Expanding My Horizons.. Unsealed.

I recently went on a little shopping spree at my local drugstores.  I figured it was time to expand my horizons and break free from MAC Cosmetics.  I am a HUGE fan of theirs but I also know that not every girl can (or may want to) spend extra pennies on makeup products.  I will be doing individual product reviews in the following days.

I did have a great concern with some of these lip products, however.  I was disappointed to find that a lot of these lipsticks and lip balms didn't come sealed.  *Eww*  I opened a few of them and inspected the top layer of the lipstick only to find it had already been used.  You can tell by the embedded streaks.  Now of course, you can take them home and wipe the top layer (and surrounding tube) with alcohol, which you should anyway.  But I just don't understand why the companies wouldn't just have them sealed in the first place.

 

I contacted L'Oreal, Maybelline and Revlon in regards to this concern.  They all pretty much gave me the same EXACT response:

 

 

"Thank you for your comments about tamper-resistant packaging.

The opinions of our consumers are important to us when making decisions about our products. We are always looking for ways to improve and expand our line of products to fit the needs of our consumers, so we appreciate the time you have taken to share your comments with us.

We look forward to your continued interest in ______________."

 

 

Well there goes that.  Being that I got the same EXACT response from them, makes me think they've received similar concerns from other customers.

 

Girls, please make sure you disinfect any unsealed lip products you buy from your local drugstores.  You can never be too safe.

 

 

Handmade Nail Polish

As some of you may already know, I don't normally do nail polish reviews.  However, I fell in love with this handmade nail polish that I just HAD to share it with everyone!

Last week I purchased "You're My Cuppy Cake" nail polish from Wonder Beauty Products on Etsy.  I haven't seen this color/glitter mixture in any beauty stores... unless I wasn't looking hard enough.  Either way, it caught my eye and I just HAD to have it.  I received it within a matter of a few days!  I was pleased to see the beautiful packaging..

Loved...:

- ..the easy access to the nail polish with all the glitter goodness!

- ..the balanced amount of different sizes of glitter

- ..the extra clear enamel, which you can use as a top coat or to tone done the base color of the nail polish.

Not so much...:

- ..the really strong fumes (I have a head cold and let's just say it cleared it up with one sniff!)

I can't wait to buy my next handmade nail polish from her!  The next one I'm eyeing is her "Strawberry Shortcake".

*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

What is My Foundation Tone?

Here's a very quick and super simple way of finding out what your foundation tone is!

You're going to need:

1.  Your arm

2.  A finger, any finger will do.

Ha ha ha..

Ok, now with your finger you're going to press anywhere on your inner arm.  Quickly lift your finger and examine the color of the mark that's left behind.

If it appears Yellow, then you're in the Warm category.

If it appears Pink, then you're in the Cool category.

If it appears Greenish/Olive, then you're in the Warm/Cool category.

That's all there is to it!

*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

Brushes: Decisions Decisions!

Have you ever found yourself confused about which type of brush to buy?  It can be overwhelming when you find yourself in front of an shelf FULL of a lot of beautiful and sometimes colorful brushes.  It can even be intimidating... especially if you have a salesperson breathing down your back.  LOL

Here are a few suggestions on picking at least the very basic of brushes for your collection:

Eye Shadows
1.  You want it to be dome and fluffy..
2.  The smaller the "flower" (or head) of the brush, the more control.. *best for smaller eyes*
3.  For blending, the fluffier, softer and long haired, the better..
4.  The fluffier the "flower", the less pigment it will pick up.
5.  The tighter and compact the "flower" is, the stronger the application will show.

Foundation
1.  Synthetic hair is ALWAYS better
2.  I personally prefer the dark colored "flower" brushes because with time, no matter how often you clean your brushes, it will always leave behind foundation color.
3.  Tapered brushes are best for more control of the foundation liquid.
4.  A mini version of a tapered synthetic brush is ideal for concealer.  Dab it on with the brush BUT blend it with your finger (a CLEAN finger that is).  The warmth of your finger will blend it beautifully.

Cheeks
1.  The angled brushes can be used for both blushes and bronzers, one brush will be sufficient to serve both purposes.



Anatomy of a Brush:

*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

Skin Care: Sunscreen

Now that the weather is becoming nicer, you'll find yourself outdoors a lot more often.  So let me give you a few quick tips on choosing the right one.

