Make Up Tricks

Mineral makeup may offer new hope for acne sufferers. Because mineral makeup has several unique qualities not offered in any other makeup product that make it ideal for helping cure acne.

To understand how mineral makeup can cure your acne it is necissary to look at the seven causes of acne:

1. Genetics. Sadly, nothing can change your genetics. If your parents had acne as teenagers there is a good chance that you will too.

2. Hormones. During adolesence, hormones called androgens become active and stimulate oil glands in your skin, increasing oil production. This, in turn, clogs pores, causing pimples and blackheads.

3. Stress. Although stress doesn't actually cause acne, it can add to the problem by affecting hormones.

4. Diet. Many times what you eat has been shown to cause acne. Most of the time acne is an adverse reaction your body has to a food allergy.

5. Washing your face too often. This can irritate the skin making acne worse.

6. Medications. Many medications can cause acne or make an existing condition worse. Read labels or talk to your paharmacist to find out if acne is a side effect.

7. Using greasy skin care products and oily cosmetics. Most makeup falls into this category.

While these are the casuse of acne it is important to remember that acne is ultimately a result of bacteria growing in clogged pores. Bacteria is organic and thus cannot grow or multiply without the presence of water. This is where mineral makeup plays an almost magical role in curing acne.

Mineral makeup is made of natural minerals derived from the earth, these minerals are not only inorganic but they are also extremely resistant to water. They actually act as a shield on your face keeping bacteria feeding moisture away from your pores. Mineral makeup is not soluable in water so even if you put water directly on your face the minerals will not be absorbed and the water cannot pass through.

Mineral makeup does not clog pores either. Because it is so finely milled during production, the granules are much smaller than your pores. This not only prevents acne from forming, but makes the makeup extremely easy to blend into the skin with a very flawless look and conceals problem areas very well. If you suffer from a break out the finely milled minerals are very effective as disguising it.

Because of these and other unique qualities mineral makeup is known througout the world as the skin care makeup and recommended to acne sufferers by dermatologists. Ultimately, it does not matter what the cause of your acne is, without water to feed the bacteria, and something to clog the pores and hold that moisture in acne cannot form or worsen. If you suffer from acne, mineral makeup may end up being your best friend.

Find more Mineral Makeup information at http://www.bare-mineral-makeup.info. Get the facts, ingredients, and benefits as well as advice about which brands are the best.

Acne can be a very upsetting condition but it is treatable and a good dermatologist should be able to help alleviate it although they may not be able to cure it altogether. Very often the acne will fade after awhile but unfortunately this can take some time. Sadly, even when the acne itself is gone, it can leave scars which can be very upsetting for the sufferer. The trouble with scarring is that it does not just get better like the acne itself; instead it just becomes a part of your complexion. Fortunately, there are some quick, easy and good things that you can do to make your skin look a little better. Makeup for acne scars can be a very good option if you are not keen on having more drastic treatments (such as acne scar removal surgery) or if the scars are not that serious but you would still like to make the skin look smoother through the use of acne scar covering makeup.

There is some very good makeup for acne scars that can be very effective in making the skin look much better and even making it look as though there is almost no scarring at all. There are also some camouflage make-ups that are made especially for this type of condition. They are made with special colors that have been formulated to match the skin tone and color and they are also not an irritant and do not contain oil, which can sometimes have an adverse effect on some acne sufferers.

There are many cosmetic manufacturers making and producing makeup for acne scars, so you should not find it very hard or difficult to get supplies. Usually the best place to get them is through Internet suppliers as they tend to keep a larger choice of makeup for acne scars than your local drug stores and they are also able to offer good discounts as they have a lower overhead than many traditional stores. A quick search online should be all that you need to do in order to find the makeup for acne scars that you want. Some of the stores also have help sections where you can get advice on which are the most effective products in reducing the appearance of acne scars.

There are also a number of online acne forums where you can get good advice as to what is the best makeup for acne scars and this can be a great help if you are new to using makeup to conceal your acne and are not sure which are the best types to choose. Makeup can be a great help to those wishing to make their acne scars less visible and with a little effort you can find all the advice that you need to make the right choice.

Timothy Gorman is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Clear-Skin-Solutions.com He provides more acne clearing solutions, remedies and more tips on makeup for acne scars that you can research in your pajamas on his website.

Step 1: Decide what type of skin you have.

This is important so you know how to care for your skin and what products to use. There are 3 basic skin types: dry, oily and combination skin types.

Type 1: Dry Skin

Dry skin occurs when the dermis does not secrete enough oil, or sebum. The result is tight, drawn, flaky skin and a dull complexion. In more extreme cases, dry skin lacks elasticity and can be extremely sensitive to the sun, wind, and cold temperatures.

Type 2: Oily Skin

This type of skin has over-reactive oil producing glands, which makes the face shiny, especially the forehead, down the central panel of your nose and the chin (the T-zone). The pores of this skin type are enlarged making it prone to blackhead, pimple and acne. Oily skin needs special cleansing to keep the pores unclogged.

Type 3: Combination Skin

People with combination skin typically have some oily skin and either normal or dry skin on different parts of their face. Normal skin has a balanced oil and water content and feels smooth and velvety, not dry or oily. Normal skin is evenly toned with tiny, generally unclogged pores. After a wash it feels smooth and comfortable. Normal skin only occasionally breaks out in spots.

Combination: Normal to Oil

People with normal to oily skin generally have normal skin on their cheeks and oily skin with enlarged pores on their T zone, the area that stretches across the forehead and down the nose and chin. The T-zone needs extra attention as spots may often break out in this area.

Combination: Dry to Oily

This skin type is also marked by oily skin in the T zone and dry, taut skin on the cheeks.

Step 2: Develop a good daily Skincare regime.

There are 3 steps to basic daily skincare:

a. Cleansing

b. Toning

c. Moisturising

Let's break down each step.

Cleansing does just that, it cleans your skin. By cleansing, you are removing any dirt, oil, bacteria and makeup.

Toning does three things: it removes anything that your cleanser didn't already take care of, it restores the pH level of your skin and it prepares your skin to receive the moisturiser.

Moisturising helps to seal in your skin's natural oils and it acts as a barrier between your skin and the environment. Even oily skin needs a moisturiser, but chose a light product. It is best to moisturize immediately after applying toner. Moisturising is something everyone of every skin type should do, including those with oil rich skin.

Besides these daily steps you should also, less frequently, exfoliate and use a facial mask.

Exfoliation allows you to remove dead skin cells sitting on the surface of your skin. The circular motion in which exfoliating should be performed also helps to stimulate your skin allowing oxygen to come to the surface. Exfoliating is a crucial step for those with either dry skin or those with dehydrated oil rich skin.

Facial masks give you an extra boost to combat any concerns you might have for your skin. Just remember not to keep your mask on for more than 15 minutes because you could actually burn your skin. All masks should not be applied on the eyes (there are eye masks specifically formulated for this delicate area) and should be washed off with a warm face cloth.

So how often should you really be doing all of this ? Cleansing, toning and moisturising should happen twice daily; morning and night. You can exfoliate and give yourself a mask every one to two weeks depending on your skincare concerns.

Here are the steps you should follow for your day to day routine:

1. Cleanse

2. Tone

3. Moisturise

And here are the steps to be followed on the days you choose to also exfoliate and apply a mask:

1. Cleanse

2. Tone

3. Exfoliate

4. Tone

5. Mask

6. Tone

7. Moisturise

This may seem like a lot to do but your every day routine shouldn't take more than 3 minutes and your weekly routine no more than 20 minutes.

