Food for Thought!

Make Use of Your On-Their-Way-to-Expired Groceries.

I woke up today and my skin is feeling just SOOO dehydrated and dry.  I drink plenty of water and use a humidifier in the bedroom but no matter what I always need some extra TLC in the cold months of winter.  So I decided while cleaning up around the house on this snow day, I would put a hydrating mask on my skin.

While getting a mask ready it dawned on me ...The greek yogurt that I used to cook dinner with last night was going to expire today and I was going to throw it away.  But why not kill 2 birds with one stone??? A healthy dinner and healthy skin!

Yogurt has lots of good for you ingredients.  Zinc which is an anti-inflammatory, (great for acne or blemishes), lactic acid, (which is its key ingredient)  helps exfoliate, soothe, moisturize, and help combate wrinkles.  Vitamin B12, B5 , and calcium.  The B vitamins help with cell growth to hydrate and give skin a nice glowing complexion and calcium has anti-oxidant power to aid in healing skin.


So remember, next time you are getting ready to throw away yogurt that is expired use it for your face! If you also have bananas that are starting to brown that you don't want to eat, mash them up and mix with a teaspoon of honey to bind the mask together .  It will be easier to spread on your face.  Now that's what I call a win-win. Super easy and skincare on a budget!

New Beginnings...

Welcome 2015! 

With every new year comes new resolutions.  I for one like the idea of making a resolution for yourself.  It is a positive approach to bettering ones' self and I am all about that!

I prefer making little resolutions, they are much more realistic and you have a much better chance of sticking to it.  So this year one of my resolutions is to start doing video blogs.  I have been saying I am going to do this for a while but always had a minor set back with the camera, or a model, or just didnt have the time.  But I am making this one of my goals because I believe it will be a big help for those who like to see more of a visual while I am giving tips on makeup and will better my skills as a professional.

So stay tuned I will be seeing ya soon!
P.S. Thanks for all the encouragement ladies. (You know who you are!)

Ancient Beauty

Every decade or so beauty trends come back.  

Some good, some bad, and others we are just not sure exactly what to do with.  One inparticular is Oil pulling. Also known as Gandusha. An ancient indian ritual.  It has been circulating in magazines and websites lately and there's been lots of reviews on it.  So I decided to check it out for myself.  After 5 days I noticed a whiter smile and some health benefits such as fresher breathe in the morning as soon as I wake up.  The taste is nice because it is sweet.  But remember not to swallow, use it as you would listerine.  The oil draws out all Impuritites and in return can help with any bacteria and toxins in the mouth or any that are connected to your lymph nodes located along the jaw, near the ears, annd in the neck.  Which means clearer nasal cavity and pharynx.  This is perfect for all my prego friends who seem to be having pregnancy gingivities or any other mouth concerns.  

Here are some articles about Oil Pulling.  If you want to give it a try read this and decide if it's something for you.  Here is a picture of the organic coconut oil I purchased.  I got it at whole foods.  Good Luck!

http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/features/oil-pulling

http://wellnessmama.com/7866/oil-pulling-for-oral-health/

XOXO

~Sam~

#TryItOutTuesday

The beauty industry is at it again! First South Korea gave us BB creams, then came CC creams.  Now the latest multitasker is Cushion Compacts.  If you don't like using your hands to apply your BB and CC cream well then this is the product for you.  It comes in a compact and you use the spongy pad to apply to the face.  Cushion compacts are tinted moisturizer that is packed with antioxidants and anti-aging ingredients.  Here are three brands that are first to give it a go !

Amorepacific Color Control Cushion Compact SPF 50 $60

IT Cosmetics CC+Veil Beauty Fluid Foundation SPF 50 $38

Dr. Jart+ Bounce Beauty Balm SPF 30 $48



XOXO
Sam

#TIPTUESDAY!

Not applying sunscreen regularly, especially in the summer months will result in hyper pigmentation. Also known as "sun spots." Using a serum with hydroquinone will lighten up the dark spots and help even out the coloring in your complexion.  Need suggestions on a product , MSG me .

Facials always help too! I can schedule you one today!

Is Your Skin Still Suffering from Post Labor Day Stress ?

If you ask most people , they would say Labor Day marks the end of summer.  But technically it is  still amongst us.  Either way for most of us our skin is in dire need of some T.L.C

Between sun exposure, dehydration from alcohol, and puffy eyes (from late nights), our skin is fighting back.  Lucky for you, you can fix all these issues by just grabbing a few things from your kitchen and bathroom.  Here are a few you can do in one night with one ingredient.  So when I say easy, I mean EASY!! 

