Encyclopedia of Mascara

 Encyclopedia of Mascara

Welcome to Beauty Addict's Encyclopedia of Mascara! This single post is your one stop shop for everything I've ever written about mascara, so bookmark it, print it out, copy it to your Blackberry memopad, memorize it...whatever! It'll be updated every time I try out or review a new mascara, so check back often.

Mascaras are arranged alphabetically by brand, with the titles linked to full posts if available. Starred mascaras indicate "Beauty Addict Top Picks."

Now, a little bit about me and my lashes. I like BIG, dark, super-fat lashes - no "soft, natural" look here - so I tend to go for volumizing formulas that really stick to the lashes. As for curl, mine do that on their own, so I can't offer too much advice as to choosing a mascara that creates/holds a curl.

So while you may not agree with every review here, these are my 100% honest opinions on all the mascaras I've tried. Enjoy - and feel free to post your own impressions in the comments!

Skip to Brand:

Avon / Benefit / Besame / Blinc / Boots / Chanel / Clinique / Cover Girl / Dior / DuWop /L'Oreal / Lancome / Lumene / MAC / Maybelline / Max Factor / Prescriptives / Rimmel/ Shiseido / Smashbox / Sonia Kashuk

Avon Daring Curves: The helix-shaped brush looks cool, but I found that it didn't really do much in terms of improved performance. This seemed like a pretty standard mascara to me, ok to use in a pinch but not one that I'd repurchase. I can't really comment on any curling properties as my lashes stay curly all by themselves (preparing for hate mail now).

Benefit BAD Gal: I don't get the hype on this one. The massive brush is entirely too big to maneuver in corners or on top of lashes, the formula is too thin to build serious volume, and it smudges. I love almost everything else Benefit makes, but I just can't get on the BAD Gal bandwagon!

Besame Sculpture Lash: Smudge alert! And such a shame, too, because the packaging is gorgeous and the brush is perfect, not too fat, not too skinny. This is another one that claims to curl, but I can't really comment on that property. One note: I've heard from others that the Black is the only shade that smudges. If I happen to try another color, I'll let you know.

*Blinc Kiss Me: One of those nifty mascaras that forms "tubes" around each lash, once you put this on, it's not going anywhere. Great separation and deep black color, but unfortunately does nothing for length or volume. It's perfect, however, for defining the delicate lashes on your lower lids...probably the all-time best in this area. Also a great choice for sensitive eyes or contact lens wearers as it doesn't run, flake or smear.

Boots No 7 Longer Lashes: Compared to some of my glossy black favorites, this mascara had a grey, almost matte appearance. The dry texture kept it from smearing, but the color and finish just didn't have enough "oomph" for me.

*Chanel Inimitable: Excellent choice! I actually found this to be a decent alternative to my beloved Fatale. The rubber-bristled brush - similar to Cover Girl Lash Exact and Prescriptives Here to Stay - deposits color evenly without clumping, and builds well. I was able to achieve excellent volume with this mascara.

Clinique Brush Then Comb: I really like the idea behind this; apply with the brush, then flip to the other side to separate lashes with the comb. My only caveat is to move quickly with that comb! If the mascara dries before you get a chance to comb through, you're stuck. Nice color and definition, but it takes several coats to achieve good length or volume and at that point, you might run into problems with the comb. Just move quickly and you'll be fine!

*Clinique Lash Power: Like Blinc Kiss Me, Lash Power is a "tubular" mascara; instead of just painting your lashes, it coats each in little "tubes" (you'll know when you wash it off and see "spider legs" going down the drain). Unlike Kiss Me, however, Lash Power lets you build considerable volume and decent length. It doesn't flake or clump, and won't come off til you take it off, with warm water and a little gentle rubbing. One of my everyday HGs.

Cover Girl Lash Blast: Terrific, volume-building formula, but the gigantic fat brush and unwieldy handle put this mascara in the "not worth the trouble" pile, at least for me. From my original review: "Seriously, this thing is the Mega Bloks of mascaras. It's built like a Fisher Price toy for clumsy preschoolers trying to hone their fine motor skills."

