer of the hair, preventing up to 93% of new split ends.
The perfect cream to use on damp hair as a styling product and/or dry hair to smooth fly-aways while hydrating the hair. The Targeted Repair Cream instantly adds shine to the hair, smoothes cuticles and repairs split ends while providing all-day UV protection. Thus, creating silky, smooth and healthy-looking hair. This all-in-one product can replace your leave-in treatment, styling cream and finishing cream.
After using this product for two weeks, I can honestly say my hair looks and feels healthier. Transform dry or damaged hair back to it’s optimal health with Living Proof Restore Targeted Repair Cream.
Lash Topcoat: Anastasia Beverly Hills Lash Genius
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Waterproof when you want it to be. Anastasia Beverly Hills Lash Genius instantly waterproofs, refreshes, and protects any mascara all day, without the typical drying or clumping. It’s advanced, lightweight formula glides on smooth, dries quickly, and gives your lashes a glossy lacquer finish that lasts all day. Feel un-phased in the face of a downpour or smug at your best friend’s wedding, Lash Genius will protect you.
Lash Genius comes in a typical mascara-type tube with short, stiff bristles. The formula is a slightly milky-colored gel that feels a bit tacky to the touch. It applies beautifully with a slightly wet texture that instantly adds shine and gloss to the lashes. Lash Genius is fragrance, paraben, and cruelty free.
Never decide on which formula to purchase of your favorite mascara again. I never seem to buy waterproof mascara. The formula, on me, feels thicker and heavier and it is a pain to remove. Don’t get me wrong, Lash Genius is a pain to remove, however, it does the job of a waterproof formula (better) and lash lacquer – all-in-one. So… it’s worth it.
Silicone Savvy: Miracle Skin Transformer Treat & Conceal
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Erase and repair imperfections with Miracle Skin Transformer Treat & Conceal. The first-ever naturally derived silicone-based concealer is designed for use on both the under eye area and the face. It will CORRECT, COVER and PROTECT all of your skin’s concerns leaving you with a flawless complexion.
This multifunctional concealer is formulated with the brand’s signature MST complex – white rose and chamomile extracts to calm inflammation, vitamin K to reverse dark circles, and vitamin F to improve skin tone. It also has an additional laundry list of actives to correct all of your top skin concerns:
• Minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and crow’s feet
• Reduce the appearance of dark circles and puffiness for a brighter look
• Diminish the look of age spots, discolorations and sun damaged skin
• Firm and tone the look of skin in the eye area
• Cover and heal dark spots, blemishes and surface redness
• Smooth, even and easy application, may also be used as an eye shadow base
The silicone-rich formula is what makes this product stand out from the rest. The smooth, velvety texture glides over any imperfection and/or dryness without caking or flaking. It is truly groundbreaking for covering dry-patches and irritated skin/blemishes. When I use retinol products for the eye area, it can get a bit drying. This is the only under-eye concealer that does not accentuate the dryness and/or sink into the creases. All the while, treating and repairing the areas of concern.
ABOUT MIRACLE SKIN TRANSFORMER:
Sarah McNamara tapped into more than 15-years of experience in the corporate beauty world to bring us Miracle Skin Transformer. Miracle Skin Transformer creates the first-ever, one-step application products designed to instantly transform your skin. Developed with naturally-derived silicones, these formulations contain powerful protection and hydration benefits leaving you with a smooth, radiant, airbrushed finish… in seconds.
Over the course of her career, Sarah has repeatedly found that “consumers are choosing to buy less in order to buy better, reflecting a desire for products that possess greater meaning in their lives.” After years of launching multi-million dollar brands within corporations, Sarah is well aware of the industry’s marketing tactics encouraging women to purchase more products than they really need to.
Today’s beauty consumer is savvier than ever. They want products that fit their active lifestyles and their beauty regimes, which include visits to dermatologists and cosmetic spas.
In August of 2010, after one year of extensive research with leading chemists, Sarah launched Miracle Skin Transformer SPF 20 on http://www.miracleskintransformer.com. Partnering with major beauty magazines, deluxe-size samples were offered to consumers who signed up on the website in the months leading up to the launch. This sampling promotion gave the brand an instant database of consumers, over 350,000 signed up.
In addition to consumer research groups, social media has played a key role in building consumer relationships and validating the concept and formulation of the brand.
Sarah’s vision is to continually pioneer innovation in skincare products with all- natural, ethically-obtained ingredients. All Miracle Skin Transformer products use a naturally-derived silicone base made from sand, and contain the MST Complex – a unique blend of targeted high-performance natural active ingredients, free of petrochemicals, synthetic fragrances, parabens, and dyes.