Step 3. Choose appropriate skincare products for your skin type

Your beauty specialist will be able to advise you on the best products for your skin type and skin care routine.

Step 4. Lifestyle impacts on the health and appearance of your skin, here are some lifestyle tips for enhancing your skin's appearance:

1. Avoid over exposure to the sun.

Sun damage leads to hyper-pigmentation (brown spots) which can develop into serious skin disease. Excessive exposure can also exaggerate and thicken fine lines. Use an SPF 15 or higher foundation or sun cream on all exposed skin, especially on your face.

2. Don't smoke

Easier said than done for smokers but please remember your skin is a large organ and it needs a lot of circulation. Smoking impairs circulation dramatically. That's why smokers' skin can look dull and gray

3. Get adequate rest and nutrition

Eat right and get plenty of rest. Keep vitamins such as C and E in your diet regime.

4. Protect yourself from stress - both emotional and environmental stress.

5. Touch your face less and wash your hands more!

It's very tempting to pick, poke, squeeze, and scratch in front of the mirror. But the more you traumatize the skin, the greater your risk of scarring. Apply treatment products and let them work.

6. Keep your makeup clean.

Replace the sponges in your compact on a regular basis.

7. Exercise.

Exercise promotes capillary functioning which can decrease premature aging. It also increases oxygen to the tissues which helps skin look young.

Donna is a trained makeup artist with her own beauty business. As both a business women and a mom with 2 children Donna understands the time pressures on women today and through this, and other articles, has endeavored to take the complexity out of looking great with some busy women friendly beauty tips and advice. If you would like to read more of Donna's articles check out her website: http://www.coloursandscents.co.nz

Early-morning workouts notwithstanding, faded makeup and unkempt hair are usually more closely associated with sluggishness than sex appeal. But at the spring 2006 shows in New York, Milan, and Paris, underdone beauty made a memorable appearance on virtually every runway. The effect: a confident, self-assured woman whose seeming spontaneity only adds to her allure. Fortunately, this season?s take on au natural isn?t for flawlessly skinned supermodels only; the following ten trends are sprinkled with enough flattering twists that any woman can pull them off with aplomb.

In the Nude

Underscoring fashion?s return to minimalism, spring makeup was decidedly more discreet than any we?d seen for seasons. ?The goal is to create an ?is she or isn?t she?? look,? says makeup artist Viviane Hidalgo of Miami?s Primal Studio. ?For most women, that means using a concealer, a primer, and a moisturizer mixed with foundation to achieve good coverage.? In real life, a look completely devoid of color can run the risk of looking deadly, so Hidalgo urges women to use a subtle shade to emphasize their best feature. ?If you?ve got great eyes, for example, add a little definition in the corner,? she suggests.

On the Runway: At Chlo?, models wore only a smidge of liner along the top lash line; at Balenciaga, freshly scrubbed faces were enhanced with hints of carefully chosen color; and at BCBG Max Azria and Christian Dior, makeup was barely there at all.

Best Bets: Maybelline New York Revitalizing Concealer, Laura Mercier Oil-Free Foundation, Olay Complete Moisturizer, M.A.C. Prep + Prime Skin

Rope Trick

Each season seems to spawn a signature hairstyle, and for spring, braids were the models? crowning glory. If you haven?t worn them since the sixth grade, however, you may want to look before you leap. ?It?s a very young look,? says Kim L?pine of the L?pine New York salon. ?If you?re young and funky, you should do them everywhere, allover,? she recommends. For older or more sophisticated ladies, L?pine suggests ?a single braid toward the back of the head as an elegant detail for a bun or an updo.?

On the Runway: Funky cornrows ruled the L.A.M.B. runways; at Rochas, hair was plaited into skinny, princess-worthy halos; Viktor & Rolf?s stylists opted for ropey, oversize versions; and at Calvin Klein, strands were swept into a single loose, low-maintenance braid.

Best Bets: Goody Exquisite Rat Tail Comb, Mason-Pearson Brush, Biosilk Silk Therapy, Sebastian Shaper Hairspray

Hot Lips

In a season of understatement, some makeup artists relied on ruby lips to add a dose of drama?a classic, glamorous look that makeup artist Troy Surratt loves. ?A bold, sexy red lip is especially perfect for winter,? he maintains. What?s more, ?you don?t need to be scared of it. If you?re using a red lip, just remember to play down the rest of your face.?

On the Runway: Lips were a matte cherry at Alessandro Dell?Acqua, a glossy rich scarlet at Costume National, and a warmer tomato shade at Emanuel Ungaro.

Best Bets: Maybelline New York Moisture Extreme in Royal Red, Chanel Le Crayon Gloss in Grenadine, Urban Decay Pleather Pencil in Kink, Nars Lipstick in Heat Wave

Heavy Metal

Sparkly shadows in shades of gold, silver, and bronze made a strong showing on virtually every runway. According to Surratt, ?shimmer can play up anyone?s eyes, and golden shades tend to be the most flattering.? The key, he emphasizes, is dolling out the dazzle in small doses: ?Be sure to keep the shadow on the lid, and use only a tiny bit to highlight your brow bone.?

On the Runway: At Alberta Ferretti, golden shadows highlighted the eyes? inner corners, darkening to bronze at the browbone; Anna Sui used just a hint of sheen on the lids and lower lash lines; Chanel opted for a futuristic silvery shade; and John Galliano?s metallics (in keeping with the couture) took a Felliniesque turn.

Best Bets: Maybelline New York Roller Color in In-Line Ice, Bare Escentuals Foiling Glimmers, Girlactik Beauty Sparkle Eye Liner Set, Benefit Show Offs

Brown-Eyed Girl

Spring?s mink, sienna, and sable eye shadows proved that browns are anything but boring. ?It?s a nice balance between nude and made-up, and there are a bazillion browns to choose from,? says Bobbe Joy of the Bobbe Joy Makeup Studio in Beverly Hills. ?To amp up a neutral shadow, add a line of gold or iridescent shadow from the lashes to the crease, right down the center of the lid,? she says. ?It?s still a natural look, but it really opens up the eye.?

On the Runway: At Andrew Gn, eyes were enhanced with a warm walnut; at Celine, makeup artists opted for an offbeat ochre shade; Moschino?s chocolate shadows were coated with glitter across the crease; and at Vera Wang, eyes were swept with a more unassuming ecru.

Best Bets: Cargo Eye Shadow in Cocoa Beach; Cover Girl Eye Enhancers in Mink; Too Faced Eyeshadow Duo in Full Frontal; and Afterglow Multitasking Eye Shadows in Champagne Shimmer, Dune, and Coco

Pretty Slick

Despite its gangster associations, slicked-back strands looked surprisingly fresh and pretty on the runways. In real life?without a team of stylists at your disposal??the look is best suited to those with thin, fine, or straight hair,? says hairstylist Lindsay Rider of the Bang Salon in Washington, D.C. Assuming you have the appropriate hair type, start by coating freshly washed strands with a smoothing cream, then blow-dry and finish with a shine spray. To ensure an end result that?s sleek, not slimy, ?use less product in the beginning,? Rider suggests; ?you can always add more later on if you need to.?

On the Runway: Hair was swept into shiny ponys at Chloe and Prada; Narciso Rodriguez used glossy strands to create an ultramodern French twist; and Alexander McQueen split the difference, slicking back strands in front and leaving them loose in the back.