DiorShow: Massive brush again, just like the BAD Gal! I find these brushes terribly hard to work with but I must be in minority because everyone seems to love Diorshow. It made my lashes nice and full but I had problems with clumping, as well as smearing into the corners due to the unwieldy brush. If you're a pro with that brush, more power to you. PS - it smells good!

DuWop Lash Lacquer: Good quality, buildable mascara that doesn't clump, but also doesn't add major volume. The waterproof topcoat is a plus and can be used on top of other mascaras. Overall, a good choice for everyday, work or travel.

L'Oreal Double Extend: This is one of those double-ended primer/mascara deals, and you know what that means: move quickly or experience major "crispiness." Worth it if you have time to spend perfecting the technique and avoiding clumps; otherwise, the extra step of priming lashes may be a little much on busy mornings.

L'Oreal Lash Architect: A huge disappointment compared to the other L'Oreal mascaras. Builds tons of length and volume, but clumps like none other if you're not super careful. Not worth the risk with so many other better formulas out there, even from the same brand.

L'Oreal Volume Shocking: In the primer/mascara category, Volume Shocking's sister product, Double Extend, has it beat by a mile. I occasionally had problems with the white primer showing through with this formula, or lashes taking on a strange, gray look that sullied the glossy black that I covet.

*L'Oreal Voluminous: A far better choice than the reigning drugstore queen, Great Lash. Builds great volume and makes lashes look super thick; just don't wait too long between coats, or it's clump city. Still, it's a drugstore staple, one of the best you can buy at that price.

Lancome Courbe Virtuose: Curling mascara, the efficacy of which I can't really comment on as my lashes are curly all on their own (lucky, I know). Gives a nice dramatic look with minimal clumping, and I really like the curved brush, but again, can't comment on the curling.

Lancome Definicils: A classic mascara and a favorite of many, Definicils does a great job of separating and defining lashes without clumping. It just doesn't provide enough volume for me. If you're looking for a more natural-looking mascara for everyday wear, it's a solid choice.

*Lancome Fatale: My all-time favorite. The oddly-shaped comb takes some getting used to, but once you've gotten the hang of it Fatale produces the thickest, longest, blackest lashes EVER. See original post (linked in title) for application tips.

Lancome Hypnose: Nice, buildable formula that separates lashes and makes them look long. Takes a few coats to achieve volume, and it never really makes it to that "super fat lashes" territory. Good for everyday or if you like a more natural, non-dramatic look.

Lancome L'Extreme: This is one of the "wetter" formulas, so beware of smearing. Other than that, like the other Lancome mascaras this one is super black and glossy. Does a nice job perfectly coating and separating the lashes. I didn't notice any significant lengthening at first, but when I waited just a few seconds between coats, I was able to achieve much better "build."

Lumene Intelligent: Funny brush! It's fat and rounded at the end like a Q-tip, which was fun, but didn't help when trying to maneuver around those pesky lashes in the inner corners. Other than that, this performed like a standard mascara, nice color and separation, but nothing earth-shattering in terms of length or volume. Claims to curl, but I can't comment on that one.

Lumene Star Effect: In a total departure from the other Lumene formula, this one has a very petite, skinny brush. I had major problems not with clumping or smearing, but with my lashes sticking together. Suspecting that the "Star Effect" refers to sections of your lashes ending up looking like the points of a star. If you have the patience for a lash comb, the wee brush makes this a good formula for lower lashes. But for uppers, I'm not a fan.

MAC Plush Lash: Another one with a massive brush that makes it incredibly difficult to apply without smearing mascara all over your eye! However, I'll forgive it this time. Plush Lash is different because it has a flat side that deposits the mascara really well. My tip? Forget the far-too-fat rounded side and just apply with the flat side. You'll get long, separated lashes with nice volume.

Maybelline Full 'N Soft: Exactly what the name implies, this mascara delivers nice volume without clumping or a brittle feel. Similar to Lancome Hypnose in that it doesn't really achieve a dramatic lash, but nice for everyday.

Maybelline Great Lash: Probably the most overrated mascara on the market. Does nothing to build length or volume. So many better choices out there, even in the drugstore!

MAX Factor Lash Perfection Waterproof: Love the rubber-bristled brush and the way it keeps my lashes separated. But as waterproof mascaras go, I prefer Prescriptives Here to Stay as it allowed me to build quite a bit more volume. I also wanted more definition on the ends of my lashes but couldn't achieve that with Lash Perfection. But for a waterproof formula at the drugstore, this definitely gets the job done.

