If you're going from a dark blonde to a light blonde look, consider your eyebrows first.

Keep your look natural by lightening your eyebrows about one or two shades. I suggest using Jolen Cream Bleach.

Just mix up the bleach as the directions suggest and paint them on the brows leaving it on for about five to seven minutes. When you wipe the bleach off, your eyebrows will be the perfect shade and your new hair color will look more believable.

(Jolen Cream Bleach, $9.99)

You don't want to look too washed out with this lighter hair so use a pink blush to flush the apples of your cheeks with color. Pout Rouge in "Berry Babe" is a great choice.

(Pout Rouge, $20)

Finally, play up your new angelic coloring with an iridescent eye shadow. I like N.Y.C. Sparkle Eye Dust in "891 Opal Sparkle" ($3.99). Sweep it across your entire eyelid from lash line to brow bone.

When going from red hair to a more fiery copper, you must again start with your brows.

You may need to pencil in a more intense reddish hue to match your new hair. Feather on Anastasia Perfect Brow Pencil in "Strawburn." If you find that the brow pencil color is not the perfect intensity you need, try this trick: after filling in your brows with the pencil, dip a Q-tip into a shimmering copper eye shadow and lightly sweep it across your eyebrow. The color will be flawless and your brows will sparkle.

(Anastasia Perfect Brow Pencil, $22)

When choosing makeup for this coloring, switch to shades that will look radiant with your new warm cast. On lips and cheeks try shades of peach, sheer pinky bronze, golden pinks and coppery corals like Maybelline Shiny-licious Lip Gloss in "Cola Float" ($2.25).

For eyes, use shimmering warm browns, khakis, forest greens and bronzy metallics. For a great khaki-green liner, try Sue Devitt Eye Intensifier Pencil in " Bangladore". A fab copper shadow is MAC Shadow Pigments in "Copper Sparkle" ($19.50).

(Sue Devitt Eye Intensifier Pencil for Eyes, $22)

If you're warming up dark brown locks to a more chocolate hue or with gold highlights, play with warmer tones.

Bronzers will kiss your face with a summer glow so start by sweeping on Physicians Formula Powder Palette Blush in "Healthy Glow Bronzer."

(Physicians Formula Powder Palette Blush, $11.95)

Also try lining your eyes with a bronze metallic eye liner like Bourjois Metallic Eyeliner in "#52 Brun Inoxydable". Wing it out at the ends for a little drama.

If you are taking your grey hair to another level by going silver, think rosy when it comes to makeup.

Use a cool rose-colored lipstick and pick a cheek color like Maybelline Dream Mouse Blush in "4 Mauve" to flush those cheeks. Brush on a taupe or purple eye shadow like Benefit Silky Matte Powder Eye Shadow in "Guess Again" ($2.99) across the eyelid for a soft romantic look. No matter what your complexion, the key is to stay away from warm colors that will work against your coloring.

(Styli-Style Brow Liner 24, $6)

Black mascara will give your eyes incredible contrast and definition, but on the brows use a brow pencil like Styli-Style Brow Liner 24 in "Taupe" to define them -- silver brows would look strange. This specific formula will stay put for 24 hours in heat and humidity.

Get more of my summer beauty secrets

>Find out how sugar can keep you glowing

>Print out my SPF Cheat Sheet

>Bronze with the best of 'em

>Look hot in the heat without sweating your makeup off

Harmonize Your Makeup With Your New Hair Color originally appeared on StyleList on Fri, 15 Jun 2007 10:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

1. Moisturize daily with a rich lotion.

This will keep your (faux) tan lasting longer.

2. Remember your sunscreen.

There are two myths we need to debunk right here and now:

a. there is no such thing as a healthy base tan.

b. you can burn even if you look tan.

The healthiest way to glow is fake it with the right bronzer.

3. Add a little shimmer to your regimen.

Body shimmer can really play up your golden color and even make your muscle tone stand out. My favorite trick is to add it to my daily body moisturizer. Try Eucerin Body Lotion and mix in about two quarter-size dollops of Benefit Flamingo Fancy Body Shimmer. Shake it all up and apply.

It is the perfect coral bronze body glaze that works on light and dark skin. You may even want to add a drop or two of fragrant essential oil so you smell yummy too.

Use shimmer to intensify a tanned face too. Apply Black Radiance Liquid Radiance ($4.99) makeup. This golden bronze shimmery sheer foundation will take your tan to a whole other level.

4. Go easy on the exfoliant.

When you're tan, forgo exfoliating unless you're getting ready to apply more self-tanner. Exfoliating will just make your tan fade faster.

5. Wear makeup that highlights your glow.

Make eyes look bright and sexy against a darker complexion by sweeping shimmering white eye shadow under your brows, on the inside corners of your eyes and above your cheekbones. White will make your tan look even deeper.

Go for amazing contrast by applying lots of black mascara. Use a waterproof formula like Tarte's Lights Camera Splashes Waterproof Mascara.

