Beauty 101: Eyelash Curlers

Ok. I'll admit it. Even though I have big beautiful brown eyes topped off with big bold eyelashes, I have to admit that I never used an eyelash curler until about a month ago. And truth be told... I'm kicking myself for waiting this long to do so. These things are great! I would always walk by them when I would go down the isle on my way to my favorite mascara but never jumped the ledge into the world unknown. I always figured that I was doing well enough simply because my lashes are long and the added boost that I get from my mascara made my eyes go goo-goo-ga-ga to all the boys!

Any professional makeup artist will tell you that one of the key factors to making eyes stand out is to curl your lashes! Ok. So sue me for following the Hollywood trend! Using an eyelash curler can instantly add that extra va-va-va voom and length to your lashes that will make your peepers pop! Many people are afraid to use the clunky, cosmetic contraption, but it really is easy to use. Here are some tips to make the experience a little easier:

Step 1. Use on mascara-free eyes

Step 2. Use a blow-dryer to heat the curler to ensure curling power

Step 3. Open the curler and clamp lashes near the root...apply for 10-30 seconds

Step 4. Apply mascara Tarte Picture Perfect Eyelash Curler available at sephora.com for $15.

Beauty 101: Gifts For Us All

Whether you're a man or a woman, we all can appreciate nice gifts right? Of course. The holidays are fast approaching, and before you know it, you'll be sitting there making a list and checking it twice. I've gathered together a few little items that I found that we all could appreciate. A few "gifts for the beauty addict" in all of us. With these, you can see what we’d give to the beauty enthusiasts in our lives. You’re sure to find something here that’ll suit anyone’s fancy, from your product-loving little brother to your environmentally friendly best bud.

For She Who Loves Sets

It’s nice to have everything you need in one pretty package.
1. Mally Beauty Ultimate Brush Kit, $952.
2. cK Calvin Klein Beauty Splendid Glam Mini Nail Enamel Collection, $253.
3. GHD Glamour Styling Set, $2704.
4. Too Faced World Domination Tour All-Access Backstage Beauty Collection, $425.
5. Anastasia All About Brows Set, $75

For the Label-Obsessed

Hey, for some it’s really all about the name.
1. Chanel Les Trois Levres Scintillantes Mini Glossimer Trio, $502.
2. Yves Saint Laurent The Bow Collection Multi-Usage Palette, $903.
3. Marc Jacobs Daisy Shimmer Rollerball, $254.
4. Juicy Couture Hard Train Case, $3485.
5. Bottega Veneta Matte/Shine Cosmetic Case, $540

For the Scent-Savvy

A heavenly scent should linger all day long.
1. Kenzo Amour Deodorant Stick, $182.
2. Celine Dion Sensational Fragrance, $263.
3. Bulgari Pour Femme Bath and Shower Gel, $504.
4. Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Bomblicious Hair Mist, $405.
5. Chloé Body Lotion, $506.
6. Vera Wang The Fragrance, $70

For the Eco-Conscious

She’s just trying to save the world—one beauty product at a time.
1. Caudalie Vinotherapie Spa in a Box, $382.
2. Plant Love by Cargo Green Goddess Collection, $363.
3. Korres Natural Products Body Butter Tri, $24.504.
4. Hamadi Ginger SoyMilk Hair Wash, $275.
5. Nvey Eco Organic Crème Deluxe Foundation, $58

For the Metrosexual

Give him the gift of great grooming.
1. Caswell-Massey Men’s Fragrance Collection, 250th Anniversary Special-Edition Set, $202.
2. The Art of Shaving The 4 Elements of the Perfect Shave in Sandalwood, $1003.
3. Peter Thomas Roth The Basics Kit, $424.
4. John Masters Organics Zinc and Sage Shampoo With Conditioner, $205.
5. Anthony Logistics for Men Body Kit, $30

Beauty 101: Tweezing

Tweezing anything never sounds like a pleasant idea; but in the case of eyebrows, it is a definite 'must do' in beauty and maintenance realm for any woman... that goes for men too (but don't go overboard fellas). Even though the act of tweezing our eyebrows is often a daunting task, it is imperative that this process isn't rushed. You don't want to come out looking like who done it? what for? and why? do you? Of course you don't.

