Sponge, Fingers, Brush?
Q. As a makeup artist, could you please tell me which you would recommend: the use of fingers, brushes, or sponges for the best foundation application for me? I am pretty new to the world of makeup.
A. To be completely honest with you, Beauty Marked!® believes that the best way to apply foundation, is largely based on which one of these application methods you feel most comfortable with and the most confident in using. There’s not much more to it than that. There are definitely merits to using sponges, fingers and brushes. *whispers* -Sometimes all in the same session.
Some folks don’t feel very confident using brushes and this lack of confidence can interfere with one’s makeup application. Getting the knack of using a synthetic foundation brush can be tricky, but worth it as it certainly gives a seamless look to liquid foundations when applied correctly. Foundation brushes are at their best when made of synthetic material so that they do not absorb the foundation and as a result you will use up far less base. Bonus.
Sponges are notorious for sucking up foundation. But their greediness aside, foundation spreads rather evenly and without streakiness when sponges are used. Sponges also seem to handle the many different foundation consistencies too, without too much drama. You can even stipple your foundation on with sponges, which will allow you to vary the depth of coverage in desired areas.
Fingers…well, these are ‘the’ original applicators, aren’t they? There’s absolutely is no shame in applying your foundation with your fingers. Fingers allow you a gorgeous intimacy with your face that is wonderful. The warmth from your fingers will also help the foundation to warm up, spread on, and blend onto your face in a fashion that is highly controllable and gives you a lovely and subtle veil of coverage. The choice is yours.
As a makeup artist, Beauty Marked!® has been known to use all three during a professional makeup application or use just one or two of the ways of applying foundation in a single session! Oy vey! Try them all and see how you feel. Go with the method or methods that you feel most comfortable with and that gives you the finished look you are after. Most importantly, have fun while you’re doing it, because that’s what it’s all about. Shoot Beauty Marked!® an email or post a comment if you’d like to know anything further. Plus, we love to hearing from you!
Benefit Doesn’t Mess About.
Benefit Cosmetics doesn’t jive around when it comes to their nifty oil-free makeup remover for eyes and face. Benefit’s Gee…that was quick! démaquillant non gras makes light work of removing the day’s eye and face makeup in an instant without leaving a messy oily residue. A few drops on a cotton pad and it’s well and truly a case of “Now you see it! Poof! Now you don’t!” It’s like magic. Benefit’s Gee…that was quick! is that beautiful assistant you’ve always wanted.
Whipped With A Thread Of Cotton.
As beautifully asked…
I am a Middle Eastern woman, who has done nothing to her brows and they have no discernible shape. I am keen to have them look nice and shaped, as you have highly recommended in the past. But, I am certainly not keen on waxing or plucking my eyebrows. Are there any other suggestions as my eyebrow hairs are very fine and do not seem to be removed very easily, but seem to just snap off and remain as stubble?
As answered with pleasure…
Have you ever considered Threading? Threading is a long established form of hair removal in India, The Middle East, and in many other Asian countries as well, in fact. This method of hair removal is an amazingly effective way to shape your brows and remove any unwanted hair. Even the finest hairs can be removed by Threading. What’s even better is that Threading comes into its own and works its best magic on fine hairs that are generally not easily removed by waxing or tweezing! Sounds perfect, hey?
So how’s it done? A light dusting of powder is applied to hair to be removed. The threader then winds two threads of cotton between her fingers across her two hands. The hairs for removal are targeted and precisely removed by twisting the thread between the fingers, capturing the hairs in question and extracting them from the root. Since the hair is removed in its entirety by the threads, the hair is not snapped off, as some fine hair can be when waxed or plucked. The hair’s regrowth pattern seems to be the same as with waxing or tweezing, when done properly.
Even though Threading has been around for donkey’s years, it may be a bit hard to find places to have it done in your local area, but absolutely worth the hunt. Perhaps try asking in your local Indian or Middle Eastern spice shop or grocery store if anyone knows of a good threader in your area. I hope this helps and please let us know how you go. Good luck!
Having A Great Dental Health Week?
I know…another year flying by, as we are in the midst of Dental Health Week yet again! Where does the time go? As you know, Dental Health Week kicked off on the 30th of July and goes until August 03. I like to think of this week as an opportunity to review our dental products, routine and to ensure our oral health is on par with the beautifFULL lifestyle that we lead. So how about it? Pick up a new toothbrush, make sure you’ve got plenty of dental floss (and are flossing…yes, I’m on to you.), and quit putting off that visit to the dentist for your annual checkup. It’s worth it, just like you are. After all, what better beauty accessory than a brilliant smile?
