Articles on Makeup

Make Your Eyes More Attractive

Monday, May 31st, 2010

Blessed are those who have God gifted beautiful eyes, and blessed we all are for it is possible to make all eyes look stunning and attractive just by incorporating a few simple eye makeup styling tips in our lifestyle! Every woman desires mysterious, sensual looks and this can surely be achieved with a pair of beautiful, gorgeous eyes. Eyes reflect your inner beauty, so health of the eyes must be maintained. Healthy eyes can further be adorned with various beauty cosmetics available.

Keep your eyes sparkling with life by taking proper care of them. Follow a routine of good sleep, lots of water intake, eye exercises, regular rinsing of eyes with water and a healthy nutritious diet followed up with routine eye checkups. A well rested fresh face with naturally glowing eyes is the best expression of wonderful health.

Brush your eyes with a little eye make up to add allure to them. Give an ideal shape to your brows to make a tremendous difference to your facial features. For instance, a triangular face with a long nose should opt for the sweeping styled eyebrows, angular style is for chubby and round faces and flat style best suits long faces while the round style is for a face with huge eyes and a large forehead.

Dab a little concealer from inner to outer edges of your eyes to cover up any darker areas around them. Lay a good eye base to your lids for lasting effects of the eye shadow. Apply shadow that suits your skin tone. Use a three toned shadow for best results. Apply an eye liner. Brighten the brows with a highlighter and curl the lashes for a beautiful shape. Finally roll a mascara to give volume to your eyes.

You can try on different eye makeup for different looks. For smoky eyes, try using a base color like medium gray all over the lid, darkening in the creases, lightning towards the brow. Use dark gray eyeliner, smudging a little, and finish with a mascara to get sexy, smoky eyes. To portray soft and mysterious eyes, use light colors like shell pink or lavender. For shimmery eyes, and night occasions, you can choose from the terrific range of blues and greens, but nothing is as remarkable as natural eyes that give a ‘No Make Up’ look with colors like beige, tan and browns.

Many brands like Cover Girl cosmetics, Elizabeth Arden, Max Factor and so on offer a huge range of fashion cosmetics. Remember to use a brand that suits your skin tone and helps create your original charm and charisma. So are you ready to smile, talk, play and mesmerize with your stunning, attractive eyes?

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Styling Tips for Beautiful Lips

Monday, May 31st, 2010

Sometimes, I find it a little wondrous how the use of lipstick can enhance a woman’s look instantly. Same dress, same hairstyle, but the face before and after applying a lipstick can be dramatically different. There is unlimited number of lipstick shades by many different make-up companies. Bright and sultry shades of red, yummy chocolate browns, alluring nudes, shimmering gold and bronze, pretty lilac and mauve and soft pinks and peach shades are some of the most popular. Different hues for various occasions, skin tones and age groups.

Broadly speaking, soft shades of lipstick like nudes, pinks and light browns are ideal for work and routine wear during the day. For parties and night outs reds, plums, dark browns are more appropriate. Similarly, students and girls should opt for corals, pinks and more natural looking colours. Lip gloss either clear or with a hint of colour is one of the most useful girl cosmetics. Women above 25 can go for brighter shades keeping in mind the time of day and the occasion.

However, a more important factor in deciding the lipstick shade is your skin tone. Many of us have ended up spending huge bucks on many lipsticks that are never used because they don’t “look right” when actually applied. Selecting the correct shade in stores can be a little tricky, first because the lighting is all different. Second, mostly we judge a colour by trying it at the back of our hand and it obviously looks quite different on the lips since the skin tone at the back of our hand and the lips might be quite different. Thirdly, we impulsively buy a particular shade because we liked it on a friend!

One of the styling tips for buying a lipstick shade that flatters YOU is to select a shade that is one or two tones darker than that of your lips. While trying on testers apply a small patch of colour preferably on your lips and check it in natural lighting if possible.
There are some thumb rules for selecting lipstick shades according to different skin tones which can be helpful in picking a hue that brings out the best in you, minimising wastage. Women with lighter skin may opt for nudes, pinks, peachy shades and crimson reds. For olive complexions shades of brown, red with a hint of burgundy and medium tones of mauve are ideal. Deep reds, plums, rich browns and bronze are best suited for dark skin tones.