On your lips think pale golden pinks that look amazing with a golden glow and can make you look darker and your lips look larger (a great trick). Try Nars Lipstick in "Sexual Healing".

Beauty Tips for Summer Skin -- Part 2 originally appeared on StyleList on Fri, 08 Jun 2007 15:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

During the summer your skin can change quite a bit. It's usually a few shades darker (hopefully from self-tanner only, of course), oilier due to heat and humidity or a bit parched in dry heat climates which can upset your tried-and-true makeup and skin care routine. Here are some simple things you can do to adjust your routine:

1. Load Up on Sugar.

That's right! The best scrub around is regular, white, refined sugar. Cheap and easy, it's perfect for the face and body. Weekly facial scrubs will keep your skin smooth, preventing greasy build-up on oily skin and erasing flaky patches on drier skin. Scrubbing will also help makeup glide on seamlessly -- eliminating the need for primers. When you're washing your face simply scrub about a palm full of sugar in circular motions around your face and body, then rinse off.

2. Moisturize.

Moisturizer is key to keeping skin from losing its suppleness -- even if it is hot and humid. Go for oil-free formulas or lotions that go on light. I like to choose ones with a built in SPF so you can skip that extra step in the morning -- perfect for the woman on the go. Try Lubriderm Daily Moisturizer Lotion with SPF 15 ($7.61).

3. Let the Eyes -- and Lips -- Have It!

Eyes can get dried out from a day at the beach or even just from running around town going from heat to air conditioning so use a rich eye balm at night with nutrients for the skin. Try Kiehls Anti-Oxidant Skin Preserver ($60) for ultra hydration.

Lip balms with SPF are also important in keeping lips chap-free so for daytime try Banana Boat Aloe Vera with Vitamin E Sunscreen Lip Balm with SPF 30 ($1.79). Aloe vera is a fantastic ingredient for healing summer skin that may have been exposed to too much sun.

4. Glow For It.

If you find that your favorite foundation is too light during this time of year, I recommend mixing in a bit of liquid bronzer to your bottle and shaking it up. You'll get a perfect faux glow and a much better match for the tanned new you. Clinique Up-Lighting Liquid Illuminator ($22.50) will do just that. You may also want to purchase a foundation or tinted moisturizer a few shades darker than your regular color. You can mix the two shades together for the perfect color or, if you're dark enough, use the deeper one alone.

5. Bold is Beautiful.

Use bolder and brighter cheek and lip color shades so they'll show up against tanner looking skin. If you're afraid of looking like Ronald McDonald, choose sheer colors for a natural look. Gels and stains keep up nicely in warm weather so try Vincent Longo Pearlessence Gel Stain ($22.50).

>Get more Summer Skin Secrets

Beauty Tips for Summer Skin originally appeared on StyleList on Fri, 01 Jun 2007 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

The hot weather is here and it's time to get serious about sunscreen -- but how do you make sense of all the SPF products that pack the drugstore shelves and enhance your favorite moisturizers and liquid makeup? Well, there are a few ways to figure out the right SPF (that's Sun Protection Factor) product for you.

1. Look for the right ingredients.

No matter what your skin type, ensure the best results by reading the ingredients label on your tube of lotion or jar of tinted moisturizer. Mexoryl, Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide, Helioplex, Oxinoxate and Homosalate are all strong sun defenders.

2. Fake the bake with SPF-enhanced self-tanners.

Most women need at least an SPF 15 if they're running around town and an SPF 30 or higher if they're getting above-average daily sun exposure on the face and body.

3. Choose formulas that won't irritate your skin.

If your skin tends to be on the sensitive side:

Go for a natural chemical-free sunscreen like Ecolani Chemical Free Sunscreen ($15) that contains Titanium Dioxide.

For fair skin:

Zinc Oxide offers total block to guard against burning so try my personal favorite SkinCeuticals Sport Defense SPF 45 (from $28).

4. Incorporate SPF-formulas into your makeup routine.

I recommend putting moisturizer on before applying sunscreen. Wait a few moments to let it soak in and then follow with your normal makeup routine. You can also choose a tinted moisturizer with a SPF like Cover Girl Smoothers SPF 15 Tinted Coverage (from $5.49) to save time in the morning.

If you hate sunscreen stinging your eyes, I like to use an eye cream with SPF around the eye area then a separate one for the face. Kiehls Protective Moisturizing Eye Gel with SPF 15 ($30) will moisturize and protect without causing pain.

5. Don't Forget to Protect Your Lips!

There are lots of colorful balms and glosses that will shield your lips from the sun's harsh UV rays. Tarte 24/7 Lip Sheers with SPF 15 ($14) come in many fun summer colors so just swipe one on for lush protected lips.

