Remove Dark Circles and Blemishes – Concealer

Concealer is a necessary beauty product that everyone should own in their makeup arsenal.  It refreshes the eyes while removing dark under-eye circles.

Corrective Makeup (also known as Concealer) serves an aid to give the appearance of even skin.  Have you ever noticed a blemish and needed to attend a meeting the next day?  If purchased in the right shade, this particular product will eliminate the issue.

A few additional tricks one could use with concealer application includes applying on the eyelids to eliminate shadow flacking; sponge on the bra area for décolletage definition, dab a small amount to the brow bone for highlighting the arch; and shape the lips with a small brush.

2208889
Dermablend Quick-Fix Concealer
pro_pencil_base_1
Anastasia Beverly Hills Pro Pencil
RIMMEL LONDON Match Perfection Skin Tone Adapting Concealer
RIMMEL LONDON Match Perfection Skin Tone Adapting Concealer

One of the most important tips when purchasing a new concealer is selecting the correct shade. It’s a tedious task and if you’re not a makeup enthusiast, please visit the local counter for assistance. Additional suggestions include –

  1. Use a shade that’s lighter than your natural skin complexion. This is very important when eliminating blemishes or dark spots.
  2. For brown girls, purchase a concealer in the shade of your undertone (either yellow or orange.)  For example, I have red undertones and wear an orange concealer underneath my eyes.
  3. BUT – for dark circles, go one shade darker than your normal concealer color.
  4. ALWAYS apply moisturizer, foundation, and then concealer!  Do not skip this step because your face could potentially break out or look chalky.
sf_deep_series_layout
Photo from Anastasia Beverly Hills Blog

In my opinion, I encourage makeup enthusiasts to use a brush or beauty blender sponge for concealer application.  The brush will maneuver inside of the eye crease and Beauty Blender gives a flawless look.  Also, let me know (here) what are your favorite concealer brands!

rte-01429-8

originalbeautyblendersingle_ro_700x700_1_2

Must-Have Gifts This Season – Holiday Guide

Take a look at the Holiday Gift Guide – Artis, Tata Harper, Dermalogica, PHYTO, The Beachwaver Co. and Bosley Professional Strength have you covered this holiday season with something for everyone on your list!

unnamed-20

NEW! Artis Digit Collection ($185 for Digit 5-Brush Set including Digit Linear 1, Circle 1, Oval 4, Oval 3 and Oval 6; $375 for Digit 10-Brush Set including Digit Linear 1, Linear 1 Demi, Linear 3 Demi, Circle 1, Circle 1R, Oval 3, Oval 4, Oval 6, Oval 7, Oval 8):

Beautiful, luxurious and like a piece of art, Artis, the leading creators of high-performance beauty tools, have something for every beauty lover on your list, and this season the digital world gets more beautiful. First introduced as a limited edition 5 -Brush Skincare Set earlier this year, the moment is here to experience Digit for flawless makeup application, further changing the way makeup is applied for unparalleled, remarkable results. Shaped like a finger that is bent during application to a surface, this totally ergonomic shape helps Digit brushes feel completely comfortable in the hand, while orienting the fibre bundle so it easily applies makeup products to the skin. The dual finish handle fits into any aesthetic by offering a soft pearl finish on the top, and a mirror finish on the bottom of the handle. Artis brushes are made exclusively with CosmeFibre, a revolutionary engineered fibre made for applying cosmetic and makeup products. Available exclusively in 5 and 10 Brush Makeup sets, these ergonomic brushes are housed in portable zippered cases, complete with interior mirrors for ease of on-the-go makeup application, just in time for holiday travel.

unnamed-2

NEW! Artis Gold Palm Brush (Artisbrush.com $75.00)

Launching in gold for the holiday season (yes, I know, we read your minds), the Palm brush has many application uses, such as: foundation, concealer, setting powder, blush, self-tanner, moisturizer, sunscreen and sunblock. This ultra-minimalist product is designed to fit comfortably in the hand, providing unique application control. Shortening application time by applying and blending makeup and cosmetic formulas over the face and body with a few gentle gliding and/or circular movements, this tool may also be used to apply skincare formulas and continue that glowing complexion all year long.

