GGF Secrets of the Week

1. Shampoo or a hypo-allergenic facial cleanser like Cetaphil (Normal to Oily) works great as a brush cleaner.
   
   
2. Rough brush? Give it a "conditioning treatment" using your hair conditioner. Hey, if it softens & tames your hair, why wouldn't it do the same for a make-up brush?
   
   
3. Stippling Brush = perfect blending. This brush is great for blending wet or dry make-up into the skin, giving a flawless natural finish. *Note: The firmer the brush, the more control you have when applying make-up*
   

HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!

Waterproof' em

In heat and humidity, waterproof is the best way to go for mascara and eyeliner. Waterproof cosmetic products do not smudge or "feather", even on oily eyelids. Applying a primer to your eyelids is also a great way to prevent unwanted eyeshadow creasing and eyeliner "feathering". While there are some great lid primers on the market, one tried and true way to give lids staying power is to apply foundation and powder to them.

We recommend using a waterproof formula mascara and eyeliner (especially during the summer months) for beautiful eyes that last all day.


We use Bobbi Brown's Long Wear Gel Eyeliner to perfect summer looks and keep blushing brides beautiful on their special day. It has excellent staying power against the teariest of eyes and hottest of days. Our favorite shades are "Espresso Ink", "Black Mauve Shimmer Ink", and "Jet Ink". Apparently Elle, In Style and Allure agree because they each gave this product an award.

Not sure about trying a gel? Try New York Color's N.Y.C. Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil. The company boasted that it is "...tear-proof, sweat-proof and swim-proof...perfect for an active lifestyle." We agree (though we took a client's word for it on the swim-proof part)! These pencils provide great long-lasting color. At a price that is under $5, this is also our "Recessionista Pick".

Credits: Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Inc., N.Y.C. New York Color (Coty US, LLC)

Lashtastic

No look is ever complete without mascara. We use the following to make natural lashes look so fab that everyone wonders if they are a really good set of "falsies":

Sephora's Professional Heated Lash Curler is an absolute must have! While there is something to be said for sticking to the "tried, trusted, and true", traditional lash curlers are traditional lash destroyers. Over time, many a pair of lashes have fallen victim to the snapping and tugging out that comes with using a traditional curler. Sephora's Professional Heated Lash Curler is battery operated (comes with one) and heats up within seconds. For best results, we let ours warm up for 1-2 minutes before using it.

We recommend curling lashes before applying mascara. While many Sales Associates and curler instructions say to do so after applying mascara, doing so creates a hard to clean mess between the grooves of the heated curler. We also do not curl them afterwards because, over time, it can be damaging to lashes. The same is true for curling post-mascara with a traditional curler. If you prefer to stick with a traditional curler, we recommend using the Kevyn Aucoin Eyelash Curler - lashes are safe with this curler because of its rounded rubber pad.


To further enhance lashes, we love to apply Shiseido The Makeup Mascara Base after curling them. This waterproof mascara primer not only conditions lashes, but enhances the effects of mascara (e.g., lengthens and thickens/volumizes) to the point it looks as if one is wearing false lashes. The only "negative" (if you can call it that) is it can be difficult to remove. We have no problems removing it with a waterproof makeup remover like Lancome's Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover.

If you don't want to curl your lashes, we recommend using a mascara that curls like Prescriptives' False Eyelashes Mascara. This mascara is truly the "total package" - it lenghtens, thickens, curls, and conditions lashes.

Our "Recessionista Pick" is any of the Max Factor, Maybelline, and Covergirl mascaras that lengthen and/or volumize lashes. We (and our clients) get great results from products in each of those cosmetic lines.

Credits: Sephora USA, Inc., Kevyn Aucoin Beauty, Shiseido Co., Ltd., Lancome-USA (L'Oreal USA S/D, Inc.), Prescriptives, Inc.

Just Blush

Yesterday we touched on adding a bit of blush to the apples of your cheeks to add a "pop" of color and give that natural "from within" glow. The best shades to use to get this effect are "Rose" (for Fair skin tones) and "Peachish Pink" and/or "Apricot" (for Medium to Darker Skin tones). This is especially true if you are going to forego any type of tinted shimmer or highlighter.

