Hi All....

Please dont mind any delays in the blog updates for sometime as I have been a bit busy with my fashion shows and the computer person hasnt come to fix the problem.....Surely promising to write a lot more stuff soon
ciao

Powdered........

I've always been a fan of powders of all types {since they give my oily complexion a matte finish} whether a loose powder,tanslucent powder or a compact.

Compact being the best ones for their easy portability and ergonomicity (if the latter word is correct).Whether they are high end brands like Lancome,Dior,Shiseido and Givenchy or drugstore brands like Lakme,Maybelline,Revlon and Max Factor and of course my own Oriflame versions,I love all my babies.

The problem with all the compacts I have (I hate MAC for their compacts) is that they make me feel very dry especially on the nose and the cheek areas.So dry that I feel lie splashing water and moisturising again.So I prefer loose powders but then they are very messy and difficult to carry.{And boys can use compacts to have a flawless and matte complexion.Its not only a girl's toy.}

On my short trip to find good products {I'm the Beauty Traveller} I found this

new launched Bourjois Pudre Compact Powder and since was running out of my products I bought this one.Had tested several ones on my hand but not this one and somehow I wasn't in the mood of buying anything else.

So got Bourjois without evern bothering to open up the tester.Since it was a steal for Rs.500 I didnt mind much paying that mcuh.The packaging was a little attractive {as I'm not comfy with black packaging} but the pink really went well on the black background.

I had a function to attend so thought of using this one as the girl on the counter promised me that it'll give a matte finish and last long.I never believe her but that day I did.

Got a fluffy powder brush out from my pandora box and swiped it over the compact.{I never use the one they provide}..In one swipe a lot of product came on the brush as it was so soft,so dusted the excess and then applied it on the forehead and it glided very smoothly giving me beautiful matte finish.Covered the entire face and without even blending and removing the excess,I hastily ran out coz I was getting late.(I usually turn up late at parties and thats why my friend invite me an hour earlier.)

At the occasion I thought I was looking like a complete and glorified moron as people were giving me peciliar glances.Met my friend,hugged her and she looked at me and she asked,"What is it thats looking different?"I asked 'what'?She said "Your always oily and greasy skin is looking perfect and flawless", and she pulled my cheeks {on the face} and shouted "So soft.What did you do?"I had totally forgotten about the powder I had applied.While going home I remembered.....Gave her a call at 12:30 pm at night and told about the powder and next day at 10 a.m in the morning she went and bought 10 compacts for her mom and sisters and brothers and even her dad and called me telling that they were fabulous.........

That was Bourjois Poudre Compact..........Gosh its so soft and it literally melts into your skin making it look satiny soft.It has moisturising properties.It conceals imperfections and smoothes skin without drying. Its supple and smooth texture, along with its light scent, make wearing the Compact Powder comfortable and delightful. The stylish floral outside packaging includes a large convenient mirror and powder puff for application on the go which is not that great....

Use it over moisturiser,foundation,primer or anything....it just glides smoothly and applies evenly.....

Its steal for junkies....

ciao

Hygiene and all....

Hygiene and Universal Precautions are a must everywhere.And makeup cosmetics are not exempted from that.The oils and the media used are a very good culture medium for bacteria.These bacteria may be mainly non pathogenic but if immunity is compromised somewhere they can cause lethal infections.
Another abode for micro organisms is unwashed makeup brushes.Contact infections can occur if two people share the same set of brushes and creamy formulations like mascaras or eyeliners.
Due to the wet and creamy formula, bacteria attack mascara wands and sit in the gaps between the nylon brushes.
Creamy foundations,concealers in pots and creamy eyeshadow pots can harbor the deadliest of bacteria like Staphylococcus and varieties of Streptococci.These bacteria turn the organic oils used in the makeup products rancid and thus impart a foul smell.
Its not only the bacteria that invade but also some species of fungi.

Precautions: -

1. Before starting a makeup session wash hands thoroughly {like a surgeon}.
2. Sterilise sponges,pads,towels and other makeup material except brushes in an autoclave if possible and keep them as disinfected as possible.
3. Clean the makeup table with an antiseptic lotion.Now a days sanitizers having isopropyl alcohol are in vogue.They not only disinfect or sterilise the place but also evaporate easily and make the work less messy.They also have a fresh fragrance.
4. It is always impressive to sanitise your hands before the client.
5. Spread a towel over the washed table.Keep some table cloth or a nice paper over it and then arrange the products in such a way that they are easily accesible to you.
6. If possible use disposable products like Q tips and cotton balls.
7. Wash mascara wands and if the clients are bigger party then preferably use fresh disposable wands.Better way is not to throw the old mascara wands but to use them everytime after using all sanitary precautions.
8. In between sessions when it is not possible to wash all the makeup brushes use an alcohol based brush cleaner.As alcohol may dry the brushes you can wash them thoroughly with mild soap and water after your last session is over.Another trick to have soft and smooth bristles is to apply some hair conditioner and wash the brushes.
9. Never or seldom share an eye makeup.
10. You should be vigilant in finding out whether certain client of yours is having any infection especially contact borne infection right from stye to common cold to tuberculosis.
11. Do not discuss hygienic things in front of clients with your assistants.It bad to make any bodily sounds or sneezing in front of your clients.
12. Keep lots of tissues and wipes handy.They share a sacred space in your vanity case.Wipe your vanity case with the wet wipes to clear of dirt and dust.It is said that a million bacteria can sit on a single dust particle.

There are lots but shall discuss part by part......

ciao

Tom Pecheux....the magician

Is he a model?
No no he seems to be a designer?
O My God he makes me go weak in my knees!
He has to be an actor?
This is what French ladies say...........

Well,this gorgeous looking frenchman is a MAKEUP ARTIST.Mr.Tom Pecheux,one of the most sought after makeup artists, is a beauty designer and a key makeup artist for most renown and world famous brands.This avante garde makeup artist is also behind Shiseido the makeup and is famous for creating supernatural and flawless looks.


His famous works can been seen with stalwart photographers like Mario Testino and great designers-of-the-time like Ralph Lauren,Salvatore Ferragamo,Marni,Missoni etc and new designers making their names in the industry like Derek Lam and Doo.ri.

He often leads a MAC team of makeup artists and also uses Shiseido products backstage.
What I love about Tom Pecheux is that he has learnt makeup anywhere.He was a pastry maker......way different from the job he is presently doing.Though he brings the colours of the pastries over people's faces....

Here is a small interview with Tom Pecheux from Sleek Mag: -

TOM PECHEUX, lives and works in Paris. The year 1992 marked the beginning of a beautiful friendship with Mario Testino and Carine Roitfeld who encouraged him to pursue a career as a make-up artist. His work on numerous fashion shows for Prada, Alberta Ferretti, Marni, Karl Lagerfeld and many more brought him the title of »runway make-up guru«. He’s also worked as colour creator for cosmetic companies like Shiseido, as well as being the favourite make-up artist of celebrities such as Madonna, Kate Moss, Nicole Kidman and Jennifer Aniston.

SLEEK: The term is ›Make-up Artist‹. Have you ever wished you could nail one of your masterpieces to the wall? What remains of your work after the job is done?
TOM PECHEUX: I think the biggest advantage the make-up artist has over the artists is that you get to work in a team. The most important person in that team is, of course, the model. You build up quite an intimate relationship with models, sometimes a friendship, over your time working together. This is all more or less a psychological process and that’s why, even when the make up is removed at the end of the day, there’s a lot that remains - memories in particular.
SLEEK: Is your ›after‹ always better than ›before‹?
TP: Fortunately, no one has ever said to me »Oh no, take it off – I looked better before!« The best compliment is when
when someone says »now I look good« and not »the make-up looks good«. What’s important is how you capture a person’s personality and reflect this in the make-up. The nude look, which I prefer, particularly highlights a personality and doesn’t alter it.
SLEEK: From the past, present and future, who are the top 5 faces on your best made-up wish list? And the top 5 faces in most need of your artistic talents?
TP: Two of my favourite faces that I’ve worked on belong to Madonna and Kate Moss. Madonna is unique. She has been in the business for decades and has managed to constantly change her […]

I'm a great fan of his and I'm sure after reading the article you would be a fan too...

Do the Starry Way Part 5 Keira Knightley

Some sweet person has mentioned in the comments about getting inspired by Keira Knightley in the movie Pride and Prejudice.I'm honoured as some one did really read my stuff and bothered to write to me.

