Avoid These Summer Beauty Mistakes

Wet and Wild:

Under no circumstances should you jump into a body of water with makeup on unless it is all water-proof. Aside from looking like a member of KISS, you’re likely to have burning and irritation in your eyes from your mascara. This is a big no-no.

Over-Moisturizing:

We all know that less is usually more in the beauty world. But when it comes to skincare products don’t feel the need to add 3 layers of everything. Just remember to reapply your sunblock as needed and continue with your normal amount of moisturizer. If you’re not careful- you could end up sweating it out all day.

Neglecting Your Feet:

It’s kind of funny that mankind was built to walk upright, but our tootsies are one of the most sensitive spots on our body. Be sure to give them extra love and attention during the summer. Between sweating in your sneakers and drying out in your flip-flops, it’s a hard life for a pair feet. Be sure to find a nice foot lotion and give yourself a daily massage. You’ll feel like a princess almost immediately ;P

Caked-On Powder:

While this is really a beauty no no for any time of year, this is especially common in the Summer months. Many women try to over-compensate for their oily complexion by adding extra powder to their face- but this is not the solution. If you are worried about excess oil production or over sweating, try purchasing some oil blotting pads. These can be found for a few dollars at your local convenience stores and also at Sephora for a little more money (around $8.00). Use these a few times a day to gently remove the excess oil and sweat without messing up your makeup. If you over do the powder, you will end up looking like a China Doll gone wrong.

Over Tanning:

We’ve all heard it before. But over-tanning is not “in” anymore… one could argue it never was. Aside from looking like you might be from another planet of little orange men, this is unsafe for your skin. Keep healthy this summer and use a sunblock. Ask your Dermatologist how much sun exposure is safe each day.

What is your Biggest Beauty Mistake?

3 Beauty Essentials for Summer

Summer Beauty MakeupI have to admit that so far the weather has been much less extreme here in Southern California than it was last summer (knock on wood!). But as most of you know, keeping your face pristine can be challenging even in the most ideal weather. Here are the 3 essentials you need to keep a fresh face this summer:

PrimerThis is an indespensable tool for a flawless face. Most primers help protect your makeup from even the most humid of days. If you’re planning a day at the beach, don’t apply your makeup without this secret weapon. I recommend this primer by Smashbox.

Waterproof Mascara: You never know when the heat is going to hit at an all-time-high and we all know that oily eyelids can drag your makeup down big time. And let’s face it- none of us really want to look like  a member from KISS.

Favorite Lipgloss or Lipstick: This is your opportunity to add a pop of color to your face without taking too much time out of your morning routine. When you’re in a hurry and don’t have time to grab the eyeshadow, reach for the nearest lipgloss. Oh, and did I mention- Lip products tend to last a long time regardless of the weather outside :)  

 

DIORSHOW EXTASE Mascara: REVIEWED

Diorshow Extase ReviewI’ve been super busy with work lately, but I was able to try out this mascara last week. Although I do like the original Diorshow mascara, it never made my favorites list. I’m happy to report that EXTASE had a much bigger impact on me.

Here’s Why:

  1. The innovative wand has wonderful tiers for extra lengthening power.
  2. It also includes duo fibers: Black Elastomer Fibers brush out and define the lashes for panoramic fringe and Gold Nylon Fibers to hold and deposit formula.
  3. This mascara was especially good with length. It did add some volume but the length was really something to brag about.
  4. Long Lasting. Even without a mascara primer.
  5. Very minimal “shedding” and “smearing” throughout the day.
  6. Non-Clumping (just don’t wait too long between applying layers)

With the list above, I would definitely say this mascara is worth a try. It is a little on the expensive side (currently $28.50 at Sephora.com) but I was impressed with it and will most likely purchase again.

I hope you found this review helpful! Don’t forget to comment and tell me your favorite mascara!

Another Highly Recommended Mascara: Here 

Top 5 Lipstick Shades: Here

 

 

 

 

Too Faced Better Than False Lashes: Reviewed

 

I’m super excited to tell you about the new Better Than False Lashes mascara by Too Faced. You can see the video here. This 3 step mascara packs a lot of lengthening power and just like the name says: It’s better than false lashes! For those of you familiar with the Too Faced brand- you know that they are all about color, creativity, and designing beauty goodies with fun in mind.

 

 

*The box is designed to be a nice case to hold the Activating Mascara and Nylon Lash Fibers. The front of the box is  a flap revealing the product inside.

 

 

Better Than False Lashes is a Lash Extension System with Flexistretch Nylon Fibers. You literally brush on your false lashes!

The White/ Gold color-combo is an electric pairing for any makeup bag.

This system is very easy to use, even for beginning makeup users. The 3 steps are listed for you under the box flap, but I had it memorized after about 1 use.

 

Steps:

  • Prime: Use the Activating Mascara (gold tube) to create a base for the Flexistretch nylon fibers; just as you would use a mascara primer.
  • Build: Brush on 1-2 coats of the Flexistretch nylon fibers (white tube) to create super long lashes.
  • Seal: Follow with the Activating Mascara one more time to seal the nylon fibers and achieve your Better Than False Lashes look.

See My Before & After Photos!:

Before

            
This system was easy to use and really effective. My Dad even noticed my eyes and said it was a really good product :) But you be the judge :)
Be Sure to Check Out: Top 5 Lipstick Shades for Spring
Tips:
1) Be sure not to delay between applications. I’ve found that it really helps decrease your chances of clumping if you quickly apply each step after the other.
2) Use long strokes when brushing on the Flexistretch nylon fibers. This allows for a much smoother application when sealing the fibers.
Better Than False Lashes is available exclusively at Sephora until Fall 2012. Be sure to check out the new Too Faced Summer 2012 collection at TooFaced.com
*Note: Ophthalmologist Tested. This product is suitable for contact lens wearers.
–Be sure to comment and let me know if you plan on getting this!

 

Content copyright Cosmetics by Cortney