Positively Beautiful

Positively Beautiful

by DailyMakeover

Fixing Summer Beauty Mishaps

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In the summertime you can face all kinds of beauty problems, from streaky self tanners to getting sunscreen in your hair. Fortunately I have some easy tips on how to conquer these issues in a flash.

If you were at the beach and applied your sunscreen but accidentally ended up missing a spot, cover your red sunburn mark easily with a swipe of concealer. Lightly apply a little concealer on the area in a shade that matches the rest of your skin and then dust on a yellow tinted powder to keep makeup in place and ease the redness. Try Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Truly Translucent Powder in Neutralizer.

If you spent all evening flawlessly applying your self tanner only to wake up with an unsightly streak, there is a way to fill it in and even it out fast. Grab a Q-Tip and dab a little self tanner across the streak and let it soak in. This will even out the white spot and not darken the tanned skin around it.

Batiste Tropical Dry Shampoo

If your hair gets a bit greasy at the beach because its come in contact with the sunscreen on your skin, grab a can of Batiste Tropical Dry Shampoo and spray it on any limp strands. This will erase greasy hair instantly and make your hair smell pretty and beachy.

If you find that your foundation just balls up when you try to apply it after your sunscreen, then choose a foundation that contains sunscreen in it already. I like Lorac ProtecTINT SPF 30 — it gives you light coverage and full protection. If you want a little bit more coverage, try the combination I use every day– Skinceuticals Ultimate UV Defense SPF 30 sunscreen, followed by my Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Your Skin Makeup. This combo always works for me because it blends together nicely and keeps me protected.

So don’t worry, there is always a solution to summer’s little beauty mishaps.

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Sweaty Solutions

OC Eight Mattifying Gel

Okay, it is so seriously hot out there right now! If the sweat factor is destroying your fabulous summer look then I have a few beauty solutions to help you tame the sticky wet mess.

First and foremost: mattify mattify mattify! In this oppressive heat, applying a mattifying gel like OC Eight on your face after your moisturizer will help absorb some of the sweat and oil the high temps can cause during the day. It will also help your foundation stay in place and not slip off an hour after you applied it.

A great trick if you don’t have mattifying gel is to lightly apply a thin layer of non-scented anti-perspirant to your fingertip and dab it along the T-zone of your face. You can also use this trick under your breasts for those bigger-busted ladies out there who find they pool sweat under there.

For your makeup, stay away from all creams formulas — they will slip and slide — and opt for spray foundations that have more staying power and powder shadows and blushes.

Clean & Clear Oil-Absorbing Sheets

Blotting papers are a must, so keep a pack of Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets in your bag to suck up the sweat. Don’t keep adding powder on top of powder because you will wind up looking like the back of a cement truck. Just absorb with the sheets then use a little bit of powder before leaving the house, at lunchtime for a touchup and at night before hitting the town.

Keep your hair back in a ponytail or, if it’s short, clip it back with a little bobby pin. Having your mane around your face can cause you to sweat even more, so pulling it away will help keep you cool.

These little tricks should help, but just remember — if you didn’t sweat you wouldn’t be human. We are all a bit shiny this time of year, you are not alone!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

The Best Lip Balms

Nude Skincare Nude Lips

During those really hot and sticky summer days the last thing you want on your lips is a heavy coating of makeup. Lipstick can seem thick and heavy, glosses are sticky and tints make your mouth so dry.

That’s why in the summertime I always carry around a good lip balm in my bag — it makes sure my lips stay hydrated and feel soft, supple and totally comfortable, no matter how hot it is outside.

My new favorite lip balm is Nude Lips by Nude Skincare. This silky organic balm contains cupuacu and Tahitian vanilla monoi that melts into your lips when you rub them together. Shea butter, vitamin E and coconut oil keep your lip healthy and satiny smooth while giving them a pretty shine. I apply it at bedtime as well to replenish lost moisture overnight due to air conditioning.