image008-2

TATA HARPER THE MULTI-MASKING COLLECTION ($178 at TataHarperSkincare.com; Collection includes 30ml/1oz Resurfacing Mask, Purifying Mask and Limited Edition Honey Blossom Mask)

Following on the multi-masking trend bandwagon, this trio addresses all of your skin concerns & incorporates all of your multi-masking needs. The Resurfacing Mask provides instant glow, the Purifying Mask deeply cleanses and the Limited Edition Honey Blossom Resurfacing Masks boosts hydration. This collection is the ultimate beautifying mask trifecta.

  • Resurfacing Mask: For instant glow, use a thick layer of the Resurfacing Mask over the entire face, neck and chest. Leave for 15-30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
  • Purifying Mask: For a deep cleansing treatment, use a thick layer of the Purifying Mask over the entire face. Leave for 15-30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with cold water.
  • Honey Blossom Resurfacing Mask: For a boost of soothing hydration, use a thick layer of the Honey Blossom Mask over the face, neck, and chest. Leave for 15-30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.
  • Tata’s Tips: For healthy, radiant skin, try Tata’s 3 step multi-masking routine. Step 1: For instant glow, apply the Resurfacing Mask over the entire face. Step 2: For a deep cleansing treatment, layer the Purifying Mask on your t-zone. Step 3: For an extra boost of hydration, apply the Honey Blossom Mask on the neck and chest. Leave all three masks on for 10-20 minutes, then rinse with cool water.

unnamed-5

Dermalogica® Power Rescue Masque Trio($59 at Dermalogica.com)

Trio of problem-solving masques to treat and target multiple skin concerns. Use individually to address specific concerns or “multimasque” for a targeted treatment.

Set Includes

Charcoal Rescue Masque

Multivitamin Power Recovery Masque

Skin Hydrating Masque

For The Glamorous: THE BEACHWAVER CO.:

unnamed-7

The Beachwaver Co. Beachwaver S1.25 Ceramic Rotating Curling Iron ($129 at Ulta.com)

Another new addition to the award-winning line of hair tools, the S1.25 has been seen making waves behind the scenes at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. This larger barrel width was created for women with longer hair who want voluminous blow out beachwaves. The new Beachwaver® S1.25 offers the same high-quality professional results as the Beachwaver® Pro, with the same user-friendly features from the S series. Key benefits include a heat range of 290° – 490°, lighter 5.5” ceramic barrel length, 1.25 barrel width, arrow button for rotation control, 8 foot swivel cord, ergonomic handle, beveled no-kink clamp, fast/slow speed switch and a home button.

For The Parisian-Beauty Lover: PHYTO:

s1837137-main-lhero

PHYTO PHYTOELIXIR Intense Nutrition Mask ($59; 6.2 fl oz. at PHYTO.com)

This indulgently rich mask melts into a luxurious hair rescuer that transforms even the driest, most porous hair. Narcissus flower wax, a beauty powerhouse envelops hair in prodigious nourishment. Macadamia oil, extremely rich in essential fatty acids, replenishes hair lipids with the promise of new suppleness and radiance. It is encapsulated in chronosphere designed to offer continuous release to the hair, protecting it against the recurring drying-out process. Hair is infinitely soft to the touch and totally manageable. Light-as-hair formula is suitable for all hair textures, even the finest hair.

For The Healthy-Hair Conscious: BOSLEY PROFESSIONAL STRENGTH:

22745

Bosley Professional Strength BosRevive Kit For Non Color-Treated Hair ($41.95 at Ulta.com)

Bosley Professional Strength BosRevive for Non Color-Treated Hair 3-Step System Starter Kit (BosRevive Nourishing Shampoo for Non Color-Treated Hair 5.1 oz, BosRevive Volumizing Conditioner for Non Color-Treated Hair 5.1 oz and BosRevive Leave-In Treatment for Non Color-Treated Hair 3.4 oz) is formula for those with “visibly thinning hair and excessive hair loss” to rejuvenate and recondition fragile miniaturized hair and scalp. LifeXtend Complex formulated to inhibit DHT build-up and provide anti-aging protection.

