Pop Sugar Network's Bella TV

The Pop Sugar Network recently launched Bella TV-- the video channel for beauty junkies.

Bella TV features a lineup of original shows that cover the world of beauty, including the latest hair, makeup, skin, and nail trends, celebrity how-tos, tips and tricks, and more!

Watch Celebrity MUA, Barbara Guillaume's video on Tools for the best brows

World AIDS Day: Know Your Status & Support Prevention

Today is December 1, 2009, WORLD AIDS DAY. We shouldn't need a day to remind us of the importance of AIDS prevention and fighting the disease, but it sure as heck doesn't hurt.
At the end of 2007, the CDC estimates that 468,578 people were living with AIDS in America, around 20,000 more than 2006. AND IT'S NEARLY 2010. The disease is also spreading rapidly throughout other parts of the world, including Africa. Many Americans have never been tested for the disease and it is affected our family and friends at an alarming rate.

How can you help?
Get tested & take your partner with you.
Protect yourself. Do not depend on your partner to supply condoms.
Be aware of and avoid means of transmission:
• Sex without a condom with someone living with HIV
• Sharing infected needles, syringes or other injecting drug equipment
• From an HIV-positive mother (to her child) during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding (but with effective treatment and care the risk of transmission can be greatly reduced)
Educate yourself and those around you.
visit http://www.worldaidsday.org/

Support prevention by purchasing these RED beauty products.
Every cent made from MAC VIVA Glam is donated to the MAC AIDS Fund.



OCC NSFW Nail Lacquer proceeds are donated to National AIDS Education & Services for Minorities, Inc.







Kiehl's Hand Care for Cure donates profits to amFAR (AIDS research charity)

MUA Sam Fine: Humble Beginnings

"You have to be in it to win it", says renowned makeup artist Sam Fine.
View this exclusive excerpt from the Special Features section of Fine: The Basics of Beauty where Sam Fine talks about how he got his start in the business of beauty!

The September Issue: Behind the Cover of Vogue

Anna Wintour, the legendary editor-in-chief of Vogue magazine for twenty years, is the most powerful and polarizing figure in fashion. Until now, she has never allowed anyone to scrutinize the inner workings of her magazine. Filmmaker R.J. Cutler’s new documentary, THE SEPTEMBER ISSUE takes the viewer inside a world they only think they know.
September is considered the January of fashion...Every August a record-breaking number of people can’t wait to get their hands on the September issue of Vogue. The 2007 issue was and remains the biggest ever, weighing over four pounds, selling thirteen million copies, and impacting the $300-billion global fashion industry more than any other single publication. An intimate, funny and surprising look at Anna Wintour and her team of larger-than-life editors as they create this must-have Bible of fashion, Cutler explores the untouchable glamour of Wintour’s Vogue to reveal the extraordinarily passionate people at its heart.

www.theseptemberissue.com

Go Pink!

Those who know me, know that I have a huge affinity for the color pink. In honor of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, I urge you all to like it too.

My aunt and godmother are both breast cancer survivors so this cause is very near and dear to me. Aside from non-melanoma skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting women. Conduct regular self-checks and have routine mammograms for early detection!
Not only can you make direct donations to support awareness and mammograms, but there are tons of useful products that you can purchase in support of the cause. This time of year, I make every effort to purchase pink.

Here are some of my favorite beauty products:
Balmshell 1 in 8

Clarisonic Limited Edition PLUS designer model or

BCA Pink ClarisonicClinique Dramatically Different Moisturizing LotionPrecision in Pink Slant Tweezer from Tweezerman

To learn breast cancer, to volunteer or to make a donation visit:
National Breast Cancer Foundation
Susan G. Komen for the Cure

All Black Everything

MAC gets back to basics with a black collection...This fall Style Black brings back all the way back! and boy, am I excited. Launch: Sept 24th (that's tomorrow)

From '80s Sprouse-in-the-House kohl and fringe to London New Goth, going back to black changes the mood, deepens the drama. Eyeliner, beehives and beyond, this is a celebration of going madly, deliriously noir. Don't wait 'til midnight.