An advice for my readers.Kindly tell your name.The word "anonymous" creates a certain wall amongst us.

Anyways this was the best pic I could get from the movie.If you observe Keira playing the character of Elizabeth Bennet is sporting strong features without looking over done.A luminous and transperent complexion is the key feature of the look and so is the strong brow,bare cheeks with some contour and some natural lip stain.

The strong brow was a rage last summer and fall 2006 but still I love the look because it looks natural.

The best way is to throw away the tweezers {not literally} and sport a bushy natural brow.Not going into the brow basics but if you have a light brow you can colour it with a brow pencil and then comb and use a wax stick from MAC cosmetics to give it an well groomed effect.

Lets get inspired: -

Step1: -

Good cleansing-toning and moisturising is the key to have a perfect base.Lancome has some of the best buys in the market.

Apply Lancome's Photogenic Skin Illuminating makeup foundation with a foundation brush.Use your fingers to push and glide the product for a flawless finish.This foundation has a complex that optimizes the effects of light while balancing skin tone-plus a complexion-brightening blue pigment base, SPF 15 protection and skin-energizing ingredients-to give you skin that looks naturally radiant in any light.

Add extra luminosity on highlight areas like forehead,T zone,cheekbones,under eyes and chin apply and blend liberally Dior SkinFlash pen.Dab under eyes to conceal dark circles and donot rub.

Step2: -

With a large powder brush apply some translucent powder to set the makeup.To add more luminosity if required dab on Dior Skinflash again.The translucent powder gives an illusion of glow from within.Lancome's Color IDPrecise Match Weightless Portable Powder with a built-in brush is an excellent choice.Other option is Lancome Photofinish Sheer Loose Powder that gives an excellent translucent and photograph perfect coverage.

Step3:-

Contour and higlight the cheeks with some flesh or taupe coloured blush.Perfect to achieve a sweet glow is by layering a powder blush or some cream or mousse one.Blend Lancome's Magique Blush-Soft-radiant Mousse blush in Cinnamon Glaze and smoothen with two fingers on the cheekbones and hollows of the cheeks. Dust some Bourjois' Blush in Lune D'Or on the apples of cheeks to attain a fairy like complexion.

Step4: -

A little shine is what is needed on the eyes.Apply Dior Skinflash pen on the eyes and blend with fingers.The iridescent particles in this multipurpose pen gives a hither thither shine on the eyes.Line the eyes with a soft brown pencil if required and swipe on a subtle brown mascara to attain an understated look.

Tame the brows with a brow brush and then fill in some colour.Use feathery light strokes instead of drawing thick lines.Select a brow colour that is two to three shades darker than your hair colour.

Recommended products are: -

-Lancome Mod De Sourcils Brow Groomer and Brow Design Kit

-Bourjois Precision Brow Pencil

-Lancome Color Design Sensational Effect Eyeshadow in Faux Pas to accentuate the crease.

-Oriflame's Freaky Lash Mascara in Lara Croft

Step5: -

Stain the lips with a sheer orangey peach stain from Bourjois Lip stain pen in Peche Passion.For a sheer shiny glaze top it with Bourjois Eau De Gloss in Orange Leger for some soft orangey peach lips.

Very vintage....Very Dramatic....Very Victorian

PS: -The Victorian makeup is very pale.Tried to give a luminous complexion instead.During the Victorian times a pale powdered look was considered to be signs of richness and any colour on the lips was a sign of vulagrity

Do the Starry Way Part 4 Sizzling Aishwaya Rai Part 2

You just cannot get your eye off Ash....Her elegance,her charisma...its intoxicating.........But beautiful roses have thorns as well..........This photo is from het shoots for Longines ad campaign and her visit to the French Open.Doesn't she epitomise stardom in its true sense.....

Her makeup is very lovely,very starry and very flamboyant but very very good for the day.

Lets get inspired.....

Step1: -

Cleanse-tone-and apply an oil free mattifying moisturiser with some sunscreen depending on the part of the world where you are.Today lets mix-n-match products from Dior and Bourjois,both being my favorite brands for the sultry collections they have.

Always start with a primer as the primer protects your fave and acts a a sofa for the rest of your makeup.Use primers for face,eyes and lips.A makeup base also works but primers do an extra function of minimising wrinkles,

lines and pores.Apply the primer on a moisturised face with brush or with fingers and let is settle for 5 minutes or so.

Step2: -

Start with a light weight foundation that adds luminescence to yoour makeup.Such foundations not only add a glow but because of their light diffusing properties they blur away the imperfections.Apply DiorSkin Pure Light foundation with a foundation brush and blend it with fingers.The warmth of the fingers makes the product blend with your skin to give an ultra natural longlasting finish.A heavier hand is not recommended.Now to cover dark circles and othe blemishes and add an instant perk to the skin apply an illumising concealer having the same properties of the foundation.The concelaer shouldn't have shimmer as this shimmer may settle in your lines and actually accentuate them.Dot on Dior SkinFlash Radiance Booster pen under the eyes,on the brow and on the cheek bones to achieve a luminiscent glow.Now set all these bases with a sheer invisible loose powder again the one that imparts a softer glow like DiorShow Powder in Girly Pink or Spotlight Peach as per your skin tone (pink or yellow or neutral).

Step3: -

They eyes should have a shimmery bone or taupe colour eyeshadow that looks as nude as skin yet imparts an eye opening shimmer.With a large eyeshadow brush dust on some cemented beige colour from Dior 2-colour eyeshadow in DiorLagoon.Now highlight the crease with Bourjois's Wet/Dry eyeshadow in Kaki Etonnant for a brownish khaki shimmery effect.Highlight the brow bone with SkinFlash from Dior.

Now line the eyes dark with Bourjois Khol and Comtour eyeliner pencil in Noir Expert and blend to add a bolder definition yet a muted effect.Do not line the rims of the eyes,just the upper lid and smudge with a smudegr brush, a little outwards from the outer corners...to create a small wingin effect.Use an eyelash primer to get celebrity perfect lashes.Now after letting the primer set for 30 seconds apply two coats of Dior Blackout Mascara for luscious and long and curly lashes.Now you know how celebrities bat their lashes,don't you?

Step4: -

Smile wider and then with a blush brush that covers your cheek apples entirely {not bigger,not smaller} apply some fresh raspberry or rosy pink cheek colour on the apples of the cheeks blending it towards the temples for a girl-next -door innocence.Bourjois' Blush in Rose Frisson gives a candy pink shimmer on the cheeks.Very fresh.A little taupe or terracotta under the cheekbones starting form the outer halfway towards the temples will add on a subtle contour which looks kinda sculpted.

Step5: -

Colour your pouter with a dash of Raspberry pink stain.A stain effect can be achieved by dottting some lipstick and rubbing it across the lip for the pigments to go directly into the lips.Or use a a lipstain instead.Blend Dior Rouge Replenishing Lipcolour Lipstick in Pink Legend mixing it with a little Red Premiere.Rub it thoroughly so that hardly a stain in created.Another way to stain your lips for a natural looks is applying beet root juice and blending the colour.But this can give a bad smell.....so try it if you dont have a choice.

For a sheer watery shine add on some Eau de Gloss from Bourjois in Framboise Glacee,a sheer berry colour.

This look makes you look glamourous in a tasteful and French way......

Do the Starry Way Part 3 Sizzling Aishwaya Rai

Aishwarya Rai, one of the super icons of Bollywood, one of the prominent faces of L'Oreal Paris Cosmetics and a belle with an absolutely understated elegance, also known for her scandals {that she never made}....whatever....yet she is one of the sweetest people and I'm one of her greatest fans.


I love Aishwarya's understated elegance and chic feminine personal style.She does do faux pas when her stylist invites disasters but she is after all an Indian girl with loads of Universal appeal.
Aishwarya Rai can sport any outfit with the same panache.What makes her unique is her absolutely flawless makeup,her green eyes and her matt complexion.So I decided to copy her look and share it with my readers.

Step1: -

Cleanse and tone and use a light moisturiser preferably an oil free one.Now apply Shiseido's Premakeup Cream Primer and by the time the primer settles and blends up with the skin, make preparations for the makeup.Now with your fingers smoothen some Shiseido's Makeup Brightening Veil with spf17 all over the face and blend to give a smooth diva-ish finish.Dab and pat some Shiseido's makeup concealer and set the base with some Shiseido's Enrich loose powder to give a transperent and luminous finish.

