Brand Review - BH Cosmetics

I heard about bhcosmetics from many good reviews and amazing tutorials of other makeup artists on YouTube.  Everyone boasted about how great the product was for the price and how many looks you can achieve from a single palette.  So of course I hopped onto their site and ordered the 3 120 color palettes they offered.  Because I was in desperate need of more eyeshadow colors, especially 360 more shades.   Come on now, for a makeup junkie this is an amazing fix!  For a mere $75 (I got a special promo for buying all three) I feel that this is certainly a real bargain.  Think how much MAC costs, $14.95 a piece!  But was the product good?  How was the customer service?  I was pleasantly surprised to get my palettes in just a few days from ordering.  Each palette was packaged in a protective sleeve and bubble wrapped.  When I took off the sleeve a beautiful shinny black heavy palette appeared.  Love the first impressions.  I opened up the lid and WOW!  All of these bright gorgeous colors had me in a daze.  Oh the possibilities!  I was getting really excited!  In the inside of the palette are two separate palettes housing 60 colors each.  And each one of the palettes has different colors.  Some may look like duplicates but when you swatch them they are slightly different or there is a different finish.  The colors appeared highly pigmented and easy to apply.  Some where more difficult then others.  Overall I would say for the cost this is the perfect product to have on hand for practise and to try out of the ordinary looks.  You really can get creative with the color range available.  And each pan of color was a generous amount.  You will have this for a long time!  Go and get it!  Free shipping with orders over $50!  I am loving this company!  http://www.bhcosmetics.com/.

Here's a tip on how to remember what color you used for future reference since they don't have names.  Flip over the palette and write numbers using a colored Sharpy. 

P.S. Check out my video tutorial series featuring this product coming in the next few days!

Your Questions Answered! How to Get Rid of Baggy Eyes

As of late, I have been getting tons of great questions from my readers.  So I decided to address them publicly so that everyone can benefit from the answer.  I can also give a more detailed and thoughtful answer this way. 

"Hi Michelle< I was wondering if you know any techniques or cosmetics for the bags under the eyes? I now have an extra bag under each eye. and I know getting older doesn't help but I would like to minimize them.."

First, let's understand the difference between Puffy eyes and Baggy eyes. 

Puffy eyes are mostly a build up of fluids caused by allergic reactions, lack of sleep, stress, too much sodium intake, build up of toxins, crying, body fluid fluctuations, too much alcohol intake, hereditary disposition, contact lens irritation, and irritations to eye creams or lotions.  Puffy eyes are relatively easy to treat.  Basically try to avoid any of the above.  But if you still end up getting puffy eyes then a cold compress for about 10-15 minutes can do the trick. 

Baggy eyes are the loss of elasticity in the skin around the eyes caused by aging, too much pulling on the skin over the years, hereditary disposition, toxicity, pillows of fat that have bellowed out due to the ligaments getting weaker, swelling and deflating during sinus infections, and lifestyle.  This is usually a permanent issue but can be minimized by skin treatments and surgery.

Both types are similar and can be treated a lot the same to minimize the appearance.  You can tighten the skin temporarily with a cold compress to bring down the swelling or with topical treatments such as Obaji's Elastiderm.  There's also a trick used by makeup artists by putting Preparation H on the puffy areas.  But use caution to not get this product in the eyes!  Make sure to use the cream form and not the gel form.  Lifestyle changes can go a long way too.

A more aggressive and longer lasting way to treat puffy or baggy eyes is to use a filler such as Juviderm.  This typically lasts up to 18 months and requires no surgery.  It is injected just below the puffy eye to balance out the look and to remove indentations.  Botox is often used in conjunction to smooth out the lines.  The overall look is a younger looking eye.  The cost for Juviderm is about $500 for a vial and the amount depends on how much you need.  Some people can go to 2-3 vials pretty easily.  Botox is about $10 a unit and again the amount depends on your needs.  Most people can look at at least 30 units or more.  This type of treatment requires artistic talent and should only be done by a qualified and trained doctor.