If you’re looking for a balm that contains sunscreen try Fresh Sugar Lip Treatment with SPF 15 — it’s packed with 15 restorative oils that keeps your lips smooth and protected. I always have one of these rattling around in my beach bag.

Burt's Bees Lip Shimmer

If you demand total protection and want a full block balm try Banana Boat Sport Sunscreen Lip Balm with SPF 50. It’s as serious as it gets. No UV rays will get near your pucker!

If a hint of tint is what you desire try a tinted balm for a little touch of soft color. Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmer has 13 pretty shades to choose from and is 100% natural so you can feel good wearing it while you look good!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Be A Beach Babe!

Calista Tools Activate Energy Activating Spray

I absolutely love that “day at the beach” summer look. A head full of tousled hair, a hint of rosiness on the cheeks and a sun-kissed glow that says sun, surf and summer fun can make you feel free-spirited and happy. Between work, kids and everything else, life can get pretty crazy for a lot of us. We may not have time to get seaside as often as we like but that doesn’t mean we can’t look like we just got back from the surf and turf.

To get a beach babe look, start with your hair. When you get out of the shower use a wave-enhancing product to get that awesome beach hair texture — I like Calista Tools Activate Energy Activating Spray. Mist this on damp hair and then scrunch your hair up and let it air dry for frizz free sexy waves.

If you want your hair to smell like the beach as well as look like you’ve been there all day, try Kevin Murphy Hair Resort. It contains crushed bamboo for texture and coconut oil for a tempting tropical scent.

Carmindy Sheerest cream blush

Keep makeup simple and natural. Apply a tinted moisturizer mixed with a little bit of bronzer on the temples, forehead, along the sides of the face and under the cheekbones to give you a bronze, sat-in-the-sun-all-day glow.

Next, use a cream blush like Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Sheerest Cream Blush in Rosy. Smile big and apply with your fingers in circular motions to the fleshy apples of the cheeks. The sheer watercolor-like formula is super light and looks totally natural.

Apply black mascara and keep lips nude with just a slick of balm and you will look as if you have been frolicking in the sea all day!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Heat-Proof Makeup

Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Airbrush Spray Makeup

Is your makeup melting and you don’t know what to do? Don’t worry, I know how to make your life easier and keep your makeup in play all day.

When the temperature rises, it’s time to switch your regular, heavier makeup formulas for long-wearing, sweat- and waterproof versions that will keep you looking as fresh and cool as an ocean breeze!

To keep your face in place, start by applying a good mattifier like OC Eight Mattifying Gel. This will keep sweating to a minimum and it acts almost like an anti-perspirant for your face. Gross-sounding but really effective. Blend it on your face after your sunscreen and then use a water resistant foundation to even out your skin. Go for a sheer formula like Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Airbrush Spray Makeup. Go easy on the powder and keep blotting papers in your bag to soak up the greasies as the day gets hotter. My favorites are the Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets.

Clean & Clear Oil-Absorbing Sheets

Line your eyes with Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Forever Stay Eye Liner Pencil — it’s gel-like formula glides on without tugging or pulling and stays on even after a dip in the pool! Opt for fun summer shades like Indigo or Jade to bring a little color into your life. Stay away from cream eye shadows that will just crease in the humidity and instead choose a light wash of powder shadow in a shimmering neutral color.

Waterproof mascara like Lancôme Définicils Waterproof High Definition Mascara keeps lashes from creating that raccoon effect. But may take an extra minute or two to get off at night. Be sure to use a good eye makeup remover like Make Up For Ever Sens’Eyes Waterproof Sensitive Eye Cleanser to get every last bit off.

Benefit Benetint

Stain blush stands the test of high temps so swirl on Benefit Benetint for cheeks that will look rosy from a.m. to p.m. For a long lasting lip, apply a bit of the cheek stain to your lips then follow with a tinted balm like Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmer.

