OCM: the only cure, more makeup

Korres Pomegranate Mattifying Primer

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 12:35:00 -0700

On my recent trip to Sephora, I decided to try the Korres Pomegranite Mattifying Primer ($33). If you’ve never heard of Korres, it’s a great skincare brand dedicated to using natural ingredients. Having heard so many good things about how great they smell and how effective their products are, I decided to give Korres a shot. I’m currently using the Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation primer and I love how it creates a smooth canvas for my foundation, but I’m all for finding a better makeup primer.

You all know how annoyed I get how oily my skin gets at the end of the day, so when I find the word “mattyifying” on any product, I’m all ears. The first thing I notice with this primer is the smell. The scent is not exactly fresh or fruity, and doesn’t smell like pomegranate to me—I definitely could do without it. The application isn’t exactly impressive either, I find that my foundation doesn’t blend well with this primer. I even used my all time favorite foundation (Make Up Forever HD, which blends like a dream!) with this primer and my foundation looks as if it’s sitting on top of the skin.

The texture is creamy and pretty thick, so it feels like a lotion with a peach tint. The tint is much lighter than my skintone and I’m not a fan how it creates a mask on my face when I apply it. It probably doesn’t make huge change in my skintone, but shade and tone are some things I look for when choosing a foundation, so when I choose a foundation, I expect it to stay that shade and I don’t want other products to alter the shade. The primer didn’t exactly control my oil production either, if anything it made my foundation look cakey and patchy.

After hearing so many great things about Korres, I’m disappointed how the first product I tried from their line was a huge fail. I’m hoping their skincare products are much better than their makeup line.

PROS:
-NONE!

CONS:
-Smell
-Not mattifying
-Horrible primer (foundation fails to blend)
-Tint

Have any of you tried Korres products?

XOXO, Alyson

Spring Manicure Idea

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 12:14:45 -0700

Check out the details here.

Latest Additions

Sun, 11 Mar 2012 15:22:00 -0700

Sorry for such a LONG hiatus! I’m still obsessed with beauty more than ever due to my new job (more about that in another blog!), but I’ve been having a hard time finding the energy to sit down and actually blog.

Since my last post, I’ve been investing in a good skincare regimine. Although I am far from finishing, I think these additions are giant leaps forward in making my skin the best that it can be. Keep in mind that I do not have sensitive skin, my skin has gone through some brutal acne treatments.

Kate Sommerville Exfolikate: $86
For a while, I’ve been using the Origins Modern Friction and although I do love how great it brightens my complexion, the grains were too coarse for how often I like to exfoliate. Don’t get me wrong, I love Origins and will continue to use it due to the fact that none of their products carry any parabens, sulfates, or synthetic fragrances in it. However, for my exfoliating needs, I needed something with stronger ingredients but less abrasive.

PROS:
-Ultra fine grains
-Really brightening
-Minimal product needed
-Smells refreshing

CONS:
-Expensive
-Has parabens
-Stinging affect after use, sensitive skins beware!
-Heightened skin sensitivity (wear sunscreen!)

DDF Glycolic 10% Tonic Complex: $40
I haven’t used toner since I was in middle school and even then, I didn’t notice any difference when using it. So for 10+ years, I never bothered using it. After doing some research on glycolic acid and how well it gets rid of acne scarring (which I have tons of!), I decided a toner would suffice instead of an actual peel. This toner has raving reviews on Sephora and I couldn’t agree more. After two weeks of using this toner, my skin texture is more refined, my scars are fading, I have fewer breakouts, and my skin isn’t as oily. I don’t think I can stop using it, my skin glows when I use it! If your skin is on the sensitive side, you might want to try a toner with 2% glycolic acid like the Mario Badescu Glycolic Toner.

PROS:
-Refined skin texture
-Fewer breakouts
-Acne scars fading
-Oil control

CONS:
-STINGS! Sensitive skins beware!
-Strong peppermint smell
-Has parabens
-Heightened skin sensitivity (wear sunscreen!)

Lancome Genefique Youth Activating Youth Concentrate: $60
This serum claims to reverse signs of aging and gives skin a more youthful look. I don’t want to bore you with the scientific research, but it’s basically supposed to be a miracle serum. Sadly, I haven’t noticed a huge difference (probably due to my DDF Toner) in skin texture. It keeps my skin baby soft, which is a plus.