Best Bets: Tigi Bedhead After-Party Smoothing Cream, Fr?d?ric Fekkai Glossing Cream, Redken Vinyl Glam 02 Mega Shine Spray, Citre Shine Mist Anti-Frizz Spray Laminator

Doll Face

Continuing a trend that began last fall, makeup artists relied on rosy blushes to give the models a fresh, pretty glow. For a convincing flush, rather than?80s-style racing streaks, selecting the right product is key. ?You want to avoid pigments that are too heavy for your skin tone,? Hildago explains. ?Creams and stains tend to work better on skin without enlarged pores, while powders tend to complement less-perfect complexions.? In either case, ?you should use a round motion to get good blending, and remove any excess with a tissue,? she adds.

On the Runway: Carolina Herrera?s models got a healthy pale-pink flush, while Zac Posen?s and Anna Molinari?s were treated to a more intense rosy shade.

Best Bets: Chanel Joues Contraste Blush in Rose Bronze, Nars Orgasm Blush, Fresh Blush Powder in Charm School, Cargo Blush in Topeka

Smudge Report

Thin is eternally in on the catwalk, but at the spring shows, makeup artists eschewed skinny sweeps of liner in favor of thick, more imprecise spoltches. According to Hildago, blurring the lines beautifully is largely a matter of choosing the right the product. ?To achieve a diffused look, use a soft kohl pencil to rim the eye,? she says. ?Black can be very intense, so depending on your coloring, you may want to try a neutral brown or taupe instead.?

On the Runway: At Donna Karen, eyes were enhanced with a smudge of black liner on the inner corners and an abridged cat?s-eye on top; at Givenchy, the lines were thicker and more intense, continuing around the entire eye; and at Louis Vuitton, dark lines were seamlessly blended with progressively lighter shadows on the lids and brow bones.

Best Bets: Revlon Colorstay Eyeliner in Black, M.A.C. Eye Kohl Liner in Smolder, Benefit Bad Gal Liner, Estee Lauder Artist?s Eye Pencil in Softsmudge Black

Wet 'n' Mild

On many runways, makeup artists used lip glosses to give neutral palettes a dewy sheen. To give your gloss more staying power, ?first prep your lips with a bit of foundation,? Surratt says. ?Then line them with a shade very close to your natural lip color, and fill in with a light gloss.? The liner, Surratt explains, will ?prevent the gloss from bleeding on to the rest of your face.? And if you opt for a nude, lustrous lip, ?play up your eyes, and add a little highlighter to your cheeks,? he suggests.

On the Runway: Pouts got a pale-pink polish at Behnaz Sarafpour, a rosy sheen at J. Mendel, and a coral-colored glaze at MaxMara.

Best Bets: Giorgio Armani Fluid Sheer Foundation, Clinique Sheer Shaper for Lips in Blushy, Stila Lip Polish in Glisten, Smashbox Lip Gloss in Shoot

Bronze Age

For years now, makeup artists have used self-tanners and bronzers to give porcelain-skinned models a faux glow. But for the past few seasons, we?ve seen the fad evolve into a subtler, more believable bake?a trend that continued on the spring runways. ?Self-tanners and bronzers can give nice color,? Joy says, ?but they tend to have a lot of orangey tones, so you need to choose the right one. One size definitely does not fit all, especially if you?re pale.? For a more realistic glow, ?use a blush on the apples of the cheeks, too,? she suggests. And remember, ?your head is sitting on your neck, so don?t forget to apply these products to your neck, shoulders, and d?colletage.?

On the Runway: Skin was tawny Michael Kors, a rosier glow at Oscar de la Renta, and glowing bronze at Versace.

Best Bets: Jergens Natural Glow, Clarins Liquid Bronze, Bobbi Brown Bronzer and Blush Duo, Stephane Marais Bronzing Powder

A Fine Mess

Deliberately disheveled manes provided a chic contrast to slick strands and cascading curls at the spring shows. According to L?pine, getting a sexy just-rolled-out-of-bed look requires a careful balance between chaos and control. ?Use soft-hold products, like light gels, waxes, and pomades, to give the mess some order,? she says. ?At that point, you can leave it loose or secure the hair discreetly with pins for a casual updo.?

On the Runway: Strands were messy and sexed-up at Libertine; pulled into haphazard updo?s at Luca Luca; and left loose and wavy at Roberto Cavalli and Missoni.

Best Bets: Bumble and Bumble Surf Spray, John Frieda Beach Blonde Ocean Sea Waves, Aveda Purefume Brillant Humectant Pomade, Matrix Biolage Shaping Cr?me Wax

Tara Mattarazzo is the editor-in-chief of Beauty Addict Magazine http://beautyaddictmag.com For more articles on beauty, hair care, skin care, makeup, fashion, shopping, fitness, women's health, and more, visit the Beauty Addict Magazine features page at: http://beautyaddictmag.com/thescoop/features/featureindex.html

Orange face, white neck. Brown neck, pink face. We all know someone with no perception of how her make-up really looks on her own face. She?s sweet, really sweet. But she?s a joke in your circle of friends. Oh, no. It isn?t you, is it?

Well, even if you don?t wear ?clown makeup,? chances are you're making some mistakes with your makeup. Take stock to be sure that you don't fall into any of the makeup traps below.

Mismatched Foundation

Your foundation should not be a different color from the rest of your body. Really, it shouldn?t. This is an easy problem to fix. March yourself down to the make-up counter at your favorite department store and let the salesperson do her job. It?s her job, after all. Don?t be intimidated, you don?t need to buy the whole product line.

Blue Eye shadow

Blue eye shadow works for some people. Little girls in dance recitals. Guests at 1970s-themed parties. Ethereal looking supermodels. If you aren't one of the aforementioned people then don?t wear it. Enough said.

Dark Circles Under Eyes/Obvious Under Eye Concealer

This is a chicken or egg problem. You?re right, the circles aren?t great. But neither are orange crescents under your eyes. Play around with a few shades of concealer to see what really works best for you.

Different products work differently on different people. Just because one brand works for your friend, doesn?t mean it?ll be flattering on you. Make sure you?re getting enough sleep and talk to your doctor. Sometimes those circles are a sign of allergies or a vitamin deficiency.

Obvious Lip liner

This is a look. It?s just not a flattering one. Lip liner is intended to add dimension to thin or small lips, to lengthen the wear of your lip color and to prevent your lipstick from ?bleeding? onto your face. It is not intended to create a visible outline.

Inferior products in your dressing area

Most of us are not starlets with dressing rooms and make-up artists at our disposal. But that doesn?t mean we don?t deserve to look like starlets with dressing rooms and make-up artists. Invest in good lighting around your vanity. Stock it with quality make-up brushes and limit your make-up collection to products you'll actually use. That way, your budget can be used to buy better cosmetics.

You?re worth it

Add a couple of extra minutes, a wee bit more effort and a little money into your daily makeup routine. It?s not vain to spend a few dollars on or a few minutes at your vanity. Put on your prettiest smile, bat your beautiful lashes and show the world that you like who you are.

Put your best face forward... you don't have to hide behind crow's feet and lip lines...

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Allison Saunders is a MAC qualified Make-up Artist and the author of an amazing new course, Hollywood Makeup Secrets a step-by-step simple video system for maximizing your inner and outer beauty potential. You can learn more about Allison, and subscribe to her free newsletter by visiting:

http://www.hollywoodmakeupsecrets.com/dt/s.php?id=9

(c)2005 HollywoodMakeupSecrets.com. All rights reserved. ----------------------------------------------------------

Are those fine lines and wrinkles worrying you? Before you do anything drastic?