Sarah positioned Miracle Skin Transformer as a prestige cosmetic brand via a successful online and national magazine PR campaign. It has been featured in The New York Times, Redbook, Brides, InStyle, Marie Claire, Shape, Star, W, People Style Watch, and other leading fashion and beauty magazines. It was also featured on the Dr. Oz Show as one of beauty’s “2 Minute Miracles” in November of 2010.
Miracle Skin Transformer currently sells at niche pharmacies and beauty stores nationwide, as well as at http://www.beauty.com. In August 2011, Sarah will unveil Miracle Skin Transformer Body, a body treatment that enhances the skin with color pigments, protects with SPF and natural silicone, and hydrates with vitamins and other plant extracts. Continued distribution in premium retailers and working with top departments across the country, as well as international distribution within next year.
A New Zealand native, Sarah McNamara has lived on 4 continents and held senior positions with Elizabeth Arden, L’Oreal, Unilever, Valentino, Fendi, and even Goldman Sachs. She currently lives in New York City, with her husband and 2 boys, Nicholas and Aidan. Sarah McNamara is available for speaking engagements at functions or events on topics such as “Starting a Business from Scratch” and “Building a Brand through Social Media”. Her achievements and recognitions speak for themselves and make Sarah a great choice as a motivational speaker.
Second Skin: Giorgio Armani Maestro Fusion Makeup
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After 8 years of research, Giorgio Armani has produced a new face-makeup category. Touted as a “complexion perfector” or “complexion enhancer,” Giorgio Armani Maestro Fusion Makeup was created to fulfill the seemingly impossible duality of transparency and coverage.
Armani says that traditional foundations are usually emulsions containing water in oil with fillers; according to cosmetics experts, those fillers can produce a visible masking effect. Maestro Fusion Makeup is created with patented Fusion Technology, consisting of ultra-fine oil-pigments that “fuse” to the skin, blurring imperfections with a no-makeup feel.
Giorgio Armani Maestro Fusion Makeup, was created with five distinct principles:
1. A water and powder-free base
2. Totally non-comodogenic
3. Five time-released oils evaporating gradually
4. Smart pigment technology
5. An easy, fast, fresh and flawless application
The product is dispensed through a dropper and has a very runny consistency. It feels extremely smooth and weightless on the skin. If you have ever used a dry oil, this is the feeling it resembles. The result is a light, whisper-thin formula that gently moisturizes the skin. The shades blend equisitly into the skin and might be the answer to those suffering with color-matching. The finish is extremely natural with a bit of luminosity that lasts all day.
Available in 12 shades, Giorgio Armani Maestro Fusion Makeup is a new generation of foundation. A “revolutionary complexion perfector” that looks and feels like second skin.
Tried & Tested: Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF 35
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The newest BB Cream to hit our counters is Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF 35. Exclusive to Nordstroms, the formula combines moisturizer, skincare, foundation and SPF into one.
Features & Benefits: Water-attracting molecules boost hydration. Light-reflecting pearls brighten dull skin. Botanical extracts and caffeine reduce discoloration and redness. Pore-reducing peptides minimize fine lines. Broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection and antioxidants fend off future damage.
Bobbi Brown’s BB Cream SPF 35 is available in five shades: Extra Light, Fair, Light, Medium and Medium to Dark. I was certainly intrigued by this, due to the fact that Bobbi Brown Cosmetics are primarily yellow-based shades. Many BB Cream (especially asian brands) are based on cooler-tones, such as pinks and greys.
As I sampled the different shades, I was persuaded by a sweet Bobbi Brown representative to try the darkest shade, Medium to Dark. This shade looks quite dark, almost bronzer-like. But, I took her advice and purchased.
APPLICATION: Smooth and easy to apply. Goes on quite dry, but feels nice and extremely light on the skin. (Unless you have very oily skin, a moisturizer is needed in addition to this BB Cream.)
COVERAGE: Sheer.
FINISH: Skin appears matte with a subtle sheen. Very healthy-looking. However, like most BB Creams, after a couple hours the oils will come-out and skin will look too glowing. A finishing powder is recommended.
COLOR: Initial application, the color appeared too dark. Let dry and after a couple minutes, the color adapts to the skin and the color is perfect. It might be a smidgen too dark – but I am loving the subtle-tan look for summer.
VERDICT: Like many of the US BB Creams, this is much like a tinted moisturizer. But, I love the finish it leaves on the skin and the feeling is remarkably lightweight. For a high-SPF product, this cream wears like you have nothing on. The shade choices are great and warm-up the complexion beautifully. Leaves skin looking fresh and healthy. A great option for the summer months – SPF, lightweight, easy.
