Soraya Jürgen Blog: Beauty Fixes

Showing posts with label Beauty Fixes. Show all posts

The Experts Guide To Flattering Colors For You

Skin tone fluctuates throughout the year. Therefore, the hues that looked amazing on you throughout the warmer months could easily make you look tired and washed out in the winter. And, we all have experienced the challenges of choosing flattering “change-over” shades for our hair color, nail polish and lipsticks. Fortunately, Kari Hill, Tom Bachik and Billy B. -- Experts from L’Oréal Paris -- have shared some tips on how to choose the most flattering shades … along with product recommendations to make the seasonal color transition a little easier!

Kari Hill, L’Oréal Paris Consulting Hair Colorist – Expert Tip: Instead of using the face, I look at the forearm to determine a more precise and unaffected matching of skin tone. When choosing hair color, in addition to skin tone, you should also consider your natural eye color, present choice of makeup, desired maintenance/upkeep and the time of year.

Cool haircolor tones look best on skin with cool undertones, which can range from blue or pink on fair skin to even an olive undertone for darker. On fair skin, L’Oréal Paris Mousse Absolue in Lightest Icy Blonde or Feria Absolute Platinum typically looks great. For darker skin, consider L’Oréal Paris Mousse Absolue Icy Dark Brown or Superior Preference Luminere Black Sapphire.

Warm haircolor tones look best on skin with golden or yellow undertones, regardless of dark or light skin. Some at-home hair color options that look good on warm skin tones include, L’Oréal Paris Mousse Absolue Lightest Golden Blonde, L’Oréal Paris Excellence Crème Medium Golden Blonde or L’Oréal Paris Feria Dark Gold Blonde.

Neutral toned haircolor is the closest tone that could complement a wide variety of skin tones. I liken a neutral color to the tone of a child’s hair. Here are some haircolor options for accommodating varied skin tones: L’Oréal Paris Mousse Absolute Pure Dark Blonde, Feria Very Light Natural Blonde, or Superior Preference Natural Blonde.

Tom Bachik, L’Oréal Paris Global Nail Artist – Expert Tip: When choosing nail shades, keep it simple and think in warm or cool tones. The easiest way is to look on the underside of your arms. If your veins are mostly purple in tone, then you’re more cool skin toned. If your veins are mostly greenish in tone, then you’re more warm skin toned. Another tip – think about the colors you like to wear and the same palette will likely work for nail shades.

For cool skin tones look at rich berries (L’Oréal ParisColour Riche Nail in Violet Vixen), deep purples (L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Nail in Paparazzi Pleaser) and Bright Blues (L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Nail in Not a Cloud in Sight).

For warm skin tones, I like burnt reds (L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Nail in Red Tote), warm dusty rose tones (L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Nail in Spice Things Up) and rich corals (L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Nail in Tangerine Crush).

Billy B., L’Oréal Paris Consulting Makeup Artist – Expert Tip: When it comes to choosing a good lip color, I not only look at skin tone, but also pay attention to eye color, hair color and what my clients are wearing.

Generally, I used the below guidelines for skin tone and lipsticks:

Olive – nudes (L’Oréal Paris Extraordinaire by Colour Riche in Nude Ballet) pinks, oranges (L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Lipcolour in Volcanic) and reds (L’Oréal Paris Colour Caresse Wet Shine Stain in Endless Red)

Fair – bold shades in pink and red (L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Balm Pop in Bold Blush and Fiery Red,)

Darker skin tones – Bold, rich colors like burgundy, browns (L’Oréal Paris Infallible Never Fail Lipcolour Compact) berry colors (L’Oréal Paris Infallible Le Rouge in Enduring Berry) and deep reds (L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Glossy Balm in Petite Plum).

For more information about L’Oréal products, or to find a retailer near you, visit L’Oréal Paris.

Quick Hair Fix Tips For Holiday Travel

The busiest travel season is soon to be officially among us and with it comes the dry skin, flat hair and overall lack of freshness that sitting on a long flight, train or car ride will inevitably bring. No matter your mode of transportation to get home for the holidays, keep your hair looking its freshest with minimal upkeep with Pureology!

Pureology has provided three quick tips for getting salon-worthy hair even after long hours of travel.

Refresh your hair post-flight and extend your style in-between your next wash with Pureology Fresh Approach. Made with minerals, the Shampoo and Condition help keep your hair fresh for up to 3 days – no washing necessary! Just apply Fresh Approach Shampoo to the crown of your hair for added volume. For static and frizz control and restored softness, use Fresh Approach Condition on dry hair and brush through.
The holy grail of all hair products, Pureology Colour Fanatic is the answer to all hair prayers – it detangles, primes, conditions and much more! Lightly mist Colour Fanatic on second day hair after hopping off the plane to refresh, create waves or refresh curls!
Invite your hair to soar to new heights as you travel with Pureology Pure Volume Levitation Mist, providing all-day lift without the weight for enviable volume. Perfect for spot styling, mist on dry hair where you need to create the most volume. Once you arrive at your destination, head to the nearest bathroom and quickly blow-dry hair with a round brush for added height!