I understand the desire to look tan as we shed our layers of clothing in the heat, but the dangers of the sun are real and a good SPF can keep you looking younger and skin cancer-free if you protect yourself. E-mail these tips to yourself or print out this post and put it up on your fridge, bathroom or bedroom mirror so you can keep them close -- then have your fun in the sun without worry.

Your SPF Cheat Sheet: Choosing the Right One For Your Skin originally appeared on StyleList on Thu, 24 May 2007 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

For Updated Eyes: Opposites Attract

Make your eyes stand out with a liner or shadow the opposite color of your eyes. If you have brown eyes go for sapphire blue. Green-eyed girls should think amethyst. Blue eyes totally pop with burgundy browns while hazel eyes look incredible when accented with forest green.

I recommend

Cover Girl Queen Collection Eyeshadow Quad in 'Blue Notes' ($4.49)

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Pencil in '1999' ($15)

MAC Pigment Powder in 'Chocolate Brown' ($19.50)

Rimmel Soft Kohl Eye Pencil in 'Jungle Green' ($3.19)

For Updated Skin: Let It Glow

Shimmer is the best way to freshen up your look without taking too much of a risk. Dab on a cream shimmering highlight under your brows and on top of your cheekbones for extra radiance. The glow will have everyone saying, "She looks amazing".

I recommend

Fresh Satin Luster Palette ($45)

For Updated Cheeks: Brighten Up

When it comes to cheeks think brights. There has never been a better time to try new shades because cosmetic companies are offering so many new colors in sheer transparent formulas so they don't overpower yor face. Pick one you are drawn to -- even if the boldness of the color makes you a little nervous -- and swipe it on with confidence. You will be amazed at how fabulous you'll look and feel. Try a cream cheek blush for that perfect watercolor effect and blend it on in circular motions on the apples of your cheeks with your fingers for a must-have flush.

I recommend

Benefit Sheer Cream Blushers in 'Hush' ($18)

For Updated Lips: Sheer is Genius

Lips are the easiest to play with because a gloss is the fastest way to make that change and try something you never thought you could. Go for colors like coral, hot pink, orange, berry or red. If they are sheer you can totally pull them off.

LORAC Mocktail Flavored Lip Gloss in 'Lava Flow' ($18)

Kiss Gloss Lipgloss by N.Y.C. New York Color Cosmetics ($2.99)

Have fun!

Bust Out of Your Makeup Rut originally appeared on StyleList on Tue, 15 May 2007 12:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

If You're Fair-Skinned

(stockbytes)

With or without freckles, chances are you will need the most protection. Try Lorac's protectTINT spf 30 ($30) to even out your skin tone. Perfect for hot weather, this sheer tinted moisturizer not only leaves your complexion flawless but also delivers the maximum amount of protection you need in one easy step. Stay away from cream formula cheek and eye colors because they won't mix well with the heat. Choose sheer powders for a long lasting look.

If You Have Medium Skin Tone

Medium skin-toned ladies look lovely with a touch of bronze so play with Dior Bronze Sun Powder Spray ($60). This is a cool, refreshing bronzer you can just spray on for a healthy looking glow. (For cheaper alternatives check out my post 'Going for the Bronze'.)

If You Have Dark Skin

(jupiterimages)

Let your eyes pop on a hot summer night by creating a smoky eye. Sweep on Maybelline Cool Effect Cooling Shadow/Liners ($2) to create a sexy look that will keep you looking and feeling cool in the steamiest of weather.

If You Have Mature Skin

Mature skin can experience a case of vanishing makeup in the high heat so stick with waterproof formulas and sweep on a cool moisturizing lip color to keep lips hydrated. Neutrogena MoistureShine Soothing LipSheers is just what you need. It's cooling as it goes on and packs SPF 20 to protect while it colors and moisturizes. Whatever your skin tone keep a pack of oil blotting papers in your purse for quick fix that eliminates shine.

Looking Hot in the Heat originally appeared on StyleList on Mon, 07 May 2007 15:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

If You Have Dry Skin

I suggest using cream or spray bronzers. I like to blend them on with a non-latex sponge so they look even and natural. Start by applying the bronzer at your temples, along the hairline and right under the cheekbones for a natural contoured look. For the look of a deeper tan, blend a subtle amount on the center of your forehead and across the bridge of your nose.

I recommend

Era Rayz spray on bronzer ($40)

If You Have Oily Skin

People with oily skin do better with powder and gel formulas. You will want to use a big fluffy powder brush to sweep on a powder bronzer in the same areas I mentioned above. If you go with a gel formula, use a sponge or your fingers to blend the radiant tint into your skin.

I recommend

CoverGirl Tanfastic ($5.59)

I recommend

Becca Beach Tint ($22)

Going for the Bronze originally appeared on StyleList on Fri, 04 May 2007 12:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Fed up with your tired beauty routine? Wish you could follow a simple yet effective set of steps that actually work for you? Well now you can with the techniques in my new book 'The 5 Minute Face: The Quick and Easy Makeup Guide for Every Woman.' These techniques are practical and all about enhancing your natural beauty without spending hours trying to look polished and pulled together.

