Archive for April 2008

Make-Up Tips For the African-American Woman

Hello and welcome. This is an article that is GREATLY needed. At least I think it is. I started wearing make-up around the age of 14 and when I started, it was the WRONG shade for my skin tone. So! I am trying to speak out for all the Beautiful, Brown-Skinned Black Women that have as hard a time finding make-up as I do. So, let me give you a little background on me.


First of all, Black is beautiful, and the darker the berry the sweeter the juice! That being said, at 14 I was a little blackberry without a clue. When I first started wearing make-up it was just lipstick and it started out being my mom's Fashion Fair. My mother who is light-skinned and has a daughter who is dark-skinned. Needless to say her lipstick did NOT match at all. I was even referred to as a dark-skinned Ronald McDonald by a previous ex-boyfriend!


So, I believe that us brown-skinned and dark-skinned women need a little extra help because it is more difficult for us to find make-up that matches in drugstores, or make-up that is affordable.

Plus Cosmo and Glamour and all of them always be talking about great make-up for spring, but uh, hello did you forget black girls like make-up for spring too? So, I feel your pain. I am a self-appointed make-up aficionado, and would like to offer my experiences as well as some products that are FABO and not so much fabo. So... without further ado, let's get started!

JUST AN FYI: These are all make-ups that I have had to use through trial and error so I am sharing from EXPERIENCE!


FACE: I find it hard to find a good foundation, and full-coverage make-up that is affordable so here are some wonderful finds that I have found that are both.


1-Cover Girl Queen Collection Natural Hue Liquid Foundation- Spicy Brown


PROS- it is good at matching skin tones that have yellow or red undertones, spreads easily and if you only need moderate coverage gives you a good bang for your buck. It is affordable ranging about 6-8 bucks, and you can find it in most drugstores, and grocery stores.


CONS- If you have dark spots and blemishes, this will NOT offer you the coverage you need! Not even close, okay? It also wears off quickly so you would need to reapply often. The bottle is upside down with a little spout, so if you pour out too much, you cannot put it back in the bottle and in these times of economic crisis er' little bit counts am I right ladies?!


Also, if you have problems matching your skin tone because you have BOTH yellow and red, or maybe blue and red undertones, this collection may not be for you because there is not a vast selection to choose from, so you might need to move on. Other shades that are good for brown-skinned to dark-skinned gals, and some of you fellas! Rich Mink, Sheer Espresso, and True Ebony.


2- Cover Girl Queen Collection Natural Hue Compact Foundation


PROS-It will give you more coverage than the Liquid Foundation. That's it. That's about all I can think of.


CONS-Unfortunately, it rubs off QUITE quickly. It is also tinted slightly differently than the liquid foundation so I found it harder to match my skin tone. Also, when it was warm outside it wipes RIGHT off, and revealed every blemish on my face! LOL, it also wipes off on your clothes, stains your hands, the whole bit. It's moderately priced as well, so if you want to look nice for a date at night, going somewhere cool, it's a quick fix, but I wouldn't wear it to the club, or a carnival, anywhere that will be warm, or sweaty. It also comes in the same.


3- Black Opal True Color Liquid Foundation - Black Walnut


PROS-Awesome Coverage. There is quite a bit in the bottle so it will last you quite a while. It is an upright standing bottle with a generous opening, so if you pour out too much, it won't be too difficult to get back into the bottle, so you can SAVE, SAVE, SAVE! I wear foundation every day, sometimes wash my face and re-apply if going out that night, and this bottle lasts me about a good two months or so. You will find that it ranges from about 8-12 bucks... depending on where you live. So it is a great buy.


CONS- If you have combination to oily skin, WEAR POWDER, and keep it with you! During these upcoming warm to hot days, you may look really greasy in the face. But if you keep Blotters with you, or powders, you should be okay. Also, it might just be that MY skin tone changes, so if that is the case disregard, but I find that when I go to buy a new one, the shade might not match like the previous one, so be mindful of that.