For a more permanent look, lasting around 20 years is an eye lift (Blepharoplasty).  This does require surgery and downtime.  This involves inserting a tiny electric probe into the "puff" and melting the fat.  This is the only thing needed for younger people, but some older folks may also need the skin to be tucked.  This surgery can be expensive at around $6000 but, again the overall look is a younger looking eye without the hassle of going in every 18 months to be poked.  Please please, please make certain that your doctor is a qualified surgeon and is a board certified plastic surgeon.

Ok, so if surgery and being filled and poked is not an option for you.  You can create an illusion of tightened eyes with makeup.  The secret weapon is concealer.  That's right.  Concealer.  Using a creamy concealer about 1-2 shades lighter then your natural color.  Pat in the corner of your eye working to the outer corner.  Use a fluffy brush to buff it out in a downward "v".  Meaning sitting on the top of your cheek bone.  The lighter color will reflect light therefore creating an illusion of smoother eyes.  Make sure to start with a small amount.  If you need more apply a tiny bit more.  But don't over do it.  You don't want it to be obvious.  Set your concealer with dust of translucent powder.  A little bit of illuminator such as MAC's Strobe Cream or Mary Kay's Liquid Illuminator on the top of the cheek bones, down the bridge of the nose and in the center of the forehead will create a youthful appearance.

Makeup and lifestyle is certainly the safest and easiest way to minimize the appearance of puffy and baggy eyes.  But it isn't a permanent fix or a perfect solution.  The choice is yours and it should be weighed out carefully.  Make sure you are fully informed on all of your options by doing your research and having a consultation with a board certified surgeon or medical doctor. 

Video Tutorial - Mary Kay Color Card, Reds : Tutorial and Review

Here is a follow up to this weeks review on Mary Kay products.  I didn't have the color cosmetics available to do this look so I did a look off of a color card that they provided.  I followed step by step to see how the look would come out based on their instructions.  On the color card it gives you three different looks using the same color scheme.  I choose to do the Classic Look for this tutorial.  The result: beautiful!  The red lips are stunning in person and it's the perfect raspberry red lip.  The eyeshadow and blush colors were just the right combination to compliment the red lips without looking over done.  I also found the product to easily blend and apply.  It lasted all day with no fail. 

Colors Used:
Eyes- Crystalline, Hazelnut, and Granite Mineralize Eye Color
          Deep Brown eyeliner by Mary Kay (or any deep brown)
          Mary Kay Ultimate Mascara in black.
Blush- Sunny Spice Mineralize Cheek Color
Lips- Raspberry lip liner by Mary Kay (or any raspberry red lip liner)
         Red Rouge Creme Lipstick

All from www.marykay.com.  Contact me for 25% off your order.  Limited time.

Video Tutorial - Seductively Spring: Bronze Shimmering Eyes and Magenta Lips

This video tutorial uses colors that are on trend for the Spring 2011 season and making them work on your face. This look is really easy to do and has minimal steps. Add just about any shade of bright popping color to make this look  your own!  Next time I will make sure I do something more with my hair LOL! I was getting ready in the morning and this is how I always have it while doing my makeup! Your comments are greatly appreciated!

You will need:

Eyeshadow primer

Shimmery bronze eyeshadow

Matte fleshtoned eyeshadow

Bright colored lipstick and matching liner

Coordinating blush to go with lips

Large eyeshadow brush

Blending brush

Black eyeliner (optional)

Tips:

Don't apply a brow bone color.  Just blend the eyeshadow you used on the base lightly upwards to the brow.

Use the matte fleshtoned color just in the crease to add depth to this mono look.

Apply a bright eye catching color on your lips using spring as your inspiration.

Coordinate your blush to go with the lips.

Bring any left over bronze eyeshadow that is on the brush to the lower lash line.