It's important that we follow the tips I have listed below to get the most out of every tweezing experience.

1) Tweeze after a warm shower or bath. The steam softens the hair follicles, making hair easier to remove.

2) Natural light is the best for seeing fine hairs

3) Starting at the inner part of the eyebrow and working out toward the temple, tweeze any strays in the direction of hair growth.

4) Once you're done, apply a bit of witch hazel or aloe vera gel to soothe the area.

HAPPY TWEEZING! ☺

Beauty 101: Spring Time Care For Your Beautiful Head of Hair!

We all know that spring is fast approaching, and the warmer it gets, the more some of us will sweat out our newly pressed, permed, or curled hair. Check out the following tips on how to spice up your hair for the spring without the long term damage!

1) Natural Highlights

To bring out your hair's natural highlights, apply a 1/2 cup of honey to your (dry or wet) unwashed hair. Cover with a hot wet towel and let sit for 30 minutes. Rinse and shampoo and condition. With 3-4 weeks, you will start to see natural light brown highlights in your hair.

2) Waves

Waves are a great way to soften your hairstyle for the spring. Instead of wrapping your hair nightly, make four vertical sections and braid the hair, securing the ends with a satin roller. Try to make the sections as uniform as possible.Saturate braids with a water bottle filled with ½ setting lotion and ½ water or liquid leave-in. Cover with a satin cap and let dry overnight.In the morning, unravel and finger comb or pin back for a wavy bun or updo. Add a few drops of oil to your palms and smooth through the hair to define waves and add shine. The waves will last all day. Re-braid at night.

3) Faux Side Bang

Create the chic look of a side bang without the scissors! Comb the hair forward and make a side part above the left eye. Take a 2 inch horizontal section of hair on the right side of the part and comb forward. It should now be hanging in front of your right eye. Sweep this section of hair to the right and tuck behind your right ear. Secure with bobby pins. Finish with a stylish headband.

Beauty 101: Cellophane Hair Treatment

I know at least 60% of the ladies have tried to dye their hair some funky color at some point and time. Half of those ladies probably got it all wrong when they did it too. I have to raise my hand on that one myself. But if you're looking for a way to dye your hair and keep it shiny instead of looking dull and dry, try a cellophane hair treatment!

Cellophanes have been around for years! Thats the only way my mom would let me dye mine because it washed out gradually. A cellophane hair treatment is a semi-permanent hair "color" service without the actual color. Instead, it uses clear glossing agents to fill in weak or damaged areas of the hair shaft and seal the cuticle, creating stronger, shinier hair. It is commonly referred to as a "cellophane" treatment because it acts like cellophane (or saran wrap) for the hair. You can ask for a cellophane treatment at your next salon appointment or apply the treatment at home.

Steps for Home Use:

1. Shampoo with a clarifying shampoo.

2. Apply to damp hair evenly.

3. Sit under a dryer for 20-30 minutes.

4. Rinse thoroughly.

5. Shampoo (optional) and/or apply a deep moisturizing conditioner to soften. Let sit for 5 minutes.

6. Rinse and style.Voila! Your hair will be stronger and shinier! The rinse will last for 8-12 shampoos and will fade gradually with each wash. My favorite line of cellophanes are Sebastian Laminates Cellophanes in Clear.

Beauty 101: Homemade Hair Care Treatments

I saw this over at www.healthytextures.com. Ya'll know that I'm all about helping out my fellow sistaz out there who are trying to maintain their "do" even through this "economic crisis" that we're experiencing. I know that some of you are trying to save here and there on anything you can. And we all know that hair care products can eat away at your lil budget. Check out this homemade remedy for deep conditioning that I found.