Lancome Genefique Eye Youth Activating Eye Concentrate: $60
I bought this eye cream around the same time as the serum (2-3 weeks ago), and I also haven’t noticed a big difference in my skin around my eye. I do like how it keeps my eye area moisturized, but I haven’t seen any decrease in wrinkles around my eyes. I’ll definitely give the Genefique skincare line a month or two to give my final verdict.

Next on my wishlist is the Clarisonic MIA ($119), Shiseido Pureness Deep Cleansing Foam ($22), Shiseido Pureness Balancing Softener Alcohol-Free ($24), and Shiseido Pureness Matifying Moisturizer Oil-Free ($33).

What are some products you cannot live without in your skin care regimine? I’d love some suggestions! Happy Sunday Funday!

XOXO, Alyson

5 Ways To Create a Winter Spa Retreat At Home

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 13:56:00 -0800

Feeling the winter chill? Creating a mini spa retreat within your home is great way to enjoy the benefits of a relaxing and rejuvenating salon without paying for the costly treatments. While enjoying your spa in the right surroundings will make it more fun, these five suggestions will help create the perfect winter retreat, wherever you may be.

Have a stack of warm fluffy towels ready

Before starting a DIY face or hair mask, pop some fluffy towels in the dryer. Warm towels make you feel warm and cozy, and are perfect for the winter time.

Create a steam bath…in a cup!

Lush’s new Dream Steam steamer tabs are perfect for steaming your face—in a cup! Drop one into a mug of boiling water and place your face over the steam. It will help to open your pores and the rose petals work to soothe and moisturize your skin. Then when it’s cool, place the water in a spray bottle and use it as a scented mist over your face or your feet!

Play soothing music

Feeling relaxed is essential during spa time. Playing soothing music such as waterfall or beach sounds, or even your favorite classical tunes, will help you calm those busy thoughts.

Drink a good-for-you herbal tea

At the end of a spa treatment, you often unwind with a warm cup of herbal tea. Try chamomile for a relaxing effect, or ginger and lemon for an invigorating energizer!

Create DIY face masks

Whether you prefer pomegranate, grapefruit, carrot, or blueberries, Beautylish has a DIY face mask recipe that will work for you. Browse through to find your favorite, then indulge! You’ll find most of the ingredients in your fridge.

See post here.

Really useful ideas from Beautylish when I do at-home facials! I personally love using all of the Origins masks!

XOXO, Alyson

Milkmaid Braid

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:40:00 -0800

Totally loving Nicole Richie and Mary Kate Olsen’s version as well!

Here’s how to do it:

XOXO, Alyson

pics here

Braided Updo

Fri, 13 Jan 2012 00:36:33 -0800

LOVE this!

XOXO, Alyson

Instructions and blog here.

My Classic Manicure Tutorial

Wed, 11 Jan 2012 15:21:00 -0800

My friends often ask me how I do my nails and TRUST ME, it’s easier than you think!! I don’t mind giving myself manicures every week. In fact, it’s so relaxing to me and takes no time at all!

SUPPLIES:
Pure acetone nail polish remover (if you have weak nails, switch to something gentler)
Cuticle softner
Nail file
Buffer
Cotton balls
Nail cutter
Base Coat (My fav is L’Oreal Colour Riche One Stop Base Coat)
Nail polish of choice (OPI Vodka and Caviar pictured)
Top coat (I highly recommend Seche Vite)
Hand cream

STEP 1:
Cut nails and file to a rounded square shape. Buff edges of nails where you filed your nails to prevent snagging.

STEP 2:
Apply cuticle softener. Wait a couple minutes and gently push your cuticles back using a towel (or use a metal pusher if you have one).

STEP 3:
Soak a cotton ball with nail polish remover to get rid of any residue/oil on your nails to help the base coat adhere to your nail properly.

STEP 4:
Apply a thin layer of base coat (so necessary!). Base coat helps your nail polish last longer and protects your nails. If using a nail polish that stains your nails easily (such as red), apply another layer.

STEP 5:
Using your favorite nail polish, apply two thin coats. I paint slowly to get a precise line and to prevent polish on my skin. Don’t forget to paint your tips to help keep the chipping at a minimum!