While using fashion cosmetics do remember to take care of your lips so as to maintain their natural moisture and keep them from becoming dry and flaky. Exfoliate your lips by applying some balm or Vaseline and gently rub a soft toothbrush in circular motion over your lips. Alternately you can use a good quality lip exfoliate available in the market. Apply lip balm over the lipstick to moisturise. Put a small amount of balm in the centre of the lower lip and spread by pursing the lips together. At bedtime, moisturise your lips with a good cream, Vaseline, or almond oil. You will wake up with wonderfully soft moist lips.

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Such Beautiful Manicured Hands With Latest Nail Polish Shades

Saturday, May 15th, 2010

Wearing a solitaire won’t really be so promising if you don’t have well groomed manicured hands to flash confidently. Women in general are perfectionists, and perfection demands compliments in all spheres of life. Manicured nails are a must for that final finished look of women. Besides beauty, nail care is also essential, as unattended nails can be a hygiene problem. Manicure helps to maintain the nail health as well as lends a smooth and polished look to your hands.

There are different types of manicures available like Home, French, Paraffin, Luxury, Hot stone and Spa manicures. Though the process of all these is almost similar, they differ in application of creams and different shape of nails. Among all, French and Home manicures are most popular. For a natural but more polished look, many women prefer a French manicure. It’s pink or nude nail base with a bold white tip is greatly loved by women to lend a graceful charm on elegant dinner outings.

Styling tips for home manicure kit include some lukewarm water, nail polish remover, cuticle pusher, a hand towel, nail clippers, clear nail polish, cotton pads, finger brush, nail file, nail buffer, massage oil and a pumice stone.

For the most economical and rewarding home manicure, follow the simple steps of removing old nail polish with a remover, cleaning hands in soapy water, trimming finger nails with a nail file, removing cuticles with a cuticle remover after hands have been softened in lukewarm water, pushing cuticles back with a pusher, polishing nails with a nail buffer, massaging hands with a massage oil, and finally applying nail polish.

The latest on current fashion trends includes Nail Art, where in several techniques like application of decals, stickers, gems, glitters and flowers are used to embellish the nails for a new creative, dazzling look. In fact, the latest fashion trend is Digital nail art in which designs and colors of your choice are sprayed by machines and printers on to the nails.

Nail polishes are one of the hottest fashion accessories. Right choice of nail polish contributes to longevity of a manicure. Nail paints in different shimmering rich colors in gloss, matte and glittery shades with quick drying formulas and long lasting effects are largely available in most good quality brands. You can try different shades to complement your attire and your skin tone. Opt for classic shades of French manicure for regular wear, else choose any shades from all time favorites of browns and reds, or go wild with greens and yellows. Bold and beautiful is the name for the hottest nail polish colors and trends for 2010 Spring fashion trends as per New York fashion reports. Shades of pinks, purples, oranges, greens and burgundy wines rule this spring. No matter what shape or color or type of manicure you choose, your pretty and attractive manicured hands enhance your dazzling beauty and rock your world!

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Styling tips for Dry Skin

Saturday, May 15th, 2010

Any cosmetic book will tell you that good skin is the best makeup. But many of us ‘face’ the problem of dry skin. Dry skin means that your skin has low level of essential oils. The biggest tell-tale sign for dry skin is the ‘stretch’ or ‘tightness’ you feel after washing your face/hands. During the worst phase you can see skin flaking off especially around the nose and chin and your skin feels irritable.

The reasons for dry skin are primarily:

  • Genetic
  • Poor diet
  • Extensive exposure to sun/ wind/winters
  • Harsh soaps and cosmetics
  • Medical reasons such as thyroid/medications

One unknown factor can be water. If you notice white spots on the bathroom floor where collected water has dried off, then that is probably hard water. Think of it like this- the white spots are actually mineral deposits in the water, so every time after washing, these deposits form a layer on your face too. This can be offset by using some drinking water to wash thoroughly, at least before bed time.