(When testing these BB Creams, before deciding on a shade, I suggest waiting at least 5 minutes for the color to oxidize and adapt to your skin tone.)
For other BB Cream reviews:
Neutral Duo: NARS Kalahari
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NARS Eyeshadow Duos are long-wearing and crease-resistant. They are beautifully pigmented and creamy to the touch. The Duos are available in a myriad of colors and textures and are always interestingly and uniquely paired.
While scouring NARS Eyeshadows, it is easy to focus primarily on the unusual bright colors. The neutral duos have a hard time competing. NARS Eyeshadow Duo in Kalahari is a great neutral option. It contains two very wearable color combinations, a shimmering bronze with peach undertones and a warm brown with taupe undertones.
Kalahari is available in NARS’ permanent collection. Worn together or alone, these shades are richly pigmented and can be applied sheer or built-up for a more dramatic effect. Used wet, these shadows also double as eyeliners.
Kalahari will flatter any eye color. The warm tones look amazing on dark and light skin tone and will reflect beautifully in the summer sun.
Sun-Kissed Favorites: Bronzing Powders
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Bronzing Powders. The most purchased item in my collection. Used to create the illusion of sun-kissed skin without lying in the sun. Not only are they easy to apply, but they conceal, even-out skintone and create a more toned/sculpted appearance.
Bronzing powders should be placed strategically on the areas that would be naturally “kissed” by the sun: the forehead, bridge of nose, tops of cheeks, and chin. Take what’s left on the brush and blend onto the neck and décolleté so there is no line of demarcation. Bronzer should be transluscent. The brush that you use will make a big difference in your application: denser, shorter hairs will pick up more pigment than looser, longer hairs. (Favorite: Bobby Brown Bronzer Brush).
Over-applying or picking the wrong shade will result in looking like Snookie. Everyone can wear bronzer, fair or dark skin, it’s just about knowing which shade works best for you. When picking out a bronzer, go about two shades deeper than your natural coloring, or choose a shade that is close to the color your skin naturally turns in the sun. Stay away from products that are frosted or have orange undertones, they will look artificial.
Matte and semi-matte bronzers ONLY! Matte bronzers look more natural than glitter or frosted products. Especially for contouring purposes, matte products are a must. (How-To Contour: Here) A small about of sheen/glow is okay, however, apply with a light hand. If you want the shimmer or highlight, add separately with a highlighting product.
FAVORITES:
Disclosure: I am constantly changing bronzers, daily. I have yet to find the “holy grail”, but will continue to search high and low. The favorites I have chosen are the products I reach for the most and believe to be universally flattering.
Laura Geller Bronze-n-Brighten: This is a great product for correction purposes. The multi-colored, baked layers provide redness relief and an even skintone. The “bronzing” layers add a lasting glow to the skin.
Bobby Brown Bronzing Powder: The universal bronzer. Available in seven shades for a wide range of complexions, this bronzer will suit anyone. The long-lasting formula is extremely smooth and silky and applies seamlessly.
Guerlain ‘Terracotta-Four Seasons’ Bronzer: Guerlain is considered to be the “ultimate bronzing authority”. With many great products to choose from, the Terracotta-Four Seasons can be used all year long. The idea is to blend the four colors together in different variations to reach your desired color for every season.
Bare Escentuals bareMinerals Faux Tan & Warmth All-Over Face Color: Both of these powders are my most reached for bronzers. Quick and easy, these bronzing powders bring “life” to the skin. Use separately to create healthy-looking skin in seconds. Mix them together for a radiant “sun-goddess” look.
Chanel Soleil Tan De Chanel Moisturizing Bronzing Powder: When my skin is looking a bit dull or flat, this is the bronzer I use. It produces a nice glow on the skin and the color is very subtle. This is the most natural looking bronzing powder I have used.
Honorable Mentions:
NARS Laguna: I have a love/hate relationship with this bronzer. Sometimes it looks amazing and other times it just looks dirty.
Too Faced Caribbean in a Compact in Sun Bunny: Great color, too much shimmer. This is a great product to use on chest/legs and décolleté.
QUESTION?
What are your favorite bronzing powders?
Primetime: NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base
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Prevent smudging, creasing and caking with NARS Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base. This lightweight primer keeps eyes looking fresh and “just-applied” all day.
Fortified with deep-sea and antioxidant rice extracts, the Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base dries on contact and keeps the delicate eyelid smooth and prepared for color application. The formula is a transparent white cream that instantly creates a matte-effect on the eyelid (great for oily eyelids). This primer maximizes color for intense pigmentation and prevents fading and migration.
