http://www.earthtraveling.com/11-amazing-places-you-need-to-visit-once-in-your-life/
Beauty
How to select your signature fragrance
Finding the perfect fragrance can sometimes be tricky. You want to make sure it captures your personality. Plus, you want it to smell amazing!
Here are a few tips on how to find your signature scent:
• Determine which are your favorite scent families such as citrus, fresh, floral, oriental, sweet, spice, or wood.
•Test fragrance ads in fashion magazines.
•Don’t buy a fragrance only because you like the beautiful container that it comes in! [please ask for a sample to try at home to see if you really like it!]
•Buy a fragrance that both you and your partner like. Next time you purchase a new fragrance you should consider bringing your boyfriend/husband along to help you pick a fragrance you BOTH love!
•Keep your body chemistry in mind. Don’t buy a fragrance only because you liked it on someone else!
•Consider the season, Spring smells are light and sweet, Summer’s notes are floral and oceanic, while Fall and Winter favor earthy, spicy or musky scents.
•Before buying a fragrance that you are not so sure that you will still like when you get home, why not ask if they carry the fragrance in a travel size (sometimes during the holidays they have gift sets that include “minis”)
•Remember to wear a lighter fragrance for daytime, and save the bolder fragrances for nighttime!
•When you finally find a fragrance you love, consider buying a set that contains a lotion or powder of the same scent. (Otherwise consider wearing a fragrance-free lotion and/or deodorant, this way it won’t compete with your “fave” fragrance we just bought!)
•If you simply cannot find your signature fragrance, consider designing your own! YES, you read right! Try these amazing sites:
http://www.perfumelab.com/shop/
http://sweetteaapothecary.com
http://scentedstudio.com
http://scenterprises.com
*Final tip: remember a little goes a long way!
Perfume should be applied to your pulse points: behind the ears, inner wrists, center of the neck and behind the knees.
Please let me know if you found this post helpful and comment which is your signature fragrance!
Thanks for reading!
Christian Louboutin launches luxury nail polish line!
According to Women’s Wear Daily,
French shoe designer, Christian Louboutin has entered the beauty industry! He has created a luxurious collection of nail polishes. However, decided to first launch his signature color Rouge Louboutin .
Priced at $50 in the US, Rouge Louboutin is described by the brand as ‘a timeless, vibrant red suited to any skin tone.’ Eight inches high, the bottle was inspired by the Ballerina Ultima shoe, the tallest heel Christian Louboutin has ever created, and features ombré-effect faceted glass and a pointed metallic cap that contains the brush.
According to WWD, the product supposedly has the highest percentage of pigment in the industry and each faceted crystal bottle takes 22 weeks to make.
This polish will be the most expensive, followed by Tom Ford ($32) and Chanel ($27).
Rouge Louboutin was the first enamel to hit the shelves of Saks Fifth Avenue and Louboutin stores around the nation this week. These sexy chic shades (Pop, Nude and Noir!) are $50 a bottle and will be sold in Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and select Sephora stores starting August 6. Christian Louboutin has decided to make his red bottom fanatics wait in anticipation for the rest of the 30 shades that will grace stores on August 31.
Source: WWD, Essence.com
Are you willing to pay $50 for nail polish?
Have a great weekend everyone!
5 drugstore items that I regret buying
Simple eye makeup remover
I was drawn to this particular product for two reasons: It is recommended for sensitive eyes and also removes waterproof mascara. ” What a great combo!” I thought to myself.
Well, I have to say that I was totally disappointed with this product!
I wear waterproof mascara on a daily basis, and trying to remove it was almost impossible; First it felt like I was using plain water, and the worst part was when my eyes began to sting! After that, I experienced some dryness around the eyes, as if I would of washed with soap and water; The worse part was that after all the tugging and rubbing, It did nothing to remove my mascara 😦
In conclusion, I do not recommend this product nor plan to repurchase it!
