Lancôme BI-FACIL Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover

Silly ME! Someone left me a comment on what I would recommend as a EYE Makeup Remover...somehow I was able to erase the comment...not on purpose! I wanted to publish it...but then hey! it just was not there anymore :(

I started using makeup...at the age of 16...that was sometimes ago. Anyhow I have tried many different eye makeup removers over the years, some that were supposed to be best sellers, some that were less known, but in the end I always went back to my favorite one...Lancôme BI-FACIL Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover!
I have to say that the formula has changed over the years, but this one is the best one yet.

Because of my long hours at work and life, I use CG Exact Eyelights mascaras and MAC Powerpoint EYE Pencil there alone would give anyone a headache to remove, with Lancôme BI-FACIL Double-Action removing even the most stubborn eye makeup job is a piece of cake.

So what do you need to know:

• The formula activates when shaken gently.
• It remover waterproof eye makeup.
• Ideal for sensitive skin and contact lens wearers.
• Leaves eyes feeling cool and relaxed, with no oily residue.
• Removes make-up, while moisturizing the eye area.
• Does not dry out the sensitive skin around the eyes.

How to use it:

• Well I pour a small amount on a cotton ball/square and hold it onto the eye for a couple of seconds, then wipe clean.

Or...

• I wet my eyes with warm water, dab the solution with my finger all over eyelid and eyelashes, dampen a washcloth with warm water and wipe it all away!

So there...My EYE makeup Removing secret is out!

Nibbles,

Smooth lips with Emulsion

EMULSION LIP EXFOLIANT

Things I hate...
dry cracked lips...
Not only they are painful they look awful under lipstick...and not really nice to kiss.
So Solutions solutions...Exfoliate and Keep Moisturize!

So here is one secret...apply Smashbox Exfoliant to clean lips and rub with finger until desired smoothness is achieved, then wipe clean with a tissue. Leave on for 5-10 minutes for extra conditioning. Follow with lip treatment moisturizer (or Chap Stick, or lip balm, or lip lotion preferably with SPF 15 or higher) to protect and heal lips throughout the day.

My lips are always cracking, and worst since I started the process of using invisalign braces (yeah I am vain and wanted my teeth straight) so EMULSION is the perfect solution for me! This is a sugar-based, peppermint-infused lip exfoliant that is packed with vitamins and soothing conditioners to smooth and soften lips, pretty smelling too. Poppy seeds and sugar granules gently exfoliate while cocoa and shea butter, grape seed extract and jojoba deeply nourish. Lips instantly feel soft and kissable!

This is my next best friend after my 100% Natural Botanical Medley Chap Stick!!

Nibble,

MAC Give Me Liberty of London Collection

MAC, over the years, has made interesting and unique collaborations, some of the more recent ones with Dame Edna, Hello Kitty and even Cyndi Lauper and Lady Gaga. I have to say that I am not a “I only use MAC” or “I hate MAC” or “MAC Addict” or whatever else you will find out there, I like the packaging, I like the colors, I definitively like the brushes, but like every cosmetic companies they have their weak point and their strong points…now will I own a piece of Liberty? Absolutely!

MAC Give Me Liberty of London Collection and will be released in the U.S. on March 11, 2010 and in the rest of the world in April 2010.

“The very latest in a series of famous M·A·C collaborations, it was only a matter of time before the demure-to-daring kaleidoscopic prints of Liberty of London coloured our world with Brit wit and bohemian chic. From the unstudied, Sienna Miller style of Spitalfields Market to the grit-and-glamour of Portobello Road, the swinging London girl has always been an unstoppable M·A·C makeup force! Spring 2010 insists on the ultimate flower fusion, with M·A·C joining forces with Liberty, creating cool Britannia compacts and Lipsticks, Eye Shadows, Powder, Blush, Nail Lacquers and, of course – blushing, bountiful, quite British accessories.” As so beautifully stated by Addicted to Lipstick

Like every collection MAC Give Me Liberty of London comes with a special treat:
Liberty of London Scarf ($95.00 U.S. / $115.00 CDN)
"A limited-edition scarf designed with an exclusively created floral pattern for the Give Me Liberty of London collection. Rows of coral, orange, yellow and blue flowers form a repeating pattern on a white background. The fabric is a soft wool/viscose blend. Made in Italy. Measures 27″ x 82″."