Where to buy:

Mary Kay Eyeshadow Primer  $12 http://www.marykay.com/

Laura Mercier Foundation Primer Original  $30 http://www.sephora.com/

MAC Painterly Paint Pot  $16.50 http://www.maccosmetics.com/

MAC Pigments in Tan  $19.50 http://www.maccosmetics.com/

MAC eyeshadow in Kid  $14.50 http://www.maccosmetics.com/

MAC blush in Dame  $19.50 http://www.maccosmetics.com/

MAC lipliner in Magenta  $13 http://www.maccosmetics.com/

NYX Round Lipstick in Chloe  $2.50 http://www.cherryculture.com/

NYX Mega Shine lipgloss in Clear  $3.99 http://www.cherryculture.com/

Post your comments below or on my facebook page!  Thanks for watching!

Brand Review - Mary Kay Cosmetics

When you say Mary Kay Cosmetics, what comes to mind?  Some would think, MLM company, makeup for old people, or maybe, the reps are inexperienced.  But when you do a search on the Internet, they were the number one selling makeup brand in America.  That is pretty impressive!  There is no secret that I am a supporter of Direct Sales companies.  I sell Guy and Eva Jewelry.  Used to sell Premier Designs.  I've promoted and purchased Miche Bags, Stella and Dot, Juice Plus, and Tahitian Noni.  So why did I have this stigma placed on Mary Kay?  Perhaps it is my undying loyalty to MAC Cosmetics.  Or my fear of what I think people might think.  My amazing Massage Therapist, Melissa Beasley, sells Mary Kay.  Every time I came in for a massage her Mary Kay catalogs were in the waiting room.  I would thumb through and I became impressed with the way they presented the products.  The catalog looks more like a small fashion magazine and gave tons of great tips on how to apply makeup.  As a makeup artist, I fell in love with this.  I like to learn new things and I believe this is extremely helpful for customers that have no idea on how to apply the makeup they just purchased.  Every catalog has new looks.  You can cut them out and put them in a binder for future reference.  Their website is also impressive, offering makeup artist looks, option to purchase, trends, makeovers, ecatalog, budget beauty, and editor pics.  This is definitely not an "old person" company!  This is for woman of any age who are hip, young or young at heart, on trend, and are eager to learn and look their best!  Ok, I'm convinced to give it a try.  I purchased a range of products from Melissa to test.  I did this several months ago.  So I have given it time to really get an idea how I like these products or don't like them.  Here's what I tested:

Eye Primer:  This product is essential for anyone to provide the lids of the eyes an even textured area to apply eyeshadow.  Primer hydrates, smooths, and absorbs oil.  Making eyeshadow go on and blend easier and last way longer.  After trying out this product I recommend it to people with dry or oily lids.  Overall I felt it did what it was supposed to do.  And at a more affordable price then other primers.  A little bit goes a very long way.  In fact, less is more.  Just apply a very thin layer.  This tube will last you a LONG time! $12

Medium Coverage Foundation:  I felt that this product provided a nice coverage without going too heavy.  I would use it with a translucent powder instead of the Mineralize ones.  The range of colors was great.  There is sure to be a color for everyone.  $15

Concealers:  This is probably my favorite item from Mary Kay and I use this in my makeup kit for customers.  The consistency is thin enough and thick enough to give the right amount of coverage without pulling or drying out the eyes.  Or looking too cakey.  The colors are simple and universal and they also have a Yellow corrector, which is great for dark circles.  And makes the eyes appear less red.  $10

Mineral Powder Foundation:  I am not a big fan of loose powders mostly because of the mess they cause and the chance of applying too much product.  This foundation is no exception.  I didn't care too much for the color choices.  They were all a little too pink.  85% of woman are going to have yellowy tons and try to minimize the pink in their faces.  Unless you have porcelain skin I wouldn't go with this.  $18

Ultimate Mascara:  Hands down, everyone go out and get this.  I used to use eyelash growth serum which I discontinued about 10 months ago.  I have been getting TONS of compliments on the length of

 my lashes since using this mascara.  I don't believe this mascara contains any growth enhancers.  But WOW, what a difference.  Maybe it's a coincidence?  Who cares.  Go and get it!  $15

Mineral Cheek Color:  Nothing too special here, but a nice color rage and it applies nicely.  $10

Cream Lipstick: Again, nothing too special here.  Goes on nice, color ranges are pretty.  Lasts a decent amount of time.  $13