TIP: Having difficulties with under-eye concealer – vanishing/enhancing fine lines? Dab a thin layer of eyeshadow primer to the under-eye area before concealer application. The primer will fill in fine lines and keep the under-eye area looking fresh.
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.
Holy Grail: L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil
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Say good-bye to itchy skin and razor burn with L’Occitane’s Almond Shower Oil. This ultra-nourishing body wash gently cleanses while doubling as a moisturizing shaving foam.
When mixed with water, L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil transforms from a soothing oil into lavish foam. The unique texture leaves a satin-like softness all over the body keeping moisture locked into the skin. Rich in almond oil, grape vine, rosemary and nourishing lipids, L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil is suitable for both men and women.
This shower oil is unique and like nothing I have ever tried. It is by far better than any shaving cream/gel available. A pea-sized amount is enough to use on the entire leg. It permits the closest shave possible and keeps skin soft and hydrated. It cleanses the skin without stripping it dry and the sweet almond scent will blanket the entire bathroom. L’Occitane Almond Shower Oil has graduated to my Holy Grail list of products.
Magic Wand: BY TERRY Touche Veloutée
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Highlighting click pens are gaining more and more popularity. A hybrid of a concealer and illuminator, these products promise to create eight hours of sleep and bring instant radiance to the skin. The #1 seller in this particular category has always been YSL Touche Eclat.
Terry De Gunzberg, former Director of Makeup Creation at YSL, has her own cosmetics line, BY TERRY. In her years at YSL, she was the mastermind behind YSL’s international best seller Touche Eclat. However, De Gunzburg’s very own take on her wonder product, Touche Veloutée, is even better than the original.
Using soft focus pigments, Touche Veloutée is a nourishing botanical affair that both plumps and lifts the under eye. It’s light reflecting particles create true radiance and an instant pick-me-up. Suitable for use on all areas of the face, the texture is luxuriously creamy, smooth when dried, and completely seamless to blend.
*** Do not buy these products for concealer purposes. The coverage is extremely sheer – if there at all. Use primarily as a highlighter.
Terry De Gunzberg
“By focusing on the rarest pigments and the purest active ingredients, I have uncovered the quintessence of perfect light. This has allowed me to create modern, precious makeup that harmonizes with the daily rhythms of your natural radiance. Favorite Tip: When you’ve finished doing your eye makeup, use the Touche Veloutée as a highlighter. This works especially well with the smoky eye look. Put a tiny dot under your brows and blend – it will help accentuate the brow bone.”
Holy Grail: Urban Decay 24/7 Eye Pencil in Perversion
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Urban Decay 24/7 Eye Pencils are some of my favorite. They are creamy, intensely pigmented and have amazing staying power.
Perversion eye pencil was released as a limited-edition shade, but is now part of Urban Decay’s permanent collection. It is the richest and darkest black eye pencil, I have ever seen. With just one stroke, the matte black shade glides on smoothly and effortlessly.
The waterproof eyeliners are great for lining the waterline. My eyes are very sensitive to this technique and I rarely partake. However, the 24/7 eyeliners do not irritate my eyes as much as others. I think this is due to the fact that I only need one or two strokes of the pencil. The incredibly pigmented formula does all the work for me.
If you are looking for one black eyeliner that does it all, Perversion is it.
Holy Grail: Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill Mascara
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Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill Mascara is currently the best mascara I have ever used. Coming from a lunatic that has tested every imaginable mascara, this says a lot. As seen in Glow-T’s Best of 2011 post – I wanted to wait until I thoroughly tested this product to give an honest review.
Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill Mascara is all of your favorite lengthening/separating/volumizing mascaras rolled into one. The formula is smooth, weightless and incredibly pigmented. One coat is all that is needed for full/thick lashes, however, the build-able formula is capable of overly dramatic lashes without clumping (statement based on two thick coats). The wand’s handle is weighted, giving support for easy application. The brush is nothing special and on the larger size, but delivers intensely thick, black lashes.
The only criticism I have is the price. A $30 dollar mascara is hard to swallow with so many cheaper products on the market. In consideration, I purchased this mascara in the beginning of November and it is still going strong; no traces of dryness or emptiness.
Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill Mascara is currently on my holy grail list. At this point, you would think I would never need to acknowledge another mascara again… You would think…
Holy Grail: Kiehl’s Creme de Corps
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Kiehls Creme de Corps
Kiehl’s was founded as an old-world apothecary in New York’s East Village over 150 years ago. Their products are made with the finest ingredients in unique formulations to assure high quality skincare products. Currently a subsidiary of French cosmetics giant L’Oreal, Kiehl’s can be found in department and flagship stores worldwide.