If you're going to be outside on a daily basis for a long period of time, then I would recommend using a sunscreen of SPF 30, AT LEAST.

If you're only going to be outdoors for a short period of time, then using a moisturizer that has an SPF of 15 is ok.  SPF 15 is also great for a full work day at the office.  Remember, you'll be exposed to the UV radiations from fluorescent lights halogen lights and copier machines.

UVA will age you.. it will give you lines and wrinkles.  UVB will burn you and cause cancer, this type of ray light is considered the most dangerous.  So it is very important to protect your skin from these ray lights, whether you do it for beauty or for skin care.  :)  You have no excuse not to wear sunscreen!



*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

My Sister's Website - UrbanChicaLuv.com

Hi everyone.. it's been a while since I've posted anything.. been super busy with my other website among other things.  I wanted to share with you my sister's website/blog which is more focused on beauty and fashion.  So go on over her place and chill for a while.  (^.^)

www.UrbanChicaLuv.com

*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

January's GPR (Guest Product Review)

This month's chica for the Guest Product Review was the lovely Liz.  She did a review on MAC's Pro Longwear Lipcreme.

This is what she had to say:

"This is my first time using a lipcreme. This lipcreme, in the shade "unlimited", goes on creamy, smooth and soft however after a short while, it starts to feel dry and sticky. It didn't last as long as i thought it would. I do apply lip liner all over my lips before applying the lipcreme and it makes it last a little while longer. The lip liner I used was from Ulta in shade "rose" .It will not last through out eating, drinking, etc, but it's a beautiful, pink, neutral color that'll go great with any skin color. I'll give it a three out of five."


Thank you for your review Liz!












*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

My Beauty Journey - Huge Pores & Dry Patches

Hola mis Chicas bellas!  So I've decided to take you on my new beauty journey. Two weeks ago, I decided to tackle 2 annoying skin issues that I've been dealing with for a while now.  GINORMOUS pores and dry patches.  *embarrassed*  At least I know I'm not the only one in the world who has to deal with these uglies. :P


After stopping by to say hi to my friend Erica over at the MAC counter.. I went over to the Clinique counter and explained to them my 2 major skin problems.  They suggested I try their Moisture Surge Extended Thirst Relief ($34) for my dry patches.  It promises to hydrate skin for a full 24 hours.  Next they suggested I try their new Pore Refining Solutions Correcting Serum ($39.50) for my HUGE pores.  It promises to make pores look 58% smaller in 2 weeks.  (0.0)!


It's now 2 weeks later ... and at first (looking at myself in the mirror) I didn't see a real big change in my skin... but after looking at my before and after pictures... I can definitely see an improvement!!  Wow!  So I guess I'll continue using these products and give an update in another 2 weeks.  :)

BEFORE:

AFTER:

BEFORE:

AFTER:

*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

December's GPR (Guest Product Review)

MAC Lipglass in Pink Fade  ($14.50) - Pink fade is a pale bubblegum pink lip gloss. This lipglass glides on so smoothy and leaves a nice coverage over the lips. I was surprised at how opaque the coloring was because most light colored lipglosses I buy from other brands have a hard time covering my very pigmented lips. Pink Fade is a gorgeous cool toned pink color and is comparable to the coloring of NYX Athena Round Lipstick but with a glossy finish. The lipglass lasted longer than most glosses, and it left a nice pale tint to my lips once all of the glossiness wore away. I am normally not a fan of such pale lip colors but this was so gorgeous that I find myself reaching for it more than most of my other glosses.

PROS
    •    Has an opaque finish
    •    Lasts much longer than most of my other glosses
    •    Unique color
    •    Formula isn't on the sticky side

CONS
    •    A bit expensive when it comes to lip glosses.
    •    Settles into the lines on your lips
    •    Has a strange scent
    •    Bottle is small / Not a lot of product


    •    APPLICATION: 4/5
    •    PIGMENTATION: 4/5
    •    LONGEVITY: 4/5
    •    TEXTURE: 5/5
    •    VALUE: 4/5
    •    OVERALL: 4/5   
 


I would definitely purchase this product again. If not in the same color (since it is a limited edition) I would definitely choose a lipglass. The coverage is amazing and the quality of the product is well worth the money. If you are looking for a long lasting lip gloss with a beautiful light pink color, Pink Fade is definitely the product for you!