To achieve a natural glow, use a medium to large blush brush to sweep the blush across your cheeks. Starting at the apples, sweep (in one stroke) along your cheekbones. If you are afraid you might create the "80's Streak", try applying the blush in a soft circular motion instead. For added warmth, lightly sweep a little on your temples and chin. You can also apply two shades to get a more custom/ultra natural look.

When applying blush, its better to start off light. You can always add more to build the color. If you want to try applying two shades, you can do so one of two ways:

a) dip your brush in both blushes before applying, then apply more of each shade (or both shades at the same time); or

b) apply one shade followed by the other until you achieve the glow you are going for.

Blushes, like mascaras, are available in a wide range of price points. Some of the best ones can be found at your local drugstore, making it easy to play around and find the shade that is perfect for you.

Our personal faves are: Lancome Blush Subtil, NARS Blush, and Clinique Soft Pressed Powder Blusher. We like these blushes because they: are sheer yet true to color (the color on your face actually looks like the color in the compact); easy to apply (goes on like silk); and produce a long-lasting very natural glow. These blushes look great on all skin types and work well on all skin tones. Since they are sheer and go on very smoothly, it is easy to build color. The Clinique Soft Pressed Powder Blusher is especially good for those with oily skin because it actually helps control shine. This is also a great blush for those with sensitive skin.

Our "Recessionista Pick" is J.A.N.E. Blushing Cheeks. As with its high-end rivals, it is long-lasting, easy to apply, and gives a natural look.

Credits: NARS Cosmetics, Inc., Lancome-USA (L'Oreal USA S/D, Inc.), Clinique Laboratories, LLC, JANE Cosmetics (Jane & Company LLC)

After Glow

Ok get your minds out of the gutter *smiles*...we are talking about rounding out your fresh faced summer look with a "Living My Life Like It's Golden" glow. The best way to achieve (and maintain) that natural inner radiance look is to apply the same shade on your eyes, cheeks, and lips.

We like to use a sheer shimmer like Bobbi Brown's Shimmer Brick Compact (in "Bronze") on eyes and cheeks, and compliment it with a sheer shimmer lip gloss like "Rose Sugar". The Shimmer Brick's subtleness in color and shimmer perfectly highlights the brow bone; makes eyes "POP" when dusted around the inner corners of eyes; and accentuates cheekbones. To get that "from within" glow, we recommend applying rose or apricot colored blush to the apples of your cheeks.

While some of you may be cringing at the idea of putting blush on your eyes and lips, just remember, THERE ARE NO RULES IN MAKE-UP - BE ADVENTUROUS! Here are some other products we recommend using to get that "After Glow":

NARS out did themselves when they created The Multiple. We love it because it is easy to apply, multi-use, long-lasting, and gives great natural color....and did we say EASY TO APPLY? So much so that any make-up or beauty novice can apply it without looking like a "Clown School Drop-Out". We touched on the Blush and Bronzing Duo (which we also love) in yesterday's bronzer post, and were thrilled to see they now offer a Duo for The Multiple (The Multiple Duo).

So what exactly is The Multiple? It is a cream stick that gives a powder finish (a.k.a. "cream-to-powder") that can be applied to eyes, cheeks, and lips! Since it is cream-to-powder, you will definitely need to apply a sheer or clear gloss over lips to add shine and moisture. We do not recommend using The Multiple if you have oily skin or large pores. Despite giving a matte-powder finish, the cream tends to make large pores look bigger, and does not hold up well on oily skin. The Blush and Bronzing Duo, however, works well and looks great on all skin types.

Our "Recessionista Pick" is E.L.F.'s Shimmering Facial Whip. Aside from being fun and easy to use, E.L.F.'s Shimmering Facial Whip is good for all skin types. Available in a variety of colors ("Toasted" received the 2008 Allure Best of Beauty Editor's Choice Award), these little tubes are perfect for adding a hint of shimmer and glow to your eyes, cheeks, and lips. They can also be added to your lotion to get a little "body shimmer". Packed with Vitamins B, C, and E, this lightweight, non-greasy cream is long-lasting and buildable. Our only "Notes of Caution" for this product are:

a) it can give too much shimmer - so start off light and build as needed.
b) it looks better on Fair and Medium skin tones - the shimmer tended to be too much for Darker skin tones in spite of light/sparse application.
c) it has a sweet citrusy scent, but at $1 a pop, we can live with that!