Do you know that just taking care of your skin routinely can make a noticeable difference in its appearance?

There are five little steps for creating and maintaining healthy skin. They are to cleanse, exfoliate (lightly), freshen or tone, moisturize and protect. Treat your face, twice a day, to steps one through four. Seem too complicated? Some skin care products combine the first three into one timesaving step so all you have to do afterwards is moisturize. (Once a week, exfoliate your face more thoroughly to get rid of any build up of dead surface cells which can dull the appearance of your skin. Then carefully hydrate the newer cells to replace any lost moisture.)

Each morning, add step five to your regime. Protect your skin by using a sunscreen or sun block and then adding a foundation. Foundation helps to shield your face by providing a layer between your skin and the environment. The first trick it to match the color as closely as possible to your jaw line and neck. The second trick is to put on just enough foundation to smooth lightly and easily over your face (preferably with a sponge). Instead of covering up signs of aging, thick foundation settles into and emphasizes the fine lines and wrinkles you want to minimize.

There?s an urban myth that each time you sleep with your makeup on your skin ages by 11 days. Scary thought, isn?t it? Within two weeks of establishing a routine of caring for your face, you should start to reverse the effects of bad habits and see the results in clearer and smoother skin.

Once the appearance of your skin improves, makeup can be used as an enhancement rather than as a ?mask.?

Like foundation, too much concealer will detract from its intent. Concealer should be applied very lightly on under eye circles and blemishes and then blended well with your foundation

For eye color, choose warmer tones over cooler ones, lighter shades over darker, and matte consistencies over those with sparkle ? they?re less aging and ?kinder? to your face.

For eyeliners and eye brow pencils, select a shade of gray or brown or a complementary color rather than black. They?re more natural (unless your hair is black) and look much softer. To emphasize your eyes, line only the top lid and apply extra mascara on your lower lashes. Then ?open? your eyes with an eyelash curler.

For cheeks and lips, the most becoming colors are usually the ones that complement your natural warm skin tones.

Highlight either your eyes or your lips (but not both) then enjoy the visual effect of clearer, smoother skin with subtle makeup!

Sources: Mary Kay Inc., Robert Jones (simple beaute)

? Copyright 2005. Charlotte Maddox. All rights reserved.

Charlotte is an experienced independent beauty consultant with Mary Kay Inc.

Register on Charlotte's Mary Kay Inc. web site to receive a monthly email newsletter, Beaut-e-News(tm), with tips & techniques and a seasonal mailing of the The Look catalog with free samples plus the latest in skin care and color looks (complete privacy ensured).

http://www.marykay.com/charlottemaddox

If a picture is worth a thousand words, the answer can be found in The Best in Service video on my company web site.

But I'll try to explain ...

Say you?re looking for a fix to a skin care problem or makeup colors for a new outfit. You can go to a store OR you can contact your beauty consultant. If you go to a drug or discount store, you?re on your own to sort through the different brands and choices but you can save money. If you go to a department store, trained professionals help narrow your selections but you pay for your products plus the store's overhead. If you call a good beauty consultant, she can come to you, share her expertise AND offer your special prices and promotions.

OK, you try a few products but you?re not quite sure they?re what you want. Does a store provide free samples to try again later at your convenience? If you make a purchase, does a store call in a few days to ask if you?re pleased with your choices? A good beauty consultant does both.

If you?re happy with your purchases, does a store keep track of your preferences, suggest complementary items and call to update you about new products you might like? A good beauty consultant does. And, if your selection isn?t quite right, a good beauty consultant will reimburse you so that you're completely satisfied.

Are there in-store hostess programs? In other words, if you shop with a few friends, can you get some of your products discounted or for free? Do you have to wait for periodic store promotions to receive a gift with purchase or can you get one whenever you shop? What if you have a makeup ?emergency? and need products ASAP? Are your products dropped off or mailed to you by a store? A good beauty consultant offers you a hostess program, a gift with purchase plus product delivery or shipping any time.

With a beauty consultant, you can ...

~preview products and stay fashion forward with the latest beauty tips & trends plus application techniques

~request complimentary consultations as well as free samples of products

~experiment with skin care and cosmetics in the comfort of your home

~participate in hostess programs for special pricing

~arrange for personal gift services

~request product delivery or shipping

~be guaranteed 100% satisfaction

Oh, and you can get your skin care and cosmetics at cost ...

SO, what exactly does a beauty consultant DO for her customers?

? Copyright 2005. Charlotte Maddox. All rights reserved.

Charlotte is an experienced independent beauty consultant with Mary Kay Inc.

Register on Charlotte's Mary Kay Inc. web site to receive a monthly email newsletter, Beaut-e-News(tm), with tips & techniques and a seasonal mailing of the The Look catalog with free samples plus the latest in skin care and color looks (complete privacy ensured).

http://www.marykay.com/charlottemaddox

Choosing the correct color for your clothing, hair color and makeup is one of the biggest steps you can take to look your best.

With complimentary colors in cosmetics and clothing your skin tone will appear radiant and glowing, your eyes will appear brighter and clearer, your hair will reflect highlights and you will hear compliments - such as You look great?!

With ?clashing? colors in cosmetics and clothing your skin tone will appear tired and drained, your eyes may appear shadowed, dark circles are more apparent, even your teeth can appear with a slight yellow hue and you will hear comments - such as You look tired? or Do you feel OK?.

Coloring is generally broken down into cool and warm colors. You should match your skin tone in your fashion and makeup choices.

To determine the undertone of your skin, look at the underside of your arm. If your veins appear bluish you are cool toned, if they appear greenish you are warm toned.

Cool colors include jewel tones - blues, greens, pinks, purples, blue-greens, magentas, and blue-based reds. People with cool coloring look better in pure white than in off-white or ivory, and they can easily wear black

Warm colors include earth tones - yellows, oranges, browns, yellowish greens and orange-based reds. People with warm coloring look better in off-white or ivory than in pure white and look washed out by black.

Ladies with cool coloring should select a foundation that is more pink based and warm tones should go with a yellow based color.

Cool skin colors include: Very dark brown with reddish or blue undertones; Brown with pink undertone; True olive (most Asians and Latinos); Medium with no color in cheeks; Medium with faint pink cheeks; Pale with no color in cheeks; Pale with pink undertones; Ruddy-pinkish red and Brown or bronze tan.

Warm skin tones include: Very dark brown with golden undertones; Brown with golden undertone; Medium with golden undertones; Pale with peach or gold undertones; Golden brown when tan.

Celebrities with cool coloring include:
Elizabeth Taylor, Cher, Jaclyn Smith, Marie Osmond, Princess Caroline, Liza Minnelli, Marlo Thomas, Catherine Zeta Jones, Oprah, Snow White', Jaclyn Smith, Barbara Bush, Elizabeth Hurley, Gloria Estefan, Cindy Crawford, Angela Bassett, Michelle Kwan, Winona Ryder, Sophia Loren, Sharon Stone, Charlize Theron, Michelle Pfeiffer, Meg Ryan, Vanessa Williams, Courtney Cox, Elizabeth Taylor, Katie Couric, Demi Moore.