Five Minutes to Beauty

1. Start with a tinted moisturizer or foundation, spot conceal any redness and apply under eye concealer. Classified Cosmetics Era Spray Foundation ($55) is a good one.

2. Next, dust on a light translucent powder. Cover Girl Clean Fragrance-Free Pressed Powder ($5) works great on all complexions.

3. Highlight is key to this look so applying a shimmering light shadow under the brows, on the inside corner of the eyes and on top of the cheekbones will showcase your face. Try Benefit Cosmetics Eye Bright ($18).

4. Next swirl on blush for a fresh lively look. Paula Dorf Cheek Color Cream in "Candy Apple" ($19) is a good choice for Asian skin while Revlon Cream Blush in "Lilicent" ($9) looks great on fair skin. MAC's Pigment Color Powder wows on dark skin.

5. Line the upper lash line with an eyeliner pencil and smudge with a Q-tip. This will give you the subtle definition you need. Almay Intense I-Color in "Brown Topaz" ($7) is a great option for fair beauties.

6. Sweep on mascara to the top lashes only. Skipping the lower lashes will save time and potential cleanup.

7. Now slick on lip color and you're ready to go. I like Milani Glitzy Glamour Gloss in "Glitz & Glam" ($5.49) on olive skin.

Fast, easy and effective!

This said, you can't be quick with your makeup regimen if you're not sure which colors and product choices are right for your skin tone or age-appropriate. In 'The 5 Minute Face' I list no-fail hues and products so you can skip the guessing game for a fabulous look every time.

From my years on the job I've found that fair-skinned women look best with peachy pink lips and chocolate brown eyeliner. Teens can get away with colored mascara but women in their 30s should stick to natural mascara colors and play with smoky eyes instead.

Asian ladies look radiant when using rosy lip and cheek stains and lash curlers.

Dark-skinned gals can play with a wide range of bold hues and jewel-toned eye shadows.

Olive-skinned beauties look gorgeous in coral lips and cheeks.

Women in their 40s and 50s can keep skin looking soft and supple by bringing moisturizing products into their beauty routine. Try Olay Active Hydrating Cream ($7).

No matter what your beauty dilemma, there is an answer for you in 'The 5 Minute Face.'

Makeup Tips for 'The 5 Minute Face' originally appeared on StyleList on Mon, 23 Apr 2007 15:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Is going totally natural with your skincare and makeup routine really the way to go? If you're a full-on lifestyle vegan you have a lot of wonderful products to choose from in terms of 'green' makeup and skincare. For the rest of us I think synthetics (that are safe) mixed with natural ingredients can create makeup that performs a bit better.

Look for ingredients like anti-oxidants, botanicals and organic food bases like avocado. Just remember totally natural products can irritate some skin types just as easily as unnatural ones so when buying products make sure there is a good return policy so you don't get stuck with something that may cause a reaction.

The greatest thing about the beauty industry now is all the choices we have to look and feel better about our beauty. I recommend trying a few of these fabulous green products if you want to go natural.

For Your Face

The most popular natural makeup around today is mineral makeup. This comes from crushed minerals like zinc, mica and titanium that act as a natural sunscreen and won't irritate even the most sensitive skin. Does it work? It does. There are blushes, foundations, eye shadows and more. Now, companies are making paraben-free liquid mineral makeup, which use spheres of mineral color suspended in bases like aloe vera gel.

You should know these products take a lot of layering, but women with problem skin swear by it. If your skin is dry, mineral makeup products can look a bit chalky if you use too much. Just sweep on a sheer layer for the best results.

I recommend

Nvey Eco Organic Organic Creme Deluxe Foundation ($58) (100% Organic)

Bare Minerals Bare Escentuals Foundation ($25) (100% Pure Minerals)

Dr. Hauschka Rouge Powder ($26) (95% Organic)

Jane Iredale Liquid Mineral Foundation ($46) (Paraben-Free)

Juice Beauty SPF 15 Tinted Moisturizers (100% Organic)

For Your Lips

Au naturale lip products are hitting drugstore shelves and beauty counters in droves and the good thing is they really are great for all skin types. With bases like beeswax, flower wax and jojoba oil they can keep your lips soft and supple.

I recommend

The Organic Makeup Company Lip Gloss ($14) (100% Vegan)

Honeybee Gardens Colorbalm Natural Lipsticks ($9) (100% Natural)

For Your Eyes

Mascaras have found their way into the green mix as well. Some companies offer chemical-free mascara formulas so even the most sensitive eyes get a shot at looking flirty and fabulous. Eyeliners made from jasmine petals, geranium leaves and more deliver great color and blend on with creamy textures as easily as their synthetic counterparts.