So ladies Prepare 1 days to go!

Nibbles

A must have: PHOTO FINISH FOUNDATION PRIMER

There are primers and there are primers.

I accidentally discovered The Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer during one of Sephora's promotions (one of those in store promo where as a member you spend a "certain" amount of money and you get a free gift...) well I got this primer, and I was forever in Love!!

In my mind this is best primer out there, of course if there is something else please let me know... but I doubt it, so far I have tried several and Smashbox has always come up on top.

PHOTO FINISH FOUNDATION PRIMER creates a perfect canvas for any type of foundation application with this silky, lightweight blend of vitamins A & E, grape seed extract and green tea.

This miracle primer helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores for flawless skin with a velvety-smooth finish.

How to wear it:

1. Alone with a light brush of powder, for a natural even look

2. Under foundation to increase its longevity

3. On Hair to tame frizzies

So there...I use is for all my work, sometimes I use the "light" version depending on the skin quality of my client/model/person/chihuahua.

Nibbles,

Makeup Forgever Glitters

Holidays are pretty much here!!Thanksgiving is over we just have 3 weeks left…or so to buy presents for others…and ourselves!! So little time and so much to do!!! Christmas and New Year are the Sparkly and Glittery Holidays! So I decided to treat myself with one of the best out there!!! Christmas would not be Christmas without glitter!

In my search I found Glitter by MUFE (Makeup Forever)... these are lightweight, fine particles of bright light that add glamour to any type/styles of makeup! And can be used on the face and body...they are also super safe to use on Children (Please use discretion on this...I would not use it on anyone under 8)

How to use it…Or here is how I use it…
On lips: Sprinkle onto lip gloss in the evening to emphasize lip volume, give it an extra humph!
On Body and Hair: To make glitter adhere to the body or hair, first spray these areas with water, then place a small amount glitter in the palm of your hand and gently blow onto the dampened areas, for a pro sprinkling it like salt would work best…last thing you want to do is blow on a model/bride/client…on the body lotion can also be used...apply lotion and than sprinkle glitter on still moist skin.
On Eyes: I tried it several ways…
1. Just simply apply on eyelid this gave me a very light look.
2. Using a wet brush…I dampen my lids and then applied the glitter, this gave me a better and longer lasting look, with more color.
3. The application I liked the best is the one where I applied the Mac Crème or Urban Decay Primer under it … this was FABULOUS!!! The Base gave the glitter enough moisture to stay on all night.
4. I dab some onto a mascara brush post-dipping and spread it over my lashes

Keep in mind:
Clearly, this is a loose glitter with no adhesive therefore I'd suggest applying some before putting this on.
A little bit goes a long way.
Glitter is still relatively easy to take off with just soap and water.

On a warning note:

I overheard that this Glitter is pretty much like the glitter you buy from an arts and craft store...
Well here is my say in the matter….
Craft glitter is not the same as cosmetic glitter!!!
It can be extremely damaging to the body if used instead of products that are face and body approved.

Research has found cases of severe eye and skin irritation from non-cosmetic grade glitter due to the glitter penetrating the skin or scratching the surface of the eye. In most cases the Craft Glitter is made from cheap metal, and is meant to be used on inanimate objects!

And for those of you that care for photographs...Craft Glitter photographs terribly since it reflects too much light!!!

Nibbles

MAC Creme Color Base

So last Sunday I did pretty much the stupidest thing in the history of my makeup adventure...I feel so stupid I do not know why I am writing this...Anyhow!!! I forgot my Makeup KIT!!!