Dry skin condition can be easily relieved by following some skin care routines. Exfoliate the skin once a week, removal of dead skin cells helps in better absorption of moisturiser and gives the skin a clean and fresh look. Keep the pressure gentle while scrubbing for a minute or so. Finely powdered almonds and oats make very good natural exfoliaters.

Massage your face with good oil enriched cream or natural ingredients. Of all girl cosmetics, milk or fresh cream is the easiest available and best. The lactic acid in milk helps in clearing dead skin cells and hydrates skin. Grated cucumber or its juice maybe added. Dab it on the face and wash off with cold water after 10 minutes. Papaya, aloe vera, banana pulp are excellent natural moisturisers. Just apply the pulp and wash after 10 minutes. Don’t worry if you find it difficult to do this everyday, even once a week will greatly improve your skin. After washing, pat dry the face and immediately apply a good moisturiser so that the moisture gets locked in. Liquid moisturisers are always better than thick cold creams.

For make up, use a cream based or liquid foundation. Try one with light reflecting particles for a moistened, glowing look. You can also take you normal liquid foundation, mix in some lotion and use it. Opt for a creamy concealer, blusher and eye shadow. Buy water based products and avoid matte/powder cosmetics.

A regular ritual of ‘cleansing, toning, moisturising’ before going to bed is very important for dry skin care. Wash with lukewarm water to open the pores, clean, then use toner or splash cold water to close the pores. Rose water makes a good toner for dry skin. Lastly, moisturize your skin. Olive oil/almond oil is very beneficial for dry skin.

With a bit of care, a good night’s sleep, and drinking lots of water, you’ll soon have the perfect, beautifully glowing skin which is a fashion trend that’ll be around forever!

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Styling Tips: How to Take Care of Your Eyes and Get Rid of Dark Circles

Tuesday, May 11th, 2010

God has created this beautiful world full of color and happiness. To rejoice in these natural gifts, we are also blessed with a pair of magical eyes that not only take us on a world tour but also help us absorb little joys from memorable events and emotions throughout the journey of our life. Eyes act as reflectors to the happenings around us for our body and soul. Hence it is important for us to preserve and protect our eyes and keep them ever gleaming and beautiful. Follow certain simple guidelines in your lifestyle to keep your eyes ever relaxed and brilliant.

Splashing the eyes with cold water several times during the day is the easiest and greatest care for bright, sparkling eyes. Enhance their glow by drifting towards a nutritious diet rich in iron, vitamins and proteins like citrus fruits, green leafy veggies, and dairy/ poultry products. Drink lots of water and take plenty of rest. Washing eyes with overnight soaked gooseberry water first thing in the morning gives that extra mark of refreshment.

Cool your tired eyes by placing cotton swabs dipped in chilled milk on closed eyes for ten minutes. Take frequent breaks from the television and computer screens. Practicing with simple eye exercises as a routine proves wonderful. An easy and effective one is to first sit and relax, then look at a spot in between your eyes and count to five. Now, look at the tip of your nose and count to five. Relax. Repeat four to five times to completely de-stress your eyes. For those with puffy eyes, place grated potato on closed eyes for twenty minutes. Be in tune with the latest fashion trends by wearing designer sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays. Monitor the perfect condition of your eyes with regular eye check-ups.

Many of us have concerns about dark circles around the eyes. Shadows around the eyes can be due to various reasons like old age, hereditary transmission, lack of rest, smoking etc. Reason specific remedial measures include incorporating a rich vitamin C diet in case of old age and hereditary transmissions; in case of fatigue a good sound sleep is the doctor’s pill. In general, gently massaging saffron or almond oil on the darker areas before bed reduces dark pigmentation. Placing a slice of cucumber/ potato or a cotton swab dipped in mint juice, rosewater or cold milk on closed eyelids for ten minutes for a few days gives a miraculous escape from the dark encounter. One can always try the various remedial fashion cosmetics and beauty products available in the market to get rid of dark circles yet, try making your own magical potion by mixing the ingredients of a healthy diet, plenty of water and dreamy, good night sleep to create a natural glow!!