Celebrities with warm coloring include:
Nicole Kidman, Kathie Lee Gifford, Sarah Ferguson, Reba McEntire, Gillian Anderson, Molly Ringwald, Hilary & Chelsea Clinton.

If you can't decide, cool coloring is much more common than warm. (You probably know if you are warm.)

A Registered Nurse, Suzanne Ryan has a passion for helping women look and feel their best. She has received training in image consulting and color analysis. One of greatest passions is Mineral Makeup. Charts of cool and warm colors can be seen at her website, Mineral-Makeup-Reviews.com. Her latest adventure is The Beauty Blog.

While I don't believe that there are set-in-stone makeup tips for brown eyes, I do know some people like to have a set of rules to help them out. This article is going to cover some very basic steps that women with brown eyes can follow. Keep in mind that variety is the spice of life, and if you really like a color there is no reason why you shouldn't try it out. You may be surprised at how good it looks on you. In my experience, experimenting is all the fun. So, remember these are merely guidelines to help you choose colors when you're standing there in front of 300 colors and have no idea where to start. Just because I don't mention anything about a certain color does not automatically exclude it from the list.

Choosing An Eyeshadow

The most popular question I get is what eyeshadow can I wear with my eye color? Listen up, and I'll tell you.

General makeup tips for brown eyes always include browns, beige and neutral tans. Grays and charcoals look good with this eye color, as do violet and lavender. You can mix it up with a lavendar and a violet.

Khaki and olive green are a great color combination. Browns with green highlights or copper highlights are always a fun option. Try copper and even gold. If your eyes have a tinge of green, or like mine are half green, choose green eyeshadows as well.

You'll find that even though you've heard that you should never wear an eyeshadow the same color as your eyes, that brown shadow can look very good with brown eyes and green shadow can look very good with green eyes. Sometimes it's a matter of finding the right shade. Brown eyeshadows are all pretty safe, so you don't have to worry too much about those. Colors like purple, green and blue require a bit more testing.

Black is out, so don?t use it as an eyeshadow.

Keep trying until you find a color you like. You'll know when it's right- trust your instincts.

Colors To Avoid

Like I said, I hate to rule anything out, but makeup tips for brown eyes should include that certain pink and mauve eyeshadows can cause you to look swollen or puffy around your eyes. It isn't true for all women or for all pinks, either. But if you're certain you don't want to risk it, avoid pinks. Mauves also fall into this category. It may be because women with brown eyes tend to have more yellow skintones making them warm complexioned and pinks and mauves are definitely cool colors. The blue in the pinks can react with the yellow of the skin producing an unattractive feature.

And while it isn't specifically makeup tips for brown eyes, you may want to avoid blue eyeshadow too. There's the misconception that blue eyeshadow is out, but like I said, it really depends on who's wearing it. Playing it safe would include skipping this color.

Silvers are not a good color for brown eyes. They tend to cause a ?washed out? look. Leave silver for blue eyes.

Eyeliner Colors

And now for the eyeliner colors. Brown eyes always should include dark brown and black eyeliner. These are very good choices for this eye color. Don?t line your black liner too thick, though. That?s pass?. Racoon eyes are a big no-no.

If you?re trying to open small eyes, line with silver or white, especially the first third from the inside corner of your eyelid. Then finish with a dark brown.

Navy, forest green, violet and copper are also great eyeliner choices. Play around with the different colors and pick the ones you like best.

Lynn Starner is the proprietor of Beauty Bliss Mineral Cosmetics at http://www.beautyblisscosmetics.com as well as http://www.ultimate-skin-care-tips.com.

Staying current with today's cosmetics trends doesn't mean you need to hire a make-up artist to follow you around 24/7. This season's hottest cosmetics are simply fun and gorgeous, and anyone can do it with a little know-how. You probably already have almost everything you need for this season, with just a few key purchases to update your look.

Let's start with the eyes. Spring is the time to put away your dark matte winter colors and lighten up! Sheer colors are very in this year, with everything from green to orange showing up on eyes. The key is to apply with a light hand and never extend too far from your lid to your brow, or you'll end up looking clownish. Blue eyeliner has been seen all over the runways this season, but how to do it yourself? If you are unsure, start with light sheer blues that you can apply with a fine tip. If you have any blue eye shadows collecting dust now is the time to break them out. Simply use a slanted brush to apply a light dusting only around the outer edges of your eyes; this is sure to give you a fresh, pretty look without going overboard.

Lips and cheeks should also lighten up for spring. Glosses should replace heavier winter lipsticks, but any shade goes. Don't forget to lighten up on the lips if you are playing up your eyes. Focusing on one feature will help any makeup colors look subtle and natural, even when using some of the more bold spring colors. Shimmery pink for lips and for cheeks is always a hit, and helps to give anyone a bright youthful glow.

Try to ease up on your foundation use in the spring and summer months. Overuse of these products can make you feel weighed down and gives your skin a dull appearance. If your complexion is relatively clear and smooth, opt for oil absorbing sheets rather than loose or pressed powder. This helps to reduce shine without adding layers of makeup to your face. If you do use a powder during the hot months, such as a bronzer, try to opt for loose powder since you can apply less.

When it comes to this season's makeup trends, the thing to remember is have fun and experiment! Buying just one of the new colors can be just enough to update your look and keep your current.

Cynthia Bates is an Internet specialist, and periodically writes beauty and makeup articles for MakeupCraze.com.

Mineral Makeup is made from pure minerals from the earth. Unlike regular liquid foundations, mineral foundations have a powder consistency but are much different than your usual pressed powder. Mineral makeup foundations have the same coverage as liquid, without the oily mess you may be used to. Mineral makeup is all natural and is made up of crushed minerals and inorganic pigments found in nature. They contain no oils, and are light on your skin. This is perfect if you have sensitive skin.

Not only does mineral makeup give great coverage, but it has also been found to be good for your skin. Since Mineral makeup contains no oils it is less likely to clog your pores and cause breakouts. There is also a natural SPF found in most mineral makeup that will help prevent sun damage on your skin.

Another one of the great benefits of mineral makeup is that it won?t run off your face in the heat like most liquid foundations. Mineral makeup is great in humid weather, so even if you sweat, your makeup will stay in place.

Most major cosmetic companies are starting their own lines of mineral makeup. Most lines include foundations, concealers, blush, eye shadows, and even eyeliners in the most popular shades for the season.

Once you try mineral makeup you will not want to go back to regular foundations and concealers. The benefits of mineral makeup far outweigh what traditional makeup has to offer.

Kat White is the resident Bare Minerals fan at Bare Mineral Reviews

For more great reviews on your favorite mineral makeup visit http://www.baremineralreviews.com

For most women, part of the Literary morn and dusk routines involve a skincare regimen of applying creams, moisturizers, tonics, lotions, and the like. Why do women put themselves prep this? They do it especially to conflict the signs of aging, and to maintain youthful advent and beautiful film! It is a safe bet, nevertheless, that most women haven't put greatly thought below what is in the distribute that they are using.

Some women probably do not fulfil that what they are putting on their derma may actually be vitiation what they are irksome to prevent to begin by. In actuality the mean woman puts twelve commodities on her incrustation daily, most of which contain unhealthy chemical preservatives.

But true health and true beauty own an outer component, which is why we call protection from environmental insults such as solar diffusion, pollutants in our milieu and the drying effects of air. . . The reality is you simply cannot contain a healthy carcass if your pelt isn't healthy. And your skin can't be healthy if your are subjecting it to baleful substances that are at last engrossed prep your Slang stiff.