Step2: -

Highlight the chins,apples of the cheeks and the T zone with Shiseido's Sheer Enhancer base to add a hither thither shine and brighten up those areas.On the cheeks apply a soft shimmery taupe blush blending towards the temples.I'd love Shiseido's Accentuating Powder blush in Glistening Brown.You can try contouring the face if it is round with a darker matte terracotta powder. To enhance the already shimmery blush you can add more shine to your cheeks by dusting loosely some Shiseido's luminising colour powder preferably the Translucent one.Doing this makes an illusion that your skin is glowing from within and its my favorite trick.

Step3: -

The eyes have a soft glint of shimmer but a perfectly matte and done.
Choose a cream to powder eyeshadow like Shiseido's Hydro powder eyeshadow in Glistening Sand.Use your fingers to blend in,starting from the lash line towards the brow bone.Form a natural looking crease by blending a darker eyeshadow in the crease and outer corners of the eyes.Shiseido's Accentuating Color for Eyes in Nutmeg would be the best option.Apply the shimmery peachy beige colour from Shiseido's Silky Eyeshadow duo in Glistening Patina over the browbone as a highlight.If you observe closely there are some lilac highlights in the inner corners of the eyes which can be done by using a small or an angular eyeshadow brush and dusting lightly Shiseido's Accentuating Color for Eyes in Violet Splendour.
Line the upper lash line with a black pencil liner and blend it with a blender brush.Shisedo's Makeup eyeliner pencil in Black is damn good.Curl the lashes with an eyelash curler and apply two coats of Shisedo's Lash lift mascara.You can even apply false lashes in the outer corners to give the eyes an almond shape just like Ash's.

Step4: -
Tame the brows with a brow brush.

Step5: -
Apply and blend a Shiseido's Makeup Perfecting lipstick in Macademia Beige.Outline if the lips are uneven.Pout on after applying Shiseido's Lip gloss in Champagne Sparkle.

The idea is to have a shimmery nude effect and look perfectly natural.A fuss free way to look made up isn't it.............
If you have colored eyes of course other than brown,I'm sure these makeup techniques will accentuate your eyes.

Dioriffic.......

Silver Dust



Metallic Blue



Frosted Beige



Ready to Beige

Dior comes as one of the first items when you are a makeup junkie.Be it an eyeshadow or a lipgloss, Dior has colours for everybody.
The Dior palette is full of iridescent colours.Actually you feel as if you've metamorphosed into a butterfly when you use Dior products because of the shine and radiance they impart.
The Dior line was created by world's most renowned makeup artist Serge Lutens in the 60s and it hasn't lessened its aura till today.Today celebrity makeup artist Pati Dubroff,famous for her avante garde Oscar looks under the guidance of Mr.John Galliano designs the seasonal collections.

Dior doesn't follow trends but makes them.

While browsing through their one of the latest collections I came across some fantastic shades of Dior 1 couleur mono eyeshadows.They were these fascinating dreamy colours not seen in any brand before.The sparkly texture,smooth velvety feel and stay-put capacity of these eyeshadows overwhelmed me.
Liked the above pictured colours a lot.
I have some looks with the above shades that are ideal for the coming Fall 2007...



Look No.1



Blend an eyeshadow base on the eyelids for the eyeshadow to smoothly glide on.
Apply with a large powder brush some loose powder under the eyes.This loose powder gathers all the eyeshadow dust and can be removed very easily with creating any marks on the face.
Now start with the Silver dust eyesahdow which is a silvery shimmery gunmetal grey colour.Apply in the crease and outer corners of the upper lid with a large eyshadow brush to create a lovely crease and define the eye contours.Now with a small blender brush apply the same eyeshadow on the outer third of the lower lid and smoke it outwards.
Now apply Metallic blue which is a typical shimmery royal blue over the entire eyelid starting from the lash line uupwards till the crease.Apply with a large eyeshadow brush the Frosted beige, a taupe mauve shimmer into the inner corners and the crease and blend the three colours to give you a sophisticated vintage hollywood look.With an angular blender brush apply the royal blue in the inner two thirds of the lower lid and smude it to give a smokey look.
Highlight the browbone with Ready to go Beige,a shimmery highlighting beige colour.Line the inner rims of the eyes with Dior's crayon eyeliner.Then apply false lashes and blend and curl them with the true lashes using an eyelash curler.Apply two coats of Dior Blackout mascara.
Balance the face with a Diorshow powder in Girly pink or Spotlight peach powder just enough to add definition and shimmer on the cheeks.End up with a shimmery baby pink lipgloss like Diorshow Gloss show in Anja Pink over primed lips for some understated effect.

This look works best on fair ladies with big beautiful eyes but I won't discriminate.

Look 2

For a softer innocent look apply the Frosted Beige over the crease and outer corners.Blend in the Ready-to-beige all over the lid.Leave the brow bones bare.Line the eyes with a dark chocolate brown Dior crayon liner pencil and apply several coats of Diorshow mascara in Brown.Apply a soft apricot or a natural blush.Apply gloss of any shade right from muted ones to the most vibrant ones.

You can create your own looks with these eyeshadows.

Do share with the readers any more looks you have concocted.....

ciao

Do the Starry Way Part 2 - Sensuous Sarah Jessica Parker

Beauty i-village gives us some fantabulous tips on how-to-copy-celebrities...Here is this one for a beauty icon who travels all over the world to learn different makeup looks.She is none other than Sarah Jessica Parker.

We fell in love with Sarah Jessica Parker as capricious Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City because she lived the dreams and disappointments of every hardworking, unmarried, introspective, fashion-obsessed female we've ever known.

In real life, she's married to actor Matthew Broderick and mother to baby boy James Wilkie Broderick. In her "free time," the busy actress makes time to be UNICEF's representative for the performing arts. Here she is looking very "Belle de Jour" in a retro palette of heathery pinks.

Makeup artist Deborah Grayson tells us how to get her look.

Step 1:

Always start with a clean, lightly moisturized face so that makeup will lie as smoothly as it can. For over-40 skin, Grayson suggests clients try microdermabrasion facials, which polish away surface debris.

Step 2:

To get this makeup look, begin by applying a lilac-colored cream shadow to the entire lids with a fingertip.

Step 3:

Next, using a rounded shadow brush, layer a matte, heathery lilac over the base color.

Step 4:

With a freshly sharpened black pencil liner, you're going to make a thin yet dense line across the entire upper lash line. But you're not going to draw the line, says Grayson. To get a really fine line, dot the liner directly along the roots of the lashes in a "connect the dots" approach. No smudging, because you'll want to keep that line solid.

Step 5:

Sketch a line under the lower lashes with a gray-blue pencil, then smudge with a cotton swab or pointed-tip sponge applicator.

Step 6:

Apply two coats of black mascara to the upper lids. Then comb through them with a fine metal comb to separate and define lashes. Apply one coat of mascara to lower lashes.

Step 7:

Brush up eyebrows with a no-color brow gel, which will enhance your natural arch and help keep brows in place.

Step 8:

Dot a creamy pink-toned concealer under the lower orbits of the eyes, patting the concealer lightly with your finger until it's blended. You may want to go back and apply another light layer, but wait a few minutes until the first layer is settled by the warmth of your skin.

Step 9:

With a soft makeup sponge, apply a flesh-colored, gel-based foundation to any areas of the face that appear blotchy. Blend any excess with a fresh sponge.

Step 10:

Blot cheeks, chin, nose and forehead with a sheer loose powder using a flat velour puff.

Step 11:

Using a rounded blush brush, lightly apply a heather-pink powder blush to the cheekbones only.

Step 12:

Finish by lining the lips in a nude-pink liner, then filling the lips in with a soft, baby-pink sheer lipstick.

For Super-women......