Grab a banana.  Skin needs potassium to look less dehydrated.  So by eating just one, your skin can look refreshed. 

Slice up a potato.  Potatoes are made up of mostly vitamin K.  Which is in the best moisturizing eye creams.  So cut one up and place a slice on each eye, and watch the puffy eyes you once had, de-puff. 

Grab a cup of tea. Green tea is the best. It has the most antioxidants.  Steep up a tea bag in some hot water.   Drink it for the most health benefits.  And when your done cool it off by popping it in the fridge.  Take it out and place it over one eye at a time.  This helps with deconstructing your blood vessels so your eyes look refreshed and have no bluish/ purple undertone. 

And last but not least, if your not a tea drinker grab some cotton balls and soak them in toner.  Place them in a freezer bag and pop them in the freezer.  Take them out and place them on your face wherever you need them.  The refreshing cool feeling will help your blood vessels decrease just as the tea bags did. 

There you have it.  A couple of Post Summer Quick Remedies that will have your skin on your face looking much better Post Labor Day weekend.


                                                                                                            XOXO,
                                                                                                            Samantha

Easy, Breezy, Beautiful and ON THE GO...

I am sure most of you,  if not all of you probably read this title and said "The story of my life!" Well I am right there with you.  Every weekend and even most weekdays I am on the go.  Between work, social events, and now most of you with children, it's hard to look your best and get out the door in record breaking time.

To make matters worse summer is  almost here and we are busier than ever. So I have compiled a list of easy multi-use products that can lighten up your weekender and make getting where you have to go a lot quicker.  Not to mention if you are looking to buy some new makeup products this upcoming season you will save some dough by getting a product that can give your eyes a pop of color, liven up your cheeks and give your lips a splash of color.  Just throw them in your clutch and off you go ! 

One of the products that has been around for a while that has been a go-to staple of mine is Benefits Tints Collection. They come in all different colors and have great pigment. It is great for the lips and cheeks.  $30 . 

There is also a huge range of chubby sticks or also known as makeup color crayons.  They come in matte and laquer. Also sheer coverage and medium coverage.  So its best to try them out before you purchase to see what look is right for you. To make life easier I will just list them  so you can choose what brand/ price point is for you.  T

$3-NYC New York lip color.

$9- Revlon ColorBurst Lacquer Balm 

$17- Clinique Chubby Stick

$24- Tarte LipSurgence Lip Tint

Now you can spend more time doing the things you love and still look summer chic! 

XOXO,

Samantha

Eye of the Beholder...

As a makeup artist and a cosmetic junkie I love to experiment with new products.  I usually share my favorites with family and friends when they ask, but this time I am posting about one of my absolute favorite products that is out right now.

One of the most asked question I get from clients is what's the best under eye concealer? Well look no further I have found the BEST new concealor!  Introducing Benefit Fake Up. It is a hydrating concealer that smooths out the skin underneath your eye while hydrating.  Never gets cakey and disguises all signs of bluish tones. So if your skin is dry or you're not getting enough sleep this cosmetic is for you.  It is my new beauty addiction.  I love it so much that I took a before and after picture to show off how great it is.  I literally only have Fake Up under and around my eye in the after pic. Check this out! 

Hot Cocoa for your skin

Stay Warm on this Snowy day with Hot Cocoa.  Steam up a cup and get cozy.  Cocoa has great benefits for not only your health but it's great for your skin! Read this article to learn more about it.

http://www.naturalnews.com/038575_hot_cocoa_flavonoids_health_benefits.html#

Snow & Wine !

For many of us getting snowed in is a great excuse to cozy up on the couch, watch movies, and eat comfort food.  Well did you know getting comfy with a glass of red wine will not only keep you warm but is great for your health.  We all hear its great for your heart but it's just as good for your skin . Read this article to find out more.  Looks like being snowed in and drinking won't be a guilty pleasure anymore...  :)


http://www.webmd.com/beauty/aging/drinking-wine-antiaging


XOXO,
Sam

New Year. New Skin

I am always looking for ways to improve my skin and save money.  With these DIY skin care tips you can do both of those things.  When you have free time try these remedies out.

http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/tips/17002_Age_Defying_Tips_From_Your_Fridge/index.html

Xo

Samantha

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Snowy Spa Day

SNOW DAY!!! Best time to not only eat comfort food but comfort your skin.  It needs to be nourished too! Make an at home remedy to replenish the moisture in your skin.  Look though the pantry.  Make an at home face exfoliate.  Mix together olive oil, baking soda, and a drop of honey.  It will buff off the top layer of dull skin and re-hydrate for a smooth silky finish. Kick your feet up and get cozy.  Leave it on for 10 minutes and then  rinse with warm water. Lastly apply a face moisturizer and eye cream.  Bon Appetit for your skin!