 

Local Holiday Season Events and Shopping

It’s time to start pre-planning for the holiday season.  I love to travel with my family but also enjoy partaking in local events. Holiday season planning is a mandatory task because it enables me to have a good time while being present (in the moment) with my kids.

1445974501-just-destiny-mag-tree
Photo Credit | Just Destiny.com

Why not take a break from shopping and indulge in a cup of afternoon tea?  The Townhouse Tea Shoppelocated on Olmsted Street was featured in Southern Living Magazine.  Relax with a friend and grab a cup of gourmet coffee or delicious pastry.

l
Photo Credit | Yelp.com

Winter Wonderland at Railroad Park will host its annual ice-skating event starting November 26 2016.  Guests can purchase hot cocoa along with their family skate rental.  I’ve always enjoyed skating and this might be on the top of my holiday list.

If you’re obsessed with entertaining supplies and Santa Clause this is the perfect local suggestion. The Summit Birmingham will host its annual holiday kickoff with Swoozies Birmingham, Lights Up.  This event will include a parade, fireworks, and potential mall shopping.

To help us get around with ease and eliminate the question, “where should I park?”  Saks Fifth Avenue has a promotion with Uber allowing new users $20 OFF a ride to their store.  In the Uber app, enter code SAKS2016*  – this promotion alone will encourage my shopping with Saks this holiday season.  Plus, I actively use Uber and wanted to share with everyone here!  Don’t forget to check out their Holiday Gift Guide (click here)

fa16_holiday_gifts_page17 fa16_holiday_gifts_page19fa16_holiday_gifts_page48

SALLY HANSEN’s 18K GOLD COLLECTION – Nail Care

Gold is one of the hottest ingredients in beauty, and not just because of its glamorousreputation. It’s one of the most talked-about ingredients in skin care thanks to its remarkable ability to stimulate collagen, boost elasticity, and increase firmness.

Now, Sally Hansen brings the unique benefits of this precious metal to nails with 18K Gold Nail Care. This luxe duo instantly treats and beautifies nails and cuticles in just one step, featuring formulas infused with real 18-karat gold that helps nourish, protect, and fortify. With 18K Gold Hardener and 18K Gold Cuticle Eraser, it’s easy to be the girl with the golden touch—and perfectly manicured nails and cuticles.

18K Gold Hardener ($7.49)  locks in moisture and strengthens nails. This eye-catching treatment combines real 18-karat gold with peptides and amino acids—ingredients known to promote healthy growth. The breakthrough complex envelopes the gold, creating a shatter-proof shield that protects nails so they can grow longer and stronger.

unnamed-100

18K Gold Cuticle Eraser ($7.49)  is a must for healthy-looking, smooth cuticles. Meant to reduce and improve the appearance rough, ragged, parched cuticles, this decadent treatment renews and softens instantly while preparing nails for a flawless manicure.

unnamed

Whether your nail problem is dryness, ridges, dullness, breakage, peeling, or all of the above, Sally Hansen presents the solution: Complete Care 7-in-1 Nail Treatment™($12.99). This product helps restore dry, brittle nails making them visibly healthier and beautiful. After just 3 days, nails look shinier, stronger, mega-moisturized and brighter with ridges filled.

The exclusive patented formula, with Avocado Oil, Sea Salt, Pomegranate Extract and Calcium, immediately protects and continuously nourishes nails, helping create the perfect foundation for any manicure. The product features a new brush for an even application and dries quickly to a smooth, hard finish.

This versatile treatment can be used alone or with your favorite Sally Hansen nail color when applied as a base coat or as a protective top coat. To wear it alone, simply apply two coats to clean, dry, bare nails. Use it to refresh a manicure by brushing on one thin coat to nails. It goes on smoothly and evenly, for a streak-free application.

unnamed3

Oojra Makes Gifting an Experience for the Senses

This holiday season, add a touch of elegance to family gatherings with the beautiful reed diffusers from Oojra.  Oojra is the premier lifestyle brand of home fragrances that tell a story through the careful arranging of aromatic essential oils.