I recommend

Origins A Perfect World For Eyes Eye Cream ($30) (100% Organic)

Jane Iredale PureLash Lengthening Mascara ($16) (Chemical-Free)

Aveda Petal Essence Eye Definer ($12) (100% Vegan)

Going 'Green' With Your Beauty Routine originally appeared on StyleList on Sat, 21 Apr 2007 18:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Have you ever experienced a break out on your forehead after your hair stylist gave you the new "bangs" of the season? What about the sides of your face feeling dry and itchy after using hairspray? Here is the problem: Many women with sensitive skin can have a reaction to the harsh chemicals and other ingredients that can be found in some of your favorite hair products. It may happen to you even if your skin is normal, dry or oily. Does that mean you need to give up all hair products to ensure a perfect complexion? Not at all, but changing your products when you have a reaction and looking out for some ingredients that may irritate your skin will keep you looking gorgeous.

The top five ingredients that can irritate your skin are:

1. Mineral Oil
A key ingredient in some hair shine and frizz control products, mineral oil is the worst for oily or problematic skin. When it sits on the face for a long period of time it acts like a plastic wrap, cutting off precious oxygen and preventing toxins from escaping the skin which can cause acne.

Arrojo Defrizz Serum ($14) is a great mineral oil-free alternative.

2. DEA, MEA or TEA
DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (monoethanolamine) and TEA (triethanolamine) are hormone-disrupting chemicals found in many shampoos. They're thought to cause cancer so stay away.

Arrojo Daily Shampoo ($10) is an organic, vitamin-rich shampoo.

3. Imidazolidinyl Urea & DMDM Hydantoin
These are preservatives in many hair creams and gels that release formaldehyde, triggering skin irritations and even heart palpitations.

I recommend using preservative-free Phyto Phytolisse Finishing Serum ($22).

4. Fragrance
If you see the word "fragrance" on the ingredient list of your hair product take into consideration that it can sometimes mean up to 400 separate and maybe synthetic ingredients that can cause allergic reactions.

Peppermint oil, among other natural ingredients, gives Aubrey Organics Ginseng Biotin Hair Repair ($15.50) its fragrance.

5. Alcohol
Alcohol dries out hair and skin so if you tend to have dry skin, avoid most hairsprays and volumizers, which contain tons of alcohol.

You can keep your skin clear and your hair beautiful with Nexxus Nexxtacy Alcohol-Free Sustained Hold Style and Finishing Spray ($19.99).

Problem Skin? It May Be Your Hair Products! originally appeared on StyleList on Fri, 13 Apr 2007 14:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Petal Soft

This look is great for brunch with the family. First even out your skin tone with foundation and a bit of concealer. Next apply a tawny pink all-over cream to your eyes, cheeks and lips using your fingers to blend in for a super natural flush. Dust on a bit of translucent powder over the face. Smudge on a chocolate brown pencil along the upper lash line sweep a Q-tip over top of it to soften the line and finish off with black mascara.

I Recommend

Neutrogena Shimmer Sheers in "Spellbound" ($8.19)

Easter Color Eyes

It's fun to play with eye shadow colors you normal wouldn't try and holidays are the best time to experiment. Keep it very sheer and translucent so it's wearable and not laughable. With your finger lightly blend on a cream or powder shadow from the lash line to the crease. If your fair, try a shimmering blue or pale green, for medium skin tones go for lavender and for dark skin play with golden yellow or Kelly green.

I recommend

Maybelline Shadow Stylist in "Trendy Blue" ($3.25)

Candle Light

The best thing about candlelight is it is very forgiving so don't load up on heavy makeup, instead focus on bringing radiance to the skin so it sparkles. Try swiping on a shimmering highlight crayon to the top of your cheekbones, on the inside corners of the eyes and under the brow for radiant focus. It will make your eyes twinkle and showoff the cheekbones. The best part is you only need to blend with your finger and your done.

I Recommend

MAC Shadow Pigment in "Golden Lemon" ($19.50)

Benefit Cosmetics Mr. Frosty ($18)

Spring Holiday Beauty originally appeared on StyleList on Fri, 06 Apr 2007 15:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Perfect eyebrows are the secret to a polished look and can make a huge difference on your overall look, but should you wax or should you pluck? What about threading? There are a few different ways to go about it, but before you decide how to shape and style your brow, you have to keep in mind that no two brows are alike. Their shape should be tailored to your face and eyes -- not a photo of some celebrity.

When, Why and How You Should Pluck

Plucking is the cheapest and easiest way to groom your brows and keep them in tip top shape. The key is investing in a good pair of tweezers. Tweezerman tweezers are the Rolls Royce of plucking tools and come with a variety of tips. Slanted, pointed or round they are all good and you will have them for life so they're worth the investment. If you're on a budget, Mira Cuticle Scissors and LaCross Exacta Tweeze Tweezers work well too.

Tweezerman tweezers ($20)

LaCross Exacta Tweeze Tweezers ($4.50)

When plucking your own brows take your time and use a hand mirror next to the daylight so you can really see all the little strays. Work with the dimensions of your face to create the perfect shape every time.