In June's Allure, there was an article on how to fly without looking and feeling like absolute crap upon arrival. Since recycled air and pressurization lead to dehydration and swelling, Laura Mercier, the noted beauty belle, gave the following advice for saving face (quite literally) and flying fabulously:

• Starting the day before your flight, modify your diet by eating lightly and avoiding salty foods that may cause you to retain water and swell up during your flight.
• Be sure to get plenty of exercise and rest the day before your flight.
  The night before you leave, exfoliate your skin and then use a hydrating mask to make sure you get some extra moisture.
• The morning of your flight, cleanse your face and add your everyday moisturizer to still damp skin. Also be sure to use a good eye cream and apply a thick lip balm or Vaseline to your lips. The more moisture, the better!
• When you pack your carry on bag, be sure to follow all the TSA's ridiculous restrictions, but fill your plastic bag with sample sizes of your favorite moisturizer and eye cream. If you don't have sample sizes, you can get little bottles from drugstores or places like the Container Store to fill for your trip. You'll also want to pack a stick foundation, some cream-based eyeshadow, and some cream-based blush in your carry on.
  Keep your makeup simple while flying, and avoid powder-based makeup. Instead, just dab on a little concealer, some light cream blush, and tinted lip gloss.
• While on the plane, keep hydrated. Mercier recommends continuously drinking water throughout your flight, and having a cup of warm water (or caffeine-free tea) every hour while you fly.
• Before you land, apply an ice cube to each eye lid for a few minutes to reduce puffiness and refresh your skin. Also, take a moment to reapply your lip gloss and blush and to apply a few swipes of eyeshadow and mascara.There! You'll be beautiful when you reach your final destination.

Thank you Allure and Laura Mercier!

L'Oreal all the way......

L'Oreal,the French giant has ruled the world with its most innovative hairstyling products,colorful palettes,magical creams and endorsing the most prominent brands in the market like Garnier,Maybelline New York etc.

Now-a-days L'Oreal Paris gives you a chance to carry actresses like Aishwarya Rai,Eva Longoria,Laetitia Casta,Penelope Cruz and Milla Jovovich in your bag (not literally)....why?Because they have their own eyeshadow palette trios and eponymous lipsticks...........

L'Oreal presents the Color Appeal Star Secrets Trio Eyeshadows,colors chosen for their stunning brand ambassadresses according to the colours of their eyes.

According to the theory of colours and colour charts,one can enhance their eyes by using the eyeshadow colours that match the colour of their eyes or the colour that contrasts them.I read somewhere that look carefully into the reflection of your eyes and try to see the colours present in your irises.These are the colours that will enhance your eyes.{Except for some universal never-present-in-the-eyes colours like pink and peach}

These eyeshadow palettes have excellent pigments that enhances black (EVA LONGORIA), green (AISHWARYA RAI), grey (LAETITIA CASTA), brown (PENELOPE CRUZ) and blue (MILLA JOVOVICH) eye colours.The palette has three colours; the darker contourer,the lighter eye colour and the lightest highlighter.The highlighter is specially made using light reflecting pigments to make your eyes look larger.

The tricks to apply these eyeshadows are written by L'Oreal's Celebrity makeup artist Mr.James Kalliardos.

He recommends applying the darher shade or shade no.1 of the palette on the outer lashline of the upper and lower lid.Then fill in the colour that is shade no.2 all over the eyes and then use the highlighter over the brow bone.Apply the nely launched kohls from L'Oreal and then use the Double Extension Carbon Black Mascara to enhance the eyes and have starlet like peepers.

I have someways of applying these eyeshadows as well,according to occasions.....

• Apply the darker colour on the outer one-third of the eyes in a form of "v" extending into the crease line.Apply the same one on the outer corners of the lower lids and drag the lines a little outwards to create a vintage-bollywood-like smokey eyes.Then apply the colour all over the lid and blend.Highlight the brow bone at a level above the iris of the eyes when you look straight in front,to make the eyes appear larger.Apply dark kohl pencil on the rims of the lids and blink for the colour to spread on.Line the upper lashline with a black liner and smudge it with a liner brush.Apply the famous Double Extension Mascara in Carbon Black.Compliment it with a nude peach-pink blush and clear gloss and be a SMOKEY SIREN.
• For a total innocent look,skip the contouring colour.Contour the lids with shade no.2 and apply highlighter on the lids.Use a brown black mascara to look natural.
• Applying the highlighter all over the eyes can make small eyes appear larger.
• Use a smokey muddy grey colour like Mothbrown from the Barbie Loves MAC Collection over the crease and outer corners.Blend in the dark blackish-blue from the Milla Jovovich palette all over the lid.Highlight with the lavender highlighter in the same palette and apply the shade no.2 in the inner corners of the eyes.This shows gradations and deepening of the colours and opens up the eyes pronto.Apply some glittery greyish black liquid gel liner or just apply black glitter on your regular liner and get a punk-like eye.Smoothen some creme blush on your cheeks and apply a very shimmery and flirty pink gloss.

Do try these looks and let me know if you were mistaken to be either of those above mentioned actresses...........

Wishlist: -Makeup to be bought this year

Bourjois Delice Poudre Illuminante

Lancome Fatale Mascara




Bourjois Eau De Gloss






Shiseido Accentuating Stick





Mac Mineralize Skin finish Highlighting Powders






Lancome Color Design Eyeshadow in Darling Pink





Dior Bronze Harmonie Sunshine Blush




Givenchy Arty Colour Prismissime Palette



Lancome Dual Finish Powder

Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch


Max Factor Color perfection Duo eyeshadows





Wish to buy these products this year {pray for me please}....the list seems to be endless.
Anways guys and gals if anybody is interested in gifting I'll accept it willingly...
Ciao

Pearls of Glamour

Guerlain Meteorites

Wanna look Glamorous?Wish to be a Diva?Wanna be "spotted"?

I have an answer...........Oriflame giordani Pearls

Oriflame Swedish Natural Cosmetics Brand,is a network marketting company manufacturing some of the most innovative and very high quality skin care products.

Giordani Pearls are multicolored pearls available in an easy-to-carry compact with a built-in-mirror.The tiny pearls instantly brighten and even skin tone with a blend of soft colors that combat imperfections and add an innocent radiance to skin.These pearls come in different colours but with a swipe of brush unite together and impart an ethereal glow on the skin.

They are available in two versions: -Natural Bronze and Natural Radiance

The Natural Bronze contains pearls in colours of Gold,Taupe,Shimmery Beige,Bronze and Copper.They impart a shimmery bronze glow and a perfect for warming up your complexion.

The Natural Radiance contains pearls in colours of Rose,Taupe,Shimmery Beige,Pink,Peach and Light Fuschia.They impart an innocent pinkish healthy flushed skin and can act as blush-on.

Its always better to use the pearls after powdering the area as the powder acts as a base for the pigments to stick on.

These versatile spheres can be brushed on the cheeks,T zone,chin,decollete etc or any place which you want to highlight.Another way to apply them individually is by crushing the pearl.Crush the pearl and use it as an eyeshadow or a brow highlight or a blush or even by mixing it in clear gloss, a new shade of lipstick.The pigments are intense and give a natural glow even with the slightest touch of your brush.

The brush to be used should be a larger powder brush,a blush brush or Kabukie brush as they catch lots of pigments and cover larger areas.......

Giordani Pearls are available through Oriflame Consultants worldwide.In India they are priced at Rs.749.The brush called Giordani Brush can be bought at Rs.399.

This is your ticket to glamour.........

Such pearls are available in brands like Guerlain,The Body Shop,Physician's Formula,Stila cosmetics,Avon etc.

Do the Starry Way Part 1 JLo Part 1

Jennifer Lopez aka JLo is a beauty icon.I dont know of anyone who can carry off a couture dress and makeup better than anyone.I'm a big fan of hers.And she is the one from whom I shall start writing my DO THE STARRY WAY section.

JLo is famous in the industry for her glowing dewy complexion,gorgeous cheek bones,nude lipshines and infinite lashes.

Lets get inspired from her and see what we can do to ourselves using some absolutely affordable makeup.

If ou observe carefully she or her makeup artist takes the dictum of "Emphasize the mouth or the eye." very seriously.And yes she is known to lend her canvas in hands of world's biggest makeup artist's like Pat McGrath and Scott Barnes and Mally Roncal....

To get JLo's look this is what we do...

Step 1: -

Cleanse-Tone and thoroughly Moisturise.Using a makeup primer on your face and neck for the makeup to sit on.

Now apply a light weight foundation all over your face and blend blend blend till it disappears into your skin.Oriflame's Fresh as a Daisy Foundation is a good gel based foundation that ensures a flawless finish and so is Maybelline's Dream Mousse.

The key is to build up layers to attain that gorgeous glow.