Science has proven there is a close connection between scent, memory, and emotion. Oojra has simply perfected the experience so its customers can perfect the feel of their homes for their family and friends.

“Our fragrances provide a final layer of decor to strike the right ambiance for relaxation, romance, focus and balance,” states CJ Lemky, founder. “We aim to satisfy a little wanderlust in our customers’ lives by wrapping their spaces in a scent that is delicious and exotic and reminiscent of a place they’ve traveled, or want to travel.”

unnamed-17

From a five-star spa in Thailand to a Serengeti Safari, each exotic fragrance takes its users off the beaten path, opening up a whole new world they’ll never forget.  Currently, Oojra is offering three distinct fragrances at a limited time price for the holidays.

unnamed-16

The French Provence Lavender Diffuser transports guests to a sunny hillside where frosted purple flowers exude their calming influence on the mind and body.

The Loas White Tea and Ginger Diffuser brings explorers to untouched misty waterfalls and lush tea plantations while exuding an uplifting aroma.

The Thai Jasmine Bamboo Diffuser, Oojra’s most sought after fragrance, inspires romance and relaxation while conjuring up images of fresh green bamboo and garlands of flowers sweetly swaying in the breeze.

Oojra scents curate a luxurious first impression and experience within the home. Give the gift of luxury and versatility to clients, executives, and friends. The sleek glass bottle will stylishly accent any room and exude luscious scents, leaving a lasting impression.

About:
At Oojra, they strive to put a little piece of paradise in every bottle. Since their launch in July 2015, they’ve traveled the globe and listened to the stories and photography of their followers, in order to create unique fragrances that satisfy their customers’ wanderlust and bring the most luscious exotic fragrances into their homes. All of Oojra’s products are crafted from quality essential oils and are phthalate and paraben free.

 

Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide for Hair, Beauty and Skincare

With the holidays quickly approaching I wanted to provide a list of all-encompassing holiday gift items including: luxury items, holiday sets, stocking stuffers, gifts under $50 and hostess gifts.

STOCKING STUFFERS

jane iredale BeautyPrep™ Minis: This holiday season, treat your skin on the go with travel-ready minis from the BeautyPrep™ collection. (Sold separately at janeiredale.com)

BeautyPrep™ Face Cleanser Mini – Infused with our own micellar water and dual cucumber extracts ($8.50)

BeautyPrep™ Face Toner Mini – Refreshing, pH balancing, and pore-refining ($10)

BeautyPrep™ Face Moisturizer Mini – Locks in hydration for smooth makeup application ($18)

unnamed-9

 

jane iredale Hydration Spray Minis: Take a mini break to condition, destress, and protect skin with purse-sized hydration sprays that tackle every skin concern. ($10 each, sold separately at janeiredale.com)

Balance Hydration Spray Mini – Controls oil production

POMMISST™ Hydration Spray Mini – Disguises pores and fine lines

D2O Hydration Spray Mini – Plumps skin and sets makeup

unnamed-10

 

HOLIDAY SETS/HOSTESS GIFTS

jane iredale Champagne On Ice Kit: A set of sparkly mini-glosses in three sheer shades to perfect your pout for any occasion ($35 for the set, janeiredale.com)

unnamed-11

Skin Research Labs Envious Beauty Set: The leader in effective beauty enhancing treatments, brings the ultimate holiday kit this season with the launch of their limited edition Envious Beauty Set. The luxurious cosmetic bag contains full sizes of the award-winning neuLASH® lash enhancing serum as well as the newest addition to the neuLASH family, neuENVY peptide enhanced mascara. The set is the perfect pair of products to improve the appearance of natural lashes.($150 at skinresearchlabs.com or Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, Bloomingdale’s).