Prescriptives Beyond Long: The first time I tried this I had a little bit of a smearage problem during application, but was more careful the next time around and managed to avoid it. I love the conical, Christmas tree shaped brush, as it allowed me to get into the corners without getting product everywhere. Adds nice volume and length, and separates well. However, mine is a sample size and I've heard the full size brush is different. Will check it out!

*Prescriptives Here to Stay 24-Hour: Yes, it really does last 24 hours, so it's perfect for nonstop workdays, transatlantic flights, and various all-nighters. Builds very well if you apply quickly; one coat looks natural, while after several you can achieve some real drama. Beware, though - too many coats and you might have a problem taking it off.

*Rimmel Lycra Lash Extender: Wow, I could definitely feel the effect of the Lycra in this one - my lashes stayed soft and "springy" even with several coats of this mascara. Feels totally weightless and natural, and doesn't clump. Not the best for building volume, but produces nice definition and separation even with coat after coat. A winner from the drugstore!

*Shiseido Lasting Lift: The super-thin brush looks like a factory defect, but that's just the way it is! I liked how the brush gave me more control, enabling me to "wiggle" it at the base of my lashes without smearing it all over my eye. It also provides terrific lash separation. With several coats of this I was able to achieve nicely defined lashes with minimal "crispiness" - it just takes a little time. My lashes stay curly on their own, but the consensus seems to be that Lasting Lift holds a curl really well after you've used a lash curler.

Smashbox That's a Wrap: The one product that always remains unused when I buy one of those terrific Smashbox kits. In its defense I will say that it doesn't clump and it separates lashes nicely, but when it comes to building length and volume, this mascara comes up short.

Sonia Kashuk Lashify Mascara: This one comes with a handy lash comb in the cap, and I soon realized it was there for a reason - I had major clumping problems on the very first coat! Not really worth it when you know from the outset that you're going to need the comb to fix the job.

Makeup Mixology

Makeup Mixology

Last summer I unleashed the mad scientist within and created a bespoke tinted moisturizer from an Estee Lauder liquid foundation, Bobbi Brown oil control moisturizer with SPF, and some Stila liquid shimmer. it proved to be amost excellent summer creation that allowed me to moisturize, even out my skin tone, and add dewiness in one step.

This year, I'm at it again. My 2010 Official Bespoke Tinted Moisturizer includes the following:

MAC Face & Body Foundation. I LOVE this foundation. Read this post to find out why. For this experiment, I chose a shade a bit darker than my skintone, not only because it's tanning season, but because I knew I'd be mixing it with an opaque white sunscreen.

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Daily Sunblock SPF 70. I'm loving this sunblock because it's incredibly lightweight, doesn't cake up when used with makeup, and doesn't clog my pores. I use it on the backs of my hands, too.

Stila All Over Shimmer Liquid Luminizer in #6. Last year I went for a subtle gold sheen, but this year I chose a warm rose gold with a bit of peach, for a fresh, sunkissed touch. Unfortunately, the Stila product I used here is no longer available, butNARS Orgasm Illuminator or either shade of MAC Lustre Drops from the To The Beach collection would work perfectly. Or just sub in whatever liquid highlighter you have in your beauty arsenal!

Do you mix your own makeup too? Share your favorite creations in the comments!

How to Apply Base Makeup

Base makeup can give your skin an even tone while covering up blemishes, spots and dark circles. It can also provide protection from the elements - sun, wind and pollution.Pick a foundation whether it's liquid, cream or powder that matches your skin tone and use the following tips to apply your base.

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• base makeup or foundation of your choice
• make up sponge
• make up brush
• loose powder

1. How to Apply Base Makeup

   • 1
     Choose a foundation that blends well with your skin. Match your skin color using test samples by dabbing a little on the back of your hand and rubbing it in. You'll also be able to tell if the foundation has the right amount of coverage for your skin tone.
   • 2
     Always apply base makeup after you have cleansed your skin, used a toner and moisturizer for maximum effect.
   • 3
     Using a makeup sponge, makeup brush or your fingers, spread foundation in an upward motion covering the jaw line and cheeks. Applying foundation with upward sweeps is a great anti-aging technique. Always avoid pulling downward on the fleshy parts of your face.
   • 4
     Continue to apply base make up down the nose and over the eyelids. Foundation on the eyelids helps eye shadow last longer.
   • 5
     From the center of the forehead, spread foundation outward in each direction all the way to the hairline. Using your fingers, be sure to blend the base thoroughly and directly into the hairline to avoid a mask look.
   • 6
     Once you have completely applied the foundation, using a makeup brush and loose powder, gently dust your face to set the foundation. A few light dustings throughout the day will keep your makeup looking fresh.

