How To Lessen the Appearance of Wrinkles with Makeup

A common question I get is how to lessen the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.  The quickie makeup fix uses concealer and highlighter.  The resulting look softens the lines, especially diminishing their appearance in photos due to the light reflecting pigments found in highlighter.

1.  Even your skin tone as you normally would.  Always start with a moisturizer.

2.  Dab a concealer that is not drying along the lines you are targeting.  Dry concealer will settle in the lines making them more obvious so choose wisely.

3.  Using a highlighter pencil draw on top of the lines, dab with your finger to soften the edges.  Use your pinky finger to apply on top of the lines if your highlighter is not in the pencil form.

Simple, quick and easy!

How to Minimize Wide Set Eyes | Tip Off Tuesday

makeup corrections for wide set eyes by amariebeauty featuring a curling mascara

How to minimize the appearance of wide set eyes.

• Apply a darker shade of eye shadow from the inner corner of the eye toward your nose.  
• Blend a lighter shadow from the middle toward the outer corner.
• Apply mascara with inward strokes. 

That is the basic makeup correction for wide set eyes.  Dark colors have a minimizing effect so using this technique draws the space together.

How to Lift Drooping Eyelids Using Makeup | Tip Off Tuesday

Drooping or low eyelids can be visually lifted using makeup to correct the look.  Obviously this is no miracle, we won't be picking up a scalpel or anything just using a little cosmetic correction technique. 

• Keep the under area of the outer brow tweezed to provide a better arch.
• Use eyeshadow to shade along the eyelid fold, blend and smudge outward.
• Place highlighter directly under and along the eyebrow arch.
• Eyeliner should be applied very thin and thickened slightly at the outside corner in a point to provide a lifted look.

The RIGHT eye pictured marked R has the eyebrows tweezed less and no highlighter added.
The LEFT eye pictured marked L was tweezed using the method described above and the highlighter was added along the arch.

In doing the outlined steps above you keep the attention from drawing downward and away from the lowering eyelid.

Highlighter on the arch of the brow is a nice way to showcase any eye type.  Keep those eyebrows looking precise and held in place using this DIY brow gel.

side note:  I realize my eyelids aren't exactly hanging low but you get the idea of how you can open and lift the space.

Makeup for a Summer Bride

Get a flawless complexion.

• moisturize for the correct skin type
• prime for long wear and oil control
• conceal complexion imperfections
• apply foundation for even coverage
• add bronzer lightly along the apples of the cheeks through the temples, making a C shape
• brush blush along the cheek bones and blend the edges for a natural glow
• set with powder   

Romanticize the eyes. 

• apply a neutral shade all over the lid, lash line to brow
• contour with a few shades darker in the crease of the lid blending out well
• add a darker shade just in the center of the crease where you contoured for depth
• line the upper lash line and smudge only enough to create a soft line rather than harsh, repeat on the bottom
• use a shimmering white highlighter shadow to line the eyebrow arch
• highlight the inner corner by sweeping just a dab on
• fill in eyebrows with brow pencil and blend
• finish with mascara

Finish with a natural pout.

• line lips with a lip toned liner
• fill with a pale natural shade with lip conditioners 

Wedding day makeup varies based on the season and the bride.  This makeup collection is for a bride wanting a romantic natural look for a summer wedding that is outdoors.  For any outdoor event in the hot summer season a natural look works in your favor.

For your best looking face with any makeup look, know your skin type and pay attention to your skin care.  

Wet Eyeshadow Pulls Double Duty | Tip Off Tuesday

Any eyeshadow can double as an eyeliner by simply wetting a liner brush or q-tip before dipping it in the eyeshadow color then applying..

You can also apply the eyeshadow wet all over the eyelid for bolder, more intense color, turning your eyeshadow into a double duty product.  Win win.

How to Make Your Lip Color Last | Tip Off Tuesday

 

Powdering lips gives lip color or gloss something to cling to for longer, smoother wear.

Simply dust your lips with a little powder before applying the lip color or gloss.  Make sure your lips are well moisturized and not chapped or both the powder and the lip color will soak in. 

Remove Mascara Mistakes | Tip Off Tuesday

Use a "magic" eraser to remove mascara or eyeliner smears.  

Take a qtip and lightly coat it in foundation.  

Use it as you would a pencil eraser and clean up the smears without wrecking your finished makeup.

Shimmer Eyeshadow Settles in Fine Lines | Tip Off Tuesday

Eyeshadow that is shimmering, metallic or containing glitter tends to settle into fine lines and wrinkles. To avoid making lines more apparent use shimmer sparingly or not at all in delicate areas.  Instead opt for a little shimmer on your cheek bones or in your lip color.

Bold Waterproof Eyeliner | Tip Off Tuesday

A good makeup look for the beach that will keep you looking polished is bold eyeliner.

Water makes it tough to keep a made up face but if you want to add a little flavor that will stay put do a bold thick stroke of eyeliner along the top eyelid.  Pair that with waterproof mascara.

This look adds personality to the beauty routine for the heat I published on Monday as part of the Summer Beauty Series.