Another con is that Black Opal Products may be a little harder to find in stores than other products that I mention. I don't know if it's that they're not that popular, or what, but whenever I look I always find them in either Rite-Aid, or CVS. So, happy hunting. Other colors good for brown-skinned girls... Carob, Suede Mocha, and Ebony Brown..... And for you borderline caramel to brown-skin girls, Hazelnut!


4-Maybelline Pure Make-Up (Shine Free Foundation with H2O) - Cocoa (Dark 3)


PROS- Very affordable, easy to find. Located in Most drugstores, supermarkets, Wal-Mart. Costs range about 5.99-10 bucks, depending on your region. Full coverage, doesn't clog your pores, spreads easily.


CONS-Upside down tube, so you will have to be exact about how much is needed for your face, cause if you use too much... it will go to waste. Limited colors for darker skin tones. They only have THREE shades for women of OUR color. Dark 1- Tan, Dark 2- Caramel, and Dark 3-Cocoa. I have used the Cocoa. It is way too dark for my skin-tone.


However, the Caramel Dark 2 is too light. So, if you are pressed for money and don't have the money to experiment, I wouldn't waste my time on this product. They have FIVE shades dedicated to light, FOUR for medium and only three for us darkies??!!! Leave this product alone, unless you happen to match EXACTLY. Good luck evading the lady who tries to watch you when you try to sample the products in the store!


5- Black Radiance Color Perfect Oil Free Liquid Make-Up- Cocoa Bean


PROS-Very affordable! VERY! Somewhat accessible. Costs about 5.99-10 bucks, and you can find it in a lot of Beauty Supply stores, CVS carries it. Spreads evenly, good coverage, get quite a bit for your buck. Also, comes in a jar with an open spout, so if you have too much, you can put it back in there. Gives you a nice matte finish.


CONS- Cocoa Bean does NOT match my skin tone! But I also have strange undertones going on with my skin, so that could be why it is so difficult to match. When you apply this make-up it dries a different color, it's crazy. There's this... weird... applicator thingy, not sure what to do with it, but it just got in my way basically. Says it is good for all skin types, but I have very sensitive skin on my face, and I found that within thirty minutes my face was suffocating and I needed to wash it off. Other shades to try are Brownie and Mocha Honey.


6- L'Oreal True Match Super Blendable Make-Up- Nut Brown


PROS-Oh my goodness you guys this make-up was awesome! Spread really, really great! Matches wonderfully for a yellow undertone. Really does a brown-skinned girl justice. Light, so your skin can breathe. Good coverage for girls with blemishes. Pretty easy to find, and I say that with hesitance, because 7 times out of 10 they will carry all BUT the shades for brown-skinned. Um, I find them at Wal-Mart, Walgreens..and that's pretty much it.


CONS- This product has SPF and I am VERY allergic to sun block so it broke me out something terrible. Kind of hard to find. It's a little more expensive than the previous products mentioned. MMM, I would say about 10.99 and up. You may be able to find it on sale. Also, there is not a whole lot in the bottle, so use sparingly if you can. Other shades to try.... Soft Sable and Cocoa.


7- Revlon Color Stay Make-Up with Soft Flex - Mahogany


PROS- Pretty easy to find in most drugstores. Colors are good for brown-skinned girls. Kind of affordable. A little on the higher end but about 9.99-12.99 for this product. The coverage is okay... Not the best, but if you are looking for light to moderate coverage this is a good product.


CONS- Now, I found that Mahogany did not match my undertones that great. I know.... Again with the undertones. It dried and made my skin look a little grayish and chalky. There is not really a good selection to choose from for darker skin tones. Has SPF6, bad for me, but good for anyone who is not allergic. Also, again, if you don't have the undertone problem.... Other shades to try... Cappuccino and Mocha.


And lastly but CERTAINLY not least...


8- Maybelline Dream Liquid Mousse - Cocoa (Dark 3)


PROS- OH MY GOSH...... loving this product!! (sing song voice) this is the current make up I am using now! It def does what the commercial says. It covers your pores, and gives you a great finish! Maximum coverage! Need NO concealer, well... maybe a little bit, but I don't use any. It is very affordable, anywhere from about 7-10 bucks. I found it right at the Kroger grocery store, so it should be available at most drug stores. It has a nifty little nozzle that squirts out and it's really convenient. It is also whipped feeling, and I apply with my fingers.