Print out these steps for your next at-home shape up:

STEP 1: Brush the brows straight up with a clean toothbrush and snip any wild hairs that are too long.

STEP 2: Take a pencil and hold it parallel along the side of your nose. (Where the pencil crosses the forehead is where your eyebrow should start so pluck any strays that fall in the uni-brow section.)

STEP 3: Holding that pencil again in the same place, angle it diagonally across the iris of the eye. Where it crosses the brow is where the arch should be. Only pluck a few at a time so you don't create any gaps.

STEP 4: Angle the pencil toward the outer edge of the eye -- this is where the brow should end.

*If you are a first timer, a great tip is to draw the ideal brow shape over your existing eyebrow with a white eyeliner pencil and pluck the hairs that fall out of the line. Then just wipe away the white pencil when you're done for a flawless brow.

Make Waxing Poetic

I recommend going to a salon to have your brows professionally waxed so plucking is a better option if you're on a budget. In my opinion, it is too difficult to control the wax at home If you go to a pro, ask her/him to show you in a mirror where she plans on waxing and make sure to tell her what you want. This is a really great option for women who tend to have very bushy brows and a lot of hair coming from the hairline down to the brow.

I have always been a believer that it is fine to wax or pluck above the brow. If done lightly it creates a perfectly styled look. Just make sure you're waxing just the stray hairs above the brow and not the actual shape of it.

Consider Threading

Threading is a technique that has became very popular in the US recently, but many women in Asia and the Middle East have done it for years. It is done by twisting together two pieces of cotton to catch and pull out the hairs. It's really just a fancy version of plucking, in fact, plucking, waxing and threading are all the same -- they all end up pulling the hairs out by the roots. Threading is faster than plucking, though, and less abrasive than waxing. The women who perform threading are very talented and create smooth fluid shapes that always look natural.

Take Your Brow Texture into Account

If you have fine hair then plucking is your best option and you may need to fill in your brows a bit with groomer. Coarse or curly hairs do better with threading and waxing and may need a good brow gel to keep hairs in place all day. Asian brows tend to grow downwards so all the same rules apply but brush the hairs down when trimming any wild strays.

If You Make a Mistake

If you have over plucked or need to fill in any gaps (a lot of women loose brow hairs or the brows fade as they age), you can easily remedy the situation with a little brow groomer. A pencil is the quickest way to fill in any sparse areas and powder is the most natural though it does not last as long as a pencil. Brow wax is also great because you apply it with an angle brush and it is colored so you can fill in bald spots while the waxy texture holds the brows in place all day.

Liquid brow corrector is a bit harder to use, but offers the best results. It works like liquid eyeliner so apply a dot on the back of your hand, dab an angle brush in it, then feather it on the brows. It's waterproof so it's great in humid climates. Clear or tinted brow gel will offer a good hold but it's not the best when it comes to filling in holes.

Some great, affordable options are:

e.l.f. Professional Eye lash and Brow Wand ($1)

Avon Glimmersticks Brow Definer ($2.99)

Ardell Brow Defining Powder ($3.99)

Revlon Brow Fantasy Pencil And Gel ($6.89)

If You Color Your Brows, Keep Them Natural-Looking

Brunettes, keep your brows about the same shade as your hair. If you have black hair, I think you'll look better with brows a shade lighter so the contrast against your skin isn't so stark. Blondes always look good one shade darker for a bit of definition to the face. If you need to lighten your brows, I recommend Jolen's Creme Bleach. That's right, regular facial hair bleach from the drugstore. It lightens brows so naturally and it's really inexpensive. Never leave it on for more than the allotted time.

Jolen Creme Bleach ($4.85)

Your Eyebrow Shaping & Styling Guide originally appeared on StyleList on Fri, 30 Mar 2007 18:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

The quest for perfect skin has led the beauty industry to offer a multitude of complexion perfecting treatments but it's hard to know which one is best for you. Facials seem to be the quick fix solution and are more pampering than permanent while dermatologist's treatments have a deeper and more lasting effect. Now, a lot of companies are offering safe at-home treatments so people can service themselves without an appointment. Here's my take on the major procedures you might have heard your friends or dermatologists buzzing about -- microdermabrasion, chemical peels and photo facials:

The Procedure: Microdermabrasion

Who It's For: People of all ages who want smoother, clearer, younger-looking skin

How it works: A device is used like a fine sandblaster to spray tiny crystals onto the skin. This same device then vacuums up all the dead skin basically polishing your complexion to a smooth clean finish. Because it deals with the epidermis only, it is perfect for removing dry patches, blemishes and fine lines. However, it will not work on major skin discolorations and deeper lines.

The best time to get it done: It is a great treatment to get in the beginning of spring to replenish your skin after winter's harsh drying effects.