Lipstick ($14.00)

* Black Knight Creamy true black (Cremesheen) (Limited Edition)

Mattene ($14.50)

* Midnight Media Dense matte black (Limited Edition)
* Night Violet Deep purple grape (Repromote) (Limited Edition)

Glimmerglass ($18.00)

* Bling Black Sheer black with gold pearl (Limited Edition)
* Blackfire Sheer black with pink purple pearl (Limited Edition)
* Blackware Creamy true black (Limited Edition)

Mineralize Eye Shadows ($19.00)

* Cinderfella Black with silver pearl (Limited Edition)
* Young Punk Black with pink purple pearl (Limited Edition)
* Gilt by Association Black with gold bronze pearl (Limited Edition)
* Blue Flame Black with blue pearl (Limited Edition)

Grease Paintstick ($17.50)

* Black Intense black (Limited Edition)

Penultimate Liner ($16.50)

* Rapidblack True black (Permanent)

Eye Kohl ($14.50)

* Smolder Intense Black (Permanent)

Cream Colour Base ($16.50)

* Black Creamy True black (Permanent at PRO)
* Bat Black Burgundy black with pink pearl (Permanent at PRO)

Nail Lacquer ($12.00)

* Nocturnelle True black (Cream) (Permanent)
* Seriously Hip Black with gold particle pearl (Frost) (Limited Edition)
* Baby Goth Girl Black with pink and purple pearl (Frost) (Limited Edition)

Applying False Lashes

I'm not a big lash wearer, but I was in Miami for a week with a group of lovely ladies and most of them could not go anywhere without their lashes. Some applied the lashes themselves, while others applied them for a fellow lash fiend. With all of this lash-love going around, I decided to do a mini tutorial on application.

Strip lashes come in various styles, from natural to fashion, depending on the look you are trying to achieve.
I apply lashes on people all the time, but I asked my cousin (who wears strip lashes practically everyday) to see if her technique for applying them on herself differs any from how I apply them on others...not so much.

Here are a few tips if you like the look of strip lashes but were never quite sure how to apply them:

Step 1:
You should use the strip lash to measure the width of the lid and trim the lash to fit.
Step 2:
Next, apply your makeup, including eye liner.
Step 3:
Apply glue to the base of the false lash and let it set for about 10 seconds so the glue becomes tacky. The wetter the glue, the longer the lashes will take to adhere. Use eyeliner as a guide to apply lash as close to lash line as possible. You can use tweezers or your hands to apply the lash--whichever is easiest.
Please only use non-professional grade glue (ie. Duo, Duralash, Ardell, Lash Grip), which is meant for short term where-- an event or no longer than a day. Glue should dry clear.

If you are into a more natural look, individual lashes/clusters are probably your best bet:

Step 1:
Apply your makeup.
Step 2:
Squeeze a small amount of glue onto the plastic container. Then, using tweezers, pick up a lash cluster and dip into glue. Again, wait about 10 seconds before attempting to apply lash. As mentioned before, this glue is meant for short-term wear.
Step 3:
Begin by putting 1 lash cluster at the outer corner of one eye. Place it as close to your lash line as possible. Trying to angle it at the same angle as your lashes, so they blend well. Apply one or two lashes on one eye, then apply the same amount to the other eye. This technique helps lashes look symmetrical on each eye. Move from the outside of the eye inward. Start with three or four clusters and add more if you want extra drama.

Once the glue is dry, you are ready for the world!

• Lashes can be removed with soap and water.

• Practice makes perfect. I don't advise "practicing" lash application right before you are headed to a big event.

NARS Makeup Cleansing Oil

NARS has released a new makeup remover-- "an advanced achievement in removing makeup and impurities".

This new Makeup Cleansing Oil should be used to clean and remove makeup deep within your pores prior to your normal cleansing routine. Afterwards, skin feels non-greasy, soft, and refreshed.