Best Makeup for Hot Days

If you will be out in the heat, hot sun and maybe sweating a bit minimal makeup is a great option.  The less you have on the less greasy puddle and maintenance required.  I recommend the following beauty routine for a fresh summer face.

• Moisturize before starting any makeup look using a moisturizer for your skin type, for days in the sun don't forget to choose one with SPF. 
• Spot conceal blemishes, hyper pigmentation, dark circles or other problem areas.
• Brush on Mineral Powder Foundation makeup to even out skin tone.  No mineral makeup for you?  Try a light weight tinted moisturizer followed up with a light dusting of loose powder.
• Sweep on bronzer or blush, don't get crazy, keep it light.
• Do something fun on the eyes using waterproof mascara and eyeliner that is smudge proof.  Pictures of my go to eye makeup for the beach will be this Tuesday's tip, come back for the easy how to.
• Dress your lips up however you like with a lip product containing SPF.

Tote some blotting papers.  **Tip**The mineral makeup will have the least amount of makeup rub off when absorbing oil with the blotting papers.

If forehead shine is a problem use an oil absorbing primer to start with.

Both tinted moisturizer and mineral powder foundation is available with SPF.

Beauty Beach Bag Essentials | Summer Beauty

Beach Bag Beauty Essentials by amariebeauty featuring a tinted moisturizer

Keeping a fresh pulled together look poolside or lounging on the beach can be tough.  Water and sunshine have a way of making a mess of things.

I am not a fan of toting a bunch of things on my outdoor ventures.  I also want to be put together without over doing it so I am comfortable and looking decent.  Here is my list of beauty essentials for summer.

• sunblock  Spf is a face and body must for healthy skin, prevention of sunburn and premature aging.
• body spray  Refreshing and a lighter scent than a heavier perfume, perfect for summer.
• blotting papers  Absorb oils pooling on the face without removing all your makeup.
• tinted moisturizer  Semi evened out coverage and SPF protection combo available.
• waterproof mascara  Keeps lashes lovely and raccoon eye smears away.
• waterproof eyeliner  Gives a finished look without smudging off.
• makeup remover wipes  When all else fails wipe away and start over or go bare faced with SPF of course.
• lip balm with SPF  Avoid dried out lip burn by using this stuff often.

The Summer Beauty Series continues next week with a fun look using the waterproof liner, a DIY and makeup for the heat.

Makeup Brush Care for the Summer | Tip Off Tuesday

I covered the topic of cleaning your makeup brushes and cosmetic bags earlier this year but with the temperatures getting hotter and the faces getting greaser I thought we would revisit the issue.  Trying to combat oil and shine is tougher in the summer so be diligent with keeping your brushes clean weekly to avoid makeup and oil build up which will only add to the dilemma.  Click the links below to read my original posts.


How to clean your makeup brushes.  Don't worry it's quick, cheap and easy!
Don't forget your makeup bag!  It can harbor bacteria.

Graduation Day Makeup and Emergency To Go Bag

Graduation is a busy day with lots of photos being taken and close encounters being had, be prepared.
Start the day with moisturizer with SPF.  Moisturize to prime the face and get longer where out of your foundation.

A good rule of thumb for big days in your life is to wear your hair and makeup in a similar way as you normally do.  You want to A. look like yourself in the memories and B. feel comfortable on special days.
Add a little extra makeup to prevent being washed out in photo's but don't go over board, this is not glamour shots.

Graduation Day Emergency Beauty Kit by amariebeauty featuring matte makeup

For touch ups and emergency beauty fixes stash items like these in a to go bag.  Some of you may have a huge to go bag, just don't forget to add these things for quick and crucial beauty problems. 

Quick Fix Items

1. blotting papers - Big days get exciting, excitement can get greasy.
2. powder - If said greasyness happens you may need to touch up.
3. a small comb and hair band - If things get real ugly a girl can always revert to a messy bun!  
4. body spray - see number 1
5. mints - Lot's of up close and personal time, keep the breath fresh.

See what I stash in my makeup to go bag for when my face needs a little perk up.

This post is linked up to Blog Love Therapy's beauty blog hop.

How to Even Skin Tone | Get the Look for Less

Evening out the skin tone is the foundation of makeup.  If your goal is to achieve a smooth and even complexion or create a canvas for countless makeup looks here is where you start.  These products are all inexpensive to get a flawless finish.  Using these items in conjunction with the right technique you can achieve high end results.

How To: Even Out Skin Tone for Less. by amariebeauty featuring a matte makeup

1.  Moisturize.  This step helps smooth the surface and prime the skin, Garnier BB cream lives up to all the hype and truly is a multi functioning product.

2.  Conceal any dark spots, redness or acne marks.  Lightly blot concealer over dark under eye circles as well.  Using your finger tips for max blendability and control. 

3.  Stipple on foundation.  What is stippling?  Watch my short video and read the notes here.

4.  Using  loose powder lightly dust over to set the makeup.  Too much well settle into the lines and look cakey.

To get more information on taking care of the foundation of your skin and knowing your skin type read the following posts.
How to get a fresh facial glow at home.
Knowing your skin type.

DIY Eye Makeup Remover Pads

Supply List
1/2 T baby wash
1 T grapeseed oil
6 oz water
cotton rounds
container with lid

• Mix the baby wash, grapeseed oil and water together.  It will sud slightly, much like a bottle you can buy in stores. 
• Place cotton rounds in container and slowly pour the mixture on top of the cotton rounds and let it absorb through the stack.
• Make batches of about 20 at a time.  This allows the eye makeup remover to penetrate all the cotton rounds and keeps them fresh. 
• Store the eye makeup remover pads tightly closed.
• For efficient, fast removal follow my use guide here, How to Remove Eye Makeup.

A note about my take on DIY beauty recipes.
I love simple recipes, DIY beauty and minimal chemical ingredients.  However I also love convenience and haven't made a switch to living all organic and eco harmoniously just yet.  I do my part at respecting the earth.  Equally as important is my goal at buying things intentionally.  I read labels, I educate myself on what those big words are and do for a gal and I strive to purchase minimally processed and chemically packed products.

Additionally all eyes are not created equal and all though this is made up of gentle ingredients it may not be for everyone.  I have sensitive eyes and store bought formula's irritate mine and this homemade eye makeup remover works with no problem.  

Removing Eye Makeup | Tip Off Tuesday

It's all in the details.

• With your eyes closed hold a makeup remover pad on top of the lid for about 10 seconds.  This loosens the makeup off your lashes and makes wiping away the liner and mascara easier.
• Use gentle pressure and wipe down and inward toward the inner corner of the eye, repeat until all mascara is removed.  
• Use enough moisture so you are not dragging across the delicate eye area.  

On Monday we are making our own eye makeup remover pads.  Come back and make your own too.

How about cleansing the whole face?  Read my DIY facial here.

Get Badger Balm for Double Duty | Tip Off Tuesday

Badger Balm is a perfect multi use product.  Use it as a lip balm, for cuticle care and to smooth heels, elbows and other rough areas.

image source

Badger Balm is USDA organic and packed with powerful active ingredients.  No artificial fillers necessary.  The bases are made from extra virgin olive oil, beeswax and aloe.

It softens cuticles better than any specialty cuticle formula I have ever used, try it with your next at home manicure.

How to Stipple on your Foundation

Stippling is, was and always will be the most valuable makeup lesson I was taught.  You want coverage?  You'll get it with this quick and easy technique.  First some general notes about applying liquid foundation.

Always apply to moisturized skin.  Skipping this step causes the makeup to settle into fine lines, highlight dry spots and wear off faster.  Moisturizer acts as a primer and preps the skin.  Primer can also be used after moisturizer, not in place of, to get even longer wear.



Video notes.

• Apply a light, even amount of foundation with your sponge.
• Load your sponge with foundation, using about a pea size amount per facial area.
• Pat the makeup on to your face, pressing the sponge into your skin and lifting it on to the next space without rubbing or wiping it on.  Wiping or dragging the sponge removes some of the makeup. 
• Do a second layer where more coverage is needed.
• Finish with powder.

I used Revlon Photo Ready Airbrush in Nude and Cover Girl loose powder in translucent fair in this video. 

naked face

stippled coverage

Get more face makeup tips and product info at Just Lovely Things as part of the Sharing the Beauty series.

Fight Lack Luster Skin on an Airplane | Tip Off Tuesday

The stale air in an airplane depletes the skin of moisture leaving it dehydrated.

Traveling Skin Tip by amariebeauty

To keep your skin looking it's best when flying use a water, not oil based moisturizer.  As the skin dries out it draws whatever is on the surface through the pores in an effort to stay hydrated.  If it's pulling a water based moisturizer it can be absorbed and skin has a fighting chance of staying supple.  If there is a heavy weight oil based moisturizer it is not easily absorbed by the pores and as it pulls what ingredients it can  the heavier oils are left pooling on your face leaving behind a greasy complexion.

Pack light, on your face at least.  The more makeup you have on the bigger the mess it can be.  Apply your water based moisturizer and some light makeup for the best results.  Touch up or add more before you land to complete your look if you have to be ready to roll upon arriving.

Bronzer on a Budget | Hard Candy Makeup

I bought this box of Hard Candy products for $8.  It has a full size Baked Bronzer and smaller tubes of the face primer, body and face illuminator and sparkle lip gloss (not pictured).  Beyond worth it for the bronzer alone.

I use Hard Candy Baked Eyeshadows because they are highly pigmented and come in fabulous colors.  My hopes were high that I would love the Baked Bronzer too but we all know how inexpensive bronzer can get scary and turn a gal ultra orange.  Honestly this applies and looks like high end bronzer.  It's not glittery and has a great glow and color.

The face and body illuminator does have a sparkle to it, not over bearing glitter but a subtle sparkle and bronzed glow.

The gloss was somewhat sticky but not the worst I've used and I loved the look of it, the shine made my lips look full and supple.

The primer did it's job, it kept my shine down throughout the day and I did use less foundation to get the coverage I wanted.

I linked this post up to the Sharing the Beauty series!