Ok...I did not forget the kit, I somehow grabbed the wrong suitcase (I use a small carry on suitcase to carry my kit), and did not realize that I grabbed the wrong one until I was at the location of the Shoot...the Wishard Studio in Fallbrooks CA...45 + miles away from my house!!!!

Lucky for me, John Wishard has been dabbling with makeup for the past several months and was able to accumulate enough items to put the some of best muas to shame!

So I was able to manage the shoot using 100% of John’s Kit!

Somewhere in the middle of the shoot (between the first look and the 2nd) John and Chrissy (our beautiful model) ask what items I missed the most from my kit....

Well John’s kit is fabulous but I did miss 2 things…
My High Definition Powder by Makeup Forever and my MAC Crème Color Base....

The Mac Crème Color Base if great
It is a bit tricky to use and some rules must be followed for the crème to look and feel good...
First you must know that this is a versatile and multi-purpose, Cream Color Base can be applied directly to bare skin, or layered over foundation, moisturizer, or powder.

It can be applied with a brush, sponge, or fingers…I prefer fingers especially on a cold day.

Color effects range from a light veil to highly dramatic, depending on method of application. It is fragrance-free and that makes it great for me since I have a very sensitive nose...The Crème color Base is unbelievably smooth and non-greasy. It's super easy to apply and blend and even though it’s a crème, it doesn't melt off or get oily through the day.

Applied on cheeks gives a shimmery natural glow and doesn't accentuate pores, it can be used as a highlighter or a blush.

As an eye shadow (and this is where it gets sticky) I use it as a base, meaning I apply eye shadow over it, this makes it more luminous and long lasting, and alone is a bit difficult to use since it can crease easily (unless you keep your eyes closed for 15 min and let it dry...ok not 15min... more like 5minbut you get the idea...it takes time).

I am not sure if I like this better than my Urban Decay Eye shadow Primer Potion…since that is also a great product…I should do more of a comparison…one day J
So to end this I have to say I have several different shades of the Crème Color Base, I am happy with it and I will continue to use it :)

Nibbles

Mehron's Paradise Makeup Detaiz

My new Addiction!!!!

Body Paint is one of my new addictions!! I have been preparing for a Gallery Show in January...where I will be hanging some of my body paint-canvas paining high breeds ... so I have been doing some research on some of the best body paint products out there...
My results well...there are sooo many but here is my new passion-addiction-time consumed doing stuff that others do not understand…Ok I got a few…like reading, paining, scribbling, sleeping, being overall lazy lol!!!

Detailz is one of the fantastic products in Mehron’s water base makeup line. Created to tickle the fancy of all makeup artists and body painters! Detaliz comes in a variety of colors, a convenient screw top, a build in applicator/brush and it washes off with soap and water! so no permanent mark...at least not on the body and face. It is a surprisingly flexible product that can be used as an every day eyeliner to fantastic and intricate body painting. Detailz liquid makeup can be used to create perfect dots, spots and fine lines, highly detailed and intricate patterns and unique artistic creations.


Easy to use and super flexible, this is a must for any body painter or Creative/Fantasy Makeup Artist.
I am slowly adding to my collections, started with the basic, black and white I now have gold, red, blue, yellow and purple…soon I will have them all!!! The can definitively add that extra touch in a designe and the tip is so fine that intricate and detailed work is a piece of cake to do!

Delailz can be purchased online at the Mehron’s website or if you live in San Diego, like I do, I suggest you stop by Gypsy Treasures in La Mesa. The have the best selection for Creative Makeup and Body Paint in San Diego County!!

Prize range form $4 to $8.50...cheaper than some most eyeliners out there!!

Ok got to go


Nibbles

CG Exact Eyelight Eyeshadow!

My new addiction is Cover Girl Exact Eyelights Eyeshadow

I found it at Target while shopping for a new mascara. The colors attracted me, even though there is not fancy packaging with rainbows and unicorns on it.