STEP 6:
Apply a layer of top coat. My absolute favorite is Seche Vite—my nails dry in about 5 minutes! Use a q-tip soaked in nail polish remover to clean up any necessary mistakes. Moisturize your hands and then you’re out the door!

Voila! My manicure lasts for about a week and I almost never get any chips. Hope you enjoy my tutorial! :)

XOXO, Alyson

Rediscovered

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 21:07:00 -0800

For the past couple years, I have steered clear of tinted moisturizers (even in the summer!). Adding more moisture to my already oily skin was such a huge no-no for me that applying it in the morning would turn me into MAJOR grease ball an hour later!

However, since moving back to the Bay Area from Southern California, my skin is adjusting to the colder temperatures and my skin is ACTUALLY DRY! So lately, I have been using tinted moisturizer instead of my usual mattifying foundation and it has seriously brought life back into my skin!!

Most tinted moisturizers give barely any coverage and I really like the look of medium to almost full coverage. After trying a couple out, I found that the Laura Mercier Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer gives pretty decent coverage. I’ve been using this tinted moisturizer on and off for the past couple years and I forgot how much I love it! Unfortunately I would definitely NOT use this if you have combination oily to oily skin. My cousin who falls in this category loves the Estee Lauder Double Wear Light Foundation if you’re looking for a light coverage.

XOXO, Alyson

Image from Nordstrom.com

Lauren Conrad's 7 Days to Skinny Jeans Plan

Sun, 08 Jan 2012 14:53:38 -0800

The Rules

Commit. Keep your eyes on the prize (a.k.a. those darn skinny jeans) and if possible, enlist a partner in crime. It’s always easier when you have a buddy for support!
Drink lots of water! At least 8-10 glasses a day.
Pick one exercise to do every day (save one day for rest).
Pick one meal from each category for each day.
Pick one snack for each day. (I like to have a snack between lunch and dinner, but the timing is really up to you.)
If possible, try to sneak in your exercise before breakfast. Otherwise, just make sure you squeeze it into your schedule. This is the important part!

Breakfast Options

Greek yogurt topped with walnuts, a handful of berries (or sliced banana) and a light drizzle of agave nectar
Steel cut oatmeal with 2 tablespoons of dried apricots, 2 tablespoons of slivered almonds and a splash of almond milk
Veggie omelet with a slice of whole grain toast (Click here for my favorite omelet recipe!)
Breakfast smoothie
Half an avocado stuffed with cottage cheese and a side of sliced tomato
Ezekiel toast topped with 2 sliced up hardboiled eggs served with half of a grapefruit
Breakfast Quinoa (Make a big batch and eat it for breakfast for a few days. It’s delicious!)

Lunch & Dinner Options

Whole-grain pita filled with chicken, arugula, sliced tomato a teaspoon of crumbled feta and a drizzle of olive oil; serve with a side of grapes
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken with a small side salad (use a mixture of lemon, olive oil and balsamic vinegar for the dressing)
Zucchini “Pasta” with a side of quinoa
Two slices of cauliflower crust pizza with a side of steamed vegetables
Sesame-Tofu Stir-Fry (Another excellent meal you can make a big batch of to last a few days.)
Beet, Orange & Fennel Salad with a side of quinoa
Healthy Chicken Salad served over lettuce or on a slice of whole-grain toast

Snacks

1 medium apple with 1 tablespoon of peanut butter
1 cup of red grapes and a low fat string cheese
¼ cup of almonds
½ cup of bran cereal (or Grape Nuts) with milk and a few berries
Raw veggies with 3 generous tablespoons of hummus
1 hardboiled egg with a few whole-grain crackers
Celery with a tablespoon of almond butter and a few raisins

Exercise Options

30 minutes of cardio (running, kickboxing, elliptical, swimming, step aerobics etc.)
1 hour of yoga or Pilates
Intervals: run for 60 seconds, walk for 90 seconds (repeat 8 times)
Circuit: 100 jumping jacks, 20 crunches, 20 squats, 10 push ups, 25 bench dips (you can do this using a chair), 60 second wall sit, 60 second plank (repeat two times)
1 hour hike with steady incline
Quickie: 20 lunges, 50 jumping jacks (or swap out jumping jacks for jumping rope for 2 minutes)
Semi-Quickie: 15 minute jog, 20 squats, 20 sit-ups

See her post (incl the pic!) here.

