For over seven years I've been writing about the over-exaggerated marketing claims made by cosmetics companies. I am, most certainly, not the the first or only writer to discuss how cosmetics companies market their products, but let me be clear - I am all for using well formulated, safe cosmetics. In fact, I am a bit of a cosmetics junkie myself.
I was introduced to Eli Dagostino through mutual work contacts in the fashion business. Part of my work is working with modeling agents and photographers and the like. When I first met Eli I was immediately impressed with the credentials of such a young person.
As a professional make up artist I rely on many tricks to create flawless finishes which last for hours and hours on the skin.
Of course I have access to a great many tools and products the average consumer doesn't usually buy or know how to use. However, most consumers want the same flawless finish with their make up as can be created by a professional.
And that means it is time for my annual sunscreen lecture. Yes, my friends are sick of me warning about sun tanning, sun exposure, avoiding excessive light exposure, proper protection when out of doors . . . . . . . .
Yes, yes all my dear friends; I hear you - but I will continue to lecture.
Here's why proper skin protection should be taken more seriously:
1. Skin Cancer is the most diagnosed cancer in North America at 3.5 million new cases every year.
A few years ago I was working with a designer here in Toronto, creating looks for her clients. It was through this collaboration I met Laurie Few. I created a special look for her; something outlandish while still being extremely sophisticated. To say Laurie's style is unique is to completely miss the point of her fashion sense. Laurie simply cannot be defined.
Many consumers are now asking more and more often what types of ingredients are found in personal care products. And more and more articles are appearing to tell us which ingredients to avoid.
Cosmetics companies realize that they have to be more open and clear about their ingredients and it is very easy to read the entire ingredient list on any cosmetics product. However, the companies have also become very good at misleading with legal definitions, simple label claims, and subterfuge.
Many of you know that one of my favourite past times is to wander through cosmetics departments just to hear the pitches the sales staff use to sell the very expensive cream and lotions and such.
I always preface with: I don't think the sales people are actually telling un-truths, even though these sales pitches are complete fiction, as they are trained to use these sales pitches. I blame the companies for over inflating their claims of the products and, of course, the marketing teams which create the "story" behind products.
While most of Canada is still in the deep freeze it is difficult to think about spring - but it is just weeks away! This season there are some serious trends that will dominate the make up landscape.
It's right after the Oscars and everyone is talking about who wore what and how fabulous all the gowns were and how amazing the celebs all looked.
I thought I would take a moment to point out some of the worst beauty advice offered by Oscar winning celebs (or performers). It's important to remember that just because a celeb offers an opinion does not make it a qualified or expert one.
Here are my top three cringe worthy Oscar Celebs' Beauty Advice:
I just got an email asking me where my "Best Beauty Buys of 2014" were; somehow I had completely forgotten to publish my annual list!
Sorry about that everyone; I was sure I had written and posted it. Just goes to show how powerful my dreams must be because that is the only way I can explain overlooking such a list. I simply must have dreamed doing it and convinced myself it was complete.
I had a great walk through my local drug store last night. I was on the hunt for a white body sponge to use in the shower (I recently switched the decor in my bathroom to all white). I didn't see any white sponges in the assortment on the shelf and asked the cosmetician if she might be able to locate one for me.
January always brings the list of resolutions. Some are just lofty dreams while others are real life-changing commitments. I have a list I would like to offer to all cosmetics/beauty/make up fans.
Here is the Beauty: BUSTED! 2015 Resolutions:
1. Clean Your Make Up Brushes
Most women never clean their brushes. It just seems like another chore to do. A host of problems occur with dirty brushes:
Here we are in the middle of the holiday party season! I am getting daily emails asking for tips and tricks on how to better use make up for the season, so I thought I would dedicate a few blogs to the best professional make-up artists' hacks that are easy to use at home.
From creating waterproof make up at home to making your natural lashes look like false ones, to turning any lipstick into a long wear, smudge proof formula, make up artists use tricks that are quick, efficient, and cost-effective.
Here we are in the middle of the holiday party season! I am getting daily emails asking for tips and tricks on how to better use make up for the season, so I thought I would dedicate a few blogs to the best professional make-up artists' hacks that are easy to use at home.
From creating waterproof make up at home to making your natural lashes look like false ones, to turning any lipstick into a long wear, smudge proof formula, make up artists use tricks that are quick, efficient, and cost-effective.
I'm often asked why I don't write more "how to" articles here at Beauty: BUSTED! After all, I am a professional make up artist and it would only make sense to do some "tips and tricks" articles, right?
For 21 years I've been telling people to limit sun exposure to help maintain the health of their skin. It seems it is a mantra I have to keep speaking.
I was reminded this week again about the dangers of over exposing the skin to UV radiation.