I love this thing! You can match it to your eye color (yeah I got brown that is why the link brings you the brown shades) you can wear all 4 colors, or just 3 or just 2, and in any combination. And in any way, I keep mixing it up to see what would look good, and so far I came up with 5 different styles I like.

It really does give you an extra bust of color, and shine, my hubby says that my eyes sparkles (yeah well I know… he should say that all the times...but he doesn't)!!!I have been playing with it for the past 2 weeks and still love it, thinking of including it in my pro kit (yeah I carry cover girl in my kit and even NY...so what???? I got all the fancies stuff too)

I use it alone or add a shadow primer under it, it works well either way, and I add the Exact Eyelight Mascara with it…the mascara has a small amount of sparkles in it!!

Nibbles!!!

Gossamer Loose Powder

The Gossamer Loose Powder by Kevyn Aucoin

The Gossamer Loose Powder is an incredibly light powder that doesn't cake or settle into lines at the end of the day. It provides a flawless texture to finish off any foundation. The texture is perfect and so is the translucent "color ".

Grossamer is very light and wearable, this product controlls shine without appearing too powdery, it essentially "sets" your look, this superfine powder acts as an invisible shield.

The Gossamer Loose Powder comes in 2 Types: Diasphanous and Radiant Diaphanous

Description: Set your look for long-lasting, fresh coverage.
• Incredibly fine, lightweight loose powder
• Packaged in a chic pot with application puff
• Ideal for setting your makeup for a fresh finish
• Controls excess oil for longer makeup wear
• Diaphanous is a very sheer, light shade for all skin tones
• Radiant Diaphanous is a warm, medium hue for most skin tones

Price: $62.00

Ingredients: Talc, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Polyethylene, Silica, Isopropyl Myristate, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Phenoxyethanol, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben, Isobutylparaben. May Contain: Iron Oxides (CI 77491/CI 77492/CI 77499), Chromium Oxide Greens (CI 77288).


Nibbles

T. LeClerc Loose Powder!!!

Loose powder…Ever wandered which is the perrrrrfect powder?One that is so amazingly fine and light based on pure rice starch providing a matte finish and visibly smoothing lines…

Well I have found the perfect powder!!! Ok I did not find it… my husband gave me a gift certificate at Alexander Perfumes & Cosmetics…and that is where I discovered T. LeClerc Loose Powder!

T. LeClerc Loose Powder has the properties to master light and hide flaws while enhancing the complexion, it can also protects against negative effects of the sun and is generally well-tolerated even by sensitive skin types!! I have become addicted to it!!! Over foundation or on a bright summer day…over lotion!I apply it with a velour puff or powder brush. The puff when I do not wear foundation and the brush with foundation. I add a tab bit more under the eyes so to cover little imperfections and give me an extra humph.

The powders come in a 35g hand-sealed silver metal tin, and 16 different shades. There are travel sizes (7g in travel sized tin) for some of the shades as well. It’s on the high end of the cost…$50, but I have purchased mine over a year ago and will, I still have 1/3 left… I also place a small amount in a smaller powder container for my travel kit/retouch kit, mostly travel since I rarely need to “power my nose” during the day. I do suggest to transfer the powder in a different container if you need to travel…unfortunately the metal tin the powder comes in looks very pretty but it’s a total pain in the butt!!!
Otherwise I love this thing!!!

Enjoy!

Nixie Silky Blush Illumination

Little Secret Ingredient…

In my kit there are several items I can not do without.
One of them is the Nixie Silky Blush: Illumination.

The Nixie Silky Blush comes in 2 consistencies, cream and powder, and a large color spectrum and two finishes, Shimmery and Matte. I personally prefer the powder, but the cream is good to. This Illuminating Blush has the perfect balance of soft coverage and luminous color. The powder delivers an easy and even application that looks natural and is long lasting.

I apply Nixie Silky Blush Illumination on the cheek bones and temples right above the usual blush line, or under the blush to give it a more luscious look.
Nixie Silky Blush comes in a convenient single container or in a small (3.5 grams) pan that can be added to a Nixie 6 Well Pro Palette.