Time Wise Miracle Set:  I really liked this skin care routine.  The cleanser goes a long way and foams up really well and takes off makeup gently and effectively.  They treatments felt good on my skin, but I am not sure I saw a ton of difference in the condition in my skin.  But I would say there was improvement.  Especially if you take into consideration that it is not a pharmaceutical grade product.  The lotion felt like it had the perfect amount of moisture in for my skin.  I would recommend this.  $90

Satin Lips Set:  I have actually used this for many years.  The mask is a great exfoliant and the balm feels great and leaves your lips so soft.   Highly recommend this set!  $18

There are other products I am interested in with Mary Kay.  They are coming out with a new Face Primer and a new line of Time Wise Foundations. I would also like to check out the makeup compact and eyeshadows.  Overall I feel like this company offers a quality product at reasonable prices and it helps women and supports charities.  Its a winning solution all around.  So I decided to sign up with the company so I can try more products and offer a discount to my subscribers and myself.  Fans or Subscribers can purchase any Mary Kay products from me at 25% off.   Just contact me and let me know what you want.  Take a look at the Ecatalog here.  Get more details on my Promotions tab! 


Here's a Makeup Tutorial using Mary Kay Cosmetics!  Check it out:

Visit my Pro Makeup Artist website!

Stretch Mark Prevention in Pregnancy - My Personal Guide

Even though the skin is very elastic, rapid weight gain and excessive stretching like in pregnancy (or puberty) can cause the skin to tear and scar.  Stretch marks can even appear with weight loss.  Especially if it was a large amount.  As unsightly and devastating these can be to a woman some would say it's the battle wounds of pregnancy and they would wear their scars proudly.  But if you could prevent it - wouldn't you?  No one chooses to have stretch marks.  It's just a harsh reality of life.  According to WebMD 90% of woman get stretch marks and genetics play a huge part.  "Basically, if your mother had them, you're probably going to have them," says Leslie Baumann, MD, director of the University of Miami Cosmetic Group and author of The Skin Type Solution.  Well, I may disagree with that quote.  And that is what this post is about.  I am genetically disposed to getting stretch marks.  My mother and my sisters all got them.  I had two children, close in age.  I gained 28lbs with my first and I was 42lbs overweight with my second.  And I got not one stretch mark.  How did I do that?  Well I am going to tell you exactly what I did with both pregnancies.  Now I am not claiming that you will not get stretch marks.  What I am trying to say is that I am a testimonial of genetically disposed woman that didn't get stretch marks.  It didn't come easy.  I had a routine that I religiously stuck too and never strayed.  At times I felt sticky and smelled of minerals.  But the payoff was worth it all.  There are ways to minimize the appearance of stretch marks but stretch marks are a permanent fixture once they appear.  I am hoping this may help out other woman with their quests to prevent stretch marks.  Before you do anything I am recommending you check with your doctor FIRST for absolute certainty what is appropriate for you.   Let's start out with the basics and common sense ones then we will go on to a month by month routine.  Click on the links for buying info.

1.Moisturize!  This starts from the inside out.  Yes, that means DRINK WATER.  And tons of it!  The recommended daily intake amount is 8-10 8oz glasses a day.  Drink 10-12 8oz glasses during pregnancy.
2.Lotions and oils are a great way to moisturize from the outside and penetrates into the skin.  I will explain more of this in the month by month part.
3.Vitamin E used topically (not internally) is know for general healing of the skin and can reduce the appearance of stretch marks.  Use only the 100% natural form in 1000 iu capsules.  You can get this for really cheap at Puritan's Pride.  See below for routine.
4.Eat a healthy diet rich in vitamin and minerals.  In particular zinc, vitamin C, vitamin E, and silica which can all be found in green leafy vegetables and fruits. 
5.I took the supplement Juice Plus in double doses.  I consulted with my doctor and she approved of this.  Mainly because nothing in Juice Plus is synthetic or added.  It is just flash frozen fruits and vegetables with the water and sugars removed.  I took the Orchard, Vineyard and Garden Blends.  This is especially important if you are having a hard time eating your healthy foods. 
6.Take a Pre Natal Vitamin.  GNC has an amazing one the includes 600mg of Calcium!
7.Exercise.  If your doctor gives you the a-OK.  Exercise circulates your blood and circulates in the affected tissues.  This is also good for your mind and focus.
8.Rest.  Your body needs rest to rejuvenate itself.
9.Chill out on the weight gain.  I'm not saying don't enjoy the pregnancy perks or don't gain any weight at all.  Just stay within your recommended range determined by your doctor.  Your body only needs 300 more calories per day for a healthy woman to support pregnancy.  Excess weight gain too fast will cause stretch marks.