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Get Your Skin to Glow This Summer

Thursday, May 6th, 2010

Summer has finally arrived and it’s time to hit the pool and the beaches. But before you venture out into the sun for some fun, take care to protect your skin from the heat, humidity and chlorine. Overexposure to sun can be very harmful for the skin and can cause wrinkles and age spots to appear faster. The chances of developing skin cancer too increase many fold during summer. Follow these simple skin care tips to keep your skin healthy and glowing all through summer without compromising on the summer fashion trends of short skirts and bikinis.

Never stop using your moisurizer

Even though the skin may appear less dry during summer, do not stop using the moisturizer. Choose a lighter one, both for body and face that contains water-based formula. Apply a heavier eye cream for lighter serum.

Use sunscreen luxuriously

Choose sunscreen lotions or creams that offer broad spectrum protection. The minimum SPF required is 15. Apply the sunscreen luxuriously 10-12 minutes before venturing out in the sun.

Use lip balms

Choose a lip balm which offers broad spectrum protection from the sun. A minimum SPF 15 is a must. Also ensure that they provide your lips with enough moisture to keep them safe and supple for long hours.

Start using summer fashion cosmetics

Switch to a mineral-based, light foundation powder from your normal liquid foundation. Ensure that the foundation is atleast SPF 15. Opt for a natural glow with bronzing powder instead of using your favourite creamy blush. Skip your lipstick and use SPF-enriched lip gloss. Trade your normal mascara for waterproof mascara.

Switch to protective summer fashion trends

You don’t need to cover yourself from top to bottom, but instead use a fine long sleeve shirt, a hat with a wider brim and a good pair of sunglasses. Keep in mind that light shade cotton fabrics offer you a better protection from the sun compared to dark colored, tightly woven fabrics.

Use Sunless Self Tanner

Avoid sun tan completely to reduce your chances of developing wrinkles, age spots and skin cancer. Instead opt for a self tanner that is sunless. You may use a spray tan or air brushing is also a better option.

Exfoliate religiously

Exfoliating the dead skin, which would have increased many fold due to sweat and sun exposure, using a mild scrub can help in keeping your skin smooth and soft. Exfoliating on a regular basis will also prevent streaking.

Insist on smart shaving

Since you will be wearing shorter dresses in summer, frequent shaving is a must for summer skincare. Make sure that the shaving cream you choose contains moisturizers that will keep the skin soft and supple even after hair removal.

Prevent the occurrence of Rosacea

A very common medical condition of the skin that develops due to excessive heat, Rosacea results in the development of reddish swelling that breaks into small pimple-like spots. If you do develop Rosacea, keep yourself in cool conditions and wear loose-fitting and light weight clothes.

Above all these, the most vital element of summer skincare is the intake of fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants. Avoid oily and spicy food as it can cause the skin to become dry. Drink atleast 8 glasses of water to maintain natural moisture of the skin.

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Nature Rules this Spring!

Monday, April 19th, 2010

Surf time is back again! Here’s a lowdown on what’s hot and what’s not this season. Unusual shades of eyeshadows, smokey eyes, red lips, long flirty eyelashes and natural makeup are perfectly suited for spring’s signature vibe of freshness and renewal. The trend this season is to radiate from within. Natural look is all about flawless skin enhanced with a touch of bright lipstick and a little sparkle on the cheeks.

1. Big buns are the favorites of most of Hollywood’s leading ladies this season. Wear a tastefully messy oversized bun for youthful, modern and fresh look. A perfectly imperfect look with a few wisps of hair framing the face gives a casual feel. Take your pick from a big flower inspired bun to a tight topper with a real flower. Their simplicity makes them timeless.

2. Give a glamorous twist to the regal, smooth, classic look with an eye popping pout! Draw the focus to your lips with classic red and pink lipsticks. Pair a bright pink lip with a layer of high powered gloss for a mysterious, sexy and romantic look. Cooler toned reds are great on light skin, medium skin looks awesome with fire engine reds, and dark skin ladies look amazing in blood reds.