XOXO, Alyson

Yuri Ebihara

Fri, 06 Jan 2012 16:40:00 -0800

Pretty smokey eye for a night out! Happy Friday!

XOXO, Alyson

Facial Massages

Wed, 04 Jan 2012 15:08:00 -0800

Due to my latest obsession with Japanese skin care, I came across the Shiseido Facial Massage. Shiseido even claims these massages prevent wrinkles and stimulates blood circulation for better looking skin!!

I’ve always noticed these facial massage diagrams whenever I read Japanese magazines and I’ve always wondered how to properly do it. I started doing these facial massages last night with my regular moisturizer and it’s seriously so relaxing to do after a long day! It’d be even great to do after your weekly facial to keep you relaxed.

LET’S BEGIN!

Maximize the revitalizing benefits of your Facial Massage by creating a calm, comfortable environment.

Always start with a clean face. Smooth massage cream over your face and on your fingertips, using enough to allow your fingers to glide on your face. Apply more as needed throughout the massage.

White Lucent Brightening Massage Cream

Benefiance Firming Massage Mask

The Skincare Moisture Relaxing Mask

The Shiseido Facial Massage

Use your ring and middle fingers to ensure soft, even pressure. Remember to work with light, gentle strokes. Massage slowly and rhythmically, matching your movements to your breathing. Slow down the pace as your massage progresses.

STEP 1: Forehead - Tones muscles to prevent the formation of horizontal lines.

Starting at the center of forehead, gradually move fingers across the brow in 6 complete circular motions. Repeat 3 times. Finish by gently pressing the pressure points at the temples for 3 counts. To locate your pressure points, feel for slight depressions between the bones at the temples. Pressure applied should feel pleasant and invigorating, never painful.

STEP 2: Nose - Prevents the formation of horizontal lines.

Slide fingers downward along the sides of your nose, starting from the inner hollow of the eye. Use left hand to massage the right side of the nose, and the right hand for the left side. Repeat 3 times on each side of nose.

STEP 3: Nostrils - Helps unclog pores and prevent blackheads and blemishes.

Circle back and forth around nostrils, applying extra pressure during the upward stroke. Repeat 6 times.

STEP 4: Mouth - Minimizes lines around mouth and sagging at lip corners.

Massage along the lower lip, moving outward and upward to lift the corners of the mouth. Release gently. Repeat 3 times.

STEP 5: Cheeks - Helps prevent sagging.

Massage outward from the chin to the earlobe, in 6 circular motions, focusing on the jawline. Glide fingers to corners of the mouth and massage up to the middle of the ear. Glide again to the nostrils and massage to the temples. Glide back to chin and repeat all steps 3 times. Finish by pressing the pressure points at your temples.

STEP 6: Eyes - Prevents the formation of wrinkles and sagging under eyes.

Makes eyes look less tired by minimizing dark circles and puffiness. First, press the pressure points just under the brow bone below the inner eyebrows and count to 3. Then glide fingers under brow, around and under the eyes, and back to the starting point in 6 counts. Repeat entire procedure 3 times, moving gently over the eyelid to press at temples on the final count.

STEP 7: Neck - Prevents the formation of horizontal lines and sagging.

Helps ease tension and stiffness at the nape. Using the palms of your hands, massage your neck by gently stroking upward from the collar bone to the base of the chin. Alternate hands as you move from the center to either side with 6 strokes out, then 6 strokes back. Glide lightly at the center of the neck and increase pressure as you move outward.

STEP 8: Chin - Tones muscles to prevent sagging.

Grasp your chin between your index and middle finger at the jaw, and gently slide your fingers across the length of your jaw, creating a scissor-like motion. Bend index finger and place it under the jaw. Use the side of the index finger and pad of the thumb, massage back to right ear. Repeat with left hand. Repeat entire procedure 6 times.

STEP 9: Ears - Regulates the body’s overall balance through stimulation of pressure points that send reflexes to other parts of the body.