Eye primer makeup (sometimes called eyeshadow primer) glides onto your eyelid to not only ensure that your eyeshadow stays on all day, but looks fantastic on you. You can find eye primer in most cosmetic and drug stores. Alternatively, you can use liquid foundation instead of eye primer to achieve almost that same kind of look.

1. Identifying Eye Primer

   • Eye primer makeup usually comes in a gel-like form that you can put on your eyelid before applying eyeshadow. It ensures that the shadow will stay on your lids and look the way it was meant to look on your skin. It also prevents eyeshadow from creasing on your lids.

   Buying the Correct Eye Primer For You

   • Everyone has different skin: oily, dry, chaffed, wrinkled. Make your eye primer selection based on your type of skin and budget. Brands to take a look at include Urban Decay, Amazing Cosmetics, Ulta and L'Oreal. Check the descriptions under each product and match it to your budget to choose the rightprimer for you.

   
   

   

   Applying Eye Primer

   • Squeeze a tiny bit of eye primer makeup directly onto your eyelid carefully. Use your finger or the wand, if it comes with one, to smooth it out onto your entire eyelid. Remember that a little goes a long way. Let it dry for a minute to a minute and one-half. Apply eyeshadow as you normally would and see the difference.

   Using an Alternative to Eye Primer

   • If eye primer isn't in your budget, an alternative to it is a good liquid foundation. Liquid foundation helps to capture eyeshadow color on your eyelids and also helps the shadow from creasing. Apply it as you would the eye primer; being sure to wait about one minute before applying the eyeshadow over-top.

   Misconceptions about Eye Primer

   • Eye primer does not help you get rid of eye wrinkles in any way nor does it change the color of your eyelids; it only changes the way eyeshadow looks on your eyelids, not the way your eyelids themselves look. Eye primer is also not meant to be used underneath the eyelids, for it is not a "depuff" or "lighten" makeup.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT CONCEALERS

Apply Concealers

Find the right concealer for your skin can get some test and error. From the right formulation, to the right color to the right request technique, it may seem similar to this makeup mainstay is additional trouble than its worth. Some general rules to keep in mind are that yellow tones in concealer help mask the purple and blue tones of the dark circles. For redness, such as pimples and scars, a concealer that has a green tone determination help to hide the blemish flawlessly once patted on and then enclosed with a dab of foundation in your skin tone.In general, make certain to stick to a concealer that is now one shade lighter than your skin color. Going too light will only highlight quite than hide what you are trying to conceal. Depending on your skin's needs, you may desire to invest in a palette of dissimilar concealer shades and mix them as essential.

Applying Concealer

Once you contain chosen the ideal shade of concealer, you want to make certain that you are applying it properly to maximize its blemish-hiding potential. Stick and liquid concealers are together great choices and be supposed to be applied in the same way. Using a stick concealer will be most excellent for coverage on larger areas, and liquid concealers are ideal for minimal coverage, such as a little pimple or freckle.
Apply the concealer after you be relevant foundation. If your foundation doesn't adequately even absent your skin tone or wrap problems, it's time for concealing , rather than rubbing concealer onto a spot, which might annoy a trouble area even additional, you should dab it on and pat it in awaiting it has covered the discoloration.
How you decide to dab and pat the concealer onto your problem spots is a substance of preference. Makeup artists all have their own methods, and every one swears by his or her own technique. The most well-liked concealer application methods involve brushes, makeup sponges and fingertips. With a brush, you can attain even coverage on areas that may have additional texture, such as approximately your nose and beneath your eyes. Brushes are also outstanding at applying concealer into nooks and crannies that other methods may not be clever to reach.
Sponges are huge for larger areas, but they too work well for small pimples. Since sponges absorb surplus concealer, they tend to give still coverage. But, a word of caution for the frugal: Sponges will absorb your concealer more rapidly than other application methods, meaning you'll have to put back your concealer more often.