Find more hair tips at Pureology on Facebook and grab Pureology products at a salon near you!

Fat Hair Care | Review

Hello lovelies! Although volume is not necessarily at the top of The Makeup Examiner’s list of styling issues, having long and naturally curling hair presents its own set of problems. A while back, TME was sent products from the Fat Hair Care collection. With the help of a housemate we reviewed the pros and cons of each one.

Starting with Fat Hair “0” Calories Thickening Shampoo ($6.99), which actually worked really well for me to, as it helped control my crazy curls. Thickening Shampoo features a sulfate-free formula that is the first step toward thicker, stronger, fuller hair. Designed with a blend of natural extracts and proteins, this lightweight shampoo nourishes each hair strand, stronger, luxurious, and healthier looking hair. TME would definitely recommend this shampoo to anyone, including those without hair density issues.

Fat Hair “0” Calories Thickening Conditioner ($7.99) is a lightweight formula that transforms fine limp hair into thicker, stronger, fuller hair as it nourishes and fortifies. While my housemate, who has hair density issues, was happy with the results of the Thickening Conditioner, TME felt that it did not offer enough moisture replenishment for her hair.

Fat Hair “0” Calories Thickening Crème ($6.99) features an ultra-lightweight formula that helps you achieve incredible fullness, volume and body, while adding texture and shine to your style. TME’s housemate loved the Thickening Crème and stated that it left her hair with volume and without a “funky” residue. But, she preferred Fat Hair “0” Calories Thickening Spray ($7.99), as she was able to achieve the same results with the convenience of a directional spray.

Favorite product from the collection is Fat Hair “0” Calories Amplifying Hair Spray ($11.99), which is a mega-versatile design tool that adds extra volume, fullness and shine to any style. This unique formula keeps your style all day and brushes through for easy re-styling. Features of Fat Hair “0” Calories Amplifying Hair Spray are an exclusive amplifying complex that adds strength, body and texture; no build up, residue, stickiness, or flaking; and it leaves hair soft and touchable.

Fat Hair “0” Calories Hair Care products are available at select drugstores across the US and Puerto Rico. To find a retail location near you, visit Fat Hair.

Kerastase Paris Densifique Collection Preview

Launching in the US in May, the Kérastase DensifiqueCollection is the first line of luxury care to address life-stressed hair and is designed to focus upon hair density. The Makeup Examiner was thrilled to preview the newest offering from Kérastase Paris and the science behind this new collection is rather fascinating, as it combines several tech-based solutions to counter everything from loss of root thickness to loss of shine and resilience.

Based upon a found link between life stressors and women suffering from thinning hair, the Kérastase Densifique Collection takes a multi-targeted approach by addressing the problem from root to ends. “The effects of ‘life-stressed hair’ – loss of density, shine and resilience – can be brought on at any stage in a woman’s life. From the stress of a break-up or finding your first job in your 20’s, to pregnancy or divorce in your 30’s, or the multitude of health and hormonal shifts that occur in a woman’s 40’s, 50’s and beyond.” explains Barbara De Laere, VP and General Manager of Kérastase USA.

Unlike prescription or OTC remedies aimed at hair loss, Densifique takes a multifaceted approach suitable for anyone frustrated by loss of density for any reason. The Densifique collection uses innovation from the L’Oréal Advanced Research Laboratories in Paris to treat the three hair growth zones – roots, lengths and ends – with a proprietary renewal complex of ceramides, gluco-peptides and hyaluronic acid. So, now that you’ve had your science lesson for the day, let’s check out the products!

The Kérastase Densifique Collection offers three products, all of which smell delicious and are actually very effective. The Makeup Examiner tapped her mother to test the collection and she too agreed that the line smells amazing, but was more thrilled with the results. I can’t state my mother’s age because I enjoy my life, but the factors that have led to her issues with thinning hair are a combination of hormonal shifts and life-stressors [Life-Stressor -- She’s The Makeup Examiner’s Mother! ;)].

Densifique Collection:

Densifique Bain Densité ($39) - Formulated with Ceramides and Hyaluronic Acid, Bain Densité gently cleanses while helping strengthen hair from the root to ends. It leaves the hair more supple, resistant and denser-looking.

Densifique Masque Densité ($62.50) – Is a unique gel-texture mask, which combines Gluco-Peptides and Hyaluronic Acid to create immediate hair transformation as soon as it is applied, provides smoothness and lightness to hair that is lacking density. The hair is regenerated from roots to ends. The Makeup Examiner couldn’t resist testing the Masque Densité and found that it delivered great luster to my hair.

Densifique Densimorphose Mousse ($42) - This decadent, skin-care inspired rich mousse is enriched with Hyaluronic Acid and Gluco-Peptides that instantly transforms the hair, fiber by fiber for a visible volume result. The hair fiber is suppler, beginning at the roots, and the hair is light and shiny.

Hands-down, the Kérastase Densifique Collection is worth trying according to TME’s mother/model. The Kérastase Densifique Collection will be available in May at KérastaseConsultant Salons and online at Kérastase. For more information about this transformative line, check out Kérastase on Facebook and YouTube.

@ypmazzy

Dove DermaSeries Review

In April Dove introduced a new line of skincare specifically formulated for severely dry and sensitive skin. Dove DermaSeries is a full-range line of skincare that was developed in partnership with dermatologists, such as Dr.Ranella Hirsch, to help bring both immediate relief and skin repair.

The Dove DermaSeries collection includes ultra mild cleansers for face and body, body cream and an intense repair treatment. Since The Makeup Examiner suffers from severely dry skin, TME was pretty excited to try this line, most especially with the warmer weather and skin-baring clothes just around the corner. The Dove DermaSeries includes five specific products designed to be used together for maximum results and relief.

The Dove DermaSeries skincare regimen begins with “The Cleansers”:

Dove DermaSeries Ultra Caring Gentle Cleansing Bar – This intensely moisturizing bar is infused with skin-natural lipids and is specially formulated to provide ultra-mild cleansing for extremely dry, irritated skin while effectively removing oil, dirt and makeup without leaving skin tight or dry. The Makeup Examiner despises soap due to the fact that I can’t stand the feeling of residue, but I can happily report that the Ultra Caring GentleCleansing Bar ($7.99) doesn’t have this issue and is so gentle and effective.

Dove DermaSeries Ultra Caring Gentle Body Cleanser - Specially formulated to provide ultra-mild cleansing for extreme dry, delicate and irritated skin, this body cleanser is infused with glycinate (extremely mild cleanser with rich lather), hydrating glycerin and skin-natural lipids to gently cleanse while replenishing skin’s natural moisture barrier. Ultra CaringGentle Body Cleanser ($15.99) is a must-have for anyone with skin issues. It leaves the skin truly hydrated for which I noticed immediately and after having used the Body Cleanser for several weeks, I may jut have found a year-round solution.

Dove DermaSeries Ultra Caring Gentle Cream Face Cleanser - A non-foaming, cream facial cleanser enriched with skin-natural lipids; specially formulated to provide ultra-mild cleansing for even the most delicate of dry skin. Ultra Caring Gentle Cream Face Cleanser ($15.99) is an effective facial cleanser -- even removing waterproof makeup -- that left my skin thoroughly cleansed and hydrated.

Step Two for the Dove DermaSeries skincare regimen is “The Moisturizers”:

Dove DermaSeries Intense Repairing Body Cream - Contains the PPAR Activation Complex, which replenishes lipids and creates a better quality hydration barrier. This rich cream provides immediate relief of dryness symptoms while repairing dry and damaged skin overtime. Intense Repairing BodyCream ($17.99) is my favorite product in the DermaSeries line. With quick absorption and no greasy feel, Intense Repairing Body Cream offered me instant hydration and I can see a marked difference in the look of my skin.

Dove DermaSeries Intense Repairing Rough Patch Treatment – Also containing the PPAR Activation Complex and a blend of natural oils to repair and protect severely dry skin, this emollient rich balm is meant to be used as a spot treatment to soften thick, rough patches of skin on areas such as elbows, knees, heels and hands. TME brought in a housemate, who has eczema, to test this particular product. What she had to say about Intense RepairingRough Patch Treatment ($18.99), “It’s a thick ointment formula that takes a few minutes to absorb. But it did bring instant relief upon application and after less then a week of use, the red and dry patch of skin seemed to be healed”.

The entire Dove DermaSeries collection is effective and TME would recommend these products for anyone who suffers from severely dry, sensitive or eczematous skin. We found DermaSeries to be of better quality than other OTC products designed for the previously mentioned skin issues and far more convenient then prescription creams. The Dove DermaSeries Collection can be found at Dove and select retailers partners nationwide.

@ypmazzy

Summer Skincare Solutions For Eczema and Sensitive Skin from Dr. Ranella Hirsch

Dr. Ranella Hirsch

For those that suffer from skin issues like eczema, psoriasis or sensitive skin, summertime can bring a set of very unique problems. Any skin condition can make us feel unattractive and while those with skin conditions such as acne may feel self-conscious, society general knows what those bumps are. The same cannot be said for skin conditions such as eczema. Despite that over 30 million Americans suffer from eczema, many people don’t have a clue about the rough, inflamed and sometimes blistering skin patches that occur during an eczema flare up. To help us understand more about our skin and tackle the unique summertime challenges of eczematous skin, The Makeup Examiner turned to Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Ranella Hirsch.

Called an “Expert Derm” by Allure and a “Beauty Guru” by Marie Clare, Dr. Hirsch is a frequently quoted expert in the fields of cosmetic and laser dermatology. Due to her unique expertise in the areas of skin care development and laser-skin interactions, Dr. Hirsch is highly sought after as an expert. As Dove's Global Partner Dermatologist, she is a co-creator of the Dove DermaSeries premium range. Dr. Hirsch is the author of several articles and book chapters on the subject of injectable neurotoxins and other dermal fillers. McGraw-Hill released her most recent textbook, “Aesthetic RegionalRejuvenation”.

The Makeup Examiner: What causes dry skin?

Dr. Ranella Hirsch: There are a multitude of causes in addition to some people having a genetic predisposition. Contributing factors can include the weather, humidity, bathing habits, and using skincare products that are too harsh or any combination of these.

TME: What’s the difference between severely dry skin and eczema?

Dr. Hirsch: There is some overlap in symptoms but generally eczema refers to a hereditary condition of dry skin known to wax and wane. For some people there are also certain allergic tendencies along with it.

TME: Summer brings skin-baring clothes. For those of us that suffer with skin issues, what can we do to prepare our skin for the summer?

Dr. Hirsch: Prevention is key. Think about sun protection appropriate to your level of activity, so as an example, look for something labeled for an active person if you will be outside in the heat. With other conditions, such as dry or oily skin, think about getting ahead of the curve. Look for products that help keep dry skin well hydrated, like Dove DermaSeriesproducts that are specifically formulated for extremely dry, compromised skin. For oily skin, look for products in a gel form that are labeled as mattifying.

TME: For those of us with severely dry skin or eczema, is it possible to “overdo it” with the moisturizer?

Dr. Hirsch: Interesting question! I suppose it would be theoretically possible to use SO much of something SO heavy that you could get break outs, but it would be difficult. As a general rule, best practice with dry skin is leaving the skin damp and then applying a product to seal in the moisture like Dove DermaSeries Intense Repairing Body Cream – its rich formula and potent humectants go a long way to build a more resilient skin barrier.

TME: Shaving and summer go hand-in-hand and shaving can exacerbate existing skin issues. What’s the best way for us to approach shaving?

Dr. Hirsch: Shaving brings with it both good and potential for challenges so it’s helpful to get it right. When done properly, on well-lubricated legs, which have had time for the hair to soften, it is a great form of exfoliation. In fact, a great beauty trick is to shave as a way to prep for applying self-tanner. However, shaving dry skin can cause it to become very irritated especially in the delicate bikini area.

TME: What things do you recommend that we avoid during the summer?

Dr. Hirsch: Well, I am a dermatologist so the most appropriate answer is too much sun! Not saying it needs to be avoided, just respected though.

TME: Once we achieve a healthy state for our skin, how do we maintain this throughout the warmer months?

Dr. Hirsch: Maintenance is key. Once you get your skin into a good place, look for skincare that supports where you want to stay. Avoid picking, scratching, and too much sun.

Note: A very special thank you to Dr. Hirsch! The Dove DermaSeries Collection can be found at Dove and select retailers partners nationwide. Check back soon for The Makeup Examiner’s review of Dove DermaSeries!

Follow @ypmazzy

Hair Loss Solutions For Women

Reese Dane

All hair loss is not created equally and it can be an uncomfortable subject for anyone to discuss, most especially for women. In order to combat hair loss, it’s most important to understand the normal life cycle of hair and to take a look at the causes for a disruption in the normal life cycle.

Hair is a living organism that is born, grows, thrives and dies, following a natural cycle. Depending on our hair, we may have 100,000 to 150,000 individual hairs, and we lose 50 to 100 of them each day, without even noticing. The life cycle of a hair ranges from 2 to 6 years, and it naturally falls out when a new hair grows in.

There are common causes for hair loss in women and The Makeup Examiner turned to International hair care specialist, Jean-Francois Lazartigue to find out the causes and to unearth solutions. From the beginning of his career, Jean-Francois has studied the phenomenon of hair loss. With over 40 years experience and clientele that reads like the “who’s who” of Hollywood and fashion, it is clear that Jean-Francois knows great hair care.

“The causes behind hair that falls out after every wash, anemic hair, seasonal hair loss, or thinning at the temples, are many: psychological distress, stress, fatigue, pregnancy, menopause, an unbalanced diet, etc.,” says Jean-Francois. Adding, “But hair loss is not unavoidable and one thing is certain … so long as there is hair, there is hope!”.

Jean-Francois Lazartigue - Courtesy of J.F. Lazartigue Salon

Jean-Francois further shared, excess sebum disrupts the scalp, which is why, in 85% of cases, hair loss occurs in oily hair. It is important to understand that hair is a reflection of our emotional well-being, but also of how we eat. For example, a nutritionally deficient diet will weaken it considerably. Our delicate hair is the first to suffer from a hectic pace of life.

Taking his 40 years of hair expertise, Jean-Francois last month launched a line of products specifically created to address the serious issue of women’s hair loss. The JF Lazartigue Hair Growth and Scalp Health products are a four-part system designed to help reverse conditions that lead to hair loss in women and are offered at a reasonable price point in order to make the products accessible to everyone, as well as designing a program that is easily integrated into the busiest of lifestyles.

The JF Lazartigue Hair Growth and Scalp Health program is a minimum 3-month commitment and begins with Stymulactine 21 Shampoo ($35). This shampoo is recommended for anemic scalps, excessive hair loss, lack of hair vitality or decline in the quality and quantity of hair, and is used in conjunction with the daily application of Stymulactine 21 Serum ($74) and Intensive Scalp Revitalizer ($41), which is applied three times per week. The last part of the program is Revitalizing Hair Nutrients ($41), which are taken daily. To learn more about how each product works, visit TME's post and for more information about the JF Lazartigue Hair Growth and Scalp Health program, visit JF Lazartigue.

6 After Party Hangover Beauty Fixes

Reese Dane

Thanksgiving and Hanukkah definitely kicked off the holiday party season and hopefully if you’ve overindulged you have recovered. With the party season just beginning, and likely to run through until Jan. 4, there’s a lot of party circuit to work and a lot of work to be done. No worries … this step-by-step plan will make you look rested, refreshed and ready-to-go the morning after.

Start Before The Party - Holiday parties usually involve a steady flow of alcohol and alcohol dehydrates … everything. While you’re primping for the party, get a hydration boost with a fish oil supplement or B12-complex vitamin. Also drink a glass, or two, of water.

When You Get Home - It’s late, you’re tipsy or just plain exhausted … doesn’t matter … take off your makeup! The Makeup Examiner is a huge advocate for a quality skincare regimen, but in a pinch makeup remover wipes will suffice. Grab a pack of Olay Wet Cleansing Towelettes (30 pack-$5.99) and take two more seconds to apply a moisturizer like Juice Beauty’s fast absorbing, non-greasy Stem Cellular Moisturizer ($65). Oh, and another glass of water before hitting the pillow will help re-hydrate your body.

The Morning After - Guess what? More water! After you’ve had your water (and possibly a cup of coffee) break out the tea! The warm tea bag trick has been around forever and with good reason. It’s an easy avenue to get caffeine to the skin, which combats inflammation and helps stimulate blood circulation. Place warm tea bags over your eyes for two minutes and repeat on the sides of your nose.

Time For Makeup - Spackling on the makeup isn’t going to anything except accentuate your washed out look. It’s time go minimal on the makeup and utilize stunning strategy. Certain colors cancel out others. If you find that your face is blotchy reddish, grab a green tinted color corrector and if you’ve got heavy dark under-eye circles try a little peach or pink tinted color corrector. Colorescience Pro Mineral Corrector Palette ($50) contains five shades and is easy to blend.

Forget Foundation - Opt for a BB cream or tinted moisturizer instead of heavy foundation. The Makeup Examiner has tried quite a few BB creams and loves the light feel that magically offers decent coverage. After you’ve applied your BB cream, it’s time for the big magic trick … Benefit Cosmetics Watt's Up! Highlighter ($30) is THE ultimate weapon. Glide on a little of this highlighter on your brow bone to brighten your eyes. It’s also amazing for cheeks!

Cara Delevingne - Antonio de Moraes Barros Filho/WireImage

The Finishing Touches - Again, skip any heavy makeup including piling on the eyeshadow, as it’s more likely to actuate the bad. Opt for a light touch on the eyes or skip shadow altogether. Perk up your face with a touch of lip color, style your hair in a quick, chic topknot, and out the door you go!

Clarisea Sea Salt Solutions Skin and Hair Care Review

The Makeup Examiner recently came across Clarisea Sea Salt Solutions and was rather intrigue by the brand, as it offers skin care products that are nature-based and a beach spray for the hair. Having knowledge about the healing properties of sea salt, The Makeup Examiner was thrilled to have the opportunity to do a review of the brand and as a beach spray addict, TME couldn’t wait to try Clarisea’s Beachy Waves Salt Spray.

Although many of the products in the Clarisea line are geared toward acne solutions, Clarisea products are made for all types of skin and offer an alternative to harsh chemical treatments, for those with acne prone skin, and a lovely detox for those of us with tired skin. The base of Clarisea products is a fine grain blend of Pacific and Himalayan Pink sea salts mindfully crafted for all skin types, especially sensitive skin and are free of sulfates, parabens, and fragrance.

Clarisea offers several powder exfoliants -- Antioxidant Strawberry Powder Exfoliant, Instant Glow PowderExfoliant, and Rapid Detox Charcoal Exfoliant ($25 4oz each) that are geared toward fighting the effects of pollutants and stress. Antioxidant Strawberry Powder Exfoliant utilizes strawberry powder, strawberry seeds, and almond flour to break down dull build up to help unclog pores. Instant Glow Powder Exfoliant (TME Favorite) utilizes rose powder and orange peel powder to remove impurities, dead skin cells, and nourish the skin. Rapid Detox Charcoal Exfoliant utilizes bamboo charcoal powder to absorb dirt and oil and attack acne-causing bacteria. Each of the exfoliant powders are so gentle and the Instant Glow Powder Exfoliant has become a staple to wake up my stressed out skin!