Step2: -

On a prep skin dust some loose powder from Kryolan cosmetics for an invisible finish.Now apply L'Oreal Paris LumiBase on cheeks,forehead,T zone and chin liberally.Under the eyes apply Oriflame's Giordani Luminous Concealer to conceal minor imperfections.Then add on some glam shimmer with Sugarbaby cosmetics' Sunshine Gleam Creme highligher for some extra shine.Pupa cosmetics market a fantastic liquid concealer to hide the most tedious imperfections.

Step3:-

For a pinky-peach flush on the cheeks blend Maybelline New York Dream Mousse Blush in Plum and apply Max Factor Flawless Perfection Blush in Classic Rose a little under the cheekbones for some more oomph and a virtual lift.This is the way stars flaunt.

Step4: -

For luscious lips apply Oriflame LipSpa balm as the base and top it with Bourjois Eau De Gloss in Rose Vitamine 17 to get a sexy pout.

Step5: -

Start with the eye makeup last.the key is to get a smokey eye in a silvery grey colour.Use a angular flat brush to line the eyes with a shimmery blackish grey or a cloudy grey colour from the outer 2/3rds of the eyes both on the lower and upper lids.Use Oriflame Visions eyeshadow in Lois&Clark or Bourjois Effet Lumiere Trio eyeshadow in Argents or Les artistitiques.Now use a silvery grey eyeshadow to enhance the crease and the outer corners from the latter palette and the lightest shadow on the lid.Use your shimmery lotion as the highlighter.Line the inner rims of the lower lids with some white pencil like Oriflame Dynamic duo liner in Laurel & Hardy.

Step6: -

For the lashes.Apply false lashes from Kryolan and curl them with Oriflame's Eyelash curler.Sweep across two coats of Max Factor Masterpiece mascara. Dont forget to groom the brows using some Vaseline.

Voila! You're ready for that glamourous event.Sport some sophisticated LBDs or anything with some funky bling and donot forget silvery stilletos.

Note: - Couture makeup crazy people need not feel sad.The next look will be for you.

Certified Organics For Everyday Use.

Updated January 2006: ONE Group® uses the CERTIFIED ORGANIC version of ingredients if they are commercially available.

Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera has healing soothing, antibacterial and moisturising properties. It is used to relieve burning, itching, minor cuts, and first and second degree burns. Recent studies indicate that aloe vera has the ability to accelerate cell growth in the skin.

Angelica Extract
Astringent, tonic and anti-inflammatory extract from the Angelica plant, seed and/or root.

Annatto Seed
Natural colour from the annatto seed, native to South America.

Avocado Oil
Moisturizes, nourishes, softens. Unrefined Avocado oil, which is dark green in colour, contains vitamins A, B1, B2, D, Pantothenic acid and E as well as lecithin. It is excellent for dry and wrinkled skin.

Balsam Of Peru Essential Oil
An amber coloured semi-solid mass exuded from the trunk after it has been stripped of bark. Rich, sweet vanilla-like aroma oil that helps give a gloss and sheen to the hair.

Beeswax (unrefined & organic) -.

Bergamot Essential Oil
Pure essential oil of bergamot is expressed from the peel of the citrus fruit. It is refreshing, uplifting and can also be relaxing. It has antiseptic properties.

Bicarb Soda (Baking Soda)
Sodium bicarbonate is a mild abrasive, cleanser and whitener.

Burdock Extract
Astringent, softens, soothes, purifies. Burdock root has been used as a remedy against skin cancer in Chile, China, India, Canada and Russia. Herbalists praise it as an excellent remedy for acne and eczema. Burdock is said to restore the smoothness of the skin and promote hair growth.

Calendula Extract
Soothes, heals, restores.

Carrot CO2 Extract
Carrot seed has regenerating and toning effects, which is excellent for mature and congested skin, couperose skin and eczema.

Celtic Sea SaltMineral
Rich sea salt, antibacterial, soothing, healing.

Chamomile Extract
Anti-microbial, calming, soothing.

Chamomile German Essential Oil
German Chamomile has anti-bacterial and fungicidal properties. It has excellent wound-healing and pain-relieving properties.

Chamomile Roman Essential Oil
The pure essential oil Roman Chamomile flowers is antiseptic, astringent and has healing properties for dermatitis, eczema, acne and rashes. It is especially effective in treating sensitive, dry and inflamed skin.

Cinnamon Leaf Essential Oil
Anti-microbial, mild astringent, soothes, cools.

Citric Acid
Natural pH adjuster from citrus fruits.

Citronella Essential Oil
Steam distilled from Managrass or Lemon Balm grass. Uplifting and clearing. Good for oily skin and excessive perspiration. Insect repellent.

Clove Bud Essential Oil
Steam distilled from the Clove flower buds. Clove oil is antiseptic, stimulating and pain-killing.

Cocoa Butter
Pressed from the delicious smelling cocoa bean. It is a rich emollient for dry skin. Softens and protects, particularly where skin is thin (eyes, lips and throat).

Corn Starch
Cornstarch is an ultra-fine, powdery flour ground from the endosperm, or white heart, of organic corn kernels.

Cypress Blue Australian Essential Oil
Antibacterial, astringent, fixative. Distilled from the heartwood of the native Australian cypress tree. Warm and woody aroma with anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant and anti-viral properties.

Coconut Oil
Cold pressed from a plantation in Fiji, that supports 100 families. Its properties are energising, stimulating, anti-free radical, tones, restructures. Coconut oil is a semi-solid saturated fat cold-pressed from the flesh of our organic coconuts in Fiji. It is a wonderful lubricant and moisturiser.

Coco Polyglucose
Coco polyglucose is a "non-ionic surfactant" (foaming agent) synthesized from fatty alcohols from coconut and glucose from corn.Coco polyglucose has excellent dermatological compatibility (i.e. it is very mild on the skin). Based on the Duhring Chamber Test it has the lowest irritation score of all common surfactants tested. It is free from ethylene oxide (which can cause nitrosamine contamination) and free from preservatives.It has low environmental impact due to:
1. high biodegradability (breaks down readily)
2. high eco-toxicological compatibility (doesn't harm the environment if released)
3. it is manufactured from completely renewable vegetable raw materials. Having praised its virtues, we still feel it is an "undesirable" in our range of certified organic raw materials, and we eventually hope to replace with a certified organic “foaming agent” of similar functionality when it becomes available.

D-Panthenol
Panthenol is the precursor to pantothenic acid (vitamin B5). It is manufactured from a component found in honey, d-pantolactone. It improves the moisture-retention capacity of the skin and stimulates skin regeneration. Dry skin stays supple and elastic for longer. It has an anti-inflammatory and anti-itching effect. It makes hair easier to comb, reduces hair splitting, improves the condition of damaged hair, thickens the hair and provides sheen.

Echinacea Extract
Calms, revitalizes, stimulates, purifies. Echinacea herb is used internally as a blood purifier. Externally, it helps speed the healing of skin conditions caused by acne, eczema and other problems. Firms and tones the skin.

Eucalyptus, Blue Mallee Essential Oil
Antiseptic, stimulating, decongestant

Fennel Essential Oil
The pure essential oil of crushed Fennel seeds increases the elasticity of the connective tissues of the skin. It is anti-wrinkle and anti-aging and has a tightening effect on the skin.

Feverfew Extract
Natural insecticide with soothing, calming and restorative properties.

Frangipani Absolute
An exquisite scent, steam distilled from the frangipani blossom.

Frankincense Essential Oil
The pure essential oil obtained from the resin of Frankincense bark is regenerative and astringent. It is excellent for aging skin and the treatment of wrinkles. It tones the skin and promotes new cell generation.

Garnet, Alluvial PolishedWater polished garnet.
A hard, but smooth natural exfoliant.

Geranium (Rose) Essential Oil
Astringent, softens, soothes, and balances. The pure essential oil obtained from the Geranium leaf and stem is antiseptic, astringent and toning. It normalises sebum production and stimulates the lymphatic system, making it excellent for seborrhoea, rosacea and inflamed conditions.

Gotu Kola Extract
Anti-wrinkle, anti-aging, and healing. Gotu Kola herb is one of the reported "elixirs of life", as is Ginseng. Gotu Kola is said to be useful for stressed skin, to heal wounds, dermatitis, and inflammations and is a valued skin tonic.

Grapefruit Extract
A potent antibacterial and anti-fungal. It can also be used as an internal medication to relieve Candida infections.

Honeysuckle Extract
A natural antimicrobial with broad-spectrum activiy. Biodegradable and non-toxic.