At-home versions vs. Professional treatments: Professional treatments can take away acne-scarring, fine and deep lines, sun damage, age spots and even rosacea. It's also a wonderful way to stimulate collagen production. At-home versions are usually battery-operated skin polishers that come with grainy creams. They are not as intense as the procedures performed at a dermotologist's office or with an aesthetician at a salon, but they offer great results.

Maintenance Tips: Microdermabrasion is best done in a series. I always recommend four to seven treatments at first and then once a month for maintenance and prevention.

If you decide to try an at-home version, I recommend:

DermaNew Facial Rejuvenation System ($70)

Pond's Purely Polished Microdermabrasion Anti-Aging Kit ($13.99)

The Procedure: Chemical Peels

Who it's for: People who want to smooth out wrinkles, unclog their pores, erase discolorations, remove acne scars

How it works: An acid -- usually a fruit acid -- is applied to the skin, burning off the dead upper layer, lightening and smoothing the surface. There is no pain just an irritating sunburnlike sting. The circulation it causes boosts cell rejuvenation and collagen production for newer, younger-looking skin. Recovery time varies with the percentage of solution used but most treatments known as "lunchtime peels" are mild and you can go right back to work with a subtle pink glow to the skin. A couple days later your skin will peel a little giving way to fresh baby skin underneath. Usually a series of peels is needed to see the full effect, although after one treatment the results are incredible.

At-home versions vs. Professional treatments: It's best to see a dermatologist for this treatment so the adjusted level of the solution is tailored to your skin type. At-home peels are usually low dose glycolic solutions in the form of pads, face washes, lotions or spot treatments.

Maintenance Tips: Protect your skin by applying a moisturizer with SPF and sunscreen daily. If you don't use a high SPF all the old problems can return.

If you decide to try an at-home version, I recommend:

Neutrogena Advanced Solutions Facial Peel ($24.99)

Skyn Iceland Nordic Skin Peel ($45)

The Procedure: Photo Facials aka Pulse Light Therapy

Who it's for: People suffering from major sun damage and rosacea and those who want to reduce the appearance of moles, cherry anginomas, freckles and acne scars: This type of facial is will help erase these pesky problems with a healing time of a week or two. It's also great for anyone who just wants to tighten and tone their skin.

How it works: It's a laser light treatment that gently penetrates the surface of the skin.

At-home versions vs. Professional treatments: Dermatologists and other skin care professionals are the only ones to be trusted with this system, as proper training is required. There is no at-home version as of yet.

Maintenance Tips: You will need several treatments for maximum results.

If you want to reduce redness at home, I recommend:

MD Formulations Anti-Redness Kit ($55)

Complexion Perfection originally appeared on StyleList on Thu, 22 Mar 2007 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Spring's Biggest Beauty Trends originally appeared on StyleList on Fri, 16 Mar 2007 15:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Think of Renaissance paintings and go with rosy cheeks, petal pink lips and softly defined eyes.

To get the look:

STEP 1: Create an Even Palette

Start with foundation and concealer to even out the skin tone. Then dust translucent powder all over the face to set the makeup.

I recommend:

La Femme Sparkle Dust in Opal #5 ($3.95)

STEP 2: Define Your Eyes

Sweep an iridescent powder eye shadow across the entire lid from the lash line up to the brows and on top of the cheekbones. This will give you an ethereal glow. Now use a soft brown eye shadow and sweep the color across the crease of the lid and under the lower lash line.

Line the upper lashes with a dark chocolate brown pencil and apply a healthy dose of black mascara for fabulous flirty eyes.

I recommend:

L'Oreal Wear Infinite Eye Shadow in 'Smooth Latte' ($6.99)

Urban Decay 24/7 Eyeliner ($15.00)

Benefit BADgal Lash Mascara ($19.00)

STEP 3: Add a Rosy Glow to Your Cheeks

For Rubenesque cheeks, use a large fluffy powder brush to apply blush and swirl on a rosy pink hue to the apples of your cheeks.

I recommend:

Body & Soul Brush #1 ($55.00)

Cover Girl Cheekers Blush in 'Rose Silk' ($3.39)

STEP 4: Go Over Your Lips With Soft, Sheer Color

Skip "goopy" gloss or dark heavy lipstick and opt for a sheer pink that will add moisture and color without being too heavy.

I recommend:

Benefit Lipstick in 'But Officer' ($16.00)

This trend is seasonless so from now into spring you can look and feel poetic.

The Beauty of Romance originally appeared on StyleList on Thu, 08 Mar 2007 15:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

With so many descriptions floating around about glowing, shimmering, radiant makeup it's no wonder we are confused about what to make of it all. Use a "shimmer" here, make your skin "glow" there, try "light reflective" this and that. Is there a difference? Yes, there is and I will help you figure it all out. Let's call it "Illumination 101."