It just glides right on, and begins covering all my pores and dark spots, and its not too heavy, I don't have to put on a bunch. The top also comes off, so if I over-squirt, I can put it right back in the bottle. There's lots in the bottle, and you don't have to use a lot for coverage. I think I bought this bottle a month ago and I still have a little more than half a bottle left. It's great! I love it. Hopefully this will be the end of the road for me, but usually it isn't!


CONS-Again, it's Maybelline, and you know they don't cater to the brownies, so there are only three shades of this color which is aforementioned Dark 1, Dark 2, Dark 3. Dark 3 of this particular make-up works really well for me. Weird the other Maybelline product Dark 3 didn't work, but oh well. That's the only con I can come up with for this product so far.


So, in closing, I know a lot of people are saying well what about MAC? MAC, well first, MAC isn't exactly what I would call easy or easily accessible. MAC is usually found at a counter in a dept store, or MAC store in the mall, and both close around 9 pm. I am a girl on a budget, and I can't afford to pay 15-25 bucks for make up that doesn't seem to last very long, actually. And also, with my sensitive skin, MAC gives me a rash. I have tried the Studio Tech Compact in NW50. If you don't mind paying a little bit more then here are some other shades to try... NW45, NW47, NC50, NC55, and NW55.


PS, I have tried Clinique, the shade wasn't worth mentioning because it made me look gray and gave me a rash. Fashion Fair is good too if you can find it, but again, a little out of my budget right now, and usually can only be found in a dept store or the mall. I haven't worn it in years, so I do not remember the shade. But Fashion Fair offers a BUNCH of shades for us chocolates!


I hope this article helped a lot. I will continue to discuss blushes, concealers, lipsticks, and glosses, mineral powders, bronzers, eye shadows....ahh! Most DEF eye shadows, my favorite, and beauty tricks... some ghetto.... Hope you enjoy! Happy hunting ladies.

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Cosmetic Products from Top Fashion Brands

In today’s lifestyle, it has become difficult for one to preserve their beauty. To maintain and care for their beauty, there are many branded cosmetics that are available in the market. There are various cosmetic products available in markets from different brands to groom ourselves to look out best.

With the advent of Internet, more and more people are going online to shop for cosmetic products from top fashion brands. People who want to pamper their skin with branded cosmetic products but due to lack of time and laziness find it difficult to shop for branded cosmetic products in the market can go online to shop for cosmetic products.

There are many online shopping store that offer cosmetic products from top fashion brands and one such being is Shopatmajorbrands. It is a renowned online shopping site that offer secure payment zone.

At this online shopping store you will get cosmetic products from renowned Inglot brand. Inglot is a famous name in cosmetic that offers various types of cosmetic products. At this online shopping store, you can buy Inglot eyeliner, eye shadow, mascara, lipsticks, lip liners and various other cosmetic products. At this site, you will get wide range of shades in Inglot eye liners.

With the great collection of eye makeup products that are available at this site, you can create a smoky eye. You can enhance the beauty of your eyes by using Inglot eye liner, mascara and eye shadow. Inglot eye liners are available in flattering shades at this Online shopping store. These eye liners will match any skin tone and any eye color. It is believed that eye liners are a perfect way to enhance the beauty of eyes. Take care of your eyes and make them look more beautiful by using Inglot eye liners and lipsticks.

The main advantage of shopping for cosmetic products online is the convenience. You will find wide variety of cosmetic products online in addition to reviews that will help you to choose the right cosmetic products for your skin. Shopping for Cosmetics products online will not only save your time, but money as well.

Apart from Inglot cosmetic products, you can shop other products like bags, wallets, necklaces, hat, scarves, watches, bracelets, boots, sandals, shoes and sneakers here. These products are available from top fashion brands like Aldo, Mango, Charles & Keith, Promod, Nine West, Okaidi, Inglot, La Senza Park Avenue, Provogue and Queue Up.

