Free Makeover

Along with the July $40 makeup special I'm also giving away a free makeover!

To enter simply comment on this blog entry telling me why you think you should win!!

GOOD LUCK!!!!

THE GREEKS

The words cosmetics and cosmetology come from the Greek word kosmetikos meaning "skilled in the use of cosmetics."

In ancient Greece, beauty was determined by how one looked when naked. It was the naked Grecian athlete who defined the balance between mind and body. The Greeks viewed the body as a temple. They frequently bathed in olive oil and then dusted their bodies in fine sand to regulate their body temperature and to protect themselves from the sun. They were very aware of the effects of the natural elements on the body and he aging process. They used both honey and olive oil for elemental protection and were always in search of ways to improve their health and appearance.

It was this drive for perfection that made the Greeks so prominent in advancing grooming and skin care!

Smokey Eye

The smokey eye is a true makeup classic and the go-to standard for a big night out. "The smokey eye is usually done with black liner and eyeshadow to create a very dramatic look, but this season we're seeing more colorful versions. Using deep, yet vibrant colors like aubergine, navy and forest green creates a bold look that makes your eyes really pop and won't give you the dreaded "raccoon eye."

1). Start with eyeliner. Most people apply their shadow first, but starting with eyeliner helps the look last longer and makes it easier to build the color. Line the inner rim of your lower lashlines, working the liner into the lashes. Close your eyes and line the upper lashlines, pushing the liner into the lashes so there's no gap between your lashes and the line. "You want the liner to be a part of your lashes, not circling your eye. Use your fingertip to smudge it in.

2). Mix your textures. In general, matte eyeshadows aren't as flattering because they don't reflect light. Metallic formulas create a sheen that hides makeup flaws and opens up your eyes. I suggest using a metallic liner like Urban Decay 24/7 Glide On Eye Pencil, then layering a slightly shimmery shadow over top.

3). Wing out. "Extending your eyeshadow [past your outer corners] creates the illusion of long, almond eyes; it gives you a more exotic look. Sweep the eyeshadow across your lids and up into your creases, then blend outwards and upwards towards (but not to!) your temple to create a smokey halo. If you extend the wing too far, dip a Q-Tip in oil-free makeup remover and clean up the shape of the shadow. "It's best to play with this look first before you do it for real. Do it on a weeknight and master the technique before you decide to use it at a party.

The International Congress of Esthetics And Spa

I had the honor to travel with The French Institute this past Sunday to Philadelphia for The International Congress of Esthetics And Spa Expo!

The International Congress of Esthetics And Spa works hard to provide us with a most valuable learning experience and connect us with greatest talents of our profession. This was a two day event filled with networking and educational value. The event wowed attendees with information packed sessions delivered by knowledgeable speakers as well as numerous hands-on manufacturers' workshops. There were also many busy exhibitors on the floor!

A few of the exhibitors were:

A Natural Difference - www.anaturaldifference.com

Aesthetics Unique - www.revivalabs.com/au

Aesthetics International Association - www.aiaprofessional.com

Bio Jouvance, Inc. - www.biojouvance.com

Bronze Biologic - www.bronzebiologic.com

Conair-Satin Smooth - www.satinsmooth.com

*Crown Brush Company - www.crownbrush.com

DermaQuest, Inc - www.dermaminerals.com

Eminence Organic Skin Care - www.eminenceorganics.com

*Eye Kandy Cosmetics - www.eyekandycosmetics.com

*Fake Bake Tanning Products - www.fakebake.com

*Lizette Cosmetics, Inc. - www.lizettecosmetics.com

Milady - www.milady.cengage.com

*Pinnacle Cosmetics - www.pinnaclecosmetics.com

The Dead Sea Pavilion - www.deadseapavilion.com

Teka Fine Line Brushes, Inc. - www.tekabrushonline.com

Unique Edge 2000, Inc. - www.uniqueedge.com

While no industry is truly "recession proof" we are fortunate to work in one of the most resilient fields. Consumer demand for our products and services remains high, particularly as technology and innovation continue to renew and improve their value and efficacy. I believe esthetics and makeup artistry are exciting, dynamic and personally enriching professions in which we have the opportunity to shape our clients experience.

For those of us just venturing out into the skin care and spa field, the expo is the place to seek out skilled veterans and gain ideas for advancing your business. Also learn about the latest technology the industry has to offer.

The vendor I spent the most money on was Pinnacle Cosmetics!!! Pinnacle specializes in amazing products, quality and unbelievable colour selection. All of their products are hypoallergenic. Meaning fragrance free, allergy tested and non-comedogenic. They introduce 4 colour stories a year... Spring, Summer, Fall & Holiday!!

I was most impressed with their crushed loose mineral shadows! The colors and richness are amazing!! Also the lipgloss wands were great!!

Pinnacle Cosmetics is also a professional private label, so check them out at your earliest convenience!!! WWW.PINNACLECOSMETICS.COM

All in all I had a wonderful time and it was a great experience!! I look forward to the next expo in Vegas! It promises to be bigger and better! Info coming soon!

Daily regimen for skin!

Hello ladies!!

I just want to throw a few tips your way this evening! Tips you should try to keep in mind everyday!!

1. Your face should be cleaned twice a day.

2. Always moisturize face after washing.

3. Drink no less than 16 oz of water a day.

4. Exfoliate once a week. (twice a week for oily skin). Use your hands instead of a cloth.

5. NEVER use alcohol on your face.

6. NEVER, NEVER go to bed without taking your makeup off first!!!

Hope these tips help you!!!