How to Apply Concealer Steps

Select the correct concealer based on skin type. Purchase concealer bottom on skin color. Check for the right tone by placing a little amount on the inside wrist area. The right color or tone determination blend in and not be visible.
Choose concealer based on how it is leaving to be used. Buy a specific concealer to cover acne and one more for dark circles under the eye. Purchase colored medicated concealer for acne, if desired.
Wash your face previous to applying moisturizer Apply moisturizer following washing your face. Moisturizer should practical to the face before going to bed Use theconcealer wand, Q-Tip, or your finger to dab a small bit of concealer onto your problem area.
For blemishes and scars, blend in a round motion. For under eye circles, dot on using quick motions by means of your finger. Make sure the surfaces are completely enclosed afterward. Apply foundation in excess of concealer, if desired.

Lip Makeup

When you are getting ready for a party or an outing with your friends or even for work and you would like to make an impression on the people around you-you should not forget lip makeup . An attractive pair of lips is tempting and has a vital role in making you look attractive and beautiful. Colors used for  lip makeup  needs to be chosen with great care. 

Lip Cosmetics

Lip liner: When you are concentrating on  lip makeup , you have to choose a good  lip  liner. Drawing the outline perfectly, you can offer a good shape to your lips. It promotes you fuller or thinner lips. For rejuvenating drooping lips, use this product. Most of the women prefer  lip  liner for giving their  lip  a good feature. 

lip  balms :  lip  balms contain moisturizing and sunscreen effects. Numerous types of  lip  balms nurture your lips. These are such as, beeswax  lip  balm, petrolatum with wax, petrolatum, waxes with dimethicone, etc. Beauty experts prefer this cosmetic so much and suggest to use it daily on the lips. Your lips get sun protection formula and remain smooth and soft. 

lip  balms and exfoliants :  lip  balms and exfoliants work as scrub for your lips. In addition, your  lip  gets moisturizing and sunscreen benefits. As you exfoliate the facial skin with various kinds of scrubs, lips are also rejuvenated with such exfoliants. However,  lip  balms and exfoliants come together in a single product. The ingredients which are included in such products are vanilla, honeybar, coconut oil, cocoa butter, white chocolate, velvet sweet chocolate and more. 

Lip plumper : For enjoying a fuller  lip   , select  lip   plumper. It is a wonderful cosmetic for your  lip   . Translucent, tinted, opaque, these are the types of  lip   plumpers available in cosmetic world. If you are searching for a sexy pout, buy this product. It is composed of menthol, camphor, etc. The product also encourages collagen production and moisturizes your lips. For enjoying the stylish effect on your lips throughout the whole day, apply  lip   plumper again and again. Better, you keep it in your purse. 


Lipsticks : Lipsticks bring outstanding makeover on your face. After shaping the lips with  lip   liner, add an awesome shade on it. You may choose the shades according to your choice, skin complexion, etc. From matte shade to satin sheer shades, everything will be available in lipstick cosmetics. 

lip   gloss :  lip   gloss offers sexy lips. If you are bored with the common texture of your  lip   , you may include,  lip   glosses. However, it also nourishes the lips adding glamor and fun. You may prefer to apply  lip   gloss alone or with your lipstick.  plumper : For enjoying a fuller  lip   , select  lip   plumper. It is a wonderful cosmetic for your  lip   . Translucent, tinted, opaque, these are the types of  lip   plumpers available in cosmetic world. If you are searching for a sexy pout, buy this product. It is composed of menthol, camphor, etc. The product also encourages collagen production and moisturizes your lips. For enjoying the stylish effect on your lips throughout the whole day, apply  lip   plumper again and again. Better, you keep it in your purse. 