Clarifying Salt Treatment ($19.50 38oz) is for the face and body and is available in a 15lb bag. The treatment is geared toward acne prone skin, but has major detox properties and left my skin baby soft right down to my toes. Using the Clarifying Salt Treatment on the face is a bit involved, requiring a one to stick their face in a bowl for two minutes, but well worth the amazing results. As a body treatment, Clarifying Salt Treatment is a great excuse for some you time. Add a cup of Clarifying Salt Treatment to your bath and soak away for a minimum of 10 minutes. The Makeup Examiner emerged with detoxed, soft, and glowing skin!

Rounding out this particular Clarisea Sea Salt Solutions review is Beachy Waves Salt Spray ($18 8oz). The spray is 100% natural, as I found out when I accidentally sprayed some in my mouth … yes, it tasted like salt water and yes, I am clumsy. Moving on … the spray is made from Pacific Ocean and Himalayan Pink Sea Salts, and organic Argan oil that left my naturally curly hair really soft and gave it that sexy beach look. Clarisea offers such a wide variety of products, in various formulations that The Makeup Examiner literally couldn’t cover all in this article, so check back for more products from Clarisea. You can find the products reviewed in this article at Clarisea Sea Salt Solutions website!

Bad beauty and The Best Store Return Policies

As a beauty writer, it’s a given that you’re going to read an abundance of information about beauty products, techniques and general beauty advice. After all, it’s The Makeup Examiner’s job to stay on top of what’s happening within the beauty industry and to keep in touch with topnotch industry insiders. In conjunction with staying in constant contact with a myriad of industry professionals, TME has her feet on the concrete, and is also always perusing the internet to check out who’s doing what.

Initially, The Makeup Examiner had intended to share with readers the specifics of bad beauty advice and dangerous information floating about online. But after learning of a makeup exchange forum, I stopped dead in my tracks. The Makeup Examiner was gobsmacked by the popularity of a forum where complete strangers were swapping, buying and selling “gently” used makeup. Let’s start with the fact that “gently” used makeup is, in fact, makeup that a complete stranger has opened and applied to their eyes/face/lips! And women are actually purchasing this? How disgusting! Think about it. Would you ask a complete stranger if you could borrow her mascara? The Makeup Examiner set out to understand why women would involve themselves in such an unsanitary practice.

After visiting the forum, The Makeup Examiner realized that there are a lot of women who purchase products that simply aren’t right for them, and further realized that there seems to be a lack of understanding for store cosmetic return policies. So, just in time for the holiday shopping season, The Makeup Examiner investigated the return/exchange policies for some of Apparel Magazine’s “Top Ten” department stores, along with a few others, and even she was surprised to learn which stores were more than accommodating and which ones have an “eat it” policy. Read on and armor yourself before you waste your money. One last piece of advice, if you know the store’s return policy and a sales clerk attempts to “bully” you, immediately ask for a manager.

CVS has a 100% satisfaction guarantee on beauty purchases. Customers can return opened products with a receipt or invoice to any CVS/pharmacy store and they will refund the full purchase price, no questions asked! CVS Customer Care: 1.888.607.4287

Rite Aid has a “100% Risk-Free Beauty Guarantee”. Any opened or used beauty product of any brand name can be returned for a full refund when accompanied by a receipt. Rite Aid Customer Support: 1.800.748.3243

Walgreens doesn’t have the best return policy. Returns for cosmetics are handled at the discretion of the store manager, meaning that they don’t automatically accept a return whether the product is opened or not and customer reimbursement is usually in the form of a Walgreens gift card. Walgreens Customer Support: 1.800.925.4733

Barneys New York gives customers 30 days to return a beauty product for a full refund. And, the product can be slightly used, which means that if you hate that $45 lipstick, back it goes and you’re not out any money. Barneys New York Customer Service: 1.888.222.7639

Bloomingdale’s allows customers to return beauty items without a time restriction. Although The Makeup Examiner wouldn’t recommend that you attempt to return a lipstick that you bought over a year ago. Bloomingdale’s Customer Service: 1.800.777.0000

Bon-Ton does not accept returns for opened beauty products. Even their return policy for other items is, uh, not exactly customer friendly. Oh, and actually finding Bon-Ton’s customer service number was also a bit of a challenge to find! Bon-Ton Stores Customer Service: 1.800.233.7626

MAC customers can simply return the unused portion and will be fully refunded for their purchase. Empty containers cannot be excepted for refund and that’s fairly ridiculous for one to attempt. MAC Customer Service: 1.800.866.6464

Macy's strives for customer satisfaction and has topnotch service. The store accepts returns and exchanges at any time after purchase. Macy’s Customer Service: 1.800.289.6229

NARS customers may return items for a refund within 30 days from the date of purchase, but you pay the return shipping. NARS Customer Service: 1.888.788.6277

Nordstrom seems to have one of the best return policies. “Don't love it? Don't worry—returns and exchanges are easy. Simply send your item back or bring it to a store near you.” Nordstrom Customer Service: 1.888.282.6060

Neiman Marcus/Bergdorf Goodmanhave clearly stated return policies regarding beauty products. “All fragrance and cosmetics items must be unused, unopened, and in original packaging for a credit/refund or exchange to be issued”. Neiman Marcus Customer Service: 1.888.888.4757 Bergdorf Goodman Customer Service: 1.888.774.2424

Saks Fifth Avenue was oodles of fun to try to decipher. “If for any reason you are not completely satisfied, you may exchange, replace, or credit your purchase when it is presented in saleable condition”. This little blurb prompted TME to call Saks Customer Service (1.877.551.7257) for clarification and they do not accept any opened beauty items.