So, what can women do? How can they combat environmental pollutants, the affect of solar radiation, and the drying effects of air? How can they be sure they are using the exceedingly superb deal in on their skin so they can be healthy inside and out? Here are 7 tips to second in this process:

1. Be exceedingly aware of what is in skincare staples. Use market that are all customary as much as thinkable.

2. Usually for retail that contain Dermal Surface Restoration Technology. DSR smoothes gone missing factual signs of aging such as snicker lines, crows feet, and tedium.

3. Use market that have regenisomes. Regenisomes drill the skin to velocity cubicle renewal after sun revelation. They holdings use the light of photosomes to undo sun damage, and have ultrasomes to renew skin prep sleeping.

4. Reveal products with Proteo-C and Proflavonol-T. These two vitamins defend the skin from immature aging caused by the sun, pollution, and substitute environmental factors. They effects contribute advanced nutrition to the skin to keep it appearing smooth and firm.

5. If possible, use products that are paraben unconfined. Parabens are man-made chemical preservatives that are widely worn in live dolour products such as shampoos, conditioners, mane styling products, make-up, puss masks, skin lotions and creams, and deodorants. They valuables are typically fundamentals in baby lotions, shampoos, and variant personal care products for infants and offspring.

In addition, parabens are in uncountable foods and pharmaceutical products. Researchers are dawn to find parabens in benign and malignant human bosom tumors. While manifold studies have challenged their malignity in many products and question their long appellation affect on humans, using products that are paraben free can reject the risk of exposure to this destructive chemical.

6. Lap plenty of sea water! Sea water hydrates skin and hair as agreeably as flushes toxins out of the body.

7. Limit emphasis or understand to manage it effectively. Stress is harmful both emotionally and hysically. Find that stress reliever activity that mill best and use it on a daily basis!

Follow the on high 7 tips to true beauty and health.

Andrew runs a beauty blog: Beauty products - learn beauty products tips, beauty products secrets from our beauty products blog.

More Beauty Tips ==>
http://www-beauty.blogspot.com

It was not near lunch yet and I was already reapplying my lipstick. Usually, this was a mindless routine task, but on this morning something snapped. I was all alone and thought to myself in annoyance, I wish I could just tattoo my lips a natural color and be done with it. The thought was completely foreign to me and I took a second to consider the possibility. Interesting concept, I thought and then I forgot about it. Tattoos of any kind were way out of my box and one on the lips seemed unthinkable. Two days later, while casually thumbing through a magazine, I discovered there was such a thing as tattooed lipstick. It is called permanent makeup, cosmetic tattoo, dermal pigmentation or micro-pigmentation. Now, after years of freedom from applying lipstick, or practically any makeup, I find it unthinkable to be without my cosmetic tattoos.

Beauty Is Not Pain

I expected a lot of pain when receiving permanent lip color. In fact, it took me five years to muster up the nerve to do it. Finally, while doing extensive training with a permanent makeup practitioner, I decided to trust and put my face in her competent hands. I liked that she is an artist, as I am and her skills as a technician were being clearly and impressively demonstrated to me. It went surprisingly well. For the most part the topical anesthetic worked to block the discomfort, except for small twinges. One especially sharp twinge of pain brought tears to my eyes, but it vanished as quickly as it came. There was no fumbling about, her hands moved efficiently and with an instinct garnered from experience. For an hour or two afterwards my lips felt hot, tender and huge, more than they looked. Nevertheless, I got up from the chair and immediately went to a fine restaurant with a friend, enjoyed myself and took care not to order spicy food. The cosmetic tattoo procedure was simple and caused no inconvenience.

Make Your Lips Look Their Best

There are different options for permanent lip color. The first is a lip line; a single color in a crisp outline around the mouth. The second is a lip shaper; a lip line that is softly blended into the natural lip color. The third is full lip color. The fourth is a combination of full lip color with a lip line or shaper in a slightly darker or different color than the fill. Most lip colors can be achieved, but a good eye and the effective application of basic color theory is essential to success. You will not get the brilliance of topical makeup because permanent makeup is viewed through a veil of skin. Lip balm or gloss will give permanent lip color a lipstick-like sheen. One with sunscreen is always recommended.

The Best Kept Secrets About Permanent Lip Color

The first secret is augmentation. Cosmetic tattoos can create any number of effects on the face. When applying permanent lip color you make small, crisp and precise adjustments in shape that can create symmetry. You can also make lip curves more sensuous, adjust the balance between the upper and lower lip, make the mouth appear slightly larger or smaller, cover scars and even give the lips a subtle upturn. The second secret is based solely on my personal experience and that of some of my clients. It concerns age lines that radiate out around the mouth and tend to fill up with the lipstick you wear. Skillfully applied pigment into the edge of the lips, called the vermilion border, detracts from age lines and may stop or minimize lipstick from bleeding. Granted, it is not often that I apply lipstick, but when I do it stays put. A well-defined vermilion border is not only youthful, but I have been told consistently over the years that my age lines are not visible. I don't believe people were just being nice. The lines are still there, but visually the lips themselves dominate.

Cosmetic Surgery Considerations

What if you wish to address similar lip issues with medical cosmetic procedures? If you choose to get any kind of lip filler, then have permanent makeup done first so the lip shape is clearly established. If you already have lip filler, let it go away completely before having permanent makeup applied. If you wish to treat age lines around the lips, treat them first and then have permanent lip color added later. With these simple tips you can get the most out of your lips and look your best.

Dawn Willard?s extensive career in the fine and applied arts has included lettering, illustrations and photo and film styling. Twenty-three years as a photo and film stylist taught Dawn and array of artistic skills, one being makeup. Ms. Willard?s foray into permanent makeup began in 1996. She currently owns the Permanent Makeup Studio in Asheville North Carolina. She has explored a variety of techniques and has clients coming to her from Illinois, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, New Hampshire, New Mexico and numerous towns in western and central North Carolina. She can be reached at http://www.DawnColors.com or starjump@gmail.com.

Ideas and perspectives as to what constitutes a natural product vary. Is bread natural? Is fruit natural? What about soap? Or nail polish? What criteria can an interested consumer use to distinguish between a natural or synthetic product? The answer is not as clear as some would have you believe. The world around us is composed of atoms, molecules, compounds and chemicals. We manipulate the natural world around us so that new substances can serve our needs in ways not even imagined fifty years ago. This article will clarify what is natural and what is synthetic, followed by a discussion of how we should view synthetics and their implications in our daily use of cosmetics and personal care products.

What is Natural?

Nature is composed of physical, chemical and biological elements, principles and laws which govern the known and unknown world and universe. The term 'natural' is used to describe a substance or condition which is:

- in harmony with nature

- belonging or connected to nature

- derived or obtained from nature

According the U.S. National Organics Program (NOP), a natural substance is derived from a plant, mineral or animal source, without having undergone a synthetic process (defined in the next section of the article). Physical and biological processes can still render a substance as natural. For instance, dried corn kernels can be removed from the cob, then milled to produce corn flour. The corn has undergone a physical change, but is still considered natural. Yeast is an example of a micro-organism which can be an agent for biological change in a substance. This micro-organism is used to facilitate the process of fermentation of plant extracts, such as grape juice. The process of fermentation yields carbon dioxide and ethanol, which converts the grape juice into wine. Natural substances can result from physical and biological processes, even when the resulting substance cannot be found in nature independent of these processes.