Lipsticks : Lipsticks bring outstanding makeover on your face. After shaping the lips with  lip   liner, add an awesome shade on it. You may choose the shades according to your choice, skin complexion, etc. From matte shade to satin sheer shades, everything will be available in lipstick cosmetics. 

lip  gloss :  lip   gloss offers sexy lips. If you are bored with the common texture of your  lip   , you may include,  lip   glosses. However, it also nourishes the lips adding glamor and fun. You may prefer to apply  lip   gloss alone or with your lipstick. plumper : For enjoying a fuller  lip   , select  lip   plumper. It is a wonderful cosmetic for your  lip   . Translucent, tinted, opaque, these are the types of  lip   plumpers available in cosmetic world. If you are searching for a sexy pout, buy this product. It is composed of menthol, camphor, etc. The product also encourages collagen production and moisturizes your lips. For enjoying the stylish effect on your lips throughout the whole day, apply  lip   plumper again and again. Better, you keep it in your purse. 

Lipsticks : Lipsticks bring outstanding makeover on your face. After shaping the lips with  lip   liner, add an awesome shade on it. You may choose the shades according to your choice, skin complexion, etc. From matte shade to satin sheer shades, everything will be available in lipstick cosmetics. 

lip   gloss :  lip   gloss offers sexy lips. If you are bored with the common texture of your  lip   , you may include,  lip   glosses. However, it also nourishes the lips adding glamor and fun. You may prefer to apply  lip   gloss alone or with your lipstick. 

How to apply How to apply  LIP MAKEUP?

Make the outline with the lip Liner – before you take this step to define the shape of your lips with the  lip  line, make sure that your lips are smooth, soft and free of grease. Try using a sharp  lip   liner, it should be a shade close to the color of your lipstick. Apply the same with a steady hand and don't make the line too dark. While making the line on your upper lips, start off with the centre portion and then come toward both the edges. In case of the lower  lip  , make the line from both the sides. 

Try to prime up the lips with A  lip  Balancer – make the base right before applying the lipstick. It should be in a position to be seen balanced out to match the skin tone. If you see that your lips are of an even color, you can use a face powder to act as the best base. 

Fill up with the Lipstick – Use a  lip  brush and fill in the  lip  color on both the lips. Same as that of the  lip  liner, in case of the upper  lip  , you shall have to start off applying at the center and then move towards the two sides. Similarly, for the lower  lip  , apply it from both the sides. Don't put on too much of color. You can always try adding more color later on rather than removing the excess colors. 

Blotting Off - fold a clean tissue paper and hold it between both your lips. If there is excess color, just press your lips slowly together to do away with it. 

Apply  lip  gloss – Lastly, make the finishing touch by applying the  lip  gloss over your lipstick to make your lips gleam with shine. 

5 steps to get Beautiful Lips

Following a few simple steps can help you to get those perfect lips you yearned for a long time:

• The first step to have beautiful lips is to make them soft and supple. Use a  lip   salve or a  lip   balm to keep your lips soft and moisturized. The simplest  lip   balm that you can use is a mixture of 1 drop honey, 1 drop olive oil and 1 drop almond oil. Massage this mixture, gently, into the skin of your lips before you go to bed at night.
• Always remove all traces of makeup from your lips before you go to bed at night.
• Drink lots of water. Drink a balanced diet and exercise regularly. If your body is in good shape, your lips will look healthy.
• Avoid smoking, and chewing tobacco. Also, avoid chewing beetle leaves. These may stain your lips.
• Avoid eating junk foods and keep your alcohol intake to the minimum.

Makeup Tips for Lips.

It's possible to get those tempting, luscious lips in a few quick steps:

• Apply a light foundation (base makeup), evenly, to your lips. Dust a light face powder on them. This will ensure that the lip color stays on longer.
• Get the desired shape of your lips with a lip pencil or a  lip  liner. Ideally the color of the  lip  liner should match the shade of your  lip   color or lipstick.
• The beauty of your lips depends on how perfectly you outline them. For a perfect outline rest your elbows on a hard surface and then draw the borders. Border the upper  lip  first. Give your upper lips a Cupid's bow shape and then go on to the lower one.
• Always use a brush while applying lipstick on the lips. Choose a lipstick which suits your dress, hair and complexion and fill the outlined portion with it. Open your mouth and apply the  lip  color evenly on your lips. You may use  lip   sticks or liquid  lip  colors. For a glossy effect apply  lip  gloss over your lipstick. If you are going out in the evening, you may even use  lip  glitter.
• Use a blotting tissue to remove excess lip makeup. Lightly press the blotting tissue onto your lips and remove it.