Follow these easy tips and I guarantee you will look fab all summer long!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Sunburn Relief

Sunburn

No matter how diligent we are at applying sunscreen, from time to time you may forget a spot or don’t reapply when you should. You won’t know what hit you until later in the day when you discover that you’ve fired yourself silly. OUCH!

If you’re red and crispy, there are a few things you can do to ease the pain and help the healing along. First, take an aspirin to eliminate some of the pain. Take a cold shower and try my home remedy for cooling skin down: mix cold water and vinegar in a spray bottle and spritz your bod. It may stink a bit but it will help your poor skin feel better. A milk or oatmeal bath can also help sooth the skin and tame the pain, but make sure to rinse off with cool clean water when your done.

Do not rub on moisturizer or any type of petroleum-based salves — slather yourself in aloe vera gel instead. It may be a bit sticky but this is the best way to start the healing process.

Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Your Skin Makeup

If your face is red and you need to go out and face people there are a few tricks to conceal the lobster effect. Begin with a light layer of aloe lotion like Mario Badescu Aloe Lotion, then lightly stipple on a very soothing liquid foundation like Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Your Skin Foundation. Powder the skin with a yellow tinted loose powder that will help counteract the redness.

Stay away from any blush or bronzers and keep makeup minimal. A little dark brown, black or navy eyeliner and black mascara will make your eyes pop. Apply a cool toned lipstick to balance out the raging redness. Now look at yourself in the mirror and SWEAR you will never let this happen again!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Stuck In A Makeup Rut

I found myself getting ready last night for a fun outdoor BBQ with friends and as I began applying my usual makeup routine, I had to stop myself out of sheer boredom! Yes, even makeup artists, get stuck in a rut from time to time. Was I really in the mood for the same old same old when I have all this great makeup booty at my fingertips?

Some groovy Brazilian samba lounge music was playing on the stereo and I envisioned I was dancing on a beach in Rio. That was going to be my inspiration! Although I am as white as a ghost at the moment (too many trips to London), I decided to go for it and pulled out the bronzer!

I applied my usual luminizing face primer and light foundation. If you start slathering yourself in darker makeup right away it will look wrong; the key is to be inspired not literal! I then applied my shimmery Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Sun Glow Powdered Bronzer in Spring and suddenly I became a little more savage and tropical.

Benefit Coralista

I then extended my brows with the Lorac Creamy Brow Pencil in Blonde and filled them in a bit heavier for a natural brow look. I grazed my lids in La Femme Gold Sparkle Dust #1 Gold — a personal cheap fave — and coated my lashes in black Blinc Kiss Me Mascara.

Benefit’s Coralista Blush gave my cheeks a radiant flush and I applied Jouer Cosmetics’ Coral Lip Gloss for a sexy gloss. Bring on the caipirinhas!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Fun & Fruity Summer Lips

Ultra Soothing Lip Tint

What’s the steaming hot color trend for lips this summer? Fun fruity shades of pink, coral and melon –the brighter the better.

Don’t be scared of these juicy fruit shades– there are a bevy of formulas from sheer tints to full on pigments, so there is definitely a shade that will complement your skin tone and style.

My favorite way to wear a bold summer lip is to pair it with bronzed skin and little to no other makeup at all. This is what keeps it chic and sophisticated. There is nothing tackier in warm weather then bold lips and crazy colored eyes, so keep the party on the lips only.

Start with a tinted moisturizer and sweep on a little powdered bronzer. Define the lashes with black mascara for major lash impact that will enhance your natural eye shape and then slick on a sizzling shade of sexy lipcolor.

Prescriptives Exhilaration Lipcolor

If you’re a natural girl, go for Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Ultra Soothing Lip Tint in Guava or Melon for a sweet-tasting, supernatural shine with just a hint of tint.

If you prefer a sheer lip color that offers a little more color, try Prescriptives Limited Edition Exhilarating Lip Color in Papaya or Strawberry. This will give you a light to medium coverage with a subtle shine finish.