Massage upward in spiral motions, using the thumb and index fingers, counting to 5. On the 6th count, slide your thumb down the jaw as close to the ear as possible, and back to the earlobe to stimulate the numerous pressure points in this area. Repeat 3 times.

Here’s a video where they show a shorter version of the massage:

XOXO, Alyson

Massage found here.

Lifesaver!

Tue, 03 Jan 2012 17:46:43 -0800

Do you ever find yourself needing to put your hair up but you don’t have a hair tie handy?!

I found these helpful videos whenever you need your hair out of your face—no elastic needed! I can’t tell you how much I love these videos!!! GENIUS.

XOXO, Alyson

Obsession

Mon, 02 Jan 2012 15:54:00 -0800

I’m a bit late jumping on the Asian beauty products train…but let me just say that ever since I have tried Lucido-L Designing Aqua, I’ve been HOOKED!

I’ve been researching Asian beauty products for the past two weeks and I couldn’t be more excited to have picked up Shiseido Tsubaki Shampoo and Conditioner, Sana Hadanomy Collagen Deep Moisturizing Lotion, and Kracie Naive Green Tea Facial Cleansing Foam!

Keep in mind that I have really long, straight, thick, and fine textured hair, so my results could vary from yours. There are three lines in Shiseido Tsubaki (increasing in moisture): Shining, Head Spa, and Damage Care. I’ve read that even though their Shining Line is the least moisturizing and intends to focus mainly on hair shine, according to some reviews, people have reported their hair being oily at the end of the day (just a warning that people with an oilier scalp will probably not like Shiseido Tusbaki).

I’ve been only using these products for a few days, so here are my thoughts on the Shiseido Tsubaki Damage Care Shampoo and Conditioner…

PROS:
-Keeps my hair soft, shiny, and really moisturized
-Smells AMAZING, the smell lasts all day!
-Refill packs are available!

CONS:
-Availability: Might have to order online, but found mine at a local Japanese market
-I find myself needing to wash my hair everyday or use dry shampoo at the end of the day, might not be suitable for those with oilier hair
-Pricier than most drugstore shampoos and conditioners, paid $16.99 for each

As for the Sana Hadanomy Collagen Deep Moisturizing Lotion, I haven’t noticed any immediate results yet. I got a recommendation from a friend who credits her smooth, beautiful skin to this lotion and swears that she always goes back to this lotion after trying out other products. I can’t wait to keep using and see the improvements!

PROS:
-Smells fruity
-Great light moisturizer for oilier skin types or in the summer

CONS:
-Skin feels a bit sticky after applying
-Not moisturizing enough in the winter, I need to apply another moisturizer
-Difficult to get product out of bottle
-Availability: Might have to order online, but found mine at a local Japanese market

You can read more about the lotion here (LOVE her blog by the way!).

Onto the Naive Green Tea Facial Cleansing Foam…I’m a huge fan of Origins skin care and I’ve been using their Checks and Balances face wash for quite some time now. It’s been good to my combination skin and I love how foaming cleansers make my skin feel squeaky clean. So naturally, when I heard about the Naive Cleansing foam, I had to try it! I chose the Green Tea cleanser since I’m pretty acne prone, and it claims to minimize pores.

PROS:
-Lots of foaming action!
-Skin feels squeaky clean
-No breakouts yet

CONS:
-Not keen on the scent, isn’t fresh or fruity smelling
-If I use day and night, it’s really drying on my skin, will have to try the Peach cleanser next time
-Availability: Might have to order online, but found mine at a local Japanese market

Do you have any favorite Asian beauty products? It can be so tricky picking out which products to use since they’re usually written in Japanese, so any tips or recommendations from you would be so great! :) Totally wanna try M Perfect Cover BB Cream and the Missha Marine Forest skin care line next!

Happy New Year everyone and I also wanna say THANKS to all my beautiful readers! You all keep me motivated to keep going with this blog! <3

XOXO, Alyson

Beauty New Year's Resolutions

Sat, 31 Dec 2011 08:00:05 -0800

Next year, I promise to…

Moisturize my body as soon as I step out of the shower to lock in moisture.

Take off my makeup and wash my face, no matter how tired I am.

Moisturize my hands and cuticles more, especially before bed.

Exfoliate my face at least twice a week.

Give myself facials at home once a week to clean out my pores.