Credits: Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Inc., NARS Cosmetics, Inc. Eyes.Lips.Face. (JA Cosmetics Corp.)

I'm Melting! I'm Melting! (Part 2)

Now that we've talked powder bronzers, lets talk tinted moisturizers. As with powder bronzers, tinted moisturizers provide sheer coverage - which sometimes disappoints those with acne or a good number of scars/blemishes. We recommend going the tinted moisturizer route for those who: have normal to dry or combination skin; do not need/want a product that provides medium to full coverage; and/or prefer a product that typically provides a more dewey finish.

To manage expectations (especially given the price of some of these products), we do not recommend these products for those who have a lot of scars, blemishes, or imperfections they wish to cover up because tinted moisturizers are designed to only give sheer coverage. Even if a sales person tells you it is "buildable", understand that it probably will not give you the medium to full coverage that a foundation or cream bronzer gives. Regardless of your skin type, we recommend you still use moisturizer before applying a tinted moisturizer. Just because "moisturizer" is in its name does not necessarily mean it is sufficiently hydrating - especially for those with dry skin. Also keep in mind that "Oil Free" does not mean "Oil Control"; so if you have oily skin, you will definitely need to apply a mattifying moisturizer. Here are our picks:



We see why Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20 was called a "Best Beauty Buy" by Allure and InStyle magazines, as well as other online blogs and consumer reports. Not only does it have the "good stuff" (e.g., SPF 20 and "...an antioxidant vitamin complex that acts as a free radical scavenger" to protect skin) it comes in a good variety of shades (especially for those with fairer skin tones), is long-lasting, and blends easily. This formula gives a dewy finish, but an "Oil Free" formula is also available for those with oily skin, or want a matte finish.



Next up is Bobbi Brown's SPF 15 Tinted Moisturizer - hey, we told you we were huge Bobbi fans. Aside from loving it for the SPF factor, we also love its "staying power" and the natural "glow" it seems to give skin. Like the Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer, it blends in easily and gives clients a very natural, even tone. This product is ideal for those with normal to dry skin.



For our "Recessionista Pick", we have to go with Wet n Wild again. Their Ultimate Sheer Tinted Moisturizer has SPF 15, gives a good matte finish, and surprisingly delivered on its claim to "adjust to...natural skin tone[s]". Available in four shades, we liked "Sun Kissed" the best on fairer skin clients who wanted that "sun kissed" glow. Unlike our other picks, this product is thicker in texture, resulting in a more medium finish.

Credits: Laura Mercier (Gurwitch Products, L.L.C.), Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Inc., Wet n Wild Beauty USA (Markwins Beauty Products, Inc.).

I'm Melting! I'm Melting!

Hi Gang! We sincerely apologize for the serious gap in posts. Unfortunately, we experienced some pesky technical issues but are back up and running. *whew*

Now that we covered skin care essentials for looking ultra fab, even in the heat and humidity, lets talk summer make-up. As you have probably read (and been told countless times before), "LESS IS MORE" when it comes to looking your summer best. For those of you who are addicted to your foundation be prepared to go into "Foundation Detox". Yes, this REALLY means it is officially time to "Step Awayyy from the Foundation!" Trust us, you will be glad you did (and your pores will too)!

While tanning is a good way to to cover your skin's imperfections, bronzers are a great way to "give good face" without looking cakey, or worse - as if your face is melting. Going the bronzer route also gives you the added perk of no sun damage or premature aging (another result of overexposure to the sun). So take our hand and "step into the LIGHT" - starting with bronzers:

NARS Bronzing Powder is perfect for creating a long lasting matte finish, infusing just the right amount of shimmer with a natural non-orangey bronze glow. This easy to apply powder also "[f]ills in lines and pores for smoother looking skin" and looks great on practically all skin tones. Not sure what blush shade to use for your summer look? Don't worry, they also make these in Blush/Bronzer Duos. As if this product wasn't perfect enough already, we also love that it seems to work well for those with sensitive skin. Some of our sensitive skin ladies raved about it not breaking them out.