"Girl On FIRE"

Let's paint the town red! And I don't just mean decorating for Christmas.  I'm talking about your pout!!!

Rocking red lips for anytime of the year is glamorous.  But around the holidays it really packs a great punch.  There are many shades of red to choose from.  I know most of you are thinking "Well, which one??"  

A blue based red is ideal for most skin types.  Especially this time of the year when most people are wearing darker colors and non bronzed skin.  The bluish under tone will also make your teeth appear whiter.  (Always a plus!)  If you still don't know what bluish toned red lipstick looks like, then I suggest taking a glance at the red lipsticks in the department store or even the drugstore.  You'll notice some reds have an orange tone and others have a blue tone to them.  If you still aren't sure by just looking, try them on.  Any makeup artist will be happy to help you try some on and the drugstores will take them back if you rather experiment at home. 

Red lipstick can  transform any outfit and most of the time I plan what I am going to wear around my red lips.  It really is a staple statement! Here is my absolute favorite reds that I use for work and on myself.  

MAC Ruby Woo 

MAC Russian Red

Dior Classic Red #999

Revlon Rich Girl Red

Do not forget to line your lips with the same lip liner or a shade very close to it.  Without lining your lips the red lipstick will bleed onto your skin outside of your mouth.  You don't want to look like the joker! 

Also feather in your lips with the lip liner. This will create a stain that will allow your lipstick to stay put.  If you want more staying power dust translucent powder on the first layer and then reapply.  Using a lip brush is also best in order to stay in the lines.

Keeping your eye makeup to a minimal is important as well.  Always focus on one area when it come to vibrant colors.  It helps balance out your look.  Soft browns, champagne shades, and a winged out eyeliner looks great paired with red lips.  It may be cold outside but follow these tips and you will definitely be on fire this holiday season! 

XOXO,

Sam

Tis' The Season

We are Only 3 weeks away till the greatest time of the year! And I don't mean just the holidays! It's also the best time of the year for shopping!!! Whether you are buying for a friend, sister, or even yourself, there is a deal out there for everyone.

Black Friday maybe over but that doesn't mean so are all the phenomenal buys.  Right now is when you can get the most bang for your buck on beauty.  Whether it is for lipgloss, perfume, or nailpolish.  The department stores and speciality stores all sell great holiday kits filled with more than one type of each and they are selling out as we speak.  

If you are looking for the perfect gift for the beauty guru for your family or friend, head to http://www.sephora.com/all-gifts.  You can get some of their best selling items for eyeshadows, eyeliners, and lipglosses for under $50. Here are a few...

Makeup Academy Blockbuster - $49.50 originally $210

Tarte Stop and Stare eyeliner & Las set - $39 originally $115 

Stilia Color me Glossy Lip Glaze set - $28 originally $124

If you are spending more money on your Secret Santa this year here are the best gift sets out there...

Sephora Favorites.  Fragrance Sampler for her. -$65 originally $140

Sephora Favorites.  fragrance Roller collection -$85 originally $205

Urban Decay Ocho Loco 2 -$59 originally $162

Sephora Make an Entrance Clutch brush set -$59 originally $140

Formula X for Sephora .  The Twenty -Two. -$55 originally $103

Sephora Glitz and Glam -$45 originally $159 

Go ahead and scoop these up.  There is many more to choose from but remember these are mostly limited edition kits.  So they won't be there next time you shop the  rest of the year.  Happy shopping and Happy Holidays! 

http://www.sephora.com 

XOXO 

Sam 

Match Maker Make Me a Match!

With so brands and types of foundation in the beauty industry, searching for the perfect match can be stressful.  But there is a new easier way to get your exact match.  Color IQ by Pantone and Sephora is the newest technology that  pinpoint's your 100% exact foundation shade.  Hit up your nearest Sephora to check it out!! 

Foundation for Fall

Hate saying buh-bye to being bronzed? Well you don't have to completely.  By changing up your makeup routine you can keep that warm summer glow all through fall and winter. You can do that by switching to a light, medium or full coverage foundation, swapping your shimmery bronzer to a matte bronzer, and contouring in the correct areas.  By doing these simple changes you can keep the warmth to your skin even if summer is over. 


First thing is first, get to the department store or drugstore (whatever is more in your price range) and try out some foundations.  Then decide what level of coverage you want.  There are many brands out there that have all different types of coverage.  If you have a clear complexion and smaller pores, use a light coverage formula.  If you have any blemishes, broken capillaries or discoloration you can use a medium to full coverage.  It all depends on the level of demarcation on your face. 