The Bouf Stops Here.
Or…well…maybe starts here, depending on what floats your flip. Whatever hairstyle your hankering for, you most certainly won’t want to be without a quality hairspray in your holdings. Sebastian Professional Shaper Plus is the one to bouf, I mean beat. Sebastian Professional Shaper Plus Hairspray delivers true, touchable, extra-hold, humidity resistant control. No self respecting Countess of Coif worth her salt would ever consider being without a trusted can of hairspray for her tresses. Sebastian Professional Shaper Plus is just the iconic styling tool you’re after. What you’ll get when using Sebastian Professional Shaper Plus Hairspray is hair with added body, steadfast direction and immaculate lift and hold. Not to mention the quick drying Shaper Plus is simply legendary when it comes to medium and heavier textured hair, allowing it to maintain the same long-lasting loft as those with feather-weight locks without being sticky in the least. Not bad, ay?
Ooh, fancy a little bit of Hollywood goss? Well, according to Beauty Marked!’s Hollywood sources:
Sebastian Professional Shaper Plus Hairspray, along with is little sister, Shaper Hairspray, star as “Ultra Clutch” in the film release of “HAIRSPRAY!”
Embracing their Hollywood roots like never before, Sebastian Professional’s Shaper and Shaper Plus brands are preparing for their big screen debut in the New Line Cinema’s & Roadshow Film’s September 2007 remake of the cult classic, “HAIRSPRAY!” As the official hairspray of “HAIRSPRAY!”, Sebastian Professional Shaper and Shaper Plus will perform behind the scenes and front-and-centre to capture the film’s classic style.
For further information, log onto www.sebastianinspires.com/hollywood for more. What a hoot!
Ms. Necessity To The Rescue!
Oh Shivers! Did your lipstick just break in two and one of the blasted pieces land smack dab on the front of your blouse or on your lap?! Oh, I hate when that happens. Luckily, our beloved Ms. Necessity (you remember…she’s the mother of invention) has a great way or two out of those little pickles.
*Cue super heroine music which is mega sultry and heaps cooler than Superman’s*
-To remove lipstick stains, dab the offending area with a small cotton bud soaked with eucalyptus oil and launder your blouse or garment as usual. On next wear, you’ll scratch your head and say, “where was that stain again?”
-To repair a broken lipstick bullet, use a match or lighter to heat and only just melt the ends of the broken pieces. Press the bits together and hold for a few moments, replace the cap and place in the fridge to cool and set. Viola! A mended lipstick!
Nicccccceeee. Thanks, Ms. Necessity! xx
Spoilt For Choice.
And not before time, I say. L’Oréal Paris introduces De-maq’ expert to our beauty-FULL world. The L’Oréal Paris De-maq’ expert range is designed to aptly address our need for highly effective makeup removing cleansers that are tailored to our skin’s concerns while being able to stand up to the super pigmented, long wearing makeup we adore. L’Oréal Paris De-maq’ expert range consists of 5 professional formulas which have been adapted to suit the needs and desires of a variety of women and have been both ophthalmologically and dermatologically tested. Each product in the L’Oréal Paris De-maq’ expert range boasts outstanding efficacy when faced with even the most stubborn makeup and leaves the skin feeling supple and, most importantly, immaculately cleansed.
The L’Oréal Paris De-maq’ expert range:
Cashmere Milk Complete Make-up Remover- This soft formula is for individuals who find water too harsh on their skin and who are looking for maximum benefit and comfort.
Gel-créme Mousse Expert Make-up Remover- This cleanser uses the TIP technology (Temperature Inversion Phase) on a traditional oil-in-water emulsion, to create a formula containing a large quantity of oil dispersed in microscopic droplets. This is specially developed for those who prefer wash-off products that act to dissolve all traces of makeup without drying the skin.
Elixir Concentrated Gel Make-up Remover- For those using long-hold makeup such as waterproof mascara, lipstick, and long lasting foundations. The transparent oil-in-water mix transforms into a white milky lotion on contact with water.
“Milk to Toner” 2 in 1 Make-up Remover- This product was specially designed for those who prefer makeup removing milks and the effect of a toner. On application, this cleanser goes on thick and creamy, but when massaged in, it transforms into a milky toner that comprehensively removes makeup while toning in a single step.
Ultra Rich Make-up Removing Wipes- These are the perfect travel companion for those wanting to save time or for those who simply prefer wipes. De-maq’ expert wipes gently remove makeup without drying the skin.
What a fabulous selection! L’Oréal Paris De-maq’ expert range is available from August 2007 and available from selected pharmacies, department and variety stores nationally. And yes, you are so worth it! *wink*
