Archive for the MELI’S THOUGHTS ON… Category

« Older Entries

[My Thoughts on...] – Airbrush Makeup vs. Traditional Makeup Application…Is there a difference?

Posted in AIRBRUSH MAKEUP, BEAUTY TREATMENT, FACE, FOUNDATION, MAKE-UP, MELI'S THOUGHTS ON... with tags , , on August 12, 2012 by stylebymeli

With the concept of airbrush makeup becoming increasingly more popular, I wanted to discuss this topic in further detail along with what airbrush machine I’m currently using.  

In terms of the longevity of the makeup (specifically focusing on the foundation application, although other aspects of the makeup can be airbrushed such as eye shadow, blush, etc), I think the biggest misconception is that airbrush makeup lasts longer throughout the day.  From a professional standpoint, this is not necessarily the case.  The longevity of makeup truly varies from person-to-person and is going to be most heavily determined by the skin preparation and the actual foundation used, NOT the application of the product.  By skin preparation, I am referring to a good face primer, which I use prior to ALL foundation application–both traditional and airbrush.  With airbrush makeup, a lot of companies say that their airbrush foundations do not even require a primer or a powder to set, but I’m a makeup traditionalist at heart, so there is no way I’m going to ever skip a face primer or face powder.  Keep in mind that face primer and setting powder are both forms of makeup insurance to help ensure the makeup will last the entire day.

So, if the longevity isn’t enhanced by the use of an airbrush machine, are there are any significant differences between these methods of makeup application?

In terms of the actual amount of product being used, airbrush makeup is MUCH LIGHTER in my opinion while still providing a flawless, even finish.  Most airbrush foundations are water based which provides light to medium coverage with effortless blendability onto the skin.  This is a major beauty perk, especially for people that want to wear as little face makeup as possible while still looking like they have just the right amount of coverage.  Airbrush makeup enhances the skin rather than masking the skin, given that it is applied properly.  By that I mean less is more.  If you over apply the airbrush makeup, it can visually look very cakey.

Currently, I am using a Dinair airbrush machine which I’m a big fan of as it’s portable, easy to clean (proper sanitation practices are essential!), and the application is very smooth and effortless.  I have been using their brand of airbrush foundation which I am also very happy with, although I’m sure you can probably use other water based foundations with their machine.

[Has anyone tried airbrush makeup?]

About these ads

1 Comment »

[My Thoughts on...] – BB Creams…Along with What They Are and What They Do

Posted in FACE, FACE PRIMER, FOUNDATION, MAKE-UP, MELI'S THOUGHTS ON..., SKINCARE, TINTED MOISTURIZERS with tags , , on July 23, 2012 by stylebymeli

I feel as though BB creams are not only popping up everywhere in the beauty world, but there is an incredible amount of hype regarding these miracle creams. 

For starters, many people may not be completely familiar with the term, “BB cream.”  BB cream stands for “beauty balm” or I have also seen them referred to as a “blemish balm.”  They originated in Asia and have been around for quite sometime, but are just making its way into Western markets.  

In terms of its purpose, it is considered to be an all-in-one cosmetic product that serves as a moisturizer, primer, foundation, sunblock, and skin smoother.  Depending on the brand, these skin boosting elements can vary, but essentially each BB cream is designed to achieve many great things with just one step, one product.  Ahh, sounds like a dream come true!

[Beauty Confession]:  Personally, I have yet to invest in a BB cream.    

Is it something I will be likely to do in the future?  Perhaps.  I do like the idea of having an all-in-one product for days that I have about two minutes to apply face makeup and run out the door.

However, at the end of the day, I don’t like to cut corners when it comes to makeup application.  I just don’t like the idea of using one product for the whole face because the face is too intricate and each surface area has different needs.  Keep in mind, I use two brushes just to apply my foundation and layer a few skin products before I even get to the foundation.

Also keep in mind that as an artist, I always strive for visual perfection and my standards for “perfection” are much greater than the everyday person.  While some strive for convenience and a quick one-step process, I’m most concerned with the overall visual end result.  I just don’t feel a BB cream can create this visual perfection on its very own.

I always like to share this analogy: “Do you prefer using a shampoo conditioner OR a separate shampoo with a separate conditioner?”  So far, 100% of the time, people have always responded that they rather use separate products.  Why?  It’s more effective that way.  This is how I feel regarding BB creams.  The concept behind them are great but at the end of the day, I have no problem using as many as ten separate products for the face knowing that it will not only work more effectively but also visually make the most impact.

[Do you use BB creams? If so, which brand would you recommend?]

4 Comments »

[My Thoughts on...] – NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 vs. Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 – Oil Free

Posted in FACE, FOUNDATION, MAKE-UP, MELI'S THOUGHTS ON..., NARS, PRODUCTS I LOVE, SKINCARE, TINTED MOISTURIZERS on June 12, 2012 by stylebymeli

Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 – and NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Recently, NARS came out with a tinted moisturizer that comes in 9 shades.  I matched myself to “Alaska,” which [sadly] is the second lightest shade in their color spectrum.  I had initially thought this was too light, especially moving into the summer season, but it turns out I really am that fair and I have to say, it is the perfect match!  FYI, in MAC terms, I’m a true NC25 bordering on NC20 (in Studio Fix Fluid).  

