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!