Set Includes:

  • neuLASH® lash enhancing serum

Transform the appearance of brittle and thin lashes with this nutrient-rich formula. Engineered to address the weak appearance of lashes caused by aging and everyday beauty routines, this serum delivers benefits beyond conditioning, dramatically improving the appearance of eyelashes within 30 days.

  • neuENVY™ peptide enhanced mascara

Acting as a daytime complement to neuLASH lash enhancing serum, neuENVY is boosted with a proprietary blend of peptides to help strengthen, condition and hydrate. The buildable formula wears well all day without smudging or flaking and features an exclusive asymmetrical brush designed to wrap and define every lash, top and bottom. It can also be used to extend the life and lushness of lash extensions, conditioning and protecting the lashes between trips to the salon.

image004-1

 

UNDER $50

unnamed-12

The Mane Choice Easy On The CURLS & Soft As Can Be Trio (Shampoo & Conditioning Set: a set of revolutionary hair products for curly hair. ($36.97 for the set, at TheManeChoice.com, select Target, Sally Beauty Supply and Rite Aid stores)

  • Easy On The CURLS Detangling Hydration Shampoo is an advanced shampoo which cuts your wash days in half. Infused with Biotin and Vitamin E to nourish, grow and hydrate your hair. Easy On The CURLS leaves the hair feeling soft and shiny, while eliminating the dry and stripped feeling.
  • Easy On The CURLS Detangling Hydration Conditioner is a cutting-edge conditioner which makes the detangling process much easier! Infused with Biotin and Vitamin E to nourish, grow and hydrate your hair. Easy On The CURLS leaves the hair feeling soft, clean and conditioned which is essential to the perfect healthy hair growth regimen.
  • Soft As Can Be is a 3-in-1 conditioner formulated to revitalize and refresh the hair instantly. An advanced conditioner that can be used as a Co-Wash, Leave In, and Detangler. Adds shine, softness and manageability. Stops breakage during the detangling process. Leaves the hair softer and more elastic.

unnamed-13

Borghese Fango Introductory Kit: Give the gift of radiant skin and create a true Fango aficionado. This essential introductory kit gives the perfect treatment regimen with a Fango for every need. Detoxify, hydrate and firm for smooth and glowing skin. The Fango muds provide mineral nourishment and special absorbing action which rids skin of impurities while hydrating and firming dry, delicate skin. The muds also help firm and reduce the appearance of wrinkles and sagging skin with Wheat Protein. ($35 at Macy’s and Macys.com)

Set Includes:

 

  • Fango Active Mud for Face and Body
  • Fango Delicato Active Mud for Delicate, Dry Skin
  • Fango Brillante Brightening Mud Mask for Face and Body
  • Fango Ferma Firming Mud for Face and Body

 

LUXURY

unnamed-14

The Mane Choice SIGNATUREPRO – Comb Infused Talking Flat Iron: A state of the art, healthy hair straightening tool. Combines the technology of comb infused ceramic & tourmaline dual action plates. Engineered to provide longer lasting straightening styles in a fraction of the time. One pass technique. Heats in 30 sec. ($99.95, at TheManeChoice.com, select Target, Sally Beauty Supply and Rite Aid stores.)

Features and Benefits:

  • FREE heat-resistant mat included
  • Cased in a high quality reusable magnetic protective storage box
  • Infused with a combo to aid in a silky sleek finish and to minimize the amount of heat passes
  • Short and sweet verbal greeting and safety cues
  • 180-450 degrees
  • LED Display
  • Adjustable shut off time
  • 1.5 inch plates – for all lengths and textures
  • Dual Voltage 100-200V

How To Wear The Statement Choker – Fall 2016 Trend

My mind raced back to the 90’s fashion culture when I saw this season’s choker trend.  Beverly Hills 90210, Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, and Blossom were icons from this time era and avidly promoted the necklace.

Since that time it has resurfaced and the question is, “How do I wear a choker without feeling like a flashback of Hilary Banks?”  The answer lies in the design, metal, or fabric of the accessory; which is now considered to be The Statement Choker.

elle-trends-fall-2016-statement-choker
Photo Credit: Elle Magazine

One option is to layer with another longer necklace. The other alternative is to select a denim jacket or oversized cardigan and let the necklace stand alone. Last choice is to wear with a delicate dress and play up the silhouette for a sleek look.