3. The season’s focus is on the eyes, accentuated with fake eyelashes. Get a dramatic bold look with false lower lash lines. Since most girls’ do not have those lush long lashes, fakes add the drama without 15 coats of mascara. A fake lash also looks more natural and stays longer.

4. Get a heavy or sheer look with lilac eyeshadows and accent the look with vibrant pinks, corals and teals. Wear a gorgeous shade of lilac for a flattering everyday look or mix it with gunmetal hues for smokey eye effect. Lilac shades can be worn by every woman, regardless of their eye color or skin tone. The 80’s trend of pastel eye shadow is also back with a vengeance, but keep it sheer to avoid looking like a fashion victim. For those of you looking to make a bold statement and flaunt your beauty, gold eyeshadow is the thing.

5. Gorgeous pistachio green type colors, muted lilacs and light blue are the must have nail colors this spring for women. To make your nails stand out, try bright neon shades. Matte finishes, moon manicures, metallics, and nudes made up an exciting nail scene in 2010. Venture out with a gray beige nail polish to be chic, try a frosty gunmetal polish like tuxedo grey or use the more earthy shades of chinchilly or charcoal.

6. Enhance your femininity and style with defined cheeks this spring. Rose, pink, bronze, peach and brown blush colors offer a natural dazzle that define the bone structure to obtain a gorgeous well structured look. Rosy and peach defined cheeks are the most adorable styles of the moment inspired by fashion models including Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Derek lam’s models. This vintage translucent feminine look is at the top of makeup trends as natural is the way to go.

What are your favorite spring beauty trends this season? Which trends will you be sporting? Please share!

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Into the World of Foundation – Which One is for You?

Monday, April 19th, 2010

Foundation as the name suggests is the base for your entire make-up. It is the first step in defining your individual look and style for any occasion. It is very useful in giving that smooth look to your face and very handy in hiding that last minute pimple, scar or pigmentation in your face. But before you select yourself a foundation among the loads of options available in the market; you should have a good idea of which one will work for you. So get ready for a sneak peek into the world of foundations. Foundations are basically of the following types:

Liquid Foundation: This type of foundation wins hands-down in the popularity contest of all foundation types that are out there. They are known for providing a ‘natural look’ makeup and generally suit any skin type, which makes them a favorite of many. You can choose between oil-based or water-based foundations. Oil based foundations are best for dry, normal or wrinkled skin .Water-based foundations are generally used for oily skin. Some silicon oil is generally present in water-based foundation which gives a sheer finish.

Cream Foundation: Generally preferred for dry skin, this foundation is of thick consistency and provides a great coverage to the face. The end result is a smooth flawless skin.

Stick foundation: This kind of foundation generally acts as a concealer cum foundation. Stick foundations are very good in hiding blemishes and scars. But since they tend to be dry it is best to use them on oily skin.

Powder Foundation: Unlike other foundations, powder foundations is really very light. And since it is quite easy to use, it is ideal if you are just starting out with your make up or if you are in a real hurry. It’s ideally suited for summers, places with humidity or for oily skin.

Mineral Foundation: Mineral foundations are in powdered form. This kind of foundation is supposedly made by minerals which are skin friendly. Because of the minerals they do not cause skin irritation and also no chemicals are used which are harmful to the skin. But the result of mineral foundation varies from person to person and brand to brand. So if you are opting for it go for a test make up and see if it suits your skin type or not.

So, how to choose the one for you?

Best way to choose the perfect foundation is to do a live test. Put a little foundation on your jaw line. This way you can see how well the foundation blends with your face and neck. Do not test the foundation by putting on the back of your hands or your wrist as the color of your face and hand differs quite a lot. And don’t think that buying a foundation one or two shades lighter than your skin tone will make you look fairer. Rather you will end up getting an artificial mask like look. Generally, yellow based foundation suits all skin types. If you have an oily skin, look for foundations which are oil-free. For dry skin, foundation should be moisturizer based. If you have a combination skin you can go for cream based or powder foundations.

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