For die-hard lipstick lovers, saturate your pucker with a true pigment like Lipstick Queen’s Sinner Opaque Lipstick in Coral. Paint your toes to match and you will be ready to strut your stuff!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Fast Fixes For Under Eye Issues

Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Eye Mask

One of the most frequently asked questions I get from women is “how to I get rid of my under eye bags, darkness, puffiness and dryness?” I have been on a quest to get rid of these myself as I suffer from the dryness and the darkness from time to time.

The most common mistake most women make is they goop on concealer, creating a cakey, creasy mess that winds up making the area look worse! Here are some of my tried and true problem-solvers

If puffiness is your issue I highly recommend Bliss Triple Oxygen Instant Energizing Eye Mask. These individual packets of liquid and pads are perfect for brightening, de-puffing and hydrating the delicate skin under the eyes. I like to stick them in the refrigerator first before applying — the cold factor speeds up the de-puffing process.

If darkness is an issue try a cream that contains vitamin K, which helps diminish the darkness. I like Peter Thomas Roth Power K Eye Rescue.

For fine lines try Remède Wrinkle Therapy Eye Baume. It firms, illuminates and nourishes the delicate eye area all at the same time.

SkinMedica TNS Night Eye Repair

My personal favorite eye cream is SkinMedica TNS Night Eye Repair. My skin gets really dry, especially under my eyes, and this helps bring back the moisture and rejuvenate the skin.

If you want to conceal the area with makeup, try my Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy All Over Brightener. This light pink concealer bounces light off the skin, creating a fresh, light, well-rested look that doesn’t settle into fine lines. It is the ultimate concealer for fair to medium skin tones.

Fast Fix Concealer All Over Brightener

If you’re a bit darker try my Fast Fix Concealer in Medium or Medium/Deep shades. If you have a really dark skin tone, use the Dark shade. Just lightly tap the product under the eyes and you will never look caked up — just smooth, bright and refreshed.

Kiss your eye issues good bye!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Picture Perfect Peacock Eyes

Carmindy 2009 DKMS Benefit

Photo: © Jemal Countess/WireImage.com

I was recently invited to attend the DKMS Gala at Cipriani’s in New York City. I had the dress, I had the shoes, but could not think of what to do with my makeup.

I was draped in liquid gold with jewelry and shoes to match so I figured the makeup could be a bit more fun. I decided to call in my friend Chrissy Lloyd, a fabulous painter and stylist, for some inspiration. She always makes incredibly daring and bold choices and always looks so super chic, so she was definitely the one to ask. She suggested since I was in head to toe gold I should rock a peacock eye!

How perfect and right on point with spring! I busted out my shimmery shades of teal, blue, green and gold and began to play. I swept a pale gold highlight under the brow and on the inner corners of my eyes. I used the highlight shade from the Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Metallic Palette.

MAC Pigment in Teal

I mixed two different shades of loose MAC Pigment powder together to create that perfect shade of peacock blue, then swept it across the lid from the lash line to the crease and slightly under the lower lash line. I dabbed a touch of MAC Aquadisiac Eye Shadow on the center of the lid for a little extra kick. A half set of Ardell false lashes with a thin line of black Makeup Forever waterproof liquid liner finished off my look.

Since the eyes were the main focus I decided to keep the rest of the makeup subtle and to play up the gold goddess look. I swept a bit of bronzer on the forehead, along the side of my face and on my cheeks and dabbed on a matching lip-gloss. On the body I sprayed Era Rayz 24 Karat. I love this gold body spray because it gives you an all over glow and then dries on so it won’t rub off on your clothes.

I received tons of compliments on the makeup and I had a blast at the event. So be daring and go bold from time to time, it is so much fun!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

The Best Powder Bronzers

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A touch of bronzer can warm up the face, create a summer glow and mimic the look of a not-so-healthy real tan. To find the best powder bronzers I played with many different ones on my fair skin to see what looked the most natural and blended in the best.