Benefits:
* Exclusive technology enables use on wet or dry skin
* Breaks down makeup and excess oil on skin’s surface, dissolves build-up, and improves clarity
* Can be used on face, eyes, and lips * Softens skin to reveal a refreshed and supple complexion
* Dermatologist and Ophthalmologist tested

Retails for $40
Order yours at www.narscosmetics.com

MAC Fall/Winter '09 Nail Trend

Jin Soon, much-sought-after nail guru who has worked the shows, collaborating with us to create six nail colours exclusively for M·A·C.
This limited edition collection includes 6 shades of nail lacquer (Cool Reserve, a dirty grey lavender; For Fun, a rich clean purple; Dry Martini, a khaki olive green; Rich, Dark, Delicious, a rich blackened brown; Dance All Night, a brick red and Beyond Jealous, a blackened blue green) an underlacquer and an overlacquer.
The polish is a "revolutionary high gloss formula" that provide a no-streak, no-chip finish.
www.maccosmetics.com

Smashbox Beauty Blow Out: 25-50% Off

During these tough economic times, I'm always looking for ways to save. When I find them, I make sure I share them with my readers.
So here goes...Smashbox is having a beauty blowout sale in their curtain call section. Save up to 50% on limited-edition and discontinued products.
Happy Shopping!

Fall 09: OCC Lip Tars

6 New shades of Lip Tars for the Fall

An ultra-emollient lipstick in a tube. Goes on slick and moist. Dries to a demi-matte finish. Incredibly opaque and long-lasting.
• ANIME: Beyond neon pink. Pageant pales by comparison.
• HUSH: Antique, bridal pink. A match for OCC Skin Airbrush Blush in Hush.
• CONQUEST: Pale, polished ivory. Great for mixing or Mod Makeup.
• PETTY BEIGE: Opaque and true, deep toned ecru.
• FONDUE: Intensely dark chocolate - think 91% cacao dark!
• BOTANICAL: It's not easy wearing green, but it's great to tone down red.

Check out my previous post from the Makeup Show New York for my thought on CC lip tars.
Retails for $12.50 at OCCMakeup.com

Making White Eyeliner Work for You

White eyeliner should be used with care. It can brighten the eyes or draw just the right amount of negative attention.

I was prompted to do this post by a reader who urged me to address those who where white liner in its starkest form-- a bright white line drawn across the upper lid (or bright white shadow under the brow) usually, applied with no real technique or consideration for shade or complexion.Unlike my dear reader, I am not completely opposed to the use white liner. As with anything, if used correctly, white liner can give the illusion of wider eyes and make the per son appear more alert.

Here's how to make white eyeliner work for your good...(I will only address eyes and brows, but there are many other uses)

To brighten the eyes

Lightly trace the inside of the lower rim (or the waterline) with the pencil (or on lower lash line). *For a more obvious effect, line the upper lash line as well. (Please be careful here, folks)

By lightly sweeping across the line with a cotton swab, sponge tip or pencil brush, you can tone it down. Using a white, pale gold or silver powder eyeshadow sets the pencil line to brighten the eyes.

As a base for eyeshadows

Using the liner underneath an eyeshadow provides longevity, keeps shadow colors true and makes colors more vivid.

As a highlight for the brows

By drawing a very thin line right under the eyebrow and stamping it afterwards, the liner can highlight the shape of the brow and give your face an illuminated effect. I recommend variations of pearl, pink-white or butter (again, depending on complexion and desired look)

As a base for the brows

If you ever want to change the shape of your brows without actually removing hair, a white eyeliner can camouflage the unwanted hair. Color over the area with the liner and go over with concealer or foundation.

---

* Please consider the shade of the liner and whether it compliments your complexion. A pure matte white may be too distracting on certain skin tones. Consider MAC Fluidline Gel Liner in Frostlite (off-white shade with reflective hints of gold) like MAC Powerpoint Eye Pencil Gilded White or other moderate gold-tinged whites, which work well on most skintones. Other options include beiges like Make Up For Ever (MUFE) Pearly Waterproof Eye Shadow Pencil in 13 Iridescent Beige , together with pale pinks such as Shu Uemura ME Pink, are nice options too.

DO YOU HAVE YOUR OWN WHITE EYELINER TECHNIQUES? SHARE THEM WITH US BY LEAVING A COMMENT.

Meet the Designer...Mychael Knight

I have not done a fashion related post in quite some time, but when I heard Mychael Knight (from season 3 of Project Runway) would be appearing on the show's upcoming "All-Star Challenge", I HAD to do a post. If you ever watched the season with Mychael he was probably one of your favs, as he is undoubtedly one of mine. Mychael's personality was always relaxed and laid-back, and his designs were reflective of his attitude. Although his designs had a flare of sexy chic, they always looked extremely comfortable and wearable.