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Commonly Asked Wedding Make Up Questions

As a Wedding Make up Artist, I am asked these questions on a regular basis.


Q - Should I do my own make-up or have it done for me? What are the potential pitfalls of each option?


A - This is really a big consideration. A professional make-up artist can show you new ideas and products that you might not have considered. Having done on the day also allows you to sit back relax, get pampered and really enjoy the day. If you are using a professional make-up artist on the Big Day have a trial run well in advance so you feel confident and comfortable with your look. This is the time for any fine tuning.


If you decide to do it yourself, why not take advantage of the many cosmetic companies who offer free bridal makeovers. That way you can pick and choose what's best for you. Take your time applying your make-up.


Q - Should I go for my usual daytime make-up on the big day?


A - The best tip I could and do give any bride is 'look like you', just more polished.


If you try to go heavier or softer than your regular make-up then you'll only feel uncomfortable on the day.

And worst, you'll look back at the photos and dislike them. If you want to try out different looks then 2 or 3 months before your wedding is the time to start experimenting. You definitely don't want to leave it to your Wedding Day and don't do it any earlier unless you are certain your skin tone won't change.

You should look like you only better. So, if you don't wear much make-up don't be tempted to pile it on and if you like your make-up strong don't opt for a soft natural look, you won't feel right.


You should take into consideration your dress (the style), the time of day you are getting married, the flowers, any accessories and time of year.


Q - I am having 4 bridesmaids with different skin tones and I want them all to look great.

What colours tend to look best on pale skin / olive-toned and black skins?

A - These days there are no hard and fast rules. If you want them all to look similar then you should stick to neutral shades. By that I don't just mean the colours from the brown family. These days shades purple, charcoal and navy are considered neutral tones as well because they flatter all skin tones and don't overpower. Be guided by the colours you have chosen for your wedding theme. You shouldn't try to match but toning in with the colours looks great. You can choose different hues of the same colour depending on your bridesmaids' complexion. Remember the paler the skin tone the lighter the shade and the deeper the skin tone the darker the colour. You can experiment with different looks. Sometimes what you think won't work actually looks fantastic.


Q - How far do you think my wedding dress style should dictate my choice of
make-up?


A - The wedding dress style does play quite a big role in how your make-up should look. For example if your dress is soft and floaty and your make-up heavy with strong colours it would look wrong. Other things you must take into consideration are the time of year, the time of day and location. A dramatic smoky evening make-up will look too heavy if you are getting married in a tropical country on the beach.


Q - What do I do if I discover a big blemish on the morning of my big day?


A - First don't worry it can be hidden. Here is my easy guide.


1) You only need to apply a small amount of concealer in order to cover spots and blemishes effectively. Start by applying an oil free foundation or a tinted moisturiser.


2) Next, using a concealer brush or cotton bud, dot concealer on to the blemish. The yellow toned concealers in my Conceal & Contour Palette will neutralise any redness.


3) Finish by patting gently with the Universal Yellow Powder.


Q - How can I make sure my make-up stays put all day?


A - To make your make-up last primers are a must. Primers come in different types according to your requirements. If you have an oily complexion or an oily t-zone you will want to use an Anti-Shine Primer to stop shine and keep your make-up on longer. If you want to lessen the appearance of fine lines, open pores and keep your make-up on longer then you need my Foundation Primer. Don't be put off by the word Foundation you can still benefit from its skin perfecting, even if you only wear tinted moisturizer or just concealer. Eye shadow primers or bases will help keep your shadow looking great and crease free. You could try long lasting products (foundation, eye shadow and lipstick). Or you could try layering. This is what I do when making up any of my brides. First I apply a primer appropriate for their skin type. Then Crystal Taupe Eye Shine as a base followed by eye shadow. Waterproof mascara is a must. Next I apply 2 types of blush, a cream or cream to powder blush with sweep a powder blush in a matching colour over the top. I then either use a lip stain or fill in the lips with a lip pencil and add a pop of gloss to the centre of the lips. But most importantly of all, whether you use long-lasting or regular products, take your time applying your make-up.