This recipe for deep conditioning treatment is designed to add strength and moisture to the hair.

In a small bowl, mix:

1 cup of real mayonnaise

1/2 firm yet ripe avocado

2 tablespoons of sweet almond oil or coconut oil

Mix with a wooden spoon or your finger until the treatment is a thick green color. Apply to the length of the hair and ends. Cover with a plastic cap or saran wrap and let sit for 20-30 minutes. Rinse and shampoo.

Follow with a light conditioner or leave-in. Your hair should feel soft yet strong. The mayonnaise adds strength and body to the hair while the avocado and oil add moisture and shine. Just make sure to use real mayonnaise, nothing with a ton of artificial ingredients. For best results, opt for an organic brand. I hope this helps!

Beauty 101: You and Your Mascara

The only makeup that I wear is gloss and mascara. Nothing else because... hey... can't add too much more to natural beauty! But in all seriousness, playing up the eyes is always important if you're looking for eye-catching attention. Below I've listed some some must know mascara secrets from lash guru Soul Lee.

What’s more important: the brush or the paint?

The wand inside the tube makes a big difference in mascara application. Small brushes are best for coating shorter lashes, while big brushes are best for adding fullness to lashes.

Any techniques to make my lashes look full?

1) It's a great idea to use two different types of mascara--one for definition (usually a gel formula with a standard brush) and one for fullness (a formula made with water-soluble fibers in it).

2) Curl lashes first (use a mini lash curler for maximum curl).

3) First, start by applying the gel formula in a zigzag motion. This will work to coat the lashes entirely. Then, to add length and volume, use the built-in fiber mascara. You can also try lash primer before you apply mascara. This adds extra volume and helps thicken the lashes.

How many coats of mascara should I apply?

If you are lucky enough to have nice and thick lashes, you can probably wear one coat and still look amazing. However, almost everyone should try two coats. Make sure to wait couple of seconds for the first coat to dry to a clean finish.

How often should you buy new a new tube of mascara?

You should replace your mascara about every 5 to 6 months.Every time you pump the mascara wand, air gets into the tube. This creates a possible breeding ground for germs and eye mites. If your mascara is clumpy or smells funny, throw it out!

How do I get my mascara not to clump on my lashes?

Wipe the tip of the mascara wand on a tissue before application. Also use a “lash comb” after mascara application to comb out extra blobs.

What is the difference between a mascara brush and comb?

A full, oval-shaped brush is for adding volume and thickenss to lashes, while a comb is better for definition. A comb is great for applying formula to short lashes, but not for lengthening.

If I have light colored eyes, what color mascara would look best on me?

The basic idea is to use black mascara if you have dark brown to black lashes, and dark brown mascara if you have blond to dark brown lashes. But there is no real rule. While dark brown mascara is a staple for anyone, you can still apply black mascara to blond lashes and look fabulous! Perhaps you could wear dark brown mascara during the day and black mascara at night. Also try “minking,” a technique that uses two different color mascaras (usually black and brown) to add definition. First apply brown mascara to the top and bottom lashes. Then go back with a tube of black mascara and do just the tips of your top lashes. This technique works well on blond to light brown lashes if you think black mascara is too harsh-looking. Layering brown will soften the look and make your lashes looks full.

When are colored mascaras appropriate to use? Which colors generally show up the best? Colored mascara is a great alternative to black and brown mascaras, because it will subtly enhanche lashes while making the color of you eyes more defined. Summer is great time to use colored mascara--especially when you are not wearing a lot of eye make up. If you have green or hazel eyes, purple mascara will bring out the green. If you have blues eyes, blue mascara will make your eyes even brighter. If you think colored mascara is too much by itself, try the “minking” technique mentioned above. This time, try a color!

If I have sensitive eyes, which mascara is the best to use?

Stick with a gel-based mascara and stay away from mascaras that have fibers built in. Also, look for water-resistant instead of waterproof formulas.