Mychael's design and styling skills have been sought after by the likes of Patti LaBelle, Jennifer Hudson, Keri Hilson, and Kim Porter and have been featured in a variety of print publications including Allure, Atlanta PEACH, KING, Upscale, Ebony, Black Enterprise and His resume doesn't stop there. He has a signature unisex fragrance MAJK, his signature unisex fragrance, Monsieur, a men's furnishings label, and Kitty's Litter, a burlesque performance group and his own line bearing his namesake.
In 2006 and 2007, he was a fashion commentator for the BET Hip Hop Awards and the BET Awards as well as 3 year staple juror for SCAD Style. Finally, Mychael plans to launch a line of "unmentionables' for men and women bearing the name "Kitty & Dick".

Be sure to check out his website www.mychaelknight.com

Project Runway "All-Star Challenge" airs Thursday, August 20 @8pm on Lifetime

MAC Baby Bloom

This mini-collection from MAC is perfect for summer!MAC’s Baby Bloom line features sheer, light-weight tinted moisturizers that provide breathable beauty during the hot summer months with just the right amount of coverage for those who aren't huge foundation-wearers. The moisture tints can be used with or without another foundation as they are designed to treat the skin with healing emollients to moisturize and help prevent sun damage.

Also in this collection- Suntints SPF 20 Liquid Lip Balm. This balm adds a touch of sheer color with a moisturizer and sun protection for the lips.

If you like a soft, feminine glow, I definitely recommend this collection.

Studio Moisture Tint SPF 15 - $29.50 (available in 5 shades)

Suntints SPF20 Liquid Lip Balm - $14.50 (available 5 shades)

Available at MAC counters, stores and maccosmetics.com.

NARS Artist Bridal Palette

Ok, its been a minute, but I'm back with a mah-velous product to share. I was so excited when I found out about this palette because it has everything you need to create a daytime or an evening look for your bride (or yourself).

I love palettes because they are what I like to call a "bargain product", letting you sample various products from a particular line at a fairly reasonable price. This one is no different. But instead of a palette for just eyes or lips, this palette has products to create an entire look.
I had the opportunity to use this palette yesterday and today for two weddings and fell deeper in love *sigh*(so much so that it's the product of the month). The great thing about this palette includes universal shades that work well for just about any bride.
The palette features eyeshadow colors ranging from beige to plum/violet (4), lip colors in pink (4), highlighter and blush.

Retails for $65.00 (worth every penny) at www.narscosmetics.com

MAC Look in a Box

MAC Look in a Box is an Anniversary Collection exclusive to Nordstrom & Nordstrom.com. Retail: $59.50

The box is a black carton featuring a photo of a model wearing the "look". Boxes also include a step-by-step how-to face chart.

The Seductress Look features five essential products packaged together to achieve a modern, seductive look: Belightful Iridescent Powder/Pressed, Knight Divine and Naked Lunch Eyeshadows, Bare Slimshine Lipstick, 181SE Buffer Brush and a promo-sized Zoom Lash.

The Sun Siren Look features five essential products packaged together to achieve a luxurious, shine-filled bronze look: Bronze Bronzing Powder, Shroom and Amber Lights Eyeshadows, Get Rich Quick Dazzleglass, Buffer Brush 181SE and a promo-sized Zoom Lash.

The Sweet Tease Look features five essential products packaged together to achieve a minimalist, lightly sexy look: Shell Pearl Beauty Powder, Mulch and Gleam Eyeshadows, Love Nectar Lustreglass, promo-sized Zoom Lash and a 181SE Buffer Brush.

Shu Uemura Beauty Cleansing Oils

Shu Uemura cleansing oil was developed to protect the skin’s balance while removing make-up and impurities in a single step.

Believe it or not, this stuff has been around since 1967. Shu Uemura developed this cleansing oil while working as a makeup artist in Hollywood. He used it to remove actresses' heavy stage makeup and moisturize their skin at the same time.
Shu Uemura Cleansing Oil comes in six different varieties for each skin type, blending jojoba and avocado oils to cleanse skin without disrupting the natural balance while protecting against environmental nuisances. When mixed with water, this cleanser removes all traces of makeup, dirt, oil and sweat in one fell swoop (or several). Afterward, skin feels clean yet hydrated.