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The best online discount cosmetics products

Cosmetic bags are always loaded with tubes of mascara, lipsticks, lip glosses, eye shadow, foundation and lip and eye pencils, and yet not a month goes by that we do not go out and spend more money on additional cosmetics. However, for those that have a compulsion for buying cosmetics to the extent where you break your budget, there are dozens of online cosmetic shops where you can find cosmetics at really good prices. Before going out and buying cosmetics blindly, check out the generic cosmetics that are very similar to high end popular brand name cosmetics. Generic cosmetics have been tried and tested and have proved to be just as effective as well known brand names without breaking your budget.

Women in particular have become accustomed to using cosmetics to enhance their appearance and powders and perfumes to eliminate any body odor, brand names in particular are costly, although discount cosmetics products are now also available at selected stockist’s and online stores.

Cosmetic products such as perfumes, nail polish, hair colors, powders, skin lotions and creams, both oils, body butters, baby products and many other types of cosmetics are widely available both online and in selected stores at discounted prices. Cosmetics can be defined as either care cosmetics or decorative cosmetics. The word cosmetic was derived from Greek and basically means ornament and order. A number of small multinational corporations currently dominate the manufacturing of cosmetics, and the sale and distribution of cosmetics is wide spread among a large range of various different business concerns. Cosmetics have also been clearly defined as an application to the body for beautifying, altering the appearance, cleansing, and promoting attractiveness without altering the body’s function or structure. However, soap has been excluded from cosmetic components. The use of cosmetics have become notably popular among younger girls, which has inspired many cosmetic companies to produce glittery and sparkling cosmetic packages and flavored glosses and lipsticks that are being advertised and marketed using younger models. Over the last few years, has drawn much attention in the media with regards to younger beautification and the consequences.

A variety of groups have posed criticism on cosmetic products such as public interest groups, animal rights activists, religious groups, authors and feminists. There has also been an increased awareness with regards to cosmetic products derived from petroleum and other toxic ingredients such as Parabens and sodium lauryl sulfate. Concerns have been raised with regards to the safety of cosmetic use which includes SLS that is known to cause dermatitis and other skin problems. So, is it safe to use unknown brands or even well known brands even at discounted prices?


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Professional Movers Make Moving Easier And Safer

Whether moving across town or across the country, moving can be a lengthy and difficult process for many people. Fortunately, there are companies that help make moving a household easier. Many people who are planning to move will hire a moving company to help them get their items safely from their old homes to their new homes, causing less stress and work for those who are moving.

Movers have been known to move boxes, furniture and other items from a home into a moving van or truck, driving the items to the new location and unloading them. This makes the process of moving much easier for any person. However, now moving companies offer more services than ever to make moving even easier than before.

Some moving companies may offer services such as packing up the owner's belongings, even providing the moving boxes and packing materials to ensure that the items are safely moved from one place to another without breaking.

Even further, they may even unpack the items at the new location. This saves a lot of time for the person who is moving, leaving them more relaxed during the moving process. Some moving companies even offer storage facilities and other services for items that the owner does not have room for in their new home. The services vary depending upon the company.

It is up to movers to make sure that items are moved safely from one location to another. They will load boxes and items into the moving truck or van in a way that they will be safe from damage. This includes being extra cautious with boxes containing fragile items, such as china or crystal, as well as making sure that furniture and other items do not get scratched while being moved. A professional moving company will know how to move and transport items safely to prevent damage to an owner's belongings.

When hiring movers, a person will want to make sure that they hire a reputable company who will not only get the job done in the time allotted, but that are extremely careful in how they move their items. They will also want to make sure that the company has insurance in the case that some of their belongings get broken in the process. It is important to shop around for the best moving company, as well as read reviews, to find a company in the area that does their job well to prevent tardiness or damaged items.

Moving can be a very stressful and hectic job. By taking advantage of the services of a moving company, someone who is moving from one place to another can help make the process much easier. They can continue to live their lives without the stress and time consumed by having to move by allowing professionals to get their items where they need them. This helps a move of any distance go much more smoothly so that a person can enjoy their new home without the stress of moving.

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