When it comes to powder bronzers, you definitely want to avoid those that contain too much sparkle and shimmer — too much sparkle can look metallic and harsh on the skin. The key to making your bronze believable is to take it easy so you look golden, not gilded. Opt for sheer powder bronzers that blend on and create subtle warmth.

For a look that’s a bit more subtle, I prefer strategically placing bronzer where it will enhance your face the most — the temples, along the sides of the face and just under the cheekbones. Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Sun Glow Powder Bronzer is the best for this because it has just the right amount of color and shimmer and comes with a brush that hits those areas perfectly. Since you’re being so subtle with your bronzer, you can definitely play up your eyes a little bit more.

Bobbi Brown Bronze Shimmer Brick

If you want an all over the glow, apply bronzer after your foundation and powder. The best one for this look is the Benefit One Hot Minute, which is a light loose powder. Just lightly dust it all over the face with a big fluffy powder brush. Make sure you tap off any excess before applying to the face so you don’t go overboard. Pair this look with black mascara and a coral cheek and lip for a simple but chic summer look.

If it’s intensity that you want, go for the Bobbi Brown Shimmer Bricks. The shimmer factor is a bit more intense with this one so I would choose it for night time glam only. Just remember if your face is all bronzed up then your neck and shoulders should match, so dust a little on those areas to look even and sexy!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Spray-On Makeup

Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Airbrush Spray Makeup

Women have always been on a quest to find new ways to mimic a flawless complexion with foundation. We are always looking for the new formula, the new texture or the best way to create amazing looking skin — something that covers up our imperfections without looking like we are wearing makeup.

Creams can be heavy, liquids can be messy and powders too cakey. That’s why I’m a big fan of airbrush spray foundations; they are as light as air and look incredible on the skin. They were designed to be a more user-friendly version of the real, heavy machinery airbrush makeup used in movies.

These new versions come in an easy spray can and actually give better results than the professional ones! They are easy and fast to use — I have been using them on What Not To Wear for years and the results are always stellar!

For the face, you can spray the makeup onto a non-latex sponge and apply it directly to the skin. It will go on sheer and natural and becomes water-resistant when it dries. Try the Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Airbrush Spray Makeup. This is a great product for women who have normal to oily skin. If your chest area is a bit ruddy or discolored, you can spray it directly onto the skin and use a sponge to blend it in for a smooth look.

If you suffer from veins, bruises or spots on the legs, eliminate them by applying one of these great airbrush formulas directly on your legs: Dior Diorskin Airflash Spray Foundation to even skin tone or the Era Rayz Spray-On Bronzer for quick bronzing bronzing or giving your whole bod a subtle glimmer for a sexy night out!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

The $5 Smoky Eye

Rimmel Soft Kajal Kohl Liner

Is it possible to create a sexy smoky eye with products that are under $5? It is if you know what to look for and where to buy them. Stores like Target, Walgreens, Ulta and CVS offer up myriad bargain products that work just as well as their more expensive counter parts.

The first product to look for is a great black eyeliner pencil. Rimmel London’s Soft Kohl Kajal Eye Pencil is a great way to get started. This pencil retails for around $3.49 and is perfect to trace the upper lash line with. It also can be used to rim the inner lids for a real rock-n-roll look.

CoverGirl 1-Kit Eye Enhancers Shimmering Onyx

Next, apply a dark and sultry eye shadow like Cover Girl’s Eye Enhancers 1 Kit Shadows in Shimmering Onyx — it’s the perfect dark and mysterious eye shade to sweep across the lid and smudge under the lower lash line.

A loose powder highlight shadow like La Femme Sparkle Dust in Champagne Gold can be used across the brow bone for a beautiful glow and contrast to the deep shadow used on the lid. It’s just $4.95 and you can also use it as highlighter, sweeping it across the tops of cheekbones and on the chest and shoulders for a shimmering evening out look.