Similar Products:  MAC Lipglass in Enchantee,
Where to Buy: MAC stores, Maccosmetics.com

PICTURES

 Packaging

 Lipglass Bottle

Applicator

On Lips

Wearing Pink Fade

e.l.f. Oil Shine Erasers (50 sheets for $1.00) - When it comes to oily skin, I pass with flying colors. I have a problem with the oil somehow creeping through and appearing after only a few hours of applying my make-up. A great way for me to prevent people from staring at shiny face is by using the oil blotting sheets to pick up a bit of the oil before it gets too out of control. 

If you have oily skin, you'll suffer no matter what but these sheets work pretty well to save yourself some time. If you have an extra $1 I would definitely pick these up!!

I can't speak for those who have dry skin, but they seem to be pretty pointless for those who don't need them.

Similar products: Clean and Clear Absorbing Sheets ($4.99)

Where to Buy: Target, K-mart, eyeslipsface.com

The casing is just a thin piece of cardboard, and is pretty flimsy.

 The actual sheets are spotted (not exactly sure why) but they work well for only being $1!

(Before and After sheets)

*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

Tip for the Holidays: Foundation & Photography

With the Holidays here.. we all want to look our best, right?  Especially with everyone taking photos!  So here's a tip..  Avoid using foundation with SPF because the light will reflect from the SPF and lighten or whiten your face in the pictures.  The same goes for mineralize foundation!


You may also want to apply your blush a little bit heavier so that it shows up in the pictures.  Just .. please.. don't go all crazy with it .. and end up looking like a clown!  *lol*  (^.^)!




*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

Face Value: Spoil - Splash - Save

Today's Face Value will be focused on los ojos.  Here are a few options for every chica's budget.

LIQUID EYELINERS:

1.  Chanel Ligne Extreme - $40

2.  Illamasqua Precision Ink - $28

3.  Almay Liquid Eyeliner - $6

GEL EYELINERS:

1.  SUQQU Creamy Eyeliner - $67

2.  MAC Fluidline - $15

3.  Maybelline Eye Studio - $6

WATERPROOF MASCARA:

1.  Lancome Hypnose Drama - $25

2.  Make Up Forever Aqua Smoky Lash - $22

3.  Maybelline Great Lash - $4

*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

NEW News: Bobbi Brown Pro Membership

Guess what chicas!?  Bobbi Brown Cosmetics is now offering makeup artists a Pro membership!!  Woo hoo!


You'll need to submit an application along with 2 pieces of professional makeup artist criteria, such as:  Composite card - Business card - Editorial page with name and credit - Union card - Professional valid license - Crew Call list on production company letterhead - Reference letter from employer.


Click on the following link to get more details and to apply:


Bobbi Brown Cosmetics Pro Membership

*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

Quick Product Review - Mega Shine Nail Polish

I don't normally do reviews on nail polishes.. however, I'm so disappointed with this product .. that I just HAD to.  I had read another product review from one of our wonderful bloggers.. which convinced me to spend $7.59 (+ tax) on this nail polish.

It states it will dry in 60 seconds - FALSE.. I waited a couple of minutes before I did anything and I got smudges (with ONE coat applied).

It states it has a Micro-Diamond formula that add mirror and shine - EH.. Looked the same to me compared to the original nail polish coat.

It states it will keep manicures beautiful up to 10 days - BLAH.. I'm returning it today so this part I won't know if it's true or not.

*lol*  Thank you for letting me vent.  :)  I feel better now.

*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

November's GPR (Guest Product Review)

We had Amber do this month's product review on 2 items.  Rimmel's Extra Wow Lash mascara and NYX Eyeshadow Base.

See what she had to say!

Thank you Amber!

If you're interested in learning more about how to be one of our Guests for Product Reviews.. comment or send us an email:  MUA@VisualeyesDesigns.com!

*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

Apply Foundation Like The Pro That You Are

Hola!  Get your notepads and pens ready!  *lol*  Here are a few tips on how to apply foundation to get a natural, flawless look.


1.  Before applying your foundation (or primer), make sure your skin is cleansed.  Moisturize your face and wait a few minutes to give it time to dry.  (Do the same after you've applied your primer.)  If your face is still damp and sticky.. it may cause your foundation to clog up and look uneven.