What is Synthetic?

A synthetic substance is a compound which is made artificially through chemical reactions. Natural substances have been chemically modified through human labour or skill to yield substances which are chemically different from the pre-reaction substances. The NOP definition of a synthetic is a substance which has been formulated or manufactured by a chemical process, and has chemically altered a substance which was derived from a naturally occurring plant, mineral or animal source. These definitions encompass two types of synthetic substances: those viewed as natural, and those considered un-natural.

Fig. 1

NATURAL -------------------->SYNTHETIC ----------------> FUTURE

technically synthetic still viewed as natural

SYNTHETICS

Why the intermeshing of two seemingly opposing concepts? Consider what occurs during a chemical reaction. A combination of reactants undergo a chemical change, which is a loss, gain or sharing of electrons between or among atoms. The chemical reaction changes the physical properties of the reactants involved. For example,

Na (sodium: a silvery, metal poison) + Cl (chlorine: a poisonous gas) ---> NaCl (table salt)

Table salt no longer carries the physical properties of sodium or chlorine. Table salt, then, could be considered synthetic if human labour set up the conditions for the two elements Na and Cl to react. However, we can also find NaCl that is naturally occurring, such as in sea salt or mined salt. Commercially available salt has the same chemical formula, NaCl, but has been obtained from salt beds or underground lakes and then purified. Products resulting from chemical reactions which occur independent of human interference can be considered as natural substances.

What is a Practical View of Natural and Synthetic Substances?

Synthetic substances can best be understood as existing on a continuum (see Fig.1). Some chemical reactions occur naturally after minimal human input, such as enzymatic browning. This chemical reaction turns the surface of a cut apple brown in a few minutes because of a chemical reaction called enzymatic oxidative browning:

Phenolic enzymes (phenolases) join with tannins -? oxidation of phenols found in the apples-? melanines formed (brown or grey-black pigments)

Who would claim, however, that the resulting chemical changes transformed the cut apple slice into a synthetic food or that melanin, a pigment, is as synthetic as artificial pigments like acrylic? Contrast this with the creation of artificial sweeteners like aspartame or saccharin. These substances are hundreds of times sweeter than sugar, and are created through chemical reactions. They have no similar counterpart in nature and should be placed on the upper range of the synthetic continuum. Saccharin, for instance, is made from petroleum products and aspartame is made by combining aspartic acid, phenylalanine and methanol. Whether or not a chemical reaction has occurred, then, is not a reliable indicator to separate synthetics from natural substances since chemical reactions are part of the natural realm.

Human labour or skill is also not a differentiating factor between a synthetic or natural substance, simply because we can re-create and set-up conditions for naturally occurring reactions to take place. Baking cookies is an example of a product which does not exist in nature unless human labour and skill set up the conditions for a series of chemical reactions to occur in the oven to yield cookies. For instance, baking soda is one of the oldest leavening agents used in baking:

baking soda + acid (lactic acid found in milk, benzoic acids from fruits, etc) ---water--> salt + carbonic acid

carbonic acid ----- dissociates --> water + carbon dioxide

This is an example of a chemical reaction which is technically synthetic because of the addition of human skill, but is clearly viewed as natural since it contributes to a product viewed as natural and because the final results of the reaction are naturally occurring substances.

In the cosmetics industry, hundreds of ingredients are used to impose various effects on the skin. These ingredients range from purely natural ingredients extracted from nature in their original condition, to purely synthetic ingredients which have been created from synthetics through a complex series of chemical reactions and have no connection to nature any longer. So how is a consumer to decide which ingredients are natural and which are synthetic?

Every chemical reaction has three parts, and each prompts a series of questions to help us decide:

reactants ----- + -------- catalyst/energy process ----------> products

Reactants:

- Are these naturally occurring, i.e. taken from the earth in its original state or modified physically through grinding, melting, sifting, etc.?

- Are these the result of biological processes?

Catalyst:

- Is this a natural substance?

- Is this natural but toxic i.e. harmful to humans or the environment?

- Is this environmentally damaging to obtain or use?

- Is this re-usable?

- Is this synthetic? If so, where does it belong on the synthetic continuum?

- Is this a petrochemical?

Energy Process:

- Is the process externally imposed on the reaction?

- What is the source of energy being imposed and is it from a non-renewable or renewable source?

- Is the amount of energy needed to conduct the reaction minimal or energy intensive? This must be weighed against the benefit of the products resulting from the process i.e. is it worth the energy cost when compared to human benefit?

Products:

- Are these naturally occurring in the reactants but now separated out?

- Are these chemically different than the reactants in part or in whole?

- Are these toxic or non-toxic to humans and the environment?

- Are these biodegradable without impact to the earth through normal micro-biological or decay processes?

Implications for Daily Use of Cosmetics

There is a vast array of cosmetic products at our disposal. Why does the natural versus synthetic debate matter? Our personal health and well-being, as well as our environment locally and globally, are in question by the widespread use of synthetic substances. We cannot avoid all synthetic substances, and not all synthetics are bad for us. Many of these materials have improved the quality of our lives, but many have also deteriorated it. We do not know what will result from our use of certain synthetics in the long run. Cosmetics are products which we have a direct physical and emotional relationship with, as we wear them daily on our skin and bodies. The environment can be sustained or systematically destroyed by our choices. As consumers we can participate in the sustaining of eco-friendly organic farming practices, wise waste disposal, clean manufacturing processes and biodegradeability of ingredients. The choices are many, and the freedom to choose is ours. Where do you stand on the natural vs synthetic debate? The answer can make a difference to your health and our ecosystem.

The Organic Make-up Company considers synthetic ingredients to be those which:

- do not have natural reactants

- use petroleum derived reactants

- use catalysts which are petroleum derived or on the upper end of the synthetic range

- use processes which require pressure and/or heat which cannot be achieved with simple technology

- yield products through chemical reactions that have properties which are chemically (not physically) different from the reactants

- yield chemically produced substances which are not biodegradable through normal biological processes

The Organic Make-up Company considers natural ingredients to be those which:

- are derived, obtained or drawn from plants, minerals or animal sources such as beeswax (please refer to our policies on animal testing and use of animal part ingredients).

- have not undergone a synthetic process as defined under our criteria above of a synthetic substance

- are refined through physical processing

- result from biological processes

- result from simple chemical processes where the reactants and catalysts are natural as defined in this article and the statements above

- have been changed or created through the use of simple technologies such as those that can be found in a conventional kitchen

References:

- Freeland-Graves, Jeanne & Peckham, Gladys. Foundations of Food Preparation 5ed, Macmillan Publishing Co; New York:1987

- http://www.naturalmakeup.ca

Lori Stryker has been researching and developing all natural skin care and make-up for the purpose of offering men and women safe, natural cosmetics for everyday use. She brings to her research a specialist in human biology from the University of Toronto, coupled with a professional home economics degree and an education degree from the University of British Columbia, fusing chemical and biological knowledge with food, family and textile sciences.

You may use this article but any modification or publication of this article for fiancial gain must be approved of by the author. The author's name, Lori Stryker and her company's name, The Organic Make-up Company, needs to by noted when used.

1. For a natural look your foundation must match your skin tone. Test foundations along your jawline. You will know the best color because it will disappear into your skin.

2. Spread foundation on your hands and pat it on your face, then smooth out with a sponge making sure not to pull or stretch the skin. Be extra careful in the area around your eyes where the skin is super thin. Don't forget to apply foundation on your eyelids and lips.