I have been incredibly loyal to my Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer (oil-free version) ever since I started using it about a year ago.  I wear the shade, “Bisque” and out of the ten shades, this is the third lightest.  I love the silky, blendable texture and the fact that it actually provides amazing coverage.  In other words, I have been using this as my foundation.

However, this does not mean I’m completely married to it, I’m always open to new things!

[Beauty Confession]:  I have an obsession with creating perfect skin, so as a makeup artist, I’m always looking for the next best thing in terms of face products and skincare.  (That and a fabulous lipstick!  I don’t know why, but I’m always looking for a new lipstick…I have a slight addiction!)

About a week ago, I picked up a sample of the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30 from Sephora, and originally, I wasn’t completely in love with it, mainly because I originally thought the shade I had chosen was too light (but the next shade was clearly too dark) and in terms of its consistency, it seemed to lack that buttery, blendable creaminess that was prevalent in the Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer.

MY VERDICT: However, a week has now gone by (yes, the sample has truly been lasting that long, because as I always say, a little goes a long way) and although it’s a tough decision given they are both AMAZING products, I have to say that I’m leaning a little stronger towards the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum SPF 30.

Why I’m Loving the NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer:

-  For starters, I like the fact that NARS has a higher SPF content.  Personally, I try to shower my face with SPF because it is the number one thing you can do to prevent premature signs of aging (I don’t know about you, but I rather age like a fine wine than look like a leather couch, just saying! ;)) and let’s please not forget about skin cancer prevention ladies.  SPF is crucial, so the higher, the better!

-  Both products are exactly the same price, $42.  However, the amount of product does slightly vary:  LMTM = 1.7 oz and the NARS TM = 1.9.  So from an economical standpoint, NARS gives you a little more bang for your buck.

-  In terms of coverage, they are very close in my opinion.  I’d have to say that the NARS TM may be slightly more sheer than LMTM, but the coverage is buildable.

-  Besides the visual effects of a face product, in which BOTH products do provide a smooth, flawless, and natural finish, I’m also HIGHLY concerned about the skin benefits of the product (if it even provides any at all for that matter)!  Let me share with you the description of each product, and YOU tell me which you’re sold on going strictly by its description…

NARS – “Infused with lush, naturally derived ingredients, this lightweight tinted moisturizer immediately helps thirsty skin feel hydrated. It has been proven to help reduce the appearance of discoloration and dark spots caused by hyper pigmentation for a clearer and brighter complexion in just four weeks. Oil-free and luxurious, it obscures the appearance of lines, wrinkles, pores and other imperfections. SPF 30 adds a translucent veil of protection. “

Research results:
-84% felt their skin was more radiant and luminous
-81% felt the product smoothed out the surface of their skin
-81% felt the product gave them immediate hydration

Laura Mercier - “This lightweight foundation that can be reapplied as necessary, offers sun protection for sensitive or acne prone skin, oil control, and provides hydration to prevent dryness.”

Hmm…I don’t know about you, but this seems like a beauty no-brainer in terms of which tinted moisturizer provides the best long-term benefits for your skin.  

Now I know it may be too soon to make this correlation, but I have to honestly say that the clarity of my skin has drastically improved within the past few days. I actually ALMOST forgot to even apply my concealer yesterday because I could actually have gotten away with just skipping it and wearing the tinted moisturizer by itself.  Talk about a miracle!

[Has anyone else tried both of these products?  If so, do you have a favorite?]

1 Comment »

[My Thoughts on...] – False Eyelash Glue: Black or Clear? Does it Truly Make a Difference?

Posted in EYE MAKEUP, EYELINER, FALSE EYE LASHES, MAKE-UP, MAKE-UP QUESTIONS, MAKEUP REMOVER, MELI'S THOUGHTS ON..., PRODUCTS I LOVE with tags , , on April 12, 2012 by stylebymeli

As a beauty blogger, I really try to discuss topics that there is limited information on and makeup questions that I’m sure people wonder about themselves.  People don’t realize that there is so much involved with makeup application, hence why I never run out of things to write about!  ;)

Moving forward to the subject of false eyelashes, I’m sure most people that are familiar with its application process know that it is applied specifically with a lash glue.  This can be purchased pretty much at any drugstore, supermarket, beauty supply store, etc.  The most famous brand is Duo, which is a safe latex adhesive and that is also waterproof.  I want to take a moment to emphasize the WATERPROOF aspect of the glue.  (To be further explained later…)

Duo false eyelash adhesive comes in both clear or black. Which is better?

Now what most people may not realize is that there are TWO variations of the false eyelash glue.  They come in both CLEAR (the most common form) and BLACK.  What this is referring to is how they dry.  Although the clear looks white when squeezed out of the tube, it will dry clear.  The black will actually look slightly grey when wet before drying black.