The limited edition series is adorned with playful artwork from renowned manga artist and beauty expert Moyoco Anno.

www.shuuemura-usa.com

Prevent Summer Makeup Meltdowns

Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray is a weightless makeup bond designed to resist melting, color loss and smudging that typically goes along with the summer heat.

It's time-released technology is formulated to lower makeup's temperature, preventing a meltdown, thus keeping everything in place.
The Jet Setter version revitalizes tired looking makeup, transforming dried-out makeup instantly creating a fresh glow that lasts up to 16 hours.
www.skindinavia.com

Get Your Fix

Get your fix by becoming a member of Beauty Fix. Membership allows you access to a sampling of the season's latest and greatest high-end beauty products hand-picked by beauty professionals.

You will receive full or deluxe travel size beauty products to try at a fraction of the price and be able to share tips, tricks and reviews with others. Learn about other membership perks here.
This season's kit includes 9 products and a FREE quilted Beauty Fix Makeup Bag.

Get your fix at www.beautyfix.com

Sephora Favorite Lashstash Mascara Sampler

I'm a huge fan of Maybelline Lash Stiletto and MAC Dazzle Lash Mascara, but I always like to try something new. That's why I was so excited to see the latest release of Sephora's one-of-a-kind boxed kits, Lashstash Mascara Sampler.

This eye-batting arsenal packs 11 of Sephora's most wanted mascaras, each of which brings out your flutter's most arresting features.

($96 value for $39)
www.sephora.com


The kit includes:

- 0.1 oz Anastasia Lash Lifting Mascara
- 0.1 oz Tarte Lights Camera Lashes
- 0.1 oz Sephora Atomic Volume Mascara
- 0.24 oz Stila Multi Effect Mascara
- 0.14 oz Benefit Bad Gal Mini
- 0.2 oz Bare Escentuals Buxom Lash
- 0.13 oz Too Faced Mini Lash Injection Pin Point
- 0.12 oz Smashbox Bionic
- 0.07 oz Lancome Cils Booster
- 0.085 oz DuWop Lash Venom
- 0.14 oz Korres Provitamin B5 and Rice Bran Mascara

SUMO Savings with MAC

I'm always looking for ways to help my readers save money on beauty products, so when I came across this savings from MAC, I had to share.
Simply use the discount code SAVE25 at checkout at www.maccosmetics.com and save 25% until June 18th.

Waxing: Prep and After Care

Body waxing has increased in popularity in recent years. With bathing suit season in full swing, women are turning to waxing to clean the bikini line and other areas.
Many people who have never been waxed are extremely reluctant. While waxing isn't completely pain-free, there are ways to prepare yourself before going in.

Preparing for your appointment

1) Hair must be 1/4''-1/2'' long, or at least 3 weeks of growth. If your hair is too short the wax cannot grip the hair to pull it out. If your hair is too long, the hair will break and the service will be less comfortable. It is a good idea to shave three weeks before your appointment or trim your hair just prior to your appointment.

2) Depending on your tolerance for pain, it may be a good idea to take ibuprofen or use a numbing cream, like No Scream Cream.

3) In he days prior to your wax, prep the area to be waxed by exfoliating using a loofah or exfoliating glove and/or an exfoliating body wash. Exfoliating will open your hair follicles for hair removal.

After Care

1) I always tell my my clients to exfoliate after waxing to help prevent ingrown hairs. I recommend waiting at least 48 hours.

2) Exfoliation in conjunction with razor/hair bump solution will help to reduce/prevent ingrown hairs. In a previous post I featured MiN New York Razor Bump Treatment. I have used Tend Skin for years, but I just purchased Skin Tight Ladies Razor Bump Solution.

3) Avoid tight clothes, sun, chlorine, steam, hot water, deodorant and scrubs for about 12 hours after waxing. Some redness, small spots or bumps are normal but should subside in a few hours.

I swear by waxing and wouldn't have it any other way, from legs to underarms to bikini, it's coming off and I always love the results.

Is Skin Cancer Color Blind?

I'm packing my bags to head off to sunny South Beach, Miami.
Shades, check; Swimsuit, check; Sunscreen, CHECK!