lip  sticks and  lip  colors usually have three different effects: matte, frosted, glossy. Ideally, those with thick lips should avoid  lip  gloss and glossy  lip  sticks or  lip  colors

Find the Perfect Lipstick Color

Choosing a suitable lipstick color is the most important part of lip makeup. Take a look at the following table to know which lip color suits you best:

Hair color and skin tone	Lipstick Color
Cool skin type with blonde hair	Go for the bold shades of red and crimson
Blonde with warm skin	Pinky reds are the best for you. The delicate
Cool skin and dark hair	Burgundy, blood red and wines are your colors. Pale skin, dark hair and stunning pair of lips on your china doll features will make you look like an angel.
Warm skin with dark hair	Shades of brick red, ruby and the likes of it looks great on you
Cool skin brunette	Shades of orange red. Stick to the light and pale shades of orange.
Warm skin and red hair	Fiery reds and rich browns
Black hair and brown skin	All shades of burgundy reds and berry reds.

Major lip makeup brands include MAC, Maybelline, Chambor, Lakme, Estee Lauder and Revlon.

If you want to get more information on beauty and skin care tips, we suggest that you check our section on makeup Tips. 

Makeup tip of the month

*To keep lips soft and flake free, exfoliate once a week. Slather on some heavy duty lip balm (or even Vaseline) and work it in. Then gently rub lips with a soft, damp washcloth.*

Wondering how long you can hang on to your makeup? Here are some guidelines on the shelf life of cosmetics...
Foundation	6-12 months
Blush	Powder: about 2 years	Cream: about 1 year
Eye Shadow	Powder: about 2 years	Cream: 6-12 months
Eyeliner	Pencil: about 2 years if sharpened weekly	Liquid: 3 months
Mascara	3 months
Lip Liner	about 2 years if sharpened weekly
Lipstick	up to 2 years
Nail Polish	1-2 years if stored in a cool, dark place
Perfume	2-3 years if stored in a cool, dark place

Summer Makeup

Summer is the time to give your body the healthy tan and protect it from the horrors of sunburn, baked and dry lips and even sun-scorched skin cancer! There are some makeup disasters that can happen in summer sun and a relaxing beach noon that we do not pay adequate attention too. Here we are going to discuss them along with some other tips to keep you pretty like sunshine:

• Avoid lip liner.
• Colors such as golden-green or mango green for eyes can be used along with black or brown mascara.
• Dewy face with the lightest veil of translucent powder is the right summer look.
• Dry hair frizz a lot as humidity increases and make curly hair unmanageable. Rich deep conditioning of your hair will help to tame your hair and don't forget to protect them from sun, sand and wind by wearing a trendy summer hat or a baseball cap. Wax and texturizers also help to tame frizzy hair.
• Gold shimmer under brows or across cheekbones can be a luxury you can use.
• In case, you haven't taken the precaution already and the damage is already done, use a foundation with the shade of your tanned skin to cover the area under your eyes and blend it well with the rest of the face. Then use nude or light brown eye shadow to give them a natural look.
• Light shade of bronzer on cheekbones and chin gives you a beautiful suntan.
• Sprinkle your feet with foot powder before wearing sandals to avoid any blisters. If you still feel shoe-on-skin rubbing, protect the sensitive area with a bandage before the blister forms. To get rid of the blister, take a clean needle and sanitize it with alcohol. Pop the blister and use cotton to clean any fluid that comes out of it. Apply an antibiotic ointment without trying to scrape off the skin and then cover the area with a bandage.
• Sunglasses protect your eyes but do not stop the sun from tanning the rest of your face, resulting in eyes with paler skin around it than the rest of the face. To avoid this, generously rub sunscreen with SPF 30 with a broad spectrum over your entire face and body every two hours.
• The only thing you can do to get rid of this yellowish tint is to scrape the surface of your nail with the help of the finest-grain side of the block file and use the clear UV-resistant topcoat for protection and shine.
• The sheer pastel, beige and pink nail polish acquires a yellowish tint after being exposed to sun for two days or more. To avoid this, use a clear nail gloss with inbuilt UV protection topcoat and do not forget to rub sunscreen on nails too after every two hours, just like the rest of your body.
• Use eyeliner pencil of slate gray, warm chocolate or navy shades with a light hand.
• Use gel on your hair and use only the fresh razor with triple blades to shave bikini line to avoid any unsightly rashes. You can use 1% hydrocortisone cream to any rash to cure it and hide any redness in the area by using tinted facial moisturizer.
• Warm blond and naturally medium brown hair with highlights may acquire coppery shades in sun due to oxidation. Thus, always wear a hat or scarf while venturing outdoors. Hair color gloss can help you to achieve the shine again.
• Warm, sunny, bright blush can be used.
• Wear only natural nude shades as lip colors while going out to the beach. If you cannot resist the temptation of using liquid lipstick while on the honeymoon in a tropical island, keep it inside the cooler for your soda or carry it in a pot or tube with a wand. If your bullet is going soft, try to cool it a little by placing it in a fridge or near an air conditioner.

MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation, Review

A one step application of foundation and powder. Gives skin a smooth, flawless, all-matte, full coverage finish. Long wearing : Lasts for upto 8 hours. A real all in one. The choice of pros, and a long time favorite of MAC Fans.

Price : US $26.50 , INR Rs.1600/-

Quantity : 15gms

Shelf Life : 3yrs from the date of manufacture 

Here's how it looks like :-

The packaging is usual as any compact would come in. The best part is that it has a lower shelf with a sponge so that you can use it anytime on the go + you don't need to buy a separate brush or sponge to apply the foundation powder. The bottom of the compact has the shade name, while the outer carton has all the ingredients list and necessary information.

You can see i haven't used the sponge yet :P but its sooo soft and i haven't used a sponge like this before. Therefore i have kept it untouched so that i can use it later on when needed.

Okay the shade i was suggested, is NC42. The powder blends in easily and has kept me satisfied till now. Lets see the swatch, before blending and after blending.

Take a closer look... 

Why i love it ??? 

• It stays put on for quite long hours : I use it at 8 in the morning, then while going to  out i usually wear & cover my face with a cotton cloth and then on top of it i wear a helmet, and then when i reach my destination  and untie my face, i still look fresh without it  getting removed or being cakey, sweaty and all. 
• It blends in easily, and is fragrance free unlike some other compacts which have fragrance
• The result is oil free, matte and radiant 'you'.
• I like the packaging too, its sturdy, and you can carry it easily. It has a special lock, that ensures its safety.
• The quantity (15gms) is going to stay for a very long time. It is a great investment. 

My recommendation :- YES, i will definitely recommend it. Only thing is you need to get a perfect match when visiting MAC counter. It would turn out as a great investment for all you girls. The plus point i need to mention about this product is that it gives you a natural coverage, and you can definitely rely on it and keep foundation at bay. I'm loving this product !! :D


Godbless !

Vidya Balan's Hot Smokey Eye Makeup

Hi guys !!

To achieve this look you'll need :-

• A black kohl pencil
• A skin shade e/s or even your compact would do
• Mascara 
• Tape 
• Falsies (optional)

So lets start with the tutorial 

1. Cut some piece of tape, and put it along the outer corners of your eyes. Don't place it too close to the eyelashes, maintain some distance. Taking an eye shadow brush, apply a skin colored e/s all over the lid up to the brow  bone.

2. Take a kohl pencil, preferably a black one, you can even use a charcoal grey colored eye pencil, or any other black eye pencil you have. Start applying it from the outer corner, and bring it upto the inner corner of eyes. The length of the eyeliner depends on you, and your eye size, if you have small and narrow eyes then you can start applying from far and just below where your eyebrows end. In case you have big eyes, play safe and just pull the eyeliner from where your socket is. Blend the kohl with a pencil brush, or if you don't have one you can use a q-tip (ear bud). Just blend it softly (you can use a black e/s to blend it), you would still want the liner to look a bit bold.

 

3. Take some black eyeshadow on a fluffy crease brush, and start blending it in your crease. This should start probably somewhere , where your eyeliner ended. Softly blend it and bring it in to the 3/4 of your eye.


 

4. Now at last, fill in your eyes with the same kohl pencil, tight line your eyes, curl your lashes and put on mascara. I haven't applied eyeliner separately because its already too bold.


 

So this is the final look, hope you like it