Hops Extract
Astringent, purifies, stimulates, tones, dark circle treatment. Extracted from the strobiles of the female plant, hops is antiseptic, soothing, toning and astringent. It may also be effective against cysts.

Horsechestnut Extract
Decongests and drains broken capillaries, calms, strengthens. Horsechestnut seed is an excellent treatment for blotchy, sensitive skin. It helps to strengthen capillaries and is anti-inflammatory.
Horsetail ExtractRefreshes, stimulates, tones, firms, anti-free radical. Horsetail herb is recommended by the herbalist Kneipp to heal tumours and cancer. It is an effective remedy for psoriasis, dandruff, eczema and similar skin conditions. It has also been praised for its ability to reduce swelling of the eyelids and heal wounds.

Iron Oxides
Natural mineral pigments.

Jojoba beads
Waxy beads that act as a very mild exfoliant.
Jojoba OiNourishes, moisturizes, anti-free radical. Jojoba oil is a yellow liquid wax pressed from the bean of the desert Jojoba plant. It contains a waxy substance, similar to skin sebum, which gives a silky smooth feel. Jojoba has excellent moisturising and protective effects; it penetrates deeply. It is useful for acne, eczema, inflamed skin and psoriasis, and seems to have some possible benefits in preventing hair loss.

Lavender Essential Oil
Soothes, relaxes, and regenerates. The pure essential oil from the freshly cut tops of Lavender flowers is useful for all skin since it regulates sebum production. It fosters the regeneration of new skin cells and soothes inflamed skin.

Lecithin
Non-GMOA natural plant phospholipid from non-GMO soybean oil. The uses of phospholipids in cosmetic products are many - they are superior skin restorative agents, moisturisers and have the remarkable ability to penetrate the epidermis (top layer of the skin) and carry substances to the cellular level.

Lemon Essential Oil
The pure essential oil expressed from the peel of ripe lemons is astringent, antibacterial, antiseptic and cleansing. When applied to oily skin is can help reduce sebum production. Lemon oil can cause increased skin sensitivity to ultraviolet light if left on the skin. We only use citrus oils in our Miessence cleansers, because they are washed off the skin.

Lemon Myrtle Essential Oil
Astringent, antibacterial, repairs.

Lime Essential Oil
The pure essential oil expressed from the peel of ripe limes is cleansing and antiseptic. Lime oil can cause increased skin sensitivity to ultraviolet light if left on the skin. We only use citrus oils in our Miessence cleansers, because they are washed off the skin.

Marshmallow Root Extract
Softens, revitalises, emollient, hydrates. Marshmallow leaf (or Althea) has been used since ancient times as an anti-inflammatory and to soothe and heal the skin. Its name is derived from Greek, meaning healing. It is said to control oily skin and soothe allergic skin reactions.

Mica
A group of 30 Earth minerals found in all three rock formations; used to give products sparkle and shine. A transparent mineral, it is structured in thin sheets that glide across each other. Used to provide slip, light reflection and shimmer in cosmetics.

Myrrh Essential Oil
The pure essential oil obtained from the resin from Myrrh tree has excellent anti-aging and anti-wrinkle properties. It is astringent (tones the skin) and promotes new cell generation.

Natural Gum
A natural polysaccharide and obtained from the fermentation of a glucose-enriched medium by Sclerotium rolfsii.

Neem Extract
Natural insect repellent from the oil of the leaves of the neem tree.

Neroli Essential Oil
Extracted by steam distillation of orange blossom petals. Neroli is known to regenerate skin cells and improves the skin elasticity. It is also good for preventing acne, scarring and stretch marks.

Nettle Extract
Anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, strengthening. Stinging Nettle leaf is said to increase micro-circulation of the skin. It stimulates metabolism and is used in the treatment of dark circles around the eyes.

Olive Extract
Repairs, tones, firms, and anti-oxidant. Olive extract is a unique anti-oxidant from the olive leaf. It protects both your skin and the polyunsaturated oils in our products from free radical damage. It reduces skin damage caused by pollution and UV radiation, therefore protecting the skin from photo aging. It also improves skin hydration and elasticity.

Orange, Sweet Essential Oil
The pure essential oil expressed from the peel of ripe oranges is astringent, antibacterial, antiseptic, toning and cleansing. Orange oil can cause increased skin sensitivity to ultraviolet light if left on the skin. We only use citrus oils in our Miessence cleansers, because they are washed off the skin.

Patchouli, Brown Essential Oil
Tones revitalises. The pure essential oil of Patchouli leaves is used to treat dry, mature or wrinkled skin, to rejuvenate, invigorate and restore.

Peppermint Essential Oil
Steam distilled from the fresh leaves of the herb. Peppermint is antiseptic, anti-ulcer, antiviral and anti-inflammatory.

Pine Essential Oil
Steam distilled from the pine needles. Natural insect repellent. Pine oils properties are antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, refreshing, deodorising and stimulating.

Plantain Extract
Astringent, soothing, and healing. Plantain leaf is said to soothe and heal many skin conditions. It is toning and astringent (contracts skin tissues), and reduces oil secretions of the skin.

Rose Essential Oil
Steam distilled from the fresh rose blooms. It takes about 30 roses to get one drop of the deep, rich sweetly floral oil. Excellent for dry skin, wrinkles and mature complexions. Properties of rose oil are uplifting, aphrodisiac, astringent and regenerative.

Rosehip Seed Oil
Regenerates, moisturizes, heals. Our bright orange, unrefined Rosehip Seed oil is used to reduce scarring and facial lines, soften scars and retard premature aging. It is high in vitamin F (essential fatty acids).

Rosemary Extract
A potent natural antioxidant, protecting our oils from rancidity. Extracted from the fresh leaves of the herb. Its properties are antibacterial, soothing and wound healing.

Rosewater
The pure water of distillation of Rose petals, saturated with the water-soluble botanicals present in the flowers, is excellent for all mature and dry skin types and is soothing and regenerating for skin.

Safflower Oil
Softens, moisturizes. Safflower oil is expressed from safflower seeds. It has one of the highest linoleic acid contents of all known oils. Safflower oil has superior skin compatibility and increases the moisture content of the skin (skin hydration is proportional to the level of linoleic acid in the skin).

Sage Extract
Extracted from the fresh leaves of the shrub. Its properties are antibacterial, soothing, deodorant and strengthening. Traditionally used in mouthwashes to soothes and heal mouth ulcers.

Sandalwood, Australian
Strengthening, healing, moisturising, and soothing.

Sclerotium Gum
A natural polysaccharide. It is a product obtained through the fermentation of a glucose-enriched medium by Sclerotium rolfsii.

Shea Butter
This plant butter is produced from the nuts of the large Karite tree in West Africa. Some clinical observations suggest that Shea Butter increases local blood circulation in the skin, improving the elimination of waste products. Other studies suggest that Shea Butter helps to improve the elasticity of the skin, making it a valuable addition to products for all skin types. The unsaponifiables and cinnamic esters in Shea Butter give it anti-microbial and moisturising properties and provide light protection against UV rays of the sun.

Sobitan Olivate
Cetearyl OlivateNon ionic, not ethoxylated, PEG-free, self-emulsifying system derived from olive oil. Soften and hydrates the hair.

Sugar-Cane Ethanol
By-product of organic sugar production. Natural solvent for organic herbal extracts.

Spearmint Essential Oil
Steam distilled from the fresh flowering tops of the plant. Spearmint oil is antibacterial, relieves mental strain and cheers you up!

Stevia Extract
A natural calorie-free sweetener, 300 times sweeter than sugar, without the dental caries problems.

St Johns Wort Extract
Moisturises, astringent, refreshes, tones. St Johns Wort flowering herb is soothing and antiinflammatory and is used for sensitive skin. It is also used as a skin tightener.

Tea Tree Essential Oil
Astringent, regulates, repairs. The pure essential oil from the leaves of the Tea Tree is a potent antiseptic and anti-bacterial and is excellent for the treatment of acne.

Thyme Extract
Extracted from the leaves and flowering tops of the shrub. Thyme is antimicrobial, astringent and expectorant. Traditionally it has been used as a gargle for sore throats and for soothing coughs.

Vanilla Extract
Extracted from the cured vanilla pods. Vanilla is warming, soothing and an aphrodisiac. It also tastes and smells delicious!

Witch Hazel Extract
Draining, astringent, anti-free radical, and protective. Witch Hazel leaf extract soothes inflamed skin. It is astringent and antiinflammatory.