I have actually asked a handful of other artists for their personal opinion and it’s truly a toss-up.  Some strongly are in favor of the black glue because once dried, it looks more like a black eye liner, while others still prefer the original clear version.

MY VERDICT:  If you are given the choice, choose the CLEAR false eyelash glue.

The clear eyelash glue is MUCH BETTER in my opinion because if happen to mess up the application or the glue transfers onto the eyelid at all during the drying process, the clear will dry clear so you won’t see the mishap.

On the other hand, if you do have the same beauty mishap with the black eyelash glue, now you are stuck with a black spot and being that the product is WATERPROOF, you better believe it does more damage than good and that simply trying to wipe it with your finger, is NOT going to remove it AT ALL.  It’s pretty much stuck there unless you apply an oil based makeup remover (REMINDER: oil based makeup removers remove ALL waterproof products!  Specifically, I CANNOT LIVE WITHOUT MY MAC CLEANSE OFF OIL, I actually carry the travel size in my purse EVERYDAY…it’s been a lifesaver!!!)

[Beauty Confession]:  I know from experience that the black can be a hassle to deal with because recently I decided to try the black eyelash glue again.  I had it awhile ago, but never really fell in love with it.  Recently, I saw it at a drugstore and figured, let me give this a go again.  Initially, I was liking it.  Being that the black dries black, it definitely makes the black liner look more like a sharp black line.  (Whereas with the clear glue, I like to still apply black liquid liner OVER it after it has completely dried to conceal that there is even a thin layer of glue to begin with).

One day, I noticed that the glue dried black, but a tiny spot transferred onto my inner top lid.  I was wearing a light eye shadow, so you could TOTALLY see the spot and trust me, it was NOT going anywhere!  I tried to rub it off, but it was NOT moving since it was completely dried at that point.  Totally stuck.  The only way I could have removed it is with an oil, but at that rate, that would mean I would have to re-do my eye makeup.  (Talk about a real beauty bummer, no?)

If as a makeup artist this happened to me one time, I’m sure this could truly happen to anyone.  The ONLY time, I would say it’s okay to go for the black eyelash glue is if you are wearing a DARK eyeshadow lid color.  This way if the glue happens to smudge, you don’t even notice a contrast and the black will blend in more easily and won’t nearly be as noticeable.

[Do you have a preference: black or clear?]

3 Comments »

[My Thoughts on...] – Inkglot Cosmetics…How Does it Compare to MAC and Other Cosmetic Companies?

Posted in MAKE-UP, MELI'S THOUGHTS ON..., NAILS, PRODUCTS I LOVE, SHOPPING with tags , , on January 16, 2012 by stylebymeli


I’m not sure how many people are familiar with Inglot, but it’s a cosmetic company that was developed in Europe and is starting to rapidly increase in popularity here in the United States.  Although it has been around for awhile, I personally never heard of the brand until about a year and a half ago.  It wasn’t until today, that I actually got a chance to check out an Inglot free-standing store in the Garden State Plaza Mall in Paramus, New Jersey.  It is currently the only location in the state of New Jersey.

Here is a rundown of how Inglot compares to other cosmetic lines…

Price:  I find the prices to be very reasonable and you definitely get more for what you pay for.  I found that most of their products start at about $12, such as lipsticks, eye shadows, and concealers.

Color Selection:  The color section is mind blowing.  Inglot truly has an amazing color spectrum of shades and caters to everyone in my opinion.  The only section I didn’t really get an opportunity to look at was their foundation.  The next time I go, I want to take a look at the shades they provide.

Packaging:  The packaging happens to be very comparable to MAC, as their products are showcased in a sleek, classic black.

Presentation:  I am incredibly impressed with the layout of their product line.  Besides being very clean and organized, I appreciated the overall structure of the store.

Extra Features:  They offer palettes for just about anything, including lip color!  Currently, MAC does NOT have palettes for lip color and there is definitely a demand for this.

The false eye lash selection also left me a lasting first impression and sort of reminded me of Make Up For Ever, as they had lashes ranging from natural to overly dramatic.

The nail polish selection was also unbelievable!  There are just so many pretty colors to choose from.

A look at their nail polish display unit. They have a fantastic color selection and the layout is spectacular.

More Information Regarding Inglot Pro Discount:

-  They also offer a pro-membership program (as do many cosmetic companies) for anyone that works in the field.  Best of all, it’s very easy to apply for!  Today, I picked up an application and I can apply within the store by bringing in three proofs that I’m in the industry (they provide a list of options as to what to bring in) along with their simple one page application.  It does not have to be sent in anywhere and gets approved on the spot within the store.  They offer a 20% discount to pro-members.  Based on my knowledge, the discount can only be used within a store and not for online purchases.

[Has anyone used Inglot?  What are your favorite products?]

2 Comments »

« Older Entries
Follow

Get every new post delivered to your Inbox.

Join 363 other followers