Does waterproof mascara really work?

Yes! Waterproof mascara is great for long-lasting special occasions like weddings (when you know you are going to cry). Also for someone who often touches their eyes, and is worried about smudging, waterproof mascara is a great solution. I think that Shu Uemura Precision Volume Mascara is the best one on the market. I use it everyday. It stays without smudging or drying out my lashes.

Beauty 101: Emergency Makeup Kit

I remember when I was going to take my senior pictures for high school, my aunt asked me to wipe something off of my face. I turned to her and asked for a mirror, and she gave me the most gastly look ever. "You don't have a mirror in your purse?" she shrieked. Totally clueless as to why this woman was spazzing out about a little ol mirror, I whimpered, "no." At that moment, my aunt schooled me on the "must haves" that a lady should always carry with her in her purse; a mirror, a pack of tissues, and some change to make a phone call (yes, this was before cell phones were big).

But what about makeup essentials? Whether you're on a train, in a car, going near, going far—once you’ve left the comfort of your very own makeup stash, nothing’s worse than realizing you’ve left [insert essential beauty product here] at home! Make sure to carry these handy emergency products wherever you go, and face beauty 911 situations no more!

Emergency: Surprise! A monster pimple welcomes itself to your precious face.
Solution: Laura Geller Caulk Pencil & Sharpener

Say, “Bye Bye” to unwanted afternoon blemishes with Laura Geller’s Caulk Pencil. This light-diffusing concealer pencil, infused with skin-adoring Vitamin E, sports a latex-free sponge that makes blending a snap. Available in light, medium, and dark…this tiny tool goes a long way. Sephora.com. $23.50

Emergency: Cold weather leaves your lips cracked and dry.
Solution: Chapstick Lip Moisturizer

It’s lean, it’s mean, it’s Chapstick! An American favorite since the 1870’s, Chapstick Moisturizer softens and protects lips with 11 moisturizers (including Aloe and Vitamin E) and SPF 15! What would your pout be without it? Ps. Hands feeling dry? Swipe Chapstick Moisturizer over any chapped areas (hands, elbows, etc), and show your skin some love. Drugstore.com. $1.99

Emergency: Oops! You forgot to apply deodorant this morning.
Solution: Missoni Eau de Parfum Refillable Purse Spray

Scent and style meet as one with Missoni’s Eau de Parfum Refillable Purse Spray. .51 oz of this signature scent (adorable!!) plus one Eau de Parfum Purse Spray Refill are all you need to cover up any unwanted midday odors. Phew! Shop.nordstrom.com. $70.

Emergency: Yesterday’s manicure begins to chip.
Solution: Sally Hansen’s Color Quick Fast Dry Nail Color Pen

Sally Hansen’s Color Quick Fast Dry Nail Color Pen is a heaven-sent solution to manicure touch-ups. This new product, no larger than a Sharpie marker, contains Sally Hansen’s quick-drying nail polish formula in a handy no-spill applicator. Simply shake the pen, click to dispense the flow of color, and apply as many coats as needed. Choose one Color Quick's of 20 available colors and get ready to click, color, and go! Sallyhansen.com. $8.

Emergency: Onion bagel=delicious. Post-onion breath=not so much.
Solution: GoSMILE Elixir Good-For-You Breath Freshener

Say hello to my little on-the-go, tooth-whitening, breath-freshening friend! GoSMILE Elixir Good-For-You Breath Freshener works to rid (not just cover up) bad breath and bacteria (gross!) by creating an optimal pH balance inside the mouth. Simply mist twice into the mouth three times a day, and get ready to say, “aaaah!” Sephora.com. $29.

Emergency: Lipcolor is fading…fast.
Solution: Stila Lip Rouge Pen

Pucker up with Stila’s Lip Rouge Pen, “the makeup incarnation of a felt-tipped magic marker.” Can you say, indelible? Just turn the pen upside down to get the everlasting color flowing, then brush on for a rouge, matte finish (from Soft Fuschia to Warm Peachy Brown). Muah!Sephora.com. $20.

Beauty 101: Individual vs Band of Lashes

Fortunately, this post doesn't apply to me because I have long lovely flowing eyelashing *blushing*. But for those of you out there that have had to succumb to falsies, this post is for you.

I won't lie and say that I've never worn false lashes because I have, but I just can't stand the process of putting those dag on things on. For the ladies out there who are contemplating which type of lashes to get, i.e., Individuals vs. a band of false lashes – I'm here to save the day. I'm going to run down which looks best and why?

Both types of lashes are great, but they each have their own identity for different occasions.

Both individual and strip lashes are the ultimate way to lengthen and add thickness to your lashes.Individual lashes are a great way to add volume. These lashes can be applied in between natural lashes to create volume and fullness without looking too fake.

Individual lashes come in short, medium, and long sizes (so you can customize the length!). They usually come with 4 to 5 lashes in one cluster. Add a couple of individual lashes on the outer corner to create natural fullness, or apply short and long individuals to the entire lash line for a more dramatic look. Individuals are an ideal way to wear false lashes since you don’t have to commit to covering the entire lash line.

You can also customize strip lashes to create either a natural or dramatic look. Since the lashes come in one band (instead of individually) strip lashes are easy to apply at home. Strip lashes come in many different styles, so choose one that suits you the best. Depending on the varying lengths and sizes, you can change focus to your inner, outer, or middle lashes. Visit a Shu Uemura counter to see the different types of lashes. They come in clear plastic cubes that you can measure against your own eyes.

If you want to try a look like the celebs, try this makeup artist trick.

Cut a strip of lashes in half and just apply to the outer corner for natural and flirty look.

I'm not going to tell you to go out and buy the most expensive lashes out there just so they'll last long or give you a more dramatic look. You can go to your local beauty supply store and buy a $2.99 pair of lashes and it will look just as great... provided that you actually take your time to put the lashes on.

But for you ladies who have pricier tastes and only want the best... you might be asking yourself is it worth splurging to buy expensive false lashes?

Fox hair false lashes which can run you around $1,000 are the most luxurious false lashes that you can try. These will make you feel like a movie star for a day! Fox hair lashes are so light and airy, it won't feel like you're wearing false lashes at all. Plus, they're so good, you won't even even need mascara.

Lashes that cost around $15–25 are also great (and do the job well). These more affordable lashes are made from synthetics and silk and can be used up to 4 times. Also, if you make a mistake while cutting, they are easy to replace.

What are false lashes generally made of?
False lashes are generally made from mixed synthetics and silk (these materials create a light natural feel).

How can I make my false lashes look more realistic?
Make sure to measure lashes against your own before you apply. Look for ones that are approximately 1/3 longer than your natural lashes. If they are too long, you can cut them. Also, look for lashes that are made with mixed different sized lashes, like your own!Is there a specific type of adhesive one should use? Try one that is white in color but that dries clear. Duo and Shu Uemura make the best glue in the market. It is water proof so in case you cry or sweat, they will stay put. If you have sensitive eyes, stay away from long lasting glue that comes in a watery glue type. These could have fumes that might irritate sensitive eyes.

Do I apply the glue to the false lashes or my eyelid?
Always apply glue to both the band of false lashes and to the border line of your lid. This will create natural binding. Never apply glue to the middle of the eyelid. This will make it very hard to get rid of blobs of glue in between lashes.

How long do false eyelashes last?
Individual lashes can stay for up to 2 days, while strip lashes can only stay for one day and have to be taken off at the end of the night. When wearing individual lashes, make sure to take make up off with Q-tips and oil-free make up remover, without irritating the lashes. This method will make the false lashes stay longer without messing them up.

What is the best way to remove false eyelashes without causing damage to natural lashes?
Use Q-tips with water-proof makeup remover (since the glue is waterproof) to loosen the glue, and then pull them off gently. Or you can shower with the lashes on and use steam to loosen the glue.