Month to Month Routine:
Entire Pregnancy: Vaseline's Cocoa Butter Lotion, all over my body 2x daily.

Day 1 - 4 Months:  I used 2x a day Palmer's Stretch Mark Cream on my hips, butt, bust, thighs and tummy.

4 Months - 6 Months: Switch to 1000 iu 100% Natural Vitamin E capsules.  3 for the frontal areas and 3 for the hips and butt.  Use a safety pin to puncture a hole and squeeze the contents into the palm of your hand.  Warm up the product in your hands and apply.  Do this at night.  Use the Palmer's lotion during the day as needed.  Which means when you are feeling dry or itchy or use Almond Oil (see below).

6 Months - 8 Months: Use the Vitamin E routine Day and Night now.  Discontinue using Palmer's and switch to Pure Almond Oil.  Almonds are know for it's anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants.  And it smells good!  I put this on all the time and all over my body.  Almond oil is great for your skin even if you are not pregnant.  You can purchase this at fine grocery stores in the baking section.

8 Months - End: Use the Vitamin E routine 3 x a day.  Continue using Almond oil as needed several times a day.

Tip: I used Belly Bands to help keep the product from getting on my clothes.  And it was helpful in supporting my belly. 

After pregnancy Tip:  This is a HUGE tip that saved my droopy skin after the birth of my babies.  Use Pure Grapeseed Oil all over you butt, hips, thighs, bust and belly.  Grapeseed oil is know for it's benefits of retracting the skin back.  I have absolutely NO crepeing of the skin and it is very smooth.  I give this as a gift to all my new Mom friends!  You can buy this at grocery stores everywhere including Winco.  Good Luck!

Tutorial- Contouring Basics for a Flawless Face

Here is my second video instructing on Contouring Basics.  You can really get deep into contouring techniques, but in this video I show you quick and basic contouring and highlighting.  This can be applied for everyday, or just for special occassions.  Contouring changes your facial structure by creating an illusion using dark and light makeup. 

I had to do this in 2 parts because of YouTube time constraints.  So, sorry about that!  I hope you find this video useful!

You will need:
Concealer 2 shades lighter than your skin color
Liquid Foundation 2 shades darker than your skin color
Liquid Foundation in your normal skin color
Blush of choice
Small fluffy brush to blend concealer
Large synthetic brush for contouring
Stipeling brush for foundation
Blush and Powder brushes

Tips:
Highlight the areas you want to bring out more.  Like your cheekbones.
The darker makeup will make your features receed.
You can use powder or bronzer as your contouring makeup.  But I perfer liquid because it blends more smoothly.
Use a fluffy brush to blend out concealer.  This gives a soft airbrushed look.
Do this after you have done your eye makeup so that your can "wash away" any fall out.
Put your blush on after you finish the foundation then powder to make your blush look really soft.
Use MAC's Strobe Cream where you highlighted for added luminosity.

Where to buy:
Mary Kay Concealer in Light Ivory - $12(I can order this for you at 30% off, just message me)
L'Oreal True Match Foundation in N8 -  $12 Drugstores everywhere
Makeup Forever HD Foundation in #118  - $40 http://www.sephora.com/
MAC Dame Powder Blush - $19.50 http://www.maccosmetics.com/
MAC Strobe Cream - $29.50 http://www.maccosmetics.com/
MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Medium Plus $27 http://www.maccosmetics.com/
Paris Presents fluffy brush (concealer) - Walmart Stores $9
Other Brushes by MAC Cosmetics
Nala Ring by Guy and Eva $34