N.Y.C. Thickening Mascara

Apply a set of Black Radiance Fantastic Fakes Eye Lashes, only $2.99, so your flirty eyes will look glam without breaking the bank. Finish the look with a few coats of the $1.99 black N.Y.C. Thickening Mascara on top and bottom lashes.

Balance the whole look with a nude lip gloss like Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Natural Shine Lip Gloss in Sparkling Champagne. Who knew you could be sexy, smoldering and save money at the same time?

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Body Makeup Basics

Laura Mercier Body Bronzing Makeup

With more skin showing this time of year, some of us may be a bit concerned with our exposed body parts not looking so perfect. As we age, veins, sunspots, freckles and easy bruising may be a problem. Don’t put away your tanks or minis just yet. There are a few fast and easy ways to conceal so you can reveal.

First off, think about using a subtle self-tanner. This alone may be all you need to cover up minor imperfections on the skin so you can show off your bod with confidence. Try Jergens Natural Glow for a very light way to fake the bake. If you’re looking for more of a bronze goddess glow, try going to a spray tanning salon for a professional job.

You can also apply a makeup bronzer to your skin to create the same effect. It’s great if you don’t want something permanent — you can just wash it off at the end of the night. Try one like Laura Mercier Body Bronzing Makeup, which contains light reflecting particles that will bounce light off imperfections and give you a nice color at the same time.

Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Airbrush Spray Makeup

If small veins or sun spots on your chest are a real problem, or if you just need more coverage, try using a spray foundation. Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Airbrush Spray Makeup quickly and lightly covers up unsightly blemishes and creates a smooth appearance. Just spray directly onto the skin then use a non-latex sponge to buff it in. It goes on sheer, dries easily, is water-resistant and will not rub off on clothes.

For varicose veins, bruises or birthmarks on the legs you should apply a bit of concealer. Simply dab concealer over the area with a small-tipped concealer brush and use a light dusting of powder to set. I like Amazing Cosmetics Concealer because it has a great consistency and it’s waterproof so it will last all day — even at the beach.

So don’t fret about flaws and flaunt that bod!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Off-The-Wall Beauty Tricks

In this current economy a lot of us are cutting back and trying to get more beauty bang for our buck. I’ve heard some pretty crazy beauty tricks that women have resorted to in tough times. They may sound nutty, but they actually do work!

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- If your expensive perfume has run out and you need to smell yummy, try a scented candle. Blow it out and drip the (cooled!) wax on your skin, then rub it off — it will leave the candle scent behind. It’s the same concept as a solid perfume, which is just wax and perfume.

- If you drop your face powder compact on the floor and it shatters, don’t fret. Go into your cupboards and pull out a box of cornstarch. A light dusting of this can erase shine and it’s like a budget version of the old drugstore favorite Cornsilk face powder.

- No need to spend money on expensive lip and cheek tints from fancy department stores. Instead, pull out a little strawberry Jell-O powder pack from the kitchen drawer. Add a little water and you have a sweet tasting stain that works on cheeks and lips.

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- If pores are an issue, forget Biore and just grab a strip of Scotch Tape from your desk drawer at home. Lay it over your nose and pull off all the sebum and dry skin clogging up your skin.

See how creative you can be when in a financial pinch. Beauty plus brain equals one great combo!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Primping In The Wilderness

Carmindy goes camping

There’s nothing like a little time in the great outdoors to
refresh your mind and body!

This time of year the weather is perfect for a hiking and camping trip. Even if you are being a rough and tumble outdoorsy chick, you can still look good in the woods! You just need a few specific things to throw in your backpack to keep you looking cute and help you stay protected from the elements.

The first thing you should pack is a great sunscreen. You need to apply it to the skin, no matter if the sun is shining or not. Even in overcast conditions you can get burned — the sun’s rays can penetrate through even the thickest, gloomiest clouds. Pack the Kinesys Travel Size SPF 30+ Sunscreen, it’s the perfect tiny size, so you don’t have to worry about lugging big, heavy tubes in your pack.

Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Fast Fix Concealer

You’ll also want to bring along a small sheer concealer — it can keep unsightly redness away and is a way better option than a whole face full of foundation. Try Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired by Carmindy Fast Fix Concealer. Just dab on around the nose and areas where you may get a little red.

Keep your eyes defined with a smudge-free mascara on the top lashes only. Cheeks will be flushed from your hike and the brisk outdoor weather, so no need for blush. You lips however will need a little help. Throw a tinted lip balm in a zipper pocket in your pack for a bit of shimmering color and moisturization when you need it. I like Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmer, which is the perfect pretty balm.

Aubrey Organics Gone SPF 15 Bug Spray

Lastly, don’t forget bug spray to keep those pesky biting insects away. Please choose a DEET-free spray to keep yourself safe. I like Aubrey Organics Gone Safe & Natural Outdoor Spray SPF 10, because it’s safe and it also contains a little extra sunscreen for your protection.

With just these few simple products, you’ll look great without having to wear a ton of products. Have fun out there and look out for bears!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Go Nude For Summer

Bright, bold shades aren’t the only makeup colors that are hot this summer. Shimmering shades of nude on lips and eyes are super chic and modern as well.

Benefit Velvet Eye Shadow in Fawn Over Me

For the eyes a simple wash of sparkling beige with a hint of sunset gold from the lash line to the brow bone will compliment any eye shape or color. Pair it with a slight smudge of chocolate brown liner and jet-black mascara for perfect definition. For fair to medium skin tones, try Stila’s Silk Shadow Wash in Kitten or Benefit’s Velvet Eyeshadow in Fawn Over Me. For darker skin, try nudes that have a bit of warm bronze to them like La Femme Sparkle Dust in #9.

To keep your face balanced apply a blush with a slight kick of color like an apricot or subtle coral that will compliment the nude eye and lip. Apply the blush with a big fluffy powder brush and keep it concentrated on the apples of the cheeks only.

Color Comfort Care in Seashell Nude

Keep lips looking soft and luminous by choosing nudes that are sheer or have an opalescent sheen to them. If you are fair to medium, use Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Natural Shine Lip Gloss in Sparkling Champagne or Lancome’s Color Design Lipstick in Natural Beauty. For darker skin Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Color Comfort Lip Care in Seashell Nude is perfect.

If the whole monochromatic nude look is a bit much for you, then just pick one feature to play with and you’ll still be on point for the season!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Polish With A Purpose

M2M nail polish red group

I was on a shoot the other day and met the wonderful and beautiful celebrity manicurist Myrdith Leon-McCormack, who was doing my mani/pedi. She gave me the best nail treatment ever using her new line of nail polishes called M2M Natural Nail Care by damoreJon.

This incredible natural nail care system not only had the most gorgeous shade range ever, but I swear this mani/pedi lasted longer than any other I have ever had. I’m pretty hard on my manicures so I was really blown away that it stayed flawless for over a week.

The line includes foot balms, sea salts, moisturizers, scrubs, oils, anti-septics as well as all those great shades of polish. They not only have great products, but they also have a cause that gives back to a wonderful foundation.

M2M nail polish blue group

Haitian born, Myrdith has collaborated with Melky Jean, sister of Wyclef Jean, the legendary founder of the Fugees, to create a M2M nail color collection in support of a fantastic charity called the Carma foundation.

The foundation aims to improve the health of poor women and children in Haiti and portions of the proceeds of Kompa, a fabulous metallic bronze polish will go to help them.

I asked Myrdith what her top 5 shade picks for nails were for spring and summer and she told me she loves Scarlett, a bright red that looks amazing with a tan; Hot Girl, a hot pink that every girl should try on her toes this sandal season; Night Bird, a fuchsia pink for a daring bold look; Platinum Plus, a modern silver; and Funny Girl, a shimmery light pink.