Xanthan Gum
Food grade thickener lubricant created from natural polysaccharides.

Yellow Dock Extract
Astringent, purifies, antibacterial. Extracted from the root of the plant. Yellow Dock is a skin and lymphatic restorative, astringent, and purifier. It is excellent for abscesses, acne, dermatitis, and eczema.

Ylang Ylang Essential Oil
Revitalizes, soothes, balances. The pure essential oil from the exotic "flower of flowers" normalizes sebum production and is useful for dry, oily or combination skin.

Yucca Extract
Yucca Schidigera extract - revitalizes, calms, anti free-radical, natural cleansing agent. The Yucca Schidigera plant is native only to the Southwestern deserts of North America. Traditionally Native American Indians used it for washing, shampooing, and for a myriad of different medicinal applications. The natural saponins in the juice are responsible for its superior surfactant quality and eliminate the need for chemical detergents. Biochemical research has shown that natural saponins, like those found in Yucca, repair the damage to cell membranes of the skin and scalp that result in a loss of nutrients. As well as repairing the damage done by day-to-day treatment of our skin and hair, Yucca is a potent anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal.

Zinc Oxide
Provides superior sun protection with broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) absorption. A soft, heavy white mineral powder that acts as a sun block and creates a soothing, protective barrier for the skin. Zinc oxide (zincite) is a naturally occurring mineral that provides a white colour base for our cosmetic products. It recognised by the TGA as a skin soothing and healing agent. It is eminently safe!

Credits to www.fabulousorganics.com.© Copyright 2006. Please credit Narelle Chenery/ONE Group® and Options For Health™ when used.

You should know this................

Some questions that trouble a woman's mind and the solutions for them..........

Why do people especially makeup artists stress on applying good quality makeup?
Ans.Because branded makeup is manufactured under a very strict quality control regulations most of them implied by different Cosmetic and Drug Acts and FDAs throughout the world.These regulations are made in order to cater the cosmetic needs of people in a safer way.When safety comes first,the cost doesnt matter at all.
No one wants your makeup product to penetrate within your skin and cause systemic problems.In Ancient Egypt people used to line Copper Sulphate under their eyes,use Mercury and Lead in lipcolours and blushes to accentuate the color of the skin.Japanese people used White Lead.Those days the fad for makeup was so much that women didnt mind dying but using the makeup products.That isn't the current situation,is it?Todays makeup should be: -

• safe and free from potential allergens
• should not contain carcinogenic substances
• the subsatnces should be mostly inert and not react with the skins surface.
• they should be available in environmentally friendly packagaing and should not cause damage to the surrounding.
• should not contain environment damaging aerosols
• should impart only the effect they are meant to do

This is what i feel.There are rules by some big bodies which go as follows: -

Identity and potency: Does the product contain the ingredients and dosage strength listed on the label?
Purity: Is the product free of specific contaminants it should not have?
Bioavailability: Does the product dissolve adequately for use in the body?
Consistency: Does each tablet or other unit of the product have the same identity, potency and purity?
Good manufacturing practices (GMPs): Does the manufacturing facility follow high-quality standards for
NPA/NSFIn'tl: procedures for quality control/assurance, cleanliness, checking identity and potency of ingredients, and testing of final products for potency, purity and bioavailability?
USP: safe, sanitary and well-controlled procedures?
Sources
ConsumerLab website.
Natural Products Association (NPA, formerly NNFA) website.
NSF International website.
US Pharmacopoeia (USP) website.

Are they trying to favor or advertise a certain brand for their own use?
Ans.They may promote a brand but I dont know of a qualified makeup artist who would misguide somebody to use a bad brand.They're paid to do that.It should be our choice.Its famously said :Give thy thoughts an ear but thy tongue."

My lipstick just costed me Rs.50 and I have the same effect that other makeup lady using one with Rs.1000 had.Does this question arise in your mind while buying makeup?
Ans.Your Rs.50 lipstick may not pass the stringent rules laid by the associations.When a cosmetic doesnt cost much,the raw materials used in it are of cheaper quality as well.Well when a local manufacturer markets his brand sometimes its cheaper because its exempted from Customs and Duties imparted while shipping or transporting the product.But that doesnt mean the product goes dirt cheap because the ingredients used are expensive.

My makeup is old but still doesnt smell bad.Do I still use it?
Ans.All makeup products have an expiry date even though the manufacturing companies are exempted from the rule of mentioning the date of manufacture and expiry.Certain norms are followed in cosmetics when we buy them.The expiry of your product can be determined by its smell as the oils used in the base may turn rancid,by the change in colour and texture and more importantly if it starts giving a reaction which it did not give before.Conventionally the following norm is followed (which may not be very strict and it pertains to the local climatic conditions and the way you store your make up) as follows: -
Foundations,Concealers,Makeup bases,Blushes,Eyeshadows usually last for 2-3 yrs.Lipsticks for 1 1/2 year and lipglosses 1 yr.Mascara has the shortest life of 3-6 months.

How do I trust and brand and How do I know whether the brand I'm using is real or fake?
Ans.You can rely on the brand by thoroughly studying it online,through media and reviews given in magazines.Some brands have established names and they wont compromise over anything for the downfall of their names.Though recently some brands have used unethical practises to market their products but people are not insane and you cannot be fooled all the time.Big players use good advertising strategies and excellent quality products with excellent stock availablities.Some brands do have their monograms which are unique.
To decide whether the brand is genuine,buy it from a commercial area and not on streets.You cannot get brands on streets.Most of them give you a bill which has to be retained.There are many ways to prove the frauliency but lets keep it with the exeperts.

Which is the best way to access a good brand?
Ans.Through malls,sepcialised beauty boutiques,online shopping and online references taken online or through reading media.Best way online is to type the product on Google.com
To see listings of the brands you can access http://www.thestylepage.com/

How do I decide which brand is safer for me?
Ans.Most brands do write about the safety of their products like Dermatologically tested and Allergen free.But it doesnt mean that it always the same what they tell.No product can be completely allergen free as the every one has a unique make of his or her skin and can react differently.The comment is made when the product is tested on a variety of candidates during trials.You can sue a brand if you end up with allergies but then you should have enought backing and enough people telling about it.The legal processes might not be favorable sometimes.

Are the brands used in bridals really good?
Ans.Not always until its a mainstream professional makeup artist.Local beauticians compromise over quality as they want to flaunt more quantity of the product.sIt has to be affordable for them.Instead I'd suggest to buy the required products yourself after surveying thorugh different brands to make your own trousseau collection and practse to make yourself good,You can access to many self improvement and makeup teaching seminars happening all around the country.One of the best ones I've visited is at Christine Valmy Bandra.{I'm not promoting them.just suggesting them}.

How to keep my makeup hygienic and good?
Ans.Store your makeup in a dry cool place away from sunlight as sunlight can change the chemical compostion of the makeup products.Cosmetics add as a good culture medium for the bacteria to grom and you cannot use an antibacterial substance as it is harmful as well.So its better to apply UNIVERSAL precautions if possible to handle your products.Use clean and sterilised brushes and sponges and share makeup to the least to avoid cross infections.

Why are branded products so costly?Are they worth it?
Ans.They are worth every penny because manufacturing a cosmetic requires lots of brains,lots of promotion and lots of creativity.Give me a gold brick and I'll make you a fabulous necklace out of it,but I cant make a gold necklace with steel,right.
Makeup artists,Color Specialists and Chemists toil day and night to make us look beautiful.Its always worth paying them their price.
Cosmetics are even made considering the social strata of the people who would buy them.You need not be one of them all the time.We dont go and buy the entire range the way rich people do.For once a time extravaganza it isnt bad.
Let me warn you about the addictions brand usage can cause.The Addiction is of buying continuously and not anything else.

I dont want to make a hole in my pocket.Can I still use branded cosmetics?
Ans.Yes of course.We do indulge in sometimes.I'd recommend buying a single exclusive piece from a range that a brand offers after seeing your budget.Sometimes its easy to compromise by saving some money from being spent in eating out in restaurants and buying unnecessary stuff.
A Diamond Pendant always shines even if it is piled with other cheaper accessories.A Caviar once in a lifetime is no harm.
Brands are available for all sectors of the society.I'd recommend to buy a good quality branded blush or a bronzer or a lipstick or an eyeshadow palette or a mascara.No need to spend on foundations and makeup bases until its absolutely necessary but do invest in a two-in-one powder or a loose powder because they are absolute necessities.