For those who want a little more coverage from a powder bronzer, we recommend Sue Devitt's Triple-C Weed Loose Powder. Technically not a bronzer, it comes in a variety of shades that perfectly match just about all skin tones. To use it as a bronzer, we apply shades that are 1 to no more than 3 shades darker than a client's skin tone to create that perfect natural tan. Although silky in texture and matte in finish, this powder will not leave you looking as if you just saw a ghost, or give you a case of "Chalk Face". Like the NARS Bronzing Powder, Sue Devitt's Triple C-Weed Loose Powder will not settle into fine lines, is long-lasting, and was given a thumbs up by some of our sensitive skin ladies. In addition to minimizing shine, it also works well for those with normal to dry skin. This is largely due to the "[p]roven ingredient Nylon-12 [which] ensures long-lasting wearablity and prevents creasing and cracking, remaining completely layerable." We love that it also contains "[s]oothing ingredients" such as "a seaweed sequence that contains valuable minerals, nutrients and vitamins."

Last but not least, we recommend Wet n Wild's Bronzer Compacts (yes, you read correctly) for our fellow "Recessionistas" and anyone looking for a great multi-use budget beauty find. These compacts come in a range of colors for just about all skin tones. Still can't find the perfect shade, no worries, these also make for some great blush and shadow colors. At roughly $3, what's not to like?

Credits: NARS Cosmetics, Inc., Sue Devitt, Inc., Wet n Wild Beauty USA (Markwins Beauty Products, Inc.).

Oil Slick (Part 2)

Now that we have talked cleanser (and touched a bit on toner), let's talk about the all important moisturizer. While it may seem somewhat counterintuitive to moisturize, especially in hot humid weather or if you have oily skin, it is important and a vital part of keeping that dewy, youthful look we love.



Bobbi Brown's Oil Control Lotion with SPF 15 is a perfect "10" for those with oily, normal, or combination skin. Made with both Lavender and Seaweed Extract (respectively), this product helps reduce redness and irritation (Lavender Extract), and soothe skin while absorbing excess oil - giving a matte finish (Seaweed Extract). Lightweight, non-greasy, yet hydrating in formula, it keeps skin looking velvety smooth and relatively shine-free the entire day. Not only does it provide a matte finish without that "white" or "chalky" look most of its rivals have, it also helps give a smooth finish under foundation. We also love that it contains SPF 15. A "Note of Caution" for those who are "anti-fragrance"- it has a slight one, but nothing that we found offensive.

While it does not give a matte finish like the Bobbi Brown Oil Control Lotion with SPF 15, we love Aveeno's Ultra-Calming Daily Moisturizer SPF 15 because it is gentle, oil-free, and contains the skin soothing ingredient, Feverfew (Chamomile's cousin). Feverfew helps visibly reduce and manage redness, as well as soothe irritated skin. Like the Bobbi Brown Oil Control Lotion, we love that it contains SPF 15, and also caution that it does contain a light fragrance. Given its gentle formulation, we recommend this moisturizer for all skin types, including those with acne-prone skin.

Because "Green is the new Black", we can not leave Desert Essence's 100% Pure Certified Organic Jojoba Oil off of our list. Unlike synthetic oils, this "pure and natural plant extract" is quickly absorbed into your skin. The reason for this is its molecular structure. Plant derived oils share a molecular structure that is similar to our skin. Therefore, it can easily penetrate and moisturize your skin without an oily residue like synthetic oils (e.g., baby oil or Vaseline). Aside from being plant derived, we also love that this product is multi-purporse. It: helps cleanse and minimize pores; can be used to remove make-up; can be used all over your body; and can be used on your hair as a hot oil treatment, daily scalp moisturizer (a real treat for those with chemically treated/processed hair, dry scalp, or dandruff), and/or added to your conditioner for extra shine. With so many benefits, you are probably thinking this product is too good to be true - it isn't! We also hear from some of our clients with oily skin that it has significantly reduced oiliness. Our only "Note of Caution" is for those with acne-prone skin - you may experience a slight "ugly phase" (increase in whiteheads) upon initial use, but don't worry! Your skin will clear up and look better than ever!

Credits: Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Inc., Aveeno (Johnson & Johnson Consumer Companies, Inc.), Desert Essence.