Upgrade my skincare regimen and to start using anti-aging products.

Deep condition my hair once a week to keep my hair healthy.

Start using heat protectant spray every time I style my hair.

Massage my scalp when I shampoo my hair to promote hair growth.

Clean my makeup brushes every week.

Be more experimental with my makeup, even if I don’t think it looks great on me.

Drink more water.

Take vitamins.

Smile more.

What are your beauty resolutions this year?

XOXO, Alyson

NYE Inspiration

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 11:08:00 -0800

Tomorrow is NYE and I seriously can’t believe how fast the year has gone! I don’t know about you but I’m frantically trying to find makeup and hair ideas for tomorrow night…

To see Kristin Cavallari’s makeup products used in her nude dress, click here.
For Lauren Conrad’s makeup and hair in The Hills series finale, click here.
To recreate Kristin Cavallari’s makeup similar to the picture with the silver dress, watch below—it’s one of my favorite tutorials!

For more holiday ideas, check out the rest of my entries.

Have a safe NYE!!!

XOXO, Alyson

Christmas Party Makeup II

Sat, 24 Dec 2011 16:58:00 -0800

There are probably many of you that are turned off by the idea of red lips (although I think EVERYONE can pull off red either as a lipstick, stain, or gloss), so here are other Christmas alternatives if you prefer a sultry, smoky eye…

FACE
Benefit Porefessional Pore minimizer
Make Up For Ever HD foundation #140
Mint Brush #10
Beauty Blender
Make Up For Ever HD Concealer #330
Mac blot powder
Mac Enough Said blush
Mac Melba blush

EYES
Make Up For Ever flash color palette
Nars Rajasthan Duo - dark green
Mint Brush #22
Nars Rajasthan Duo - bronze
Mint Brush #20
Make Up For Ever Diamond powder #15
Mint Brush #24
Mac Smolder kohl pencil
Shu Uemura eyelash curler
Maybelline Voluminous mascara
Red Cherry #503 lashes
Mac Espresso e/s (eyebrows)

LIPS

Mac Sublime Culture lip pencil
Nars Belle du Jour Velvet lip pencil
Mac Instant Gold gloss

Original post here.

If you want something a little more sultry…

Avon Ideal Shades Foundation
Collection 2000 Concealer
Sleek Make up Luminous pressed powder
Mac Harmony Blush
Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer
Sleek Make up Palette in Sparkle 569 (green)
Mac Impeccable brow pencil in Taupe
Mac Brow set in Beguile
Mac Tarnish Eye Pencil
Eyeko skinny Mascara
Lips Avon Shine Attracts P401

For those who even dare…

Just even replicating these glamourous green eyes would be a pretty Christmas look!

17 - Lasting Fix Lipstick
Barry M - Fine Glitter Dust
Becca - Shimmering Skin Perfector - Pearl
Bobbi Brown - Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
Butter London - Nail Laquer - La Moss
Chanel - Illusion D’Ombre
Hourglass - Film Noir Full Spectrum Mascara - Black
Hourglass - Film Noir Lash Lacquer - Kohl
Laura Mercier - Loose Shimmer Powder - Stardust
NYC - Colour Wheel Mosaic Face Powder - Pink Cheek Glow
Paula Dorf - Sheer Crease Brush
Rimmel - Lasting Finish Lip Liner - Black Tulip
Shu Uemura - Eyelash Curlers
Stila - Natural Finish Make Up - Atomic
Suqqu - Balancing Eyebrow Powder
Suqqu - Cheek Brush
Suqqu - Eye Shadow Brush - L
Suqqu - Eyebrow Brush - S
Tom Ford - Eye Colour Quad - 08 Sahara Haze

Original post here.

Have a Merry Christmas eve! Hope you have as much fun as I do getting ready for your holiday celebrations! :D

XOXO, Alyson

Christmas Party Hair and Makeup

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 14:08:00 -0800

Christmas is already around the corner and I’ve been getting makeup and hair ideas!

If that’s too much, there’s this look that would also look great on pictures. Don’t like the silver? Switch to gold if that goes better with your skin tone or switch to metallic eyeliner if the glitter is a bit much.

As for hair, here’s an easy tutorial perfect for parties!

Hope you all have a Merry Merry Christmas, everyone!!