Will false lashes stay on in the shower?
As long as you do not get lashes wet, they should stay on.If you like the effect of false lashes but are worried about water damage, try Lash Extensions that stay on for up to 3 weeks (even if they get wet).

Once applying false lashes, is it okay to curl them or apply mascara?
Becuase false lashes are black, full, and voluminous, you will most likely not have to put on extra mascara. However, it's a good idea to curl lashes after you apply them. This will help them bind with your natural lashes, helping them to stay on longer.

Is it safe to sleep with false lashes on?
Yes, you can sleep with false lashes for a night or two. However, if you wear lots of eyemake or mascara during the day, be sure the clean the lashes before you go to sleep (this way you won't get buildup).

Beauty 101: The Perfect Eyebrow

I've noticed that when I get ready to go out, I can do my mascara, and my lips or what have you, but unless my eyebrows are on point... all of that is useless. The key to a truly flawless face isn't smooth skin, or sexy smoky eyes; it's a fabulous set of eyebrows. There are three avenues you can take to achieving perfectly groomed eyebrows; you can pluck, wax, or thread to get the correct brow shape for your face.

Few things to know:

1) Though the waxing procedure pulls patches of hair directly from the roots, minimal pain is involved, and results usually last between three to four weeks.

2) The threading process originated in the Far East and involves an intricately trained practitioner twisting a few hairs at a time from the root, using a 100% cotton thread.

3) Threading is highly recommended for women with sensitive skin, because the top layer of the skin is not peeled, as it is with waxing.

4) Eyebrows should be touched up by a professional every 2 to 3 weeks, as that is when stray hairs began to reappear. If you can’t visit a brow expert, simply pluck errant hairs yourself, by following the original shape of your arched brow.

5) Keep up your new fabulous look by investing in a great pair of tweezers, an angled brush, and a brow kit. Simply dampen the brush, dip it into the powder, and lightly follow the shape of your brow with the brush.

Big Watery Eyed Girl

Have you longed to have the eyes of the characters on the cartoon show Yu-Gi-Oh, or any other anime cartoon? Well your wait is over. A company called Dueba has made it easy for you to get that look. They've created contacts for that big full eyed look. The lenses are tinted prominently in the extra-wide outer ring. The result is the appearance of a bigger, wider iris. The sales copy, "Wanna get big, watery shiny eyes without any surgery? CRAVE AND ENVY NO MORE!" First off, these Asian girls know how to wear this look. It actually looks decent on them. But if I see ONE... just ONE damn black girl with these eyes, I'm straight clownin!

Beauty 101: FatGirlSlim

This innovative, dimple dissolving cream takes charge and erases what you don’t want. Thighs beware… Not only does it firm and tone, but it also energizes and trims. Made with caffeine and QuSomes, an ingredient that helps with the penetration factor, “FatGirlSlim” works out lumps on everything from thighs to triceps. Grab that little black dress and hit the town because in no time, you will have results that’ll boost your self-confidence and have you looking and feeling slim. Available at Blissworld.com for $29.

• 87% saw a firming effect
• 85% felt a slimming effect
• 73% noticed a reduction in the appearance of cellulite

Beauty 101: Instant Eyeshadows

Ok... now I've seen it all. For those of us who are totally clueless to the make-up world, the folks at ColorOn have made it easy by bringing us instant eyeshadow.

If you haven’t yet heard of them, it is pre-made eye shadow combinations that come on oval shaped cotton strips that you align and then rub onto your eye area. ColorOn is supposed to give you an instant professional look.

The eye shadow is wet on the cotton strip, so be careful when handling it. You then place the wet part against your skin and smooth your finger over the side facing out to adhere the color to your skin. I found that I could get 2-3 uses out of one cotton strip if I placed it back under the plastic protective strip. This is definitely good for those women who are trying to condense the products that they carry in their purses. I say try it!