Oil Slick

Summer is officially in full swing - and so is the humidity, thanks to the large amount of rain many of us have been experiencing! As a result, some of you have asked us to "dish" on ways to keep that "morning fresh" look when it is 80 degrees with 80% humidity. Step No. 1 to winning the war on oil (and dirt, exhaust, and heaven knows what else, especially if you live in a city like we do) is your cleanser. Your cleanser should deep clean without drying you out or robbing your skin of those all important natural oils it needs to look its best. Without those oils, your skin loses its soft and youthful look - which is NEVER a good look.

Here are some products that have brought us relief from the "Oil Slick" a/k/a our face on such days. In light of our "Recessionista" status, we love that one can be found at our local Target, Walmart, or drugstore for less than $15 (and with a "bonus gift" sometimes) :


Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser was the answer to our prayers - especially the "Normal to Oily" formula. Not only does it deep clean (the proof was in a relatively clean cotton ball post-toner), but leaves your skin feeling clean and residue-free without that dry/cracking feeling. In fact, it does such a good job, we have forgotten to apply moisturizer (*shhhhhh*) some days because our faces still felt "dewy" yet clean. If you have oily skin like we do, your skin will REALLY appreciate the fact that Cetaphil does not contain those "scrubbing beads" or other exfoliants that cause your already overactive sebaceous (oil) glands to act an even bigger fool.

For you acne suffers, we side with the other "Pros", "Celebs", and magazines out there who call Proactiv the "No. 1 Acne System" on the market. Quite frankly, the stuff works better than any others we have tried, and within days of using it. We also found it to be even more effective during the summer months when used with the Cetaphil Daily Facial Cleanser. Like Dawn, Cetaphil "cuts" the dirt, oil etc ... that Proactiv's cleanser seems unable to attack. When we use the two, we like to wash with Cetaphil first, then the Proactiv cleanser. The toner is great, as is the Repairing Lotion, although some with sensitive skin have complained of irritation. While we think this product is great overall, we do have a few things we do not like:

1) the "scrubbing beads" in the cleanser - see our earlier point in this post on overactive sebaceous glands.
2) the fact that your skin gets addicted to it (we call it "Face Crack") - if you skip a day (or a step for that matter) your face WILL let you know in the form of blemishes!
3) the fact that the 2.5% benzoyl peroxide can (and HAS in our case) bleached colored wash cloths!

Credits: Cetaphil (Galderma Laboratories, L.P.), Proactiv Solution (Guthy-Renker LLC)

The Eyes Have It!

Since this week seems to be all about eyes, we thought we'd post about eye creams everyone should have in their beauty arsenal. Here are our personal faves:



While we were HIGHLY disappointed by Chanel's decision to discontinue its Precision Age Delay eye cream (it reduced puffiness and those dreaded dark circles almost instantly), we found a suitable replacement in DDF's Erase Eye Gel - as far as puffiness and fine line/wrinkle reduction is concerned. In addition to noticeably reducing puffiness (almost instantly), we like that this product has good things for your skin like Hyaluronic Acid with yeast extract (provides lots of moisture and reduces fine lines); Horse Chestnut Extract (zaps puffiness within minutes); and Vitamin C (which we can never really have too much of).

It is no secret that we are HUGE fans of Bobbi Brown products, so it's no surprise that her Hydrating Eye Cream would make our list. This eye cream truly delivers on its claim to "minimiz[e] the look of fine, dry lines". Non-greasy in texture, it is very hydrating and quickly absorbs into the skin. This eye cream also has lots of good stuff in it like: Aloe Vera (calms); Vitamin A (renews and smoothes); and Avocado and Jojoba Oils (moisturizes/replenishes). Did we mention it is also "ultra-gentle" - making it perfect for those of you with sensitive skin.

Both products work well with make-up (e.g., provides good slip, non-greasy, quickly absorbs into the skin). Since nothing on the market truly gets rid of dark circles, we love how the Bobbi Brown Hydrating Eye Cream also acts a primer for concealer - leaving a near flawless finish after concealer (and/or Smashbox Photo Op) is applied.

Credits: DDF (The Procter & Gamble Company), Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Inc.

It's Raining Make-Up...

Never one to pass up a great deal, we thought we'd share that Eyes.Lips.Face. is getting a makeover and will now be under the Nordstrom brand. Below are the details sent to us from a loyal client - THANKS JOYCE!

"Nordstrom is changing the logo on their makeup, so they're selling everything for one dollar on line. The make-up line E.L.F. (eyes-lips-face) has been bought out by Nordstrom and will be re-packaged with the Nordstrom name on it. They are getting rid of the entire make up in the ELF packaging. They are selling everything for $1. You do have to pay shipping. They have everything powder,mascara, lipstick, a mineral line, brushes etc. The website is http://www.eyeslipsface.com/shop.asp

When you check out there is a space for a coupon code. Use * CAROLINA * and save an additional $7.50 if your order is over $15.00."

With a deal this great, there is no excuse for keeping that crusty and outdated make-up you know you need to toss! Happy Shopping!

Eye Candy

Suffer (or if you are like us, think you suffer) from dark circles under or around your eyes? Let us introduce you to your new "Best Friend" (and cosmetic bag staple):

Smashbox Photo Op Under Eye Brightener

Packed with lots of good stuff for your skin [e.g., vitamin E, peptides, and marine collagen (which helps repair and disguise pesky fine lines & wrinkles)], this little "miracle" will help make the skin under your eyes instantly look brighter and more "awake". Designed to be a primer for your concealer, you can wear this by itself (depending on your skin tone of course).

As some of you may have already discovered, concealer alone won't necessarily win your dark circles battle for you. For a battle victory, apply Photo Op under your eyes (and in the inner corners of your eyes and on your orbital bone for an even more youthful look), and blend it outward using your fingers or a concealer brush. Next apply concealer (no more than 1-2 shades lighter than your foundation shade) to this same area and VOILA! Score: 1 - Team You, 0 - Team Dark Circles!

We know, we know! You've tried everything so you are skeptical - but trust us! This gem didn't win the Self Magazine Beauty Award for Best Highlighter for nothing!

Credit: SMASHBOX Cosmetics

WELCOME!

Welcome to our new blog! 2009 is proving to be our year, with lots of new things on the horizon! Not only was B.F.F.: Beautiful.Flawless.Face. Make-Up Artistry (http://www.bffmakeupartist.com) born, but so was this blog and our new gig as a DC Beauty Examiner over at Examiner.com. Be sure to check us out!

We want to thank our loyal friends and family for the support over the years and hope you will share this blog, our website, and Examiner page with everyone you know.

Warmest thanks!

xoxo Beautiful.Flawless.Face. Make-Up Artistry

Its Bridal Season!

Bridal season is well upon us. With that said, the quest by every bride to look her absolute best has begun. Even if you aren't the bride but want to be "THAT GIRL" at that big wedding or upcoming event that "everyone" is attending here are some tips for "Giving Good Face":

Professional Make-Up Consultations:

Strongly encourage doing this 2-3 weeks prior to the wedding/event date. Not only should you meet the person who will be doing your make-up, but decide if this person is the right "fit" for you (e.g., Did you feel comfortable with his/her skills and ability; Did you feel he/she took your concerns into account; Did he/she answer your questions? etc...). If you are a bride, it is also a good idea to try to do the consultation on the same day as your trial hair run (schedule permitting of course). Seeing it "all in advance" helps some brides feel more at ease about their total look for the day.

Waxing:

Highly recommend doing this at least 2 days prior to wedding date. Your skin needs time to heal (wouldn't you?) and prevents possible breakouts. It also prevents any difficulty with make-up staying in place.

Facials:

Recommend doing these (especially if extractions are involved) at least 1 week before the wedding date (minimum of 2 days before wedding date - again give your skin time to heal, minimize any breakouts etc...)

Dry (especially extremely dry) and Acne-Prone Skin:

Recommend a series of facials in advance of the wedding/event day (3 to 6 months in advance depending on how dry your skin is). The same is true for those with acne-prone skin. Additionally, you should consult with your Dermatologist. He/She will also be able to zap any unwanted "zits" that may appear days before your big day with a shot of cortizone. Unfortunately, there is no trick for masking dry or acne-prone skin, so getting a series of facials is very key to achieving that "Beautiful.Flawless.Face." we all desire!