I have worked with all different types for various people. One that I like for light coverage is Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation. Two great examples of medium coverage (both HD formulas) Makeup Forever HD foundation and Smashbox liquid Halo Foundation  . A great full coverage that really conceals tremendous is MAC Full Coverage Foundation. 


Now it's time to properly contour. Think about where your face tans the most when you lay out in the sun.  Those are the areas you want to contour the most.  The top of your forehead (into the hairline), tip of your nose, and lower chin.  Also swipe the bronzer under the cheekbones, along the jawline for definition and both sides of the nose.  Follow these simple little tricks and your face will give off the appearance that you still have some warmth left after all. 

   Nail down the contouring and highlighting will be just as easy. Further how to blog to follow soon...

Glow In The Dark Diva

That time of the year is almost here ladies; when the caution of being too sexy goes out the window and hello Miss Confident arrives. That's right, Halloween is only 2 weeks away and while figuring out a costume can be a task, looking great shouldn't be.  

This past Spring the runway show models were flashing on-lookers with a cool new idea that had everyone literally glowing with a new brand of glow-in-the-dark makeup. Now, the concept of glow in the dark makeup goes from runway to your face just in time for Halloween with some great new products on the market.

Whether your made-up face will be the focal point or an addition to your already funky costume now is the time to get creative. Those feeling inspired can electrify their look with Makeup for Ever's Fluo Night pigments. They have an array of eight powders that can be used wet or dry on eyes, lips, and hair. For your lips try Stilia's neon After Glow crayons. The color will give you a heavy look perfect for your costume that will last from day to night.  

Happy Sexy Halloween!

xoxo

Makeup Removal: The Dirty on Cleaning Up

Every so often I get calls from brides who are looking for tips on how to improve the look of their complexion prior to their wedding. Today was one of those days. A bride who is getting married within the month asked me how to get a glowing, fresh look in a short amount of time. Most people would assume that in a month creating a radiant canvas of your face would require microdermabrasion, injections or chemical peels- but the answer is much simplier than that.

I recently came across a video from the popular television show The Doctors on ABC via the Huffington Post. This video illustrates a woman who had not washed the makeup off her face for a month and the effects it had on her skin. The results were astonishing and yet to me not very surprising since washing the makeup off your face nightly is the NUMBER ONE step to getting your skin prepared for a flawless look when you reapply makeup.

Incredible right? The bride I spoke to today certainly thought so. Some more simple yet crucial suggestions of mine for getting your skin flawless when you have a limited amount of time to prep.

1. Drink lots of water (add cucumbers, a diuretic, to help flush out toxins)
2. Avoid alcohol (dehydrates the skin causing fine lines to look more prominent)
3. Freeze teabags and place them under your eyes at night (reduces puffiness)
4. Moisturize (Morning and night after cleansing)
5. Exfoliate with a mild scrub (2-3 times a week to remove dead skin)

Add these steps to your daily beauty regime and take it easy- remember, stress doesn't look good on anyone!

XOXO
Samantha

The Beauty Buzz on Brights

Ever look through a magazine or see a TV ad with a woman wearing a lipstick that is gorgeous but then you say to yourself, " It looks great on her but I can't pull that off. " Well you are not the only one.  Lots of women say the same thing. But guess what??  You can!

Summer may be technically over but the warm weather is still here and so are the bright colors. Wear these shades a little longer till fall's earthy tones are back.  As long as the bright color you choose is matte,  you can take these colors well into September .

Fushia and Coral are always a great pick me up for your complexion. A pop of either color will have your skin looking radiant,  give the illusion that your tan is still lingering, and has the ability to take a drab outfit and make it look more lively with just that vocal point of lip color.

The best way to pick the right shade is to first determine whether you have a warm or cool skin tone.  There are many ways to test this theory.  The best way is to look at your inner wrist/arm.  If you have blue colored veins you are cool toned.  If you have green veins you have a warm skin tone.  If you can not tell because it is close in color, than you are neutral and can most likely pull off cool and warm tones.  If you are  still not sure, go to a makeup counter and try on samples.  Just make sure the person working behind the counter cleans off the top of the lipstick with alcohol.

A cool colored lipstick will have a bluish undertone and a warm lipstick will have more of an orange undertone.  For example I have more of a warm undertone so I love to wear orange coral lipsticks in the warm weather.  My favorite is Frost by MAC.

The key to a new look is experimenting.   There are so many great ones out there.  Just find which one suits you the best and own it!

Xoxo,
Sam