3986863_fpx

The Statement Choker is a versatile accessory and can update any style!

Mandatory Credit: Photo by Startraks Photo/REX/Shutterstock (5618088d) Kendall Jenner Kendall Jenner and The Estee Edit at Sephora, New York, America - 22 Mar 2016 Kendall Jenner Kicks-off the Launch of The Estée Edit by Estée Lauder @Sephora Fifth Avenue Nyc
Mandatory Credit: Photo by Startraks Photo/REX/Shutterstock (5618088d)
Kendall Jenner
Kendall Jenner and The Estee Edit at Sephora, New York, America – 22 Mar 2016
Kendall Jenner Kicks-off the Launch of The Estée Edit by Estée Lauder @Sephora Fifth Avenue Nyc

Click on the link: Sexy Smile Kit

Celebrity Make-Up Artist April M. Chaney – Natural Beauty Master Class

Alabama native and celebrity make-up artist, April M. Chaney, returns home to Birmingham for A Natural Beauty Master Class on Sunday, November 27 at Birmingham Virtual Suites at 2160 Highland Ave. The exclusive evening will offer Hollywood insider beauty tips and techniques to that will inspire looks to Be Yourself, Show Yourself, Love Yourself and Test Your Natural Beauty.

This hands-on course is ideal for aspiring make-up artists and those interested in learning how to transform their face naturally, and flawlessly, with Hollywood-centric techniques and skills. The in-depth analysis of achieving a perfectly natural make-up face will include up-close-and-personal demonstrations and applications with Chaney, and some of her favorite products.  Limited attendance is open to the public and is available on a first come, first serve basis by visiting www.eventbrite.com

\\\

About Celebrity Make-Up, Artist April M. Chaney:

A licensed esthetician, Chaney is a southern belle with a passion for glamour and has been creating beautiful faces with timeless and classic looks for nearly two decades.  With experience working on hit shows such as Dancing With The Stars, The Real, Project Runway, America’s Next Top Model, The Doctors, Any Given Wednesday, Dr. Phil, and The Real Housewives of Orange County, Chaney is a frequent collaborator with cosmetic giant L’Oreal at major Hollywood industry events including the Academy Awards, Primetime Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards.  With humble beginnings behind a make-up counter in Alabama, Chaney’s work has been featured internationally in television, film and the fashion runway. In addition to working with major magazines such as PeopleUs WeeklyO The Oprah Magazine, her make-up skills have appeared in national editorial campaigns for retailers including Kohls, GAP, Nordstrom and Sears. Chaney is licensed Esthetician in the state of California & a proud member of the Make-Up Artists & Hair Stylists Guild, IATSE Local 706.

Find Chaney on Twitter and Instagram (@LirpaMakeup) where she frequently shares make-up tips and tricks, plus more information and portfolio work at www.aprilchaney.com

 

https-%2f%2fcdn-evbuc-com%2fimages%2f25317854%2f146561737559%2f1%2foriginal

Mally Beauty Easy – To – Use Products

I wanted to let you know about the newest product launching from Mally Beauty. Celebrity makeup artist, Mally Roncal, is introducing these easy-to-use products to create gorgois looks that will keep you looking fierce all day.

 

Mally Beauty More is More Mascara: No one quite knows lashes like Mally Roncal. Designed to conjure up more length and volume, this inky black formula creates dramatically dark, lush lashes with the ultimate definition. The special polymer system delivers exceptional lash-building power, while the nylon brush ensures a flawless application.

Price: $20

Mally Beauty Shimmer, Shape & Go: Contouring has just gotten that much easier with this trio of portable face-shaping sticks. Silky and lightweight, the formulas blend seamlessly into the skin, leaving your features sculpted, shaped and fierce.

Available Shades: Lighter and Deeper

Price: $36

   

 

Available: QVC.com and MallyBeauty.com