Sephora has a topnotch return policy. “If you are not completely satisfied with a Sephora purchase for any reason, please return it for a full refund”. Sephora even pays return shipping and handling fees. Sephora Customer Service: 1.877.737.4672

Target’s return policy was a shock. Flat out, Target does not except beauty product returns. Target’s return policy, “Most unopened items in new condition returned within 90 days will receive a refund or exchange”. Target Customer Service: 1.800.591.3869

ULTA gives customers 60 days to return an item and accepts opened beauty products. The only downside is that you’re responsible for return shipping fees. ULTA Customer Service: 1.866.983.8582

Dr. Phoebe Rich offers tips to keep your nails looking healthy

Recently while changing up nail polish, The Makeup Examiner noticed that her nails were not looking to lovely. Although, nails are often one of the first things that people notice about you, TME’s concern was less of a vanity issue and far more one of overall health. So she turned to board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Phoebe Rich for answers.

Dr. Rich is also a clinical adjunct professor of dermatology at Oregon Health Science University and created a “healthy nail care” video in collaboration with the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). The first bit of advice from Dr. Rich, “Always keep your nails clean and dry”. She went on to share, “Never bite your nails or remove the cuticle. Not only do these actions damage the nail, they also increase the risk of infection.” The advice that she offered was amazingly full-spectrum and included our often-neglected toenails.

What beautynista doesn’t love to have pretty and healthy nails? And in fact, healthy nails are the first step to pretty nails. Here’s the lowdown on easy nail care:

For fingernails, keep them shaped and free of snags by filing with an emery board.
When filing your fingernails, go in one direction straight across the top and then slightly round the slide. By filing in one direction, versus back and forth like a saw, you keep the nail fibers down and lessen the likelihood of hangnails.
Do not use your fingernails as a tool, such as opening pop-top cans or removing staples from papers.
For toenails, trim them regularly and keep them shorts as to avoid trauma or injury.
If your toenails are difficult to cut, soak your feet in warm salt water for 5 minutes before you trim them.
Never “dig out” ingrown toenails, see a dermatologist for treatment.
Wear shoes that fit properly to avoid “squishing” your toes.
The best way to avoid catching a nail fungus, (or other fungi), at a publish pool or the shower at the gym is to always wear water-shoes such as flip-flops.

One thing that Dr. Rich emphasis, “If you notice changes in the look of your nails, experience swelling, or have pain, see a board-certified dermatologist.” Changes, such as the ones that Dr. Rich mentions, can be an indicator of other health issues such as diabetes or poor circulation, which can affect your overall health.

The Makeup Examiner’s Top Waterproof Makeup Picks

Happy Sunday lovelies! This past week’s heat wave took quite the toll, and for beautynistas it was our hair and makeup that that paid the price. While we can’t always look picture perfect, there are products that can keep us from looking like melted wax figures. In conjunction with looking good as we go about our daily business, we want to look good while we lounge too. And with the upcoming week’s forecast bringing more anti-beautynista weather, it’s time to break out the waterproof and water-resistant makeup cache.

The Makeup Examiner has a super sensitivity to waterproof eye products, so when she finds ones that work, she has to share the information. Personally, forgoing a “full-face” is a good option during the dog days of summer. Not every beautynista would agree, so of course finding a great waterproof mascara lead The Makeup Examiner to investigate other waterproof makeup products, and these are her top picks.

Skin Care: You need to protect your skin 365 days of the year. With that said, we can all acknowledge that keeping our skin protected with sunscreen can be a futile effort when we’re out and about in the summertime. The Makeup Examiner found the perfect water-resistant sunscreen. Vichy Capital Soleil SPF 50 Lightweight Foaming Lotion ($28.50) is a lightweight mousse-like foam that is easy to apply and water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. Capital Soleil contains white grape polyphenols and vitamin E for antioxidant protection and is great for sensitive skin.

Face: Honestly, if you have to be out and about in the hot weather and you know that your makeup is going to sweat off, skip the foundation. Opt for a BB Cream like Revlon Photo Ready BB Cream Skin Perfector with SPF 30 ($10). You’ll get light coverage and more SPF protection. To get a more polished face, add a touch of BECCA Cosmetics Beach Tint ($25) to achieve a sun-kissed glow that is water-resistant. Beach Tint has become a staple for The Makeup Examiner because it truly gives the perfect touch of color and plays double-duty as a lip stain!