Maybelline Expert Eyes Moisturizing eye makeup remover
When I first tried this eye makeup remover, I thought: “Hmm, feels just like baby oil”. The only bad thing is that I had to go over each eye with two cotton balls to try and remove my mascara. After that, my eyes felt so oily; I guess it’s Ok if your going to wash your face after that; However if you’re just trying to fix a mishap when applying either your eyeshadow or eyeliner, it is way too greasy!
Almay One Coat Get Up And Grow Mascara
I have to say that I was somewhat excited when I saw this product. What was there not to like? Gentle mascara that helps your eyelashes grow!
As soon as I opened it I noticed that it had a big fluffy wand, which is great for creating volume; And it didn’t have a strong offensive smell, as with some other mascaras. I have to say that the outcome wasn’t that great, since by the middle of the day I took a glance of myself in the mirror, and I noticed that my mascara was flaking off! I just had the ” I slept with my makeup” look. This was definitely not the look I was aiming for. LOL!
L’oréal Paris Infallible eyeshadow
I had heard such good reviews on this product, that I decided to buy it. I purchased color 556 Smoldering Plum. I was a little surprised to see that the product was in between pressed and loose powder. It had a consistency of kids “moon sand”(Moldable wet sand). Before applying, I made sure to tap my brush, applied gently on lids and as soon as a looked up to see the finished product… What do I see? Some product appeared all the way to my crease, also tiny particles on my cheek! I tried removing it, but it was a little difficult, since it has that 24 hr staying power.
L’oréal Paris Sublime Bronze Self-Tanning Mist
I decided to buy this product because it seemed like an easy and healthier way on achieving a tan. (Not that I need one, I’m already tan, lol!)
In the hot summer weather my arms always get darker than my legs, since most of the time I wear pants. I never wear shorts, since I am a little embarrassed. Perhaps, because I grew up with my grandmother, therefore I’m a little more conservative.
Sorry, back to my light legs. I wanted to wear a cute dress that I bought, but I looked a little funny with my dark arms and lighter legs 🙂
Before applying the product, I made sure I read the instructions. I washed and exfoliated my legs. I was a bit skeptical on how the outcome might be, so I only sprayed part of my leg and waited for it to dry. I didn’t see anything different, so I decided to go to bed, since It was late at night.
Oh, my God! the next day when I took a shower I noticed that a orange-brownish color developed during the night. So what I did, was to spray the remaining areas of my legs, hoping for a fantastic tan.
Day three: I was not sure whether to cry or laugh. Yes, it was that bad. The result: streaky and the worse part was when I saw my feet! Since you’re suppose to spray and let dry, sometimes it’s too wet that it just drips. Yes, you could see perfectly the drips of the tanning spray on the sides of my feet! I tried to remove desperately with soap and water, I exfoliated, but no luck.
So, guess who had to wear pants for a couple of days in the super hot weather? Yep! that would be me.
Question is, will I attempt trying this tanning spray again? I probably would…
So, that’s the end of my little horror stories. Please let me know if you have had any disappointments with any of your purchases.
Oh, yes and also any advice on which tanning products have worked for you.
Urban Decay launches Pulp Fiction-inspired collection
Urban Decay has created a limited edition Pulp Fiction collection in honor of the film’s 20th anniversary.
This five-piece set was inspired by the unforgettable Mia Wallace (Uma Thurman).
Now you can recreate the character’s look with the amazing red lipstick, liner and polish included in this collection.
Also included is a mirrored compact inscribed with an iconic quote filled with neutral matte eyeshadows with names such as “Righteous”, “Tyrany”, “Furious” and “Anger”.
Oh, yes and a metal glitter eyeliner!
Find Urban Decay’s Pulp Fiction collection at Sephora and Ulta stores or online at Urban Decay starting July 16!
Mac collaborates with “The Simpsons” on limited edition cosmetic line
This Marge Simpson-inspired makeup collection was created to celebrate the show’s 25th anniversary.
The line will be available for a special “one day only” pre-sale exclusive for San Diego’s Comic-Con attendees on July 26. For everyone else, the collection will launch online August 28, and in stores on September 4th.
The new Mac The Simpsons Fall 2014 is a 10 piece collection which will be available in a limited edition.
Collection will include:
That Trillion Dollar Look Quad
•Lisa’s spikes (lime green)
•Apple squished (kelly green)
•2 dozen and one greyhounds (olive green)
•chalkboard dreams (deep blackened teak)
Marge’s Extra Ingredients Quad
•Harpooned heart (light pink)
•Sexy PB & J (bright violet)
•Beehive blue (bright blue)
•Vivacious Vacuum Cleaner Bag (deep navy)
Lipglass
•Nacho cheese explosion (bright neon yellow)
•Grand Pumpkin (bright orange)
•Red Blazer (bright fuchsia)
•Itchy and Scratchy & Sexy (electric blue violet)
Powder Blush
•Pink Sprinkles ( blue pink)
•Side Spray (light peach coral)
Nail Stickers Marge Simpson’s Cutie-cles
False Eyelashes
Best makeup setting sprays
Hello there my beautiful friends!
Today, I will be listing the best makeup setting sprays that there are.(in my opinion.)
I believe that this is a must, especially on hot summer days; If you have oily skin, want more staying power, or plan to go to a party, I recommend the following:
1.Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray
Mist on this weightless spray to give your makeup serious staying power. All Nighter keeps your makeup looking gorgeously just-applied for up to 16 hours – without melting, cracking, fading or settling into fine lines.
Developed in an exclusive partnership with SKINDINÄVIA, our groundbreaking, clinically tested formula is suitable for all skin types and features patented Temperature Control Technology. Yep, this baby actually lowers the temperature of your makeup to keep foundation, eyeshadow, blush and concealer in place – even in hot and humid or cold and windy conditions. The result? Smoother-looking skin and vibrant makeup that lasts all day (or all night).
$30
2. Mac fix +
An aqua spritz of vitamin and minerals, infused with a calm-the-skin blend of green tea, chamomile, cucumber, topped off with the fresh, natural, energizing scent of Sugi. Adds radiance, finishes makeup.
$21
3. Makeup for Ever Mist and Fix
A light and comfortable spray that sets all types of makeup and prolongs hold, even under extreme conditions. With the alcohol-free formula, makeup is protected by light, invisible film that feels comfortable on the skin. Enriched with chitosan, a marine algae extract, this makeup fixer spray protects skin against external damage caused by temperature changes, pollution, and other possible irritants.
$29
4. Model in a Bottle
With just a few sprays of Model in a Bottle®, you can lock in that perfect makeup look with no more touchups. Our one-of-a-kind matte finish setting spray makes sure you stay gorgeous by holding your makeup in place all day or night! Model in a Bottle Original Makeup Setting Spray is resistant to smudging, tears, humidity and water. It’s the perfect setting solution for normal to oily skin.
$18
5. Motives cosmetics 10 Years Younger Makeup Setting Spray
A setting spray that mists on to keep makeup from smudging or settling into fine lines. Keep your makeup looking vibrant all day with skin that has a glowing, dewy, youthful complexion.
$29.95
6. Kat Von D Lock ‘N Load makeup setting spray
Lock n’ Load is a weightless mist that locks down your look for up to 16-hours, so makeup stays rockin’ all day and night long. Its Climate Balancing Ingredients help prevent makeup melt-downs when it’s hot and protects against dehydration and cracking in the cold. Ideal for all skin types, it won’t leave your skin feeling sticky or tight. It also works to prevent blush, eyeshadow, or lip color from fading, sliding, caking, or becoming excessively shiny.
$24
7. Mary Kay finishing spray by Skindinävia
Set your look for lasting beauty! When makeup meltdown is not an option, give it the staying power to last up to 16 hours.
As a final step, helps makeup look freshly applied for hours.
Also works as a refresher any time of the day.
Dries quickly and washes off easily.
For any skin type, even oily.
$18
8. Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray
The finishing spray that set the standard. This ultra-fine mist will keep your makeup looking fresh and flawless for up to 16 hours.
Skindinavia’s weightless formula prevents fading and meltdown, even in frigid temps and sweltering summer months.
Recommended for all skin types.
$29
9. Nyx Cosmetics Makeup Setting Spray
Demand Perfection! For that fresh make up look that lasts, NYX Makeup Setting Sprays are lightweight and comfortable while working hard to make sure your makeup stays put. Available in a gorgeous Matte Shine-Free Finish or Dewy Fresh Glow.
$8.00
10. Elf Makeup Mist and Set
Keep your makeup staying in place all day with a radiance boosting invisible hold with our new Makeup Mist & Set. The invigorating mist moisturizes and soothes the skin with key ingredients Aloe, Green Tea, Cucumber and Vitamins A, C & E. The lightweight, comfortable and alcohol free formula improves makeup wearability and prevents color from running
$3.00
Hope that you find the one that’s right for you!
Makeup mistakes we should avoid
Women apply makeup to better enhance their beauty, not detract from it.
However, depending on how we apply it, it can either give us a youthful look or make us appear older!
Have you ever looked at your pictures and asked yourself : What was I thinking?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone; Beauty blunders happen to many of us, including celebrities!
Here are the most common mistakes:
1. Applying concealer that is too light
I have to say that I often made this mistake; In desperation of wanting to camouflage under eye circles, I ended up with raccoon-eyes!
Applying a concealer that is either too light, thick, or simply applying it wrong will only draw more attention!
Instead, opt for a concealer that is sheer and a shade lighter than your skin tone, also make sure it doesn’t contain zinc, which can create a white residue that is visible with flash photography.
2. Too much blush
Remember: less is more.
Simply apply on the apples of your cheeks and blend towards your temples. Remember to select the right shade for your skin tone: olive skin looks best in warm tones, pinks for fair skin and berries for darker skin.
3. Eyeshadow that is too dark and extending too far
If you decide to wear only one color on your lids, try not to extend all the way to your temples. If what you’re trying to achieve is a smokey eye, there are many ways to achieve this look. The easiest way is to start with a dark color on lids, a warm color on crease, light color on brow bone and inner corners of eyes and finish off by lining the inner rim of your eyes with a black liner (And if you want a more dramatic look, add false eyelashes!) Don’t forget, the most important part: blend until you see no sharp lines!
4. Skipping primer or using wrong type of foundation
Remember that not all skin types are the same; for instance, if you have oily skin you should avoid oil based foundations. Remember it all starts with the perfect canvas; opt for skincare that is right for you (whether it’s dry, oily or normal.) Follow with a primer, then the right foundation and please don’t forget to carry beauty blotters!
5. Lining your lips darker than your lipstick
This look is outdated and a definite no-no especially if you outline the outer part to make your lips appear fuller. It will only make your lipstick bleed and worse: emphasize the feathery lines!
6. Clumpy mascara
If you are going to curl your lashes it’s best that you start by using the lash curler before you apply mascara . Then follow by gently cleaning the the tip of the mascara wand on the opening of the tube, then apply from the roots to the ends wiggling from side to side. If you want another coat, please wait until the first one dries completelty!
7. Eyebrows that are to harsh or thick
Avoid using a pencil that is too dark to fill in your brows. Remember, if you are a brunette you should consider using a pencil that is one shade lighter than your hair, and if your blonde choose one shade darker. I would also recommend that instead of using a pencil brow, try brow powder or gel.
8. Using the wrong shade of foundation
To avoid this, test a swatch of two or three shades of foundation you believe that is closest to your skin tone. Make sure you do this by applying on either your cheek or jawline and NOT your hand since color here tends to be darker. Make sure you step out of the store and see how it looks in natural light.
Don’t forget to blend your foundation all the way to your neck to avoid the mask look.
9. Fake tan/ too much bronzer
Excessive use of tanning beds are not only harmful for your body, they make your skin age faster!
Using bronzer all over your face will give you a “muddy” look; instead, lightly sweep across forehead, temples, on the bridge of your nose, hollows of cheeks, jawline and neck. This will give you a sun-kissed look.
10. Wearing too much makeup
Determine whether you want the focus to be on your lips or eyes.
For instance, If you want to wear a bold color on your lips, try selecting a neutral color eyeshadow. And if you want a smokey eye, pick either a soft pink or nude color lipstick.
11. Matte lipstick on dry lips
If you have dry chapped lips you should avoid matte lipstick, since they contain alcohol, which tends to strip natural moisture away from your lips, thus enhancing the appearance of fine lines, dryness and flakiness.
I recommend exfoliating to remove dead skin, applying a lip balm to help moisturize, then follow up with a moisturizing lipstick or gloss.
Have you ever experienced any makeup mishaps?
When to throw away your cosmetics
To help reduce skin irritation and eye infections, it is important to get rid of any cosmetics or skincare that might be expired.
I know that sometimes we don’t remember the exact date on which we bought the item or have no clue on how to read the manufacturers code.
How to read manufacturing date
MFD/MFG/M
Abbreviation of manufacturer, after MFD/MFG/M will be numbers which stands for the manufacture date.
For example: M28.09.13 -> This product was manufactured on 2013 September 28th
Sometimes written differently: M13092811 -> manufactured on 2013 September 28th at line 11
A13H18
A is the first letter of the alphabet, which means it’s the first month of the year which is January . 13 means the year on which it was manufactured 2013.
After the H is the date, 18th
For example : A13H18 -> January 2013, 18th
How to read expiration date
EXP
EXP is the abbreviation of expiry date.
For example: Exp12.25.2013 ->
2013 December 25th
BBE/BE
First two numbers means months, the next two numbers years, third pair of two means manufacturing code, last two means date.
For example : 0714LF02 -> 2014 July 2nd
Open jar picture
Open jar picture lets you know exactly how many months you can use it after opening.
List of Cosmetics and approximate shelf life
Mascara: 3 months
Liquid eyeliner: 6 months
Eyeliner: 1 year
Lip liner: 1 year
Brow liner: 1 year
Foundation: 1 year
Cleanser: 2 years
Moisturizer: 2 years
Powder: 2 years
Blush: 2 years
Lipstick: 2 years
Additional Tips
• wash your sponges after each use and throw away after 1 month
•wash your brushes regularly
•never share your mascara
•keep a journal of your cosmetic purchases
•sharpen your lip liner or eyeliner before using
•if you notice that your lipstick has s rancid smell , Throw it away !
I really hope you found this information helpful .
Please let me know if you have any additional tips !
How to save money on cosmetics
How to Save Money on Makeup Purchases
Everyone knows that keeping up with the latest trends in makeup can take a lot of time and money. There are beauty products everywhere that seem to shout out our name. They are in magazines, on the television, in print media, the drugstore, and even online.
Here are some great tips that will help you save money on your next cosmetic purchases:
•Inventory check
Take out all of your cosmetics and throw anything that it’s too old or expired . For instance, you should keep mascara for only three months and anything with sunscreen usually has an expiration date, so make sure it’s still good.
•Only buy what you need
You will save time and money if you make a list of the cosmetics that you need before you head to the store.
•Save at drugstores
Combine coupons with sales, sign up for email updates for your favorite brands to receive updates , and scour weekly store circulars online to find out when your favorite items go on sale.
•Try it before you buy it
Ask for samples before you buy to make sure that you will like the product. Some stores offer refunds if the item doesn’t meet your expectations . Learn more about store policies, to see if you can return items you don’t like.
•Shop during bonus time
Several of the major cosmetic companies occasionally offer bonus gifts when a customer makes a minimum purchase. For example , Lancôme may offer a free lipstick, eyeshadow quad and a trial size moisturizer if you spend over $40.
•Go to a beauty school
If you want to wear great makeup to a special event , but you don’t want to have to purchase it, go to a beauty school and let one of the students do your makeup. This benefits both parties, because you receive a free or inexpensive makeover and the student gets practice.
•Employee discounts
Consider taking a part -time job working as a makeup consultant or working for a store that sells makeup. In addition to coupons and sales, you receive an employee discount, which drastically reduces the cost of your products.
•Request gift cards on your birthday
You can ask for specific cosmetics, store gift cards or even money !
This way the person giving you a gift makes sure that you will love your present !!!
Hope this helped 🙂
Please let me know if you have any additional tips that you would like to share.
Beauty By Copperstar 