I want them all!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

Duty-Free Beauty

Duty Free

I spend so much time in airports and I have to say, I’m always amazed by the beauty shopping in Duty-Free’s. Some airports carry incredible deals and exclusive collections available only to frequent fliers. Here are some of my favorite exclusive Duty-Free products.

I love the mini lipgloss collection by Bobbi Brown, which has 3 gorgeous shades in hot pink, petal and rosy. You can wear a different one each day, depending on your mood.

The Chanel Travel Makeup Palette and the Lancôme Absolute Seduction Palette are filled with every makeup shade you will ever need to look totally gorgeous.

The Happy Hands Kit by L’Occitane is perfect for travel because we often forget our poor hands and they can get so dry and cracked, especially while we fly. With these purse-size moisturizers, you can keep your hands hydrated no matter where you might be traveling.

Skincare deals abound in terminals so look for your favorite coveted moisturizer or line erasing serum that you may have stopped buying due to the recession. You may find it’s more affordably priced at the Duty-Free.

The Heathrow terminal in London has some of the best beauty shopping around as well as Amsterdam and Paris’ Charles De Gaulle.

Duty-Free is a great place to stop into when you are feeling a bit travel frazzled because you can test out these fab finds, which will help you feel a bit more refreshed and relaxed. However, be careful not to spread bacteria by double dipping into already open sample containers and applying those products to your face. Ask to test lipglosses, eyeshadows or anything your skin can touch by asking for a fresh sample. If you’re not careful, hello swine flu!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.

In A Bind Budget Beauty

I hate it when airlines lose my baggage on those exact trips where I need to hit the ground running. This happened to me recently and there was no time for me to wait for my luggage to arrive before I needed to be somewhere looking good.

I always travel with at least one outfit in my carry-on, so I was covered there, and usually I have my famous 5 Minute Face Ziploc baggie of beauty handy, but this, of course, was the one and only time I checked it through. Of course! The only thing I had in my purse was my travel size moisturizer.

Thank God for drugstores and the fabulous beauty departments they have now. If you need to shop quickly and cheaply and don’t want to waste money on a bunch of products, go for multi-purpose buys that will get you looking gorgeous when you are in a bind. It will be a no-fuss look and bring out your natural beauty at the same time.

A box of Q-Tips is the first thing you should pick up because they can be used to replace your makeup brushes for application, touch-ups and erasing mistakes. This will run you around $1.20.

Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Your Skin Makeup

Now pick up a foundation for a flawless complexion. Drugstore foundations are better than ever due to advanced high-end formulations. A great two-in-one tip is that after you apply the foundation with your fingers, take a Q-Tip and pick up that little bit that gets left over on the nozzle and dab it on trouble spots to conceal. Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired By Carmindy Your Skin Makeup is the best foundation there is and it only costs $12.99!

Next buy a translucent powder compact that will control your shine and give you a little mirror so you can see what you are doing. Don’t powder the tops of your cheekbones or under the brow so you will get a little shine in those areas and it will look naturally highlighted. Jane Oil-Free Powder is only $3.69 and will definitely do the trick.

E.L.F. All-Over Color Stick

Buy a cream blush in a nice bright shade that can double as a blush and a lip color. This will keep your cost down and give you a burst of color for a fresh-looking face. I love the E.L.F. All Over Stick in Pink Lemonade and at $1.49 you can’t lose.

Last is black mascara, which will give your eyes all the definition they really need. Go for a low cost version like Rimmel Extra Super Lash for $3.49.

All of this will only cost you around $22.86, which is the cost of one expensive lipstick. So don’t fret when you’re stuck in a jam, just run out to your local drugstore and pick up these basics. You will look fabulous!

As an established makeup artist, many beauty brands send me samples of their latest products for consideration. I only write about the items that I truly love and I always abide by Daily Makeover’s Editorial Ethics Pledge in each of my Positively Beautiful posts.