NIXIE EYESHADOW!

One of my favorite Eyeshadows is the mineral eye shadow palette from Nixie
Pigmentation on these Eyeshadows is amazing. Long lasting, smooth texture with a light feel and in so many bight colors, that fade evenly but still maintain a nice amount for color at the end of the day (do not forget to remover your makeup at night otherwise you will find traces of eye shadow on you pillow case). The colors blend well with each other no smudging or creasing with or without primer.

They have a great palette system all the colors (blushes and shadows) are the same size so palettes are interchangable and easily replaces. The eyeshadow comes in a small (3.5 grams) pan that can be purchased at the Nixie Cosmetic Website. Shadows are available in 4 finishes (matte, matte/suede, suede and ultra-suede) and available in a variety of shades for $15 a piece.

Aqua Eyes Collection

Avoid Makeup Meltdown!!!

Santa Anna’s and summer are around the corner!!!!
The Sexiest season…well in San Diego its Sexy all the times, but there is always place for improvement!

There is nothing less sexy than smudged, dripping eyeliner or eye shadow that disappears under sweat. So during these times I would suggest a water proof eyeliner/eye shadow…

My favorite for summertime is the Makeup Forever Aqua Eyes Collection. Aqua Eyes is a two-in-one eye shadow and liner pencil that adheres to the eyelids and resists water even under the most extreme conditions, without running or fading

Pencils can be used together, alone, top, bottom, and in the inner lower lash. Its smooth texture effortlessly lines the eyes and, by smudging immediately after applying to the lid, it can double as a pigment-rich shadow.

Got to have it!!!

Sephora Makeup Setting Spritz

Summer is coming, and with that all the sweat, oils, and makeup sliding off your face.

The more makeup you put on, the more it will slide, clump up, and leave you looking shiny, greasy and well just a mess! Not a pretty sight, and even worst on your skin.

One of the trick I have learned is to keep a bottle of Sephora Makeup Setting Spritz in my purse, one in my kit and well I might get one to leave in my car. I use the spritz throughout the day or photoshoot to keep the makeup fresh and avoid over shine/ grease, it helps keep everything in place, and the makeup lasts longer…less touch ups!

A Must have if you spend lots of time outdoors or in non air-conditioned environments.

Till the next one J

MAC Liquidlast

For my Product Wednesday I decided to use some of the new stuff Ibumped into...

I am preparing for an underwater photoshoot!!!

One of those shoots where the model is completely submerged, and has to hold her breath and look wonderful all at the same time!!For this shoot I have picked MAC Liquidlast Eyeliner, as my eyeliner of choice.
This is one of those eyeliners that have 9 lives!!!
What is beautiful about Liquidlast: Is’ long lasting, no smudge, no flake, goes on smoothly, it does not sting, and it comes in 16 different shades.

It is the perfect eyeliner for individuals with extremely watery eyes, wedding, funeral, or if you plan to swim with eye makeup on.

Fabulous!

MUFE Hightlight & Contour Kit

MAKE UP FOR EVER

The Contouring Kit!!!

As far as I looked there is no better contouring kit out there...and believe me I have looked!

The Make Up For Ever Highlight & Contour Kits come in 4 different sets of tinted pressed powders to shape the face (or body) by contrasting light and shadow.

Each compact contains a dark shade in a unique color to successfully recreate the look of a natural shadow for that skin-tone and the lighter powder brightens, highlights and brings features forward without adding shimmer or gloss.

When subtle, believable sculpting is required, these dynamic duos transforms like no other.

It compact and travel ready format beats having to carry 3 different color powder, and the compact can easily fit in the touch up bag.

Got to have it!

MUFE Flash Palette!!

Make Up For Ever 12 Flash Color Case I know this looks more like something one would get at an Arts and Craft store...but believe me when I say this is no toy!!! OK you can have fun with it, use it everywhere and pretty much anywhere, but this is not a TOY....