3. To make foundation last apply moisturizer first giving the foundation a base. Dry skin will soak up the foundation if not given that base. For oily skin use an oil-free moisturizer and powder foundation

4. On hot days foundation can be difficult to keep looking fresh. Set your foundation in the morning using a loose powder and puff, then do regular touch ups throughout the day.

5. To cover imperfections apply foundation first and then go back and dot on a concealer that neutralizes red. For noticeable imperfections like very dark circles and birthmarks use a yellow concealer (available from Mary Kay). Don?t use too much powder in problem areas because it will draw attention to it.

6. To avoid a foundation line around the jaw apply foundation as usual then use a little moisturizer in your hand and blend it down your neck.

7. For evening mix some shimmer powder with your powder and put it where you want to attract light such as the bridge of the nose, underneath the brow bone, the temples, cheekbone, chin and shoulders.

8. Always use a foundation with a sunscreen of at least 15 to prevent future sun damage.

9. Change your foundation shade if the color of your skin changes.

10. After you apply foundation go near a window to make sure it looks natural. Natural light is the ultimate test.

Copyright 2004 Sheila Dicks

Sheila Dicks is a wardrobe and image consultant who teaches women how to look slimmer by dressing to suit their body type. Visit her at http://www.sheilasfashionsense.com to download a copy of her e-book Image Makeovers and get How to Build a Wardrobe free.

Loose Powder Mineral Makeup

Mineral Makeup is taking the beauty industry by storm and with very good reasons!

Mineral makeup is micro-formulated using the highest quality minerals and botanicals. Naturally preservative and irritant-free, mineral makeup is weightless and incredibly long-wearing.

Mineral makeup will not clog pores, has high SPF naturally, helps to calm and soothe irritated skin with its zinc content, and is water resistant. You rarely need to reapply mineral makeup and it provides excellent coverage. Mineral makeup is suggested for people who have rosacea and acne.

Minerals cannot support bacteria, so doesn't lose freshness like other cosmetics on the market that contain other ingredients.

Many of these minerals have a special luster that when applied to skin give the face a lovely glow, lending a healthy, youthful appearance to blemished or aged skin.

The most irritating ingredients in cosmetics are talc, dye, and perfume. Natural loose powder mineral products are free of all of these ingredients.

Loose powder mineral foundation has the great coverage. Stop worrying about unattractive blemishes -with just a quick brush of powder, your face will appear completely unblemished, from morning until night.

Mineral makeup does not settle into the lines and wrinkles like other makeup, instead it disperses light, giving a photogenic appearance.

Even more importantly, the health and condition of your skin will actually improve with regular use of our mineral foundation. The minerals not only soothe inflamed skin, but have superior oil control.

Loose mineral makeup is comprised of naturally occurring minerals that have been used for cosmetic purposes for thousands of years. These minerals are mined from around the world, purified, and crushed into fine powders.

Cosmetic companies use these same minerals to add color, texture and luster to everything from eye shadow and lipstick to hair color. They're even in your tube of toothpaste! Many of these minerals have a special luster that, when applied to the skin, give the face a lovely glow, lending a healthy, youthful appearance to blemished or aged skin.

Loose mineral cosmetics are catching on in popularity for a very good reason. It is the most natural makeup available on the market. Just think about how your face feels when you apply a liquid foundation.

In order to create a liquid foundation, manufacturers add water, oil, waxes, petrochemicals, synthetic humectants, gums, and fillers (like talc) to the mineral colorants. They also add dyes and preservatives. Our loose, dry minerals don't require preservatives, and all of those other irritating ingredients are completely unnecessary. The natural pigments blend easily on the skin and provide superior coverage due to the lack of cheap fillers.

Large cosmetics companies are corporations that are designed to generate profit. Your skins health is not their concern. Natural minerals cost much more than cheap synthetic fillers and dyes. The bottom line of these corporations is profit. Natural loose powder mineral makeup provides: quality, purity, and performance. They provide natural cosmetic products that will enable women to achieve the look that they want without chemicals.

If you have sensitive skin, and have had bad experiences with cosmetics in the past, then natural mineral makeup is for you. While even a good quality natural cosmetic does not carry a guarantee, the likelihood of a reaction is rare. The most irritating ingredients in cosmetics are talc, dye, and perfume. All natural, loose powder mineral cosmetics are free of all of these ingredients.

Mineral foundation has the great coverage. Using loose powder mineral foundation will transform your life. Instead of worrying about unattractive blemishes or running to the mirror every few hours to do touch ups, with just a quick brush of the powder, your face will appear completely unblemished, from morning until night.

Even more importantly, the health and condition of your skin will actually improve with regular use of our mineral foundation. The minerals not only soothe inflamed skin, but have superior oil control. Loose powder mineral foundation is virtually waterproof and wearproof.

One of the main ingredients in loose mineral powder foundation is micronized Titanium Dioxide. This naturally occurring mineral effectively blocks both UVA and UVB rays, without an irritating chemical sunscreen. Loose powder mineral products have a very high SPF and we recommend wearing a sunscreen of some form on your face every day. Melanoma is on the rise and can be fatal. Also, if you notice tiny lines on your face, these symptoms of aging come primarily from sun-damage, not from dryness.

Compare the cost of one multi-purpose loose mineral powder to even a cheap eye shadow, and the value will immediately be apparent. Loose mineral powders can be used as eye shadow, eyeliner, lip gloss, blush and nail polish. If you use them every day, they will last you at least a year. Just one eye shadow at a department store costs three times more than loose mineral powder. Loose powder mineral foundation lasts months and acts as concealer, powder, and sunscreen, all in one. Compare the cost to similar makeup lines and you will notice a savings of almost 50%.

JR Minerals carries a complete range of all natural, loose powder mineral makeup, including: Foundations, Light Defusing Translucent Mineral Veils, Blushes, Bronzers, Professional Quality Makeup Brushes, Eye Shadows, All Natural Vegan Flavoured Lip Balms, Mineral Lip Cremes, Natural Face Creams and much more. Join the mailing list in our store for special offers and details of our referral rewards program.

Click on this link to go direct to our online shop: http://jrminerals.com/ourshop/

Click on this link to go to our website for information on our products: http://www.jrminerals.com/

Emphasising your eyes is one of the most popular choices when it comes to accentuating a part of your face. If eyes are your best feature, it is important to know what to do to make them look even more striking. Have a browse through the makeup tips for small eyes below.

- Frame your eyes with perfectly groomed eyebrows. If you have light colored hair, consider using a darker pencil to assist in shaping them.

- Try using an eyeshadow which contrasts with the colour of your eyes (the opposite on the color wheel). For example, if you have green eyes, use burnt orange shades to draw attention to the area. Be careful to apply it to the edges of your eye, and not the entire eyelid. Blend well with a lighter color.

- Resist the urge to use black or very dark eyeliner or eyeshadow as this will tend to overpower your eyes and make them seem to disappear into the darkness. Use light colors, especially those with a slight shimmer, to create a sense of space and light on your face.

- If you have dark circles under your eyes, use a well-chosen concealer beneath your foundation. This will again remove any darkness around your eye, and give it a larger appearance.

- Open up your eyes even more by curling your lashes and applying a light layer of mascara.

Angela Page writes about Natural Skin & Beauty Care. For further information and products visit http://www.mybeautyfocus.com. You may reproduce this article only in its entirety, together with the link to the author's website, from which this article is sourced.