Since skin cancer is the most common of all cancers, I make sure to use sunscreen/spf infused products liberally. Studies show that daily use of sunscreens can reduce your chances of developing some forms of skin cancer.
A few years ago, I noticed some discoloration and change in shape in a mole on my side. Since I learned about the various types of skin cancer in esthetics school, I was a bit worried. I had a biopsy and thank heavens, everything came back ok. But ever since, I make sure I protect my skin.

True or False: Fair skinned-people are the only ones subject to skin cancer resulting from damage from the sun?
False. Darker skin contains more melanin which is a natural skin protector factor (SPF) that helps keep the skin from burning. However, it only means that someone with a darker skin tone filters twice as much as someone with paler skin. It also means that the signs of skin cancer are harder to detect (irregularities in moles, abnomal growths on skin, etc.).
Skin cancer is a highly preventable disease, so why not do what you can to prevent it?
Regardless how light (or dark) your skin is, I urge you to use spf products regularly.

Please take a moment to read about signs and symptoms, etc and read this story Skin Cancer is Colorblind

When selecting a sunscreen, look for products with an SPF 15 or greater that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.

Est Brazilian Soaps

Manufactured with the highest cocern of preserving the environment, Brazilian Est, Brazilian cleansing bars are made of plant extracts, vegetable and essential oils and vitamins, and contain no alcohol or animal products. To boot, the packaging is biodegradable. They are known for their "ultra-hydrating effects that leave your skin touchably soft".

Choose from six scents (lemon, lime, pomegranate, rose, lavender, natural); three tied up with a bow make a perfect present. Your skin will not only be hydrated but will also smell downright heavenly.

Available online at www.lamadesigns.com

Makeup Heaven (The Makeup Show New York)

Well, I know I'm a bit late posting as its been a week since I died and went to heaven...Makeup Heaven, that is. Where is this place of pure Utopia, you ask? The Powder Group's Makeup Show NY. If you are unfamiliar with the show, its a 2 day convention full of fabulous speakers, seminars (on everything from contouring to brows) and of course, vendors (I spent a fortune, but its all worth it) in the makeup industry.
I also had the opportunity to share a few laughs with Maxi (one of the finalist from the makeup show Blush. btw- I love him! He is hilarious & fabulous).Whether you are a pro or a novice or simply like to play in makeup, the Makeup Show is a must-attend for all enthusiasts.

Now that I've had a chance to settle down from all the excitement and return to reality, I'd like to share just a few of the items I picked up.

Kissable Couture Lipgloss

Kissable Couture lipglosses are posh and give the look of effortless chic.
I actually picked up a gift set (5 colors- Dreams, Johnny, Dylan, Forest & Honesty) so I could test out several of the colors (and I'm infatuated with them all). They are perfect for your personal makeup kit and are perfect for evenings out on the town because they fit inside even your smallest handbag/clutch. The best thing about these glosses is that they aren't sticky like many of the other glosses out on the market.
www.kissablecouture.com

Lip Tars from Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics

I am always looking for the next big thing in glosses and this jewel, is what a lip product should be! Lip tars provide the smooth application of a gloss with the coverage and longevity of a lipstick.
Please do not mistake this product for a regular gloss. A dab, and I really mean a dab of this stuff goes a long way. The pigments are extremely vibrant and they dry to a satiny finish.
Lip Tars come in 9 different shades and retail for about $12.50 each. I picked up NSFW (for Ruby Woo fanatics), Pageant & Katricia.
Order your Lip Tars here.

Beauty So Clean Cosmetic Sanitizer Mist

I was super excited when I came across this product. You spray the mist onto your powder based products and it eliminates bacteria. It prevent cross-contamination and spreading of germs and especially useful when you are working on multiple clients in a day and don't have time to wipe them down. Pure Genius.
www.beautysoclean.com

More pics from the show

Makeup Show NY

I'm headed to the show guys so I'm sure I'll have lots of great stuff to share when I return...Stay tuned!

A little about the Makeup Show NY:
The Makeup Show New York brings the industry together like no other trade event has before. The biggest brands. Top industry exhibitors. Speakers from every area of makeup artistry. New product introductions. Special Pro-only offers. Seminars, forums and hands-on workshops. The best networking opportunity in the business. It’s a must-attend event for anyone involved in the makeup industry.

The best exhibitors the industry has to offer
Tons of workshops and seminars from the best in the business