Make Up For Ever 12 Flash Color Palette is a must/got to have/essential addition to any makeup kits!!! OK I know I have quite a few must have...but this is special!

What can one use it for:

Corrective, the creme color are super smooth and can be used to balance foundations and concealers.

Beauty/Fashion, beautiful vibrant colors that can easily blend among themselves for a smooth and flawless finish.

Creative/Special Effects, colors work great on skin...and latex!!

Any type of make-up can be achieved with this group of super pigmented cream colors that glide flawlessly over the skin, eyes, lips...anywhere!

The are no limits to what this magic palette can do or become! It's truly Magic!!

Nibbles

Ben Nye Lumier Cream Wheel

My Product Choice for this Week is....

Ben Nye Lumiere Cream Wheel!

I just recently bought the Lumiere Creme Wheel after a reccomendation from a fellow artist.

I am usually not big in Creme Makeup since the dry time can be long and creasing can happen if not applied properly.

Ben Nye Lumiere Cream Wheel has six bold, shimmering shades for sizzling beauty or fantasy accents. Add bold sizzle to glamour or fantasy design. Set these luminescent cremes with either Ice or Iced Gold Luxe Powder for a shimmering finish.

Lumier Shades are Aztec Gold, Azalea, Cosmic Blue, Royal Purple, Jade, Ice.

What I like about it...

It can be stacked; so the more layer the darker the color.

It's water proof...great for underwater shoots.

It's sweat proof....so you can go out dancing.

If set with powder it drys quickly and stays on forever...with a more matted look

With a Finish Seal it say on forever plus has a shimmery finish.

It can be used on eyelids, lips, cheeks, or anywhere else on the body.

It has enough pigment that can be also use just as an eyeliner!

So there! My new addition!

Now I just need to go and try it out on the job!

Cheers

HD Hight Dedinitnion Powder

This is, according to me, one of the best powders in the history of face powders!!!

So light, so fine, so wonderful and long lasting under the bright light of the studio light! A must have in every makeup kit, whether personal or professional J

What it does:
MAKE UP FOR EVER HD Micro finish Powder provides all you need for a glowing complexion. This 100% mineral silica powder softens the appearance of imperfections, sets foundation, and mattifies the skin without changing its natural contours. Its translucent powder matches any skin-tones. For those of us obsessed with contouring this is perfect since it will not change the color of the contour application. It’s super fine and goes on easily, a little bit goes a loooong way.

What else you need to know:
It's free of talc and parabens and can be used on even the most sensitive of skins, and being free of Talc means that it great to use for photography…no shine!

I have been using this powder for some time and I use it on 90% of my clients...the other 10% have perfect complexion or are too young to wear makeup!

What I find Amazing about the HD High Definition Powder:
1. can be used on any skin tone/color
2. It can be used on any skin types
3. Helps even out skin tones
4. It does not allow creasing
5. It removes even the most stubborn shine spot
6.It can be applied with a brush, sponge, napkin or Q-tip (for the difficult to reach areas!)
7. Less is more; a little bit goes a long way!
8. I only have to apply it once!


Hugs and Nibbles :)

ERA® FACE by Classified Cosmetics

Foundation in a can!!!
I have tried several aerosol foundations and I love ERA® FACE by Classified Cosmetics! Said to be “the first and only, internationally patented aerosol makeup foundation”!
ERA® FACE foundation has the incredible coverage and the “no makeup feel”, gives natural flawless feel and airbrush finish is Wear/water resistant, long lasting, easy to use, worth every cent, it’s oil-free and contains a nourishing vitamin and botanical base that’s ideal for all skin types
ERA® FACE comes in a spray bottle it can be applied directly on the face or by spraying a small amount on a sponge, it can be used all over the body, comes in 10 shades and includes disposable ERA® Cosmetic Puff & Head-wrap set.Note: Before using the foundation, make sure that blemishes and under eye circles are covered.