2.  Speck your face!  *lol*  Dab small amounts of foundation on your forehead, down your nose and on the chin and cheeks.


3.  Always, always apply in downward strokes.. whether you decide to use the warmth of your CLEAN fingers, a foundation brush or a sponge.  If you have facial hairs (like peach fuzz), this will help you achieve that natural look because it's going in the direction of your facial hairs.  Don't forget to sweep over your ears and under your jaw.  If you have freckles or rosy cheeks, try not to cover them up.  That's natural beauty!  Flaunt it!

4.  Be a perfectionist!  Blend, blend, blend!  Make sure you blend well and apply quickly and lightly.  To prevent the foundation looking clogged, do smooth and even strokes.


5.  Check your foundation in natural light to make sure you blended well.  If you need more coverage, apply concealer in the specific areas rather than piling on more foundation.


Eso es todo!  :)






*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

Makeup Hygiene - Part 2: An Excuse to Buy New Makeup!

Another important part of keeping good makeup hygiene.. is keeping up with your makeup.  By that I mean, going through your products at least every 6 months and throw away the expired, old, stale or even smelly makeup.  :)  Woo Hoo!  A great excuse to buy new makeup!!

You can go by what makeup books say is the lifetime of a beauty product ... OR... just look at the back of your beauty/health products.  Look for the PAO - Period After Opening - symbol:

The above symbol is letting you know that the product will remain "fresh" for up to 12 months .. after you've opened it.  Here are more examples:

Some of the MAC products don't have the PAO symbol.  However, I contacted their Consumer Care department to get the information.

MAC Eyeshadows - PAO is 24 m

MAC Lipsticks - PAO is 24 m

MAC Lipgloss - PAO is 24 m

MAC Blushes - PAO is 24 m

I was able to find the PAO on all their other products, either on the container itself or the packaging.  I had also asked them why they didn't provide the information on ALL their products.  I was told because of limited spacing on the label.  (>.<)  Unacceptable!  *lol*  I'll be writing to the corporate headquarters.. :)

Here are other tips on when to go shopping - oops, I mean.. when to throw away expired makeup.  ;)


Lipstick / Lipgloss - If their smell changes, throw it away.


Mascara - Also if the smell changes, throw it away.  You should replace your mascara at least every 5 months .. regardless.


Pressed Powder Products - If you notice a glazing over your powder, don't use it.  This can mean that the oils may have compromised the product.


So girls, go through your cosmetic bags and see what's good to keep and what needs to be replaced!


YouTube video now up:

*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)

Makeup Hygiene - Part 1: Sharing is NOT Always Caring!

Hey chicas!  So let's talk makeup hygiene.. Now, I know we all like to play makeup when we have our girlfriends come over and we're getting ready for a fun night.  Pero.. have you thought about the germs you guys may be sharing as well??  Eeek!  So here's a way to keep your germs to yourselves.  =P'

When sharing a new eyeshadow (don't share ones that you've already used!).. get a disposable mascara wand and a tissue.  You're going to scrape the eyeshadow with your mascara wand and let the "crumbs" *lol* fall into your tissue.

Then use your brush to apply the eyeshadow using the "crumbs" on the tissue.  Don't worry, you'll still get a good amount of product on your brush!

To share anything like creamy foundations, creamy blushes or paint pots.. get a mini spatula and scoop out the product.  You can either use your hand (sanitize first!) as a palette or get a small paint palette you can find at your local art store.  You can use this same technique when sharing a lipstick.  Once you have your scooped amount, use your lip brush to apply.

For a lipgloss.. use a disposable lipgloss applicator and DON'T double dip after you've applied it on the lips!

For lip pencils or eyeliners.. sharpen a layer away and then spray (or pour) some alcohol into a tissue to disinfect the tip.  Make sure you wave it to dry - DON'T blow on it.  Once it's dry, you can go ahead and use it.

For mascara... use a mascara wand and never double dip!


Now, there are other ways to keep your makeup clean .. but I feel this is a sure way to keep good makeup hygiene.  As a makeup artist, you definitely want to take all precautions ... 'cuz your reputation is everything.  You don't want clients saying they got a pink eye after you did their makeup!!

If for some reason you can't find any of the disposable applicators, let me know and I'll send you a few!

*This blog is intended to be viewed within www.VisualeyesDesigns.com website.  Please click on website link to view full website!  :)