Eye Makeup: Recognizing that many women wouldn’t leave the house without mascara, The Makeup Examiner is sharing two of her fave waterproof eye makeup products. Having a serious dislike of waterproof mascara, due to the fact that it’s difficult to remove and the loss of eyelashes that occur while attempting to remove the cement like product, TME was beyond ecstatic to find a product that works with regular mascara. Anastasia Lash Genius Waterproof Topcoat ($21) is a clear topcoat gel that instantly waterproofs any mascara. It’s paraben free, doesn’t clump, and is easily removed. And if you’re a falsies wearer, Lash Genius gives the most amazing finish after applying those false eyelashes. For many, mascara just isn’t enough no matter the weather. If you absolute cannot forgo eyeliner, Skinn Luxe Waterproof Eyeliner ($9.50) is amazing. Luxe Waterproof Eyeliner contains shea butter, which makes it moisturizing all while delivering a smooth and non-smudging liner.

Complete Lockdown: Want to know how actresses and models keep makeup melt at bay under 90-degree stage lighting? They use setting spray. Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray ($29) sets your makeup and keeps it in place for up to 16 hours. Skindinavia has formulas for various skin types, including oily skin and now through July 23, Skindinavia is offering free shipping and a free travel-sized setting spray on all US orders.

Makeup Tips For Older Women

Hello lovelies! A few months ago, The Makeup Examiner had written “Skin care tips for older women,” that was sort of a follow up to “Makeup mistakes that make you look older”. Both articles were well received by readers, but The Makeup Examiner was inundated with emails for more tips. Continuing my research, this led me to realize that there isn’t enough easy to understand information for older women and what product to use once your skin reaches a certain age. What I did find was a plethora of products that promise to reverse time, but sans surgery you are not going to look like you 25 again and why would you want to?

Healthy Skin is The First Rule of Beauty: Touching briefly upon skin care, I’ve repeatedly written about adopting a good skincare regime and doing so as early as possible. To the mothers, grandmothers and aunts who may be reading this … please take the younger ladies in your life aside and get them to begin a skincare regime that includes cleansing, toning, and moisturizing with a moisturizer that contains SPF 20! Now as for you, it’s time to revamp your skincare routine and modify it to meet your current skincare needs. In TME’s article “Skin care tips for older women,” I explain how our skin changes with age and few solutions to the most common problems. The Makeup Examiner loves to get all dolled up, but I generally prefer to enhance versus cover up. As you read through The List, remember … less is more and lovelies, keep the emails coming!

Begin with a Beautiful Canvas: You’ve been following your new skincare regime and it’s time to adopt a new beauty routine. Primer is the secret to a flawless face! Primer is applied after moisturizer and prevents your makeup from “laying” in those lines and wrinkles. CoverGirl + Olay Simply Ageless Serum Makeup Primer ($13) is amazing. Simply Ageless Serum Primer is formulated specifically for older skin and Olay Regenerist complex in the primer helps boost elasticity … something that our skin looses as we age.

The Face Foundation: Mature skin is usually thirsty for moisture, so using a mattifying foundation is going to accentuate any dry patches and all of your fine lines. Almay Smart-Shade Anti-Aging foundation SPF 20 ($10) is formulated for all skin types and contains both oil absorbers and hydrators, which minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Recognizing that as we age, those dark circles under our eyes seem to get worse let’s visit the concealer.

To conceal or not to conceal: Rather than trying to hide circles, a light reflecting formula is the best type of concealer for mature skin. Actually, this is the best makeup trick no matter your age. Lancôme Effacernes Waterproof Protective Undereye Concealer ($30) is smooth, creamy, hydrating and slightly illuminating.

Getting Cheeky: I’ve never been able to figure out why blush is so difficult for some women to master and it seems that the older that we get, some insane necessity to overdue the blusher kicks in. The objective is to give your face a kiss of color. A gentle sweep or tiny dab is all that you need. Both my mother and I (with a 27 year age difference) prefer Becca Cosmetics Beach Tint ($30). Its creamy formula is perfect for older skin and a dab of product provides all the cheeky tint that you’ll need.

The Eyes Don’t Have It: I know of very few women who don’t love shimmer, but as you age shimmery products are NOT your friends. Opt for mattes and unless you are the Goddess Sophia Loren, go easy on the eyes. Where you apply shadow makes a difference. Try applying the darkest accent color just above the eye crease, switch to a cream versus white highlight shade, and check out the difference in how much brighter your eyes look.

Kissable Lips: As we age, we loose volume in our lips and develop lovely little lines around our mouths. Lipstick enhances the look of those lines. Best tricks for perfect lips – Clear lipliner, lipstick (if you must) followed by a clear gloss. Another option is just lip-gloss, which is still available in every color under the sun and tends to keep lips hydrated far better than lipstick. To add volume, try a non-stinging plumper like EnvyDerm ($28).

Popular Posts