Will my makeup product harm me?What are the effects that a cosmetic can do on the skin?
Ans.Right from a varities of allergies like rashes,eruptions,itching etc to severe reactions like Steven Johnson syndrome can occur if you use an unbranded cosmetic due to potential allergens present in them.Lead,Arsenic,Mercury based cosmetics can lead to death after a prolonged use,but due to stringent manufacturing rules these happenings are rare.
When you buy a cosmetic especially a skin care product do test a tester on the hand {patch test} if its possible,because neither God nor a doctor can predict the allergy that could happen to you.{even if the doctor knows your allergy history}.
NOTE: -What I'm writing is through my vast reading and immense references take from many online sites and books.I have not copy-pasted these Frequently thought questions but written them myself.

Naturally Made Up

The makeup flaunted on the ramps by the ethereal models can be brought down to the mortals but in an altered form........The reason being the coverage which the models need and which the common women need.

"Makeup is playing with LIGHT........twisting it,turning it and using it to enhance somethings while understating others."

In natural light,even the slightest makeup or colour on the face is highlighted.So sporting a model like look may end up makeing you look garish,greasy and gaudy.

Here are some tips I learnt from Mr.Chirag Bambboat a makeup artist par excellence from Clarins and MAC whose seminar I attended at my beauty school.

By the way Mr.Chirag Bambboat is a fantastic and a skilled makeup artist working as a trainer and key makeup artist for MAC cosmetics and Clarins.

• Use light reflecting products to the minimal.Use the products that diffuse light to get a flawless complexion.He suggests using Clarins Instant Light Complexion Perfector all over the face after cleansing-toning and moisturising.


• In the corners of the eyes,under the eyes and over the eyes he used Instant Light Perfecting Touch to give a natural sheen.The pen highlighter also acts an eyeshadow base.


• Over this he dusted some Clarins Loose Powder lightly to fix the makeup yet look luminscent and transperent.


• To add on some glow and enhance the contours of the face he lightly dusted MAC Mineralize Finish Powder in a a warm texture.This brings out the warmth of your complexion and adds a subtle frosty radiance.


• He used a pale shimmery MAC eyeshadow and some pigments but I didnt hear the name.Anyways I'd suggest applying MAC eyeshadows in Llama all over the eyes and Retrospeck in the crease with a light touch.I'd suggest highlighting the inner corners of the eyes to brighten up the face.
  
• He applied a thin coat of MAC Prolash Mascara in Black for an understated look.


• On lips he used MAC LipGelee in Moonstone for a natural shine and supple lips.it doesnt stay for long so do have a holding power she also suggested to use a MAC lip primer.I'd suggest a clear gloss to look innocent and youthful from Lancome Juicy Tubes.

Credits: -Picture courtesy from Sephora,Mac cosmetics and Style.com featuring Balenciaga

The Supermodel Saga

Supermodels are actual superbeings.They are born and not made.A supermodel is the one who can carry off anything, remain designer's muses and look the best of the lot.They have the features of a goddess and you need to have THE EYE to appreciate their beauty.They cannot be biased on colour,you have to see the transperency in them.

Vogue kind of announced its newer bevy of gorgeous and scintillating supermodels......The best ones picked from the ramps and editorials and the ones who have worked with the best photographers and artists and stylists in the world.....{recently}

The goddesses from left to right are.....

Lily Donaldson

Hilary Rhoda

Dutzen Kroes

Sasha Pivovarova

Caroline Trentini

Raquel Zimmerman

Jessica Stam

Coco Rocha

Chanel Iman and

Agyness Deyn...........

You shall spot them everywhere from fashion magazines to ramp shows to designer parties......just everywhere...........

They seem to have tagged the earlier generation supermodels like Naomi,Helena,Cindy,Claudia but let me make one thing clear to all.......The magic of supermodels and their charisma in undying and everlasting....

Beauty buys this season

Update your vanity cases,makeup boxes and dressing tables with some new buys this Fall 2007.

Buying makeup is a difficult task as the person behind the counter is unskilled and hardly knows about the trends.They say that their work is to sell the brand and not promote a product.To save oursleves from buying disastrous makeup products and then grieving over it,here are some essentials you can update yourself this season.

Lancome Color Fever Lipstick in Boiling point and Hot nights,Rs.1450

Givenchy Interdit Lipstick in Rouge Cancan or Illicit Raspberry aprrox.RS.1250

Loreal Paris Color Appeal Star Secrets Trio Eyeshadows in Aishwarya Rai,Eva Longoria,Laetitia Casta,Milla Jovovich and Penelope Cruz,each worth Rs.450

Givenchy Prisme Again blush Quartet in Surprising Caramel (golden toffee brown, light golden peach, golden rose, golden rosey brown) each worth Rs.1950

Max Factor's Flawless Perfection Blush in Natural Rose,Rs.525

Bourjois Eau De Gloss {All shades are good} Rs.495

Bourjois Docteur Glamor Lipsticks (choose the best shade) Rs.495

Lancome Color Design Sensational Eyeshadow in Postive,Click,Exhibition and New Black Rs.950

Lancome Fatale Mascara in Black, Rs.1400

Clarins Intant Smooth Perfecting Touch Rs.1300

Max Factor Masterpiece Mascara Rs.450

Dior Blackout Mascara in Black, Rs.1300

Dior 5 couleur eyeshadows in Mystic Jade,Pink Attitude and Sunset Cafe Rs.2650

Maybelline New York Blush in True Rose,Rs.199

Maybelline New York Moisture Extreme Lipsticks in some absolutely beautiful shades.Rs.179

Loreal Paris Double Extension Carbon Black Mascara,Rs.550

Max Factor Shimmer Stick,Rs.695

Maybelline Lash stylist mascara in Black,Rs.299

Surely this is much of a choice to buy from.....

Dolce and Gabbana Fall 2007 futuristic makeup trend

Gisele's well contoured cheeks

Caroline's beautiful eye makeup....
Lily's alabaster complexion


As I was watching the Hair and Makeup on Fashion TV,I came across these stunning looks at the Dolce and Gabbana show.Since the beauty director was none other than Pat McGrath I could predict this to be the latest trend in the fashion industry.


The look was called "New Nudes" where the whole base of the makeup was a nude one but instead of being matte or dewy, it was shimmery and shiny.The looks in the photos are of Gisele Bundchen,Natasha Poly,Caroline Trentini and Lily Donaldson.


To create this look using the brands available in India, I'd suggest the following:

Cleanse-Tone-Apply a heavy duty moisturiser.Follow it with Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch, to minimise any wrinkles,reduce pores and and imperfections.As your base is ready, smoothen and blend The Makeup Lifting Foundation SPF 16 PA ++ from Shiseido in colour of your skin to achieve a flawless look.Apply DiorShow Powder in the colour of your skin to set the makeup yet make it look luminous and radiant.To conceal dark circles and any further imperfections use DiorFlash pen or YSL's Touche Eclat and dab and push it in the skin.
Now for that innocent radiance apply Max Factor's Shimmer stick with your fingers on the cheek apples and cheek bones,on the T-zone,Forehead and chin to add on some neutral shimmery elegance.Create contours by using a shimmery bronzer or a taupe shimmer just under the cheek bones or in the cheek hollows to give your cheeks a lift.Shiseido's Bronze Flush Accentuating Stick is ideal.For the eyes give a dewy and shimmery touch of Max Factor's Shimmer stick and then apply the shimmery white on the entire lid and as a highlight and shimmery taupe from Dior's Fidgi Island 5-coleur palette in the crease,blending outwards.Apply a coat of Lancome Fatale mascara for the eyes to pop out but yet look natural.Dont forget the brows,just use some Vaseline or Dior's Brow Gel to get the perfect arch.
On the lips,to give a clear shimmery shine apply Shiseido's Makeup Shimmering Lipstick in SL1 shade no. and blend it with your fingers to give a high-end couture shimmer.Top it with Lancome's Juicy Tube Lipgloss in First Class on the centre of the lips or DiorKiss lipgloss in Sobret Meringue to achieve the perfect pout.
I'm sure you'll love sporting this look in the Fall.

Couture cosmetic rivals please don't mind the extravaganza.There is something in the plate for you as well.
Note: -In the photos the shimmer may not be well appreciated but I saw the things backstage on FTV.