XOXO, Alyson

Violet Smoke

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 12:35:00 -0800

Sorry about the little hiatus, I’ve been really busy with the holidays! :)

Anyway, I came across this gorgeous picture of Vanessa Hudgens at the 2008 Teen Choice Awards and thought it’d be PERFECT for holiday parties! This look will be particularly gorgeous on brown eyes!

FACE
Step 1 Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer, $52—my new fav primer!!
Step 2 Make Up Forever HD Invisible Cover Foundation, $40
Step 3 MAC Studio Finish Concealer, $17 on dark circles and blemishes.
Step 4 NARS The Multiple in Orgasm, $49 on cheeks.
Step 5 Make Up Forever HD Micro Finish Powder, $30 as your last step (after doing your eyeshadow).

EYES
Step 1 Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion Tube in Original, $19.
Step 2 Urban Decay e/s in Half Truth on your lid all the way to your crease and on your lower lash line.
Step 3 Urban Decay e/s in Ace on your outer corner.
Step 4 Mix Urban Decay e/s in Vanilla and Omen and place on your inner tear duct to brighten your eyes.
Step 5 Line your eyes and waterline with Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-on Eye Pencil in Zero, $18.
Step 6 Curl your lashes and pump up your lashes with your favorite mascara (mine is L’Oreal Voluminous False Lash Fibers Mascara). Use false lashes if needed.

LIPS
Step 1 NARS Lipgloss in Orgasm, $24

Happy Holidays, everyone! I will be posting more holiday makeup ideas this month as well, so stay tuned!

XOXO, Alyson

P.S. I’m also thinking about doing an actual makeup tutorial soon, let me know if you’re interested in seeing me do makeup!

Basics: Blush and Face Shape

Sun, 04 Dec 2011 21:14:00 -0800

Calling all blush fanatics, this entry is for you!

Ever heard of that blush rule to only apply blush to the apples of your cheeks? While that may be true for those lucky enough with oval-shaped faces, most women have different shaped faces. Determine your face shape and I’ll explain what techniques makeup artists use to enhance your looks depending on your face shape.

Oval
Apply blush on the apple of the cheeks and blend slightly towards your temple.

Long
To balance the length of your face, place blush on your apples and blend horizontally to widen your face. Dust your contour shade along your chin and on your forehead.

Round
Add some dimension to your face by applying blush to your apples and blending at a 45 degree angle. Use a contour underneath your cheekbones to give even more dimension.

Square
Concentrate the blush to the apples of your cheeks and dust your contour along your jawline to your ear to round out your face more.

Heart
Soften your jaw by placing the blush just below the apples of your cheeks and blend slightly towards your temple.

Happy blushing! :)

XOXO, Alyson

Diagram from Make Up Forever

NAKED 2 Palette?!?!

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 15:57:00 -0800

Urban Decay Naked 2 Palette

The Naked Palette by Urban Decay took over the internet via tweets, YouTube tutorials and reviews, sells more than one every minute, and remains (after two years on the market) the beauty industry’s best-selling palette! The most anticipated sequel since Empire Strikes Back, with shades ranging from the palest nude to the lewdest black, Urban Decay’s Naked2 palette takes full frontal to another level.

Blackout Blackest black with matte finish (Repromote, not available individually)
Booty Call Shimmery cork (New)
Busted Deep brown with shimmery finish (New)
Chopper Copper shimmer with silver micro glitter (Permanent)
Foxy Cream bisque with matte finish (Repromote, not available individually)
Half Baked Golden bronze with shimmery finish (Permanent)
Pistol Light greyish brown with shimmery finish (New)
Snake Bite Dark bronze shimmer with metallic base (New)
Suspect Pale golden beige with shimmery finish (Repromote, not available individually)
Tease Creamy pale brown with matte finish (New)
Verve Oyster with shimmery finish (Repromote, not available individually)
YDK Cool bronze shimmer with metallic base (Permanent)
Naked Sheer shimmery pinky neutral (Lip Junkie) (Permanent)
Good Karma Shadow/Crease Brush Dual-ended brush

availability: Now @ Urban Decay for $50; mid-to-late January for Sephora, Ulta, beauty.com, Macy’s; February 2012 for international

Excerpt via here.