Creme de Corps body lotion is the brand’s best-selling product. Kiehl’s produces over 1,000,000 ounces of Creme de Corps each year. Used incessantly on models backstage to create glowing skin, this body lotion leaves skin soft, smooth and beautifully moisturized. The ultra-rich formula glides on seamlessly and absorbs quickly, leaving skin soft – not greasy. The unscented body lotion is formulated with rich butters, oils and beta carotene to provide all-day hydration.
By far, the best body lotion I have ever used. No matter how many products I try and test, Kiehl’s Creme de Corps is what I reach for the most.
Tip: Purchase Kiehl’s products at flagship stores, if possible. These stores are known for their generous sample supply. Don’t be afraid to ask.
Bronzing Oil: Terracotta Huile De Voyageur
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Terracotta Huile De Voyageur
Summer is all about healthy-looking skin. The quickest way to fake this is with Terracotta Hulle De Voyageur Nourishing Dry Oil. This luxurious bronzing oil hydrates the skin and imparts a short-term glow.
The non-greasy, fast-absorbing formula is made primarily of Argan oil to hydrate the skin. Tiny specks of gold and mother-of-pearl provide subtle color and shimmer. Skin is left nourished, smooth and luminous.
The scent is a hypnotic blend of Tiare flower that perfumes the skin of jasmine. It smells rich and exotic, coating the skin for hours.
Guerlain’s Terracotta line uses a Tan Booster technology that prolongs a tan. It also uses Roucou, a reddish-brown vegetable pigment that has been used throughout the ages to intensify color day after day.
This is a great quick-fix bronzing oil, as it washes off with simple soap and water. Tip: Let the product dry completely, as some color will transfer.
Healthy Hair: Shu Uemura Moisture Velvet
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Shu Uemura Moisture Velvet Treatment
External elements of summer render hair dry and damaged. To avoid this try using a deep conditioning treatment weekly to rebalance the moisture of dry hair.
Shu Uemura Art of Hair is one of the best haircare lines out there. Inspired by the Japanese tea ceremony, the Art of Hair beauty ceremony delivers a highly precise and uniquely customized treatment, targeting problem areas. The products feel extremely luxurious and indulgent. After just one use, you will see a significant difference in your hair’s texture and health.
Shu Uemura Moisture Velvet Nourishing Treatment for Dry Hair is a deep conditioning mask that creates smooth velvety hair texture. Hair feels soft and smooth and split ends are noticeably sealed. Instantly, hair feels more healthy, vibrant and shiny.
Liner Longevity: Stila Smudge Stick
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Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Liner
If you are looking for eye liner with staying-power, look no further. Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liners are long-lasting, waterproof and do not budge.
Available in eight shades, these eyeliners are vibrantly pigmented and easy to apply. The texture is creamy and smooth as they glide onto the lids. The colors are intense and vivacious, with some that contain shimmer – others matte.
At IMATS (International Makeup Artists Tradeshow) this weekend, I swatched every color on my hand. Throughout the day, after testing other products and wiping them off, these eyeliners survived. Driving home (picture), the Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liners edured the entire day.
French Favorite: Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè
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Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè
Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè is a versatile moisturizer found in almost every makeup artist’s bag-of-tricks. This cult favorite is used not only to moisturize the skin but as a makeup primer and remover.
Initially found only in parisian pharmacies, Embryolisse is now available stateside. The French skincare brand was formulated by physicians with the philosophy to create products with the fewest ingredients possible, to avoid sensitizing the skin.
Also known as the 24-hour miracle cream, this luxurious moisturizer is packed with essential fatty acids and vitamins. It calms, plumps, soothes and softens the skin creating a smooth canvas. Suitable for all skin types, Embryolisse Lait-Crème Concentrè locks in moisture all day.
Fine Line: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
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Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
Gel-based eyeliners provide the look of liquid-liner but apply with the ease and control of a gel formula.
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliners are my pick in this category. They are extremely pliable, long-wearing, water-resistant and are available in an array of 14 beautiful colors.
This award-winning liner feels light and silky on the skin. The texture is smooth, slippery and glides on the eyelid gracefully. This liner lasts all day, no flaking and stays put.
Like most gel-liners, packaging comes in a pot-form. This product does not dry-out as fast as others and will last a very long time because only the tiniest amount is needed. Use with any brush that you are most comfortable with. I prefer Chanel’s Pinceau 13 ultra fine eyeliner brush, it provides ultimate control and accuracy.
This product is truly in a league-of-its-own and once you have tried this eyeliner, it will seem very hard to use anything else.