"Shimmer" is a finely milled, ground up mineral called mica that is used in lipsticks, lip glosses, eye shadows, blushes, bronzers, etc. to make skin sparkle or look glowing. "Light Reflective" refers to additive ingredients found in skincare products, foundations, concealers and other goodies meant for the skin that act like a mirror. They reflect light so fine lines look less noticeable and the skin radiates."Glow," "radiance," "illuminating" and "sparkle" are just descriptive terms to explain the effect shimmer or light reflective makeup has on the skin.

So now that you understand the terms, how, when and where should you use these products? One cautionary note before you start to experiment: make sure to stick to one or two of these suggestions at a time so you don't end up looking like a Las Vegas showgirl. Now, let's get ready to shine.

For an all over glow ...

Try mixing in a small amount of liquid shimmer into your foundation.

I recommend:

Stila All Over Shimmer Liquid Luminizer ($20.00)

For eyes that really pop ...

Sweep a shimmering eye shadow in a pink champagne shade under your eyebrow on the inside corner of the eyes and on top of the cheekbones.

I recommend:

Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick Compact Pink ($38.00)

For mature skin ...

Take years off your look with a light reflective moisturizer and foundation.

I recommend:

Elizabeth Arden Prevage Moisturizer ($150.00)

Christian Dior Diorskin Pure Light Makeup ($40.00)

To make lips look fuller ...

After applying lipstick add a dot of shimmer gloss on the center of the lower lip.

I recommend:

Maybelline Shiny-licious Lip Gloss ($5.79)

To make your muscle tone stand out ...

Apply a shimmer body lotion after your shower.

I recommend:

Jergens Soft Shimmer Skin Radiance Moisturizer ($5.99)

To make dark circles disappear ...

Dot a little light reflective concealer into the darkest spots then blend until you get an even tone.

I recommend:

Guerlain Issima Precious Light Smoothing Illuminator Concealer ($44.00)

Everything Is Illuminated originally appeared on StyleList on Fri, 02 Mar 2007 11:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments

Create the Perfect Smoky Eye

Smoky eyes tend to work best with women who have larger eyes. Here's how you can get this look in six simple steps.

Step 1: Line the inside rim of the eyes on top and bottom with black eyeliner.

Step 2: With the same pencil line the upper and lower lash line as close to the roots as possible.

Step 3: Sweep a sultry eye shadow shade across the lid from the lash line to the crease and under the lower lash line. (This will soften the liner and create the smoky effect you want.)

Step 4: Apply a light shimmering highlight under the brow bone and on the inside corner of the eye.

Step 5: Apply a healthy dose of black mascara.

Step 6: With a non-latex sponge that has been dipped into a little foundation wipe up any shadow that may have fallen beneath your eyes for a flawless finish.

*Make sure to pair this look with a lighter glossy lip so you don't overpower the face.

Recommended Products

1. Tarte Peep Show: Smokey Eye Palette in 'Onyx' @ www.sephora.com
2. Upstage Professional Non-Latex Wedges @ www.drugstore.com

Get the Right Shade of Ruby Red Lips

All women can wear red lips -- it's just choosing the right shade that's tricky. The general rule for red lips is blondes should wear cool reds (cherry), redheads should wear warm reds (tomato), brunettes fair best with true reds (apple), and dark skin beauties look best in ruby reds (garnet).

For the faint of heart, go for sheer red lipsticks or lip tints. Remember when wearing red lips go easy on the eyes to balance the face. I recommend just a sparkling shimmer swept across the entire lid, a sweep of
liner on the upper lashes only followed by black mascara.

Recommended Products

1. Bourjois Pour La Vie Lipstick in 'Cerise' (cool red)

2. Boots No7 Lipstick in 'Tricky' (warm red)

3. Lancome Rouge Absolue Lipstick in 'Red Chic' (true red)

4. Rimmel Renew Lipstick in 'Berry Wine' (ruby red)

Open Up Your Eyes With Retro Eyeliner

This is an especially great look to try if your eyes tend to be smaller or close set. I love to pair this look with false lashes for extra flirty eyes. The look is simple to achieve:

Step 1: Cut a pair of false lashes in half and use only the shorter half to glue on to the outside corner of your lash line. (Thiswill look more natural in real life than using a whole strip.)

Step 2: Draw a line on top of your lashes starting from the inside corner of your eye and sweeping across the length of your lashes, hiding the seam of the falsies and winging it out a bit at the outer corners.

Step 3: Apply a sheer white eye shadow across the entire lid and then sweep a taupe shade in the crease.

Step 4: Apply black mascara from roots to tip to blend the real ones with the fake ones. Now you're the star!

Recommended Products

1. Andrea Modlash in #53 @ www.drugstore.com

2. Lancome Precision Point Artliner in ³Black² @ www.neimanmarcus.com

3. Dior 5-Colour Eyeshadow in ³Incognito² @ www.sephora.com

From Red Carpet to Real Life originally appeared on StyleList on Fri, 23 Feb 2007 17:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments