How To Cover Dark Spots and Acne Marks

Yay for another "How To" series, this time for my dear readers who have been emailing me to learn tips on how to cover their pimple spots or acne marks.  

Thankfully, my dear client was so gracious to let me take a photo of her pre-makeover.  She actually has gorgeous glowing skin but because she is going through skin treatment through her dermatologist, she was left with marks (not scars) that is just on the verge of healing.  So, as her make up artist that day, I am tasked to make her look like herself, at the same time, cover the spots that hides her lovely face!

I personally have gone through a stage almost like my client, but most of the spots are on my cheeks so I looked like I had natural "blush" from afar.  It may sound silly to some but I almost never wanted to go to school!  I wished I knew about concealers back then! #hehehe

Readers' Corner: All About Concealers

Hey girls and boys (if there's any boy reading this blog --- Hello there!!!)  

I get email queries on a daily basis and I'm quite happy answering each email as I read each query!  I find it more personal that way.  But for the past weeks, I came into one realization --- most of you are addicted to concealers!  That's when I realized my answers could be shared in my Readers' Corner area!  Why Nikki, why didn't I even think of this from the start!  *tsk tsk tsk*

As of today, here are some of the concealers I've tried and loved and some of them even went straight to my makeup train case.  I will divide this into 2 parts - The Save and The Splurge.  Feel free to click the product names for links of past reviews and swatches.

Note: Ask me again after a year, the list could change!  *hehehe*

THE SAVE

1. SkinFood  Dark Circle Salmon Concealer Php950.00 (approx $20.65)- as the name says it all, this product is meant to cover the darkness under the eye area.  Most of you probably heard or read about the ability of salmon shade to counteract darkness.  The pot lasts forever and a tiny amount is enough to prevent product creasing.
2. NYX Concealer in a Jar Php300.00 (approx $7.00) - I have raved so much about this product even my friends ended up buying their own pot!  This is a full coverage concealer that works on the under eye area (if you pick Medium shade which has a bit of peachy shade).  If you pick other shades, you can either use it as a highlighter or to conceal spots from zits or acne.
3. Revlon PhotoReady Concealer Php725.00 (approx $17.25) - Seldom will you see me use stick concealers as they tend to dry out my skin. Not until I met Revlon's PhotoReady Concealer, this is my "retouch" concealer as I can easily take this along with me and directly apply the product under the eye area, the  redness on the sides of my nose and on those "zit" attack days, it's great to spot conceal without pulling out a brush!  All I need is my clean fingers!  This concealer applies on creamy and never creases on me.
4. The Body Shop Lightening Touch Php950.00 (approx. $22.00) - This product has been compared to YSL Touche Eclat for the longest time!  To set things straight, I do not own YSL's  Touche Eclat so I can't compare the 2 for now.  But for it's price, this product works on "highlighting" your features and I like using this on top of a concealer as it gives an extra coverage PLUS glow leaving the area looking radiant and natural.
5. Graftobian High Definition Corrector Palette around Php1,200 (approx $28.00) - I purchased this online and I just recently opened it and used it on clients, so far, I'm happy with the pigmentation and its creamy texture.  I've always been a fan of the Graftobian Cream Foundation so I'm not surprised this will also be a hit!  If you suffer extreme darkness under the eye area, redness or dark spots on your cheeks or forehead, correcting your spots prior to concealing is the best way to achieve maximum coverage.  Give me some time I'll definitely write a proper review for this palette!

THE SPLURGE

1. Benefit Erase Paste - I own a smaller sized version of this from my Confessions of a Concealaholic Palette.  This product is very tricky to use as a tiny amount is very potent and can crease if not applied correctly.  The trick on using Erase Paste is to always warm the product with your fingers then gently tap on your problem areas.  This product can cover under eye circles, red spots and even freckles!
   
2. Bobbi Brown Creamy Concealer Kit Php1,900 (approx $45.20).- Best used on the under eye area. The extra powder that comes in the palette is a nice "plus" as it instantly set the concealer in place making it stay until you remove it.
3. Estee Lauder Disappear Smoothing Creme Concealer - Another concealer that works so well on the under eye area, acne marks, freckles, etc..  All you need to do is pick the right shade for you!
4. Amazing Cosmetics AmazingConcealer Php1,800.00 (approx $24.20) - As recently reviewed, this product does not only give the coverage you need but it gives an overall highlight effect.
5. Make Up For Ever Camouflage Cream Palette Php1,600 (approx $34.00) - A must if you are a makeup artist!  The palette on photo above is already my 2nd.

When we talk about Concealers, it is very easy to say: "Let's SPLURGE on it!"  I agree, I don't mind paying more for makeup products that sits into my skin for a long period of time.  But mind you, Expensive doesn't always equate to the BEST.  At the end of the day, the best way to pick the best concealer is to understand the needs of your skin.

Are under eye circles your major issue?
Is it the eye puffiness that's giving you all the trouble?
Or the red spots from acne scars and pimple marks?
To some, is it the freckles that's making you go insane?

Focusing on your major skin concern is the best way to target the right product for you!  I used to purchase concealers just because I see other Bloggers rave about them but guess what?  Most of them ended up inside my makeup case or I've given away most of them!  

Now that I'm not in denail, I've finally accepted the fact that my major skin concern would be the darkness under the eyes.  So I'm focused on purchasing and trying concealers that are meant for the under eye circles!

Then it's time to shop! 

Big question is: "Where will I start?  There's so many brands out there I'm so confused!"
Relax and take a deep breathe, check your budget.

How much are you willing to shell out for a concealer?  Is it between Php500-1,000?  Then stick to it!  With the wide range of cosmetics nowadays, I'm sure there will always be "the one" meant for you!  Keep in mind that testing them over the counter is the key, trying to purchase "blindly" online may work but only 20% of the time!  Bring a friend (whose opinion matters) and have the SA apply the product on your problem areas and see if it works for you!  Never feel pressured and learn to say "no, thanks!". (Been there, done that!)  

Tell me, have you found the best concealer for your problem area?
What's your concealer budget at present?

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Keep smilin'

Stay happy!

Tip for the Day: Foundation

I have been asked by many...through Cbox, email, twitter, or even in person on what's the best foundation for them.  I am very honest when I say..."It Depends..."

It depends on your skin type, skin condition and it really depends on YOU.  So what's the point of making my top picks?  To serve as a basis, but of course, this post will always be open for further comments and suggestions!  I am just a beauty blogger and a makeup artist, I am in no way an expert in guessing the best foundation for each individual so please try on testers, ask a favor from a friend who owns ton of makeup then try the products before you start spending your hard earn money on them!  

Keep in mind that I haven't tried all foundation mentioned below, some are highly recommended by my makeup artist friends! :)  It doesn't hurt to share then you pay me back with cash. *winks* :P 

For Dry Skin

The best person to ask if you have dry skin aside from oldies?  ME!  *laughs*  Just joking, I'm sure a lot of youngsters (aside from myself hahaha) suffers from this skin condition either "They were born with it" or they were under skin treatment which led them to have dry, flaky skin!   Here are some of my best bet for dry skin individual after we *high five*! :)

SPEND

Clinique Supermoisture Makeup

I have used this way back when I wasn't even blogging!  This gives out the "moisture" any person would want and I  have a couple of friends who have dry skin and swore by this. 

MAC Mineralize Satinfinish SPF15 Foundation
Thanks to Sis Gracie for sending me this so I was able to try this.  The good thing about MAC Mineralized Satinfinish foundation is the fact that it never feels heavy but it gives a nice, healthy sheen after every application!

SAVE

Revlon Age Defying Makeup with DNA Advantage

I recently road tested this and it worked on my skin and never felt dry and it gives me the moisture I need for the whole day!

Cover Girl Advanced Radiance
One of the first few drugstore foundation I purchased when I told myself I need to stack up on makeup for school!  This one has the added moisturizer and the name says it all "Advanced Radiance".  Anything with Radiance would be great to create a fake, healthy looking skin.

Mary Kay Timewise Luminous Wear Foundation

I have tried this on both mature clients and myself.  Since my skin isn't that dry as compared to mature clients, I like the fact that this product never settled into fine lines.  The effect came out really well.

For Oily Skin

I am used to doing makeup for oily skin as most of my clients surprisingly suffers from oily skin!  Keep in mind that if you have very oily skin, on oil-control primer will still be needed prior to foundation application at the same time, a good oil-control setting powder would help prolong the "matte-looking" finish of your skin!  It doesn't hurt to carry oil-control blotter sheets with you at all times!

SPEND

Make Up Forever Mat Velvet
I have once chatted with a fellow makeup artist and when I asked about her best bet foundation for Oily Skin, she blurted out Make Up For Ever's Mat Velvet.  I was told this foundation does not only give a matte-looking finish foundation but it does help control a bit of the oilies.  I will probably purchase this once I'm done with my current foundations.

MAC StudioFix Foundation (Liquid)
Ah, need I say more?  I've seen these Studio Fix Liquid foundation been used on various makeup artists and you have to agree when I say, most of our makeup-loving friends own at least one of these!  The downside though, not all skin would agree with the ingredients of MAC SF Foundation.  I have friends who love this product dearly but it causes their skin to break out the day after usage!  

OCC / Graftobian Airbrush Foundation
You don't need to go out and purchase an airbrush equipment but the tiny tube of airbrush foundation are great for oily skin!

 

MAC StudioFix Foundation (powder)

Since oily skin individuals are "in dire" need to set their foundation, a powder foundation with oil control is best and MAC SF Powder Foundation gives extra coverage and removes shine!

SAVE

Revlon ColorStay Makeup with SoftFlex
This is the drugstore version of MAC Studio Fix Liquid Foundation (in my very humble opinion).  Even the scent is similar and it gives a good coverage and can hold up to humidity.

Maybelline Mineral Powder Foundation

Most inexpensive oil-control loose mineral foundation that works!

Mary Kay Timewise Matte Wear Foundation
I surprisingly reach out to this eventhough I have dry/combination skin.  I like the super matte finish it gives with an extra glow! 

For Normal Skin or
Combination Skin

Normal skin individuals are lucky as they get the liberty to try different brands and types of foundation as most of them would work for normal skin. I also included the list for combination skin as most the brands listed below can also be used for Combination skin.  It helps to use an oil-control primer applied only on areas that oil up and leave the rest as is.

SPEND

RMK Creamy Foundation
Oh my! Need to say more?  Kindly read how I gush about the product HERE

Make Up For Ever HD Foundation
this also suits combination skin!  Perfect on photos!

Clinique Superbalanced Makeup
This make up is known to give moisture on areas that needed one and control oilies on areas that oils up!  Smart makeup I should say!

SAVE

Avon Ideal Shade Foundation
Inexpensive and it works on all skin type!  I put this on Combination skin's Save portion because I can use this liquid foundation on both my dry-skinned days and the not-so-dry to normal skin days!

Graftobian Hi-Def Creme Foundation

Though this comes in tiny amount of product for the price, I still call this inexpensive as a little goes a long way with this cream foundation.  I have used this on both  normal and combination skin and the effect was consistently good!

Products listed above came out from the moment I've written this post.  The list is not complete and I'm opening the "comment section" for everyone to share their list base on their experience!  In that way, it will be helpful to everyone reading this entry!

Today, I am off for 2 makeup gigs and I have more faces to prettify and it helps to share what I learn as each experience go!  There's no 100% way to know which type or brand of foundation is right for you unless you went out there and give the product a test.  I am not requiring you to spend your money to buy different foundation from here and there, but, let us try on testers, borrow from friends, do some research!  At the end of the day, no one knows your skin better than yourself! :)

So, start sharing your favorite foundation brands and which skin type would it work best for!
Goodluck!
Happy Hunting!

Keep smiln'
Stay happy!

AMW Version: When the Sun Starts to Set

Have you seen the moon?  Lunar Eclipse?  I wasn't able to catch the Lunar eclipse but I was able to stare at the moon for a good 10 minutes last night because I just can't help it but repeat myself, it's gorgeous!  It was full, super bright and looks so close to us! 

AMW Version for the week, I've created something related to nature, I have this liking to take a look at the sky, how it changes from day til night!  Sunsets can take my breathe away!  Not that I am favoring sunset over sunrise, it's just that...I value my sleep!  *teeheee*

I'm not creating sunset looking eyes, I'm inspired to use the colors that I see using sunset in a more toned down version.  This is perfect for office at the same time, wearable even at night time! 

AMW Diagram

If you have oily lids, choose to use an oil-control eyeshadow primer.  In my case, I do not have oily lids but I want a good base for the shades to stay and show up more vibrant!  I applied a thin layer of Benefit Lemon Aid with my clean finger.

 

Step 1:

Using a flat shader brush, I pat on Baked eye shadow from the Urban Decay Book of Shadows Palette.  Baked is a deep gold shade in which you can find a lot of dupes elsewhere!

Step 2:

With a fluffy blending brush, apply Matte Brown shade eyeshadow (in this tutorial, I've used Majolica Majorca BR742), apply gently with a wiper motion a little bit above the crease to create an illusion of bigger lid space.

Step 3:

To deepen the outer v, I used another matte brown eye shadow color but choose 3-4 shades darker.  I used the brown from Bobbi Brown Champagne Quartz Eye Quad.

Step 4:

Instead of my usual "eyelining the waterline", I opted to choose the color of the sky!  Goddess shade from the same Urban Decay Book of Shadows Palette at the outer thirds of the lower lash line. 

Step 5:

Use Smattered or a lighter, sky blue color on the inner thirds of the lower lash line.

I lined my upper lashline with Kate Gel Eye Liner in Black.  Curled my lashes and applied coats of Revlon CustomEyes Mascara also in black.

 

Eye see you! 

(shucks, that was super corny! sorry!)

Here's what's on the rest of my face

 For the Face:

Graftobian Glamour Creme in Temptress applied with Dollface foundation brush
Revlon Age Defying 2-Way Foundation in Buff 04 to set the creme foundation

 For the Cheeks:
NARS blush in Orgasm

For the Lips:

Maybelline ColorSensational Coral Sunset

"When the sun starts to set... 

I see wonderful colors all blended in together in perfect harmony!"

Do you enjoy sky watching the way I do?
Do you get inspired with the colors around you when you apply make-up?

Enjoy your day!
Keep smilin'
Stay happy! 

AMW Reviews: Graftobian GlamAire Air Brush Beauty Makeup

When I tied the knot 3 years ago, it wasn't difficult to look for a makeup artist because all I need to do is have my trial makeup done, take a photo of it, liked it, then moved on!

Unlike brides today, looking for a Make-up artist is difficult enough, choosing the type of make-up is another story!  I always get queries on Traditional?  Or Airbrush Makeup?  

After I won my first Glambox Airbrush Kit, that was the time I got exposed to airbrush makeup!  I moved forward to try on different brands of airbrush foundation because, as I always say... "Variety is Good!" 

Graftobian GlamAire Air Brush Beauty Makeup says ---

Graftobian has worked closely with Hollywood makeup artist Brad Look and his peers to create this Water based, silicone FREE, AirBrush makeup range of shades in a special formulation that yields durable coverage, comfort and color while also offering an alcohol free product. The actors on which Brad has used Graftobian Makeup have been impressed with the pleasing feel of the product. The camera personnel as well as the viewers are delighted with the natural, non-glossy look of the product. Whether you are using AirBrush Makeup for the nightly news anchor; the leading lady in a drama; big time film productions or just your own daily wear makeup, Graftobian GlamAire AirBrush Make-up will outperform and be more cost effective than whatever else you have tried.

AMW says ---

Pros

• Has a protective cap you need to remove after purchase.

• Super lightweight, almost 2nd skin feel!
• You can control coverage from light-heavy.
• Stays on skin for the whole day with minimal retouching needed.
• Does not give out a white cast on both photos and in person!
• No streaks
• Does not transfer to clothing.

Cons

• I am not a fan of this messy twist-like packaging!  It's very messy!

• Difficult to find your perfect shade, though there are a wide range of shades available from Graftobian GlamAire, locally, the shades available are limited.
• Mixing and matching shade colors can be challenging.
• If you have acne scars, marks, you need double the effort to cover it with this product, I suggest to use a separate concealer to spot correct.
• Pricey!

Overall 
I actually tried using these on both the airbrush machine and with a Beauty Blender.  Both have a similar result but of course, the airbrush system is more convenient (during application but a pain to clean!  LOL).

Tips

• Prep your skin and you can choose to protect it with a face primer prior to air brush foundation application.
• An airbrush system is optional!  You can try these airbrush foundation using sponge or stippling brush.
• Always begin with clean, oil-free skin.  Try not to use any oil based skin care products to prevent foundation from sliding.
• You can mix airbrush foundation like I did!  Practice makes perfect!
• I personally like to correct and conceal first prior to applying thin layer of airbrush foundation.
• If you have oily skin: you can choose your preferred oil control setting powder to let makeup stays longer.
• If you have dry skin: you can choose to add up a bit of moisturizing spritz or moisturizer on dry areas!
• Always be ready with a towel as this could get messy especially when you're in a hurry!

Will I repurchase?
I'll try other brands!  I actually bought OCC!

To whom do I recommend this to?

Anyone who wants to try airbrush makeup!  You can always start with a tube, no need to purchase the whole airbrush system!  I think this is the best way to try airbrush makeup by starting with the foundation and a Beauty Blender OR Stippling brush.

Where to purchase and how much?
I bought mine locally from HD Makeup Studio & Academy website for Php1,500 (approx $35.70) per bottle + Shipping.

Graftobian Midnight Marigold

Graftobian Graceful Swan

Here's what I do without the airbrush system 

using my Beauty Blender

I use the bottom part to "bounce" the foundation 

on larger areas of my face

Using the tip of the Beauty Blender to spot conceal

I also like to use a bit of the Midnight Marigold to contour

Difficult to find the Graftobian shade that matches you especially on online ordering?  I got this from PaintandPowderstore website, print screen for your reference!  Please note that the chart below is just for reference!  Testing the shades in person is still the best --- Just like Breast milk!  (LOL Where did that come from?)

(Note: You can click photo to enlarge)

I bought an OCC Airbrush Foundation too which I will review too!
Have you tried using Airbrush foundation applied manually?

Keep smilin'
Stay happy!