Finding the best foundation for your skin type

Let's be honest, who doesn't crave a flawless complexion? While good gene's will only get you so far, it's inevitable that at least once in awhile your skin may look a tad sallow, or a blemish will pop up. Foundation is a great way to even out your skin tone, while hiding blemishes and large pores. It's a lot less dramatic and thick than concealer, because sheer coverage let's your natural beauty still show.

However, foundation can be tricky, it can make or break your look. Used sparingly, it cuts redness, and imperfections and gives your skin an all over glow. However the wrong shade, or wrong application, can make you look cheap, especially to guys. The key here is subtlety.

     First of all, know your skin type. Knowing your skin type is key when it comes to determining your foundation, this is because not all foundation's are created equal. If you tend to have oily skin, choose a powder or an oil free, non comedogenic foundation, with a matte finish .Powder's will blot excess oil and are ideal for oily skin types.
     If your skin tends to be on the dry side, pick a moisturizing foundation, one that is also oil free and non comedogenic. Also, steer clear of powders as this will dry out your face and may form a "cakey" look. Skip anything that has the title "matte" in it, this is for oily skin types.
*Be sure to exfoliate before hand and apply a moisturizer ten minutes before application.

     The Next step is to figure out what your skin tone is, and match it perfectly to your foundation. A flawless foundation should "melt in to the skin" according to a makeup representative at Estee Lauder. And it's true, there should be no harsh lines, just even coverage. Now, i would recommend splurging a bit for foundation, because it is so essential to use high quality products when it comes to your skin. I use Estee lauder's Double Wear foundation, and it's only $35.00.  Now to determine your perfect foundation shade, just test it on your jawline and make sure it blends seamlessly, if your not sure, ask an expert at the counter.

     Your also going to want to choose which type of coverage you want, if your looking for just a bit of coverage, then sheer is the way to go. But if you want to hide stubborn blemishes or redness, a moderate to full coverage foundation works best.

After you've chosen your foundation your going to want to invest in a good stipple or other professional foundation brush. The reason for this is to get a nice airbrush effect that looks like your natural skin, only more even ;). (I know i know, its tempting to just use your fingers right? but that actually creates uneven applications, and you can deposit more product in to lines and crevices which not only looks unnatural, but emphasizes these lines.

Please keep in mind that only a bit of product should be used, foundation goes a long way and is meant to...

And don't forget to prime the skin if your skin is dry. 

Good Luck! x0x

Pores. Tiny flaws, big issue.

How to Shrink Your Pores

                                                      

So lately I've started to notice that my pores appear larger. Now maybe they were always large or its because they've become more clogged and noticeable (blackheads). However, its become a problem, especially because I'm not one to pile on the makeup, i prefer a more "natural" sheer look. Because of this, I'm going to find out the root of the problem (literally), and try to attack it at the source: make the pores smaller, or at least less noticeable.

     For those of you who don't know you cannot change the size of your pores per-say, Pore size is predetermined, However things like smoking cause your pores to become larger. What makes pores APPEAR larger is when the oil glands become clogged with things like sweat and dirt, thus making the pore swell. Blackheads will also form, which really accentuate your pores .

     So how do we fix this? First of all clear out your pores with a little something called salicylic acid. The main ingredient in acne washes, and most pore minimizes.
Now, as a kid and even today, i never really get breakouts, so i never used an 'acne wash'. I always washed my face with a creamy cleanser to keep my skin hydrated. The only time my skin breaks  out is from a particular oil containing product (which by the way steer clean of facial products containing oil, even if you never have a pimple.)

      Anyway on to this magical little ingredient called salicylic acid. Salicylic acid works to clean out your skin, thus removing dead skin cells oil and dirt from your pores. It is not just for acne prone skin, but those who suffer from blackheads ( yes.), and large pores. Clean pores tighten, and will shrink back to their normal size as the dirt is removed, thus appearing smaller.

     Now what i recommend is to wash your face twice a day with a wash containing at least 2 percent salicylic acid. if you skin is sensitive do this once a day. I recommend using one with exfoliating beads if you have stubborn blackheads. Then apply a pore minimizer, i like clique's pore refiner, (I'm sorry guys but you'll have to splurge on this one, i have not read one good review on any drug store brand pore minimizer, they kind of act as primers. ) While using cliques, i actually feel my pores tightening but not burning, and it does not leave my skin dry. Within a week you should notice a difference, i do. Do this process until your pores are back to their original smaller looking size,( without all that stubborn grime to enlarge them) and repeat a few times a week after.

     Also, steer clear of pore clogging products like oil based makeups, and only use products that say oil free or non comedogenic  which means they do not clog pores. Steam also is a great way to open the pores.

     **What i don't recommend is popping your blackheads, as they are stubborn and will come back, also pore strips are kind of harsh and definitely not for extremely sensitive skin types.



So remember, while your pores may look huge, their really just accentuated from oil and blackheads, by following this routine you should have smaller (looking) pores very soon, and can then achieve that glowy skin you once had.

What your esthetician won't tell you.

Waxing 101, What your Esthetician won't tell you.

    Waxing is among one of the most popular hair removal methods. With results that keep you smooth from four to six weeks whats not to like right? However,ever wonder about the side effects of waxing? or debating over whether or not a Brazilian bikini wax is for you? Here's a guide to the side effects of removing unwanted hair via waxing.

First of all there are two types of wax, stripless ( which involves wax being placed on the skin, cooling and drying, and being ripped off itself). And wax that requires a strip (you've probably had your eyebrows done this way, where a strip is placed over hot wax, then removed).
     Now, i would always recommend no strip wax, because not only does it hurt less, (very important) it also is easier to remove, there is less repeated ripping, and less of a chance of some of your skin coming off with the wax (never fun). Not only does a wax that uses a strip have  high chance of removing some skin and causing further irritation, but this will create noticeable scars in your bikini area, which are for life, (not attractive).
*This is not to say that you cannot get scars from stripless wax*

     Another word of advice, head to a local spa, or waxing center, such as European wax center, instead of nail salons, or beauty salon's in general. The reason? These high end spas and wax centers specialize in waxing and will generally have much more expertise, let nail technicians stick to what they know, it may be cheaper, but you do not want to pinch pennies when it comes to this.
     Also, while you may get your eyebrows done in nail salons, most use strip wax which will be much more sensitive to your bikini area. Another thing, these salons tend to "double dip" which is when they reuse applicators on your skin, repeatedly touching your skin with the wooden applicator then dipping it back in to the pot of wax. If their doing this with you, chances are they do with all their customers, meaning they are spreading around all kinds of bacteria, this can lead to not only yeast infections but more serious infections like herpes. The risk is minimal but it is there, especially since you don't know how many times they have double dipped in that wax, with how many different people!
     * I know for a fact that European Wax Center, which is located in various locations, has a strict no "double dipping" policy, check and make sure your esthetician abides by that rule also*

   Now on to the pain...

I'm sorry, but many people and especially Esthetician's will tell you that the first waxing session is the worse, however it gets easier and easier as you do it. I hate to break it to you--but it simply doesn't. I've done this many times and i assure you, it is just as painful as the last. What you do get, is to expect the pain. I've heard (literally) horror stories of first time wax experiences. That's not to say that for some people, it does get easier. However in MY opinion, and most people i know, the pain is the same, you just get to expect it now.
     I'd like to consider myself to have a fairly good pain tolerance (I stress fairly here), and it isn't terrible, there are certain areas that hurt the most, but when you get through them, the rest of your experience will feel like a breeze. I'd like to stress the fact that a well trained Esthetician will work quickly and efficiently, minimizing pain as much as possible, watch out for your Esthetician waxing the same area twice as this is certain to create irritation and possible infection because the skin is so sensitive. If she is repeatedly waxing the same area of skin, she likely does not have too much experience.
     MOST of my waxing experience have been quick with minimal pain as my Esthician was well trained and experienced, with my session ending in less than 15 minutes. However i have been in writhing pain, with an inexperienced Esthetician also, for much longer, it all depends and let me tell you a HIGHLY trained Esthetician makes a world of difference. Shop around.

     What you can do to minimize pain :
     Pop two pain killers an hour before your appointment
     Keep busy, text, talk to your Esthetican, it helps!
     Take deep breathes.

Now there are some numbing creams available such as "No Scream Cream" which is a topical anesthetic, that is said to numb the area and make waxing less painful. Please be advised that, while numbing the pain, you will also not be able to feel if the wax is too hot, therefore burning you which will create scarring. Ask your Esthician to test the area on a spot like the inner wrist.

Ingrown Hairs

A sometimes overlooked aspect of waxing in general, especially bikini waxing, are ingrown hairs,and irritation. Ingrown hairs occur when the hair grows back in to the skin, creating a bump, instead of growing outward. The reason this occurs most commonly in waxing is because the hair is being pulled from the root, instead of "cut" from the top from shaving. When hair is removed from the root forcefully, it damages the follicle, which guides a hair to grow in a straight line out of the skin. When this follicle is damaged, it will never be replaced. Now hair has no follicle to keep it growing straight and will grow in different directions, one way being under the skin to form an ingrown hair. Not only are ingrown hairs painful, but their very noticeable and, unless you dig it out, can take months to even surface if ever. I don't know about you, but just one ingrown hair makes me not want to get a wax for awhile, i cannot stand it.

It is important to understand that bikini waxing is not for everyone. Among popular vote, shaving is still said to be the most convenient hair removal method.I believe it is important to understand the risks and drawbacks involved with waxing educate yourself! There are also many options available such as depilatory creams, and laser hair removal. Good luck with whatever you choose to do.


 

Hair color... so many choices, how to choose what's right for you.

So maybe you feel bored of your current hair color, you've had it your whole life and yearn for something new. Or maybe you feel your last dye job left you washed out and pale, and need a new hue that suits you; or you just want to shake up your look. Here are some ways to pick a color that suites your skin color, to help avoid color mishaps.

     Determine your skin tone. Generally, you will fall between a "warm" or "cool" category. Both have specific colors that will look well on them, knowing your skin tone will not only help you in choosing a hair color, but also makeup and clothing colors as well.An example of cool toned skin is actress Cameron Diaz, And Megan fox. Some  warm tones? Lindsay Lohan and Beyonce.

    Generally, you are cool toned if :
     The veins in your inner wrist are blue.
     Blue, black, purple, and violet clothing and makeup flatter you.
     You tend to look better in silver or white gold jewelry.
     The tones in your skin and cheeks are more pink than peachy, or no color in cheeks at all.
     Rich cool blues and pure whites look great on you.


     You're likely Warm if :
     The veins in your wrists and forearms are more of a greenish tint.
     You have a peachy or gold undertone in your skin.
     There are almost no pink tones in skin, and when you tan, you tan totally brown.
     Cream colors, and orange flatter your skin more than cool blues, you can also wear brown earthy tones.
     Gold looks better on you than silver.
     Generally, those with red hair or auburn hair also are warm toned.


**Neutral.
Sometimes, it can be very tricky to determine what is your exact skin tone, and if you seem to be split completely down (like me) you may very well be neutral skin toned. This is where you don't completely fit into either warm nor cool. For instance i have pink undertones, but green veins etc...
Don't be discouraged. Sample different makeup palettes and clothing colors and see what works best for you! Best of luck,
Meg
    
    
    
   

Beauty Blogging- Go Bronze, do's and don't of tanning.

It's almost Spring, time to start sloughing off that winter skin and getting ready for a smooth sun kissed look. Whether your aiming for a simple glow or a deep bronze, there are some rules and regulations to follow in order to "tan tastefully".

As a woman with naturally beige skin, I've pretty much tried every self tanner out there, and even dabbled in tanning booths (not proud of it). I know the ins and outs of self tanning and let me tell you this, There is NO reason to be ORANGE. I self tan all the time and never do i resemble a carrot, nor have i been called orange. With the RIGHT product for your skin and these basic tips, you will look like you spent a day at the beach. (minus the burn and damage).

 There are two approaches to deepen your tan, sunless tanning, or lying in a tanning bed. I'm sure you are well aware of the risks involved in using a tanning bed, which include an increased risk of skin cancer and premature wrinkles. However, being a former tanning bed user i understand the appeal of an even natural looking tan that is easily obtained through tanning beds. Nonetheless, to avoid sagging wrinkling skin, Let's concentrate on faux glows, which i recommend to protect your skin cells.

There are many different types of sunless tanners on the market. First decide whether you are looking for fast results ( 2 to 4 hours) or gradual results. I recommend using a product that promises results i a few hours and waking up to a nice glow. The gradual tanners take much longer to notice a difference and usually i do not notice a change at all. however if your skin is very fair, it is worth a try for a "natural" effect.

Next you want to choose either a lotion, spray, or mousse. I recommended using a tinted product, especially for first timers. This will let you see where you have applied your tanner and avoid most mistakes. Next - sprays dry the quickest--especially aerosol, however it is difficult to assess how much product you are applying, which can lead to uneven streaking. Also, they tend to smell the worst.
The second type is a lotion, which usually hydrates while delivering a dose of tanner. And the last mousse, mousse gives great results, and dries quickly, great for first time or amateur users. I always use a lotion or mousse.

**Clinique has a great self tanner mousse that goes on quick, is tined, and delivers great results.
If your confident and do not need a tint, **Neutrogena sunless tanner is a great pick for those with a tight budget. Color is subtle, but reapply for desired affect.

Step 1 - Prep skin,
Exfoliate dry areas thoroughly, using a loofah, concentrating on areas prone self tanning product buildup like the chest, knees, and elbows.
After drying skin completely, using any lotion, smooth over dry areas also prone to product buildup, such as elbows, knees, tops of hands, tops of feet, ankles, and wrists. This is to be applied prior to self tanner, this lotion acts as a barrier.

Step 2 - Application
Start off from the bottom first as a rule of thumb, from the ankles working your way up in circular motions *use sparingly on dry areas*. you have about ten to 15 minutes until product will stain hands, to be safe you can use an application glove, however i find the best application is without. I always apply with my fingers and wash hands thoroughly after, washing hands promptly prevents any staining.

Step 3 - After care
your tan will last several days depending on your skin. remember to wash hands after use if you did not use a mitt. Wait 10 to 15 minutes or until tanner is dry before getting dressed as it will stain clothes. Reapply to deepen color and lotion skin to maintain it.