Which Foundation is Right for Me?

We have all been there, walking the aisles trying to find the perfect foundation. In most cases, we buy the wrong one, end up hating the results, and it ends up in that stash pile  of old makeup at the back of your dresser drawer. Or, we go to a makeup counter, get sold on the newest, most expensive foundation that the sales associate, in most cases not even a licensed makeup artist, suggests and again, unhappy! Well ladies, I am going to give you a quick breakdown on foundation so that you are able to make an educated decision and purchase a foundation that's perfect for you!

So what are the real differences in foundations? A ton. Here is a breakdown of all the different types of foundations. There are powder, liquid, cream, airbrush, cream-to-powder, mineral, and even tinted moisturizers (those count too). No wonder it’s so hard to decide, there are a ton brands and each brand has 5 or more types of foundation to sell you.

 

                                                                                            

Powder Foundation



MAC Studio Fix Plus Foundation

Powder foundation is just that, a foundation that comes in a compact, applied with either a sponge or brush, and aim to give you the same look as a cream or liquid foundation. That is not always the case. Powder foundations are fantastic for people with oily skin, sensitive skin, and those who are looking for a lighter coverage. They are not good for those with dry skin because they do not hydrate the skin and will appear flaky when applied to dry skin. They are great for everyday use but need to be touched up frequently. My all time favorite is MAC Studio Fix Plus Foundation. I have entire pallet of these powders and my sister is a huge fan too!

                                       

Make Up Forever HD Foundation

Liquid Foundations


MAC Studio Fix Fluid
 

Liquid foundations are obviously in a liquid form and are applied with a sponge or foundation brush. Unlike powder foundation, liquids are not ideal for oily skin types. A lot of makeup artists use liquid foundations because they have a “buildable” coverage. Meaning you have the freedom of deciding just how much coverage you want by applying it in layers on the skin. This foundation is great for people with combination or normal skin and can be used everyday. The biggest downfall is that they are a little messy and can sometimes feel heavy on the skin. Two of my favorites are MAC Studio Fix Fluid and Make Up Forever HD Foundation.

 

Airbrush Foundation

Dior 'Diorskin Airflash' Spray Foundation
 

Ok, so airbrush foundation is my favorite foundation ever! It looks amazing on your skin, creates a flawless complexion, and it lasts for hours. I have airbrushed brides on a Saturday morning and they have danced all night at their wedding, slept a few hours, boarded their plane for their honeymoon, and still looking good as they arrive in Jamaica, not kidding. Airbrushing is great for every skin type, feels weightless on the skin, and even ideal for sensitive skin. The downside is that it's expensive and must be applied with an airbrushing system. However, there are some airbrush foundations that come in a can that are getting great reviews such as Dior 'Diorskin Airflash' Spray Foundation. It costs around $62.00 a bottle and is pretty comparable to airbrushing with an airbrush system.

MAC Studio Tech

Cream Foundation

Probably my favorite go-to foundation, besides airbrushing, is cream foundation. Cream foundations are fabulous because they are compatible with most skin types, are a buildable coverage, and a little goes a long way. And when used with a good oil absorbing primer, can be used for someone with oily skin that wants a full coverage foundation. I personally use a cream foundation for everyday use and my favorite is MAC Studio Tech.

 



Urban Decay Surreal Skin

 

 Cream to Powder

Cream-to-powder foundations are a lot like cream foundations, but they dry to a matte powder. I would recommend this type of foundation for oily, combination, and normal skin. They can appear flaky on dry skin, but again great for everyday use. Urban Decay makes an awesome cream-to-powder foundation called Surreal Skin. 

 Mineral




Bare Minerals

I hear this term thrown around so much in the makeup industry. Mineral foundation comes in many forms, powders, liquids, creams, etc. “Mineral” foundation is foundation that has minerals added. It is ideal for those with sensitive skin. In essence, they are marketed to believe they are composed of more pure ingredients that have replaced most other ingredients found in makeup like dyes, binders, and fragrances. In some cases that is true, in other cases inflated. I personally think mineral makeup is great for some people but not others, it tends to settle into fine lines and wrinkles and can look flaky on dry skin types. They are marketed towards sensitive skin but I have seen mineral makeup irritate skin, my self included. However, a lot of my clients rave about Bare Minerals and I agree, it is beautiful on the skin.

 Tinted Moisturizer

 Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Tinted Moisturizer SPF20



Tinted moisturizers are basically pigmented face lotions. They are great for occasions when you want to have some coverage but not overdone. BB Creams also fall under this category and most tinted moisturizers have become BB Creams. Some women, myself included love tinted moisturizer with just a little bronzer. Most contain minerals and sunscreens, and feel just like lotion on your skin. My favorite tinted moisturizer
 is Tarte Smooth Operator Amazonian Clay Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20.

 

My clients ask me a lot of questions about foundations, so I decided I needed to share what I knew. I encourage you to also keep a couple different types of foundation in your makeup arsenal. Your skin changes with every season and it’s great to always have options. Keep a full coverage foundation around for those big nights out on the town or special occasions when you will be photographed. Still unsure, message me and I would happy to help you find the perfect foundation!

 www.blushNbeauty.com
 

 

 

 

5-Minute Makeup Routine for Women, Especially Moms

As a mother of two boys under the age of 5, I know first-hand how difficult it can be to find the time for yourself. For some moms our appearance seems to be the last thing on our minds and slowly but surely we become that person that we always swore we would never become. You know which one I'm referring to, the frumpy mom in the knee length shorts, white tennis shoes, and quarter-length shirt with her hair in a ponytail and not an ounce of makeup. In just five-minutes and a toddler clinging to your leg, I promise you can have radiant, fresh skin in the same amount of time it takes to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

B.B. Cream-A mom’s new best friend

Throw away the makeup sponge, brushes, and foundations, save those for date night. A mom in a hurry can get an even-toned face in just seconds with the beauty industry’s newest product, B.B. Cream. This cream is life changing! Not only is tinted, comes in a variety of shades, but also contains sunscreen and an intense moisturizer. Apply the B.B. Cream and a little bronzer over your cheekbones and you are set. Garnier makes a fantastic B.B. Cream, called Garnier Skin Renewal Miracle Skin Perfector B.B. Cream.

Quick sweep on the lids

No need for eyeliner, just dab your finger into a cool, pale shade of eyeshadow and lightly dust over your eyelid. Cream eyeshadows such as  Milani Runway Eyes Wet/Dry Eyeshadow, Peaches & Cream. This is the perfect pop of color that will draw attention to your eyes but not look overdone. Look for shades with a bit of sparkle. Don’t be scared of color, choose shades of pale blue, pink, peach, and purple. Just having a drop of color on your lid alone with accentuate your eyes and not look too heavy.

By Esra (http://www.sxc.hu/photo/206921) [see page for license],
via Wikimedia Commons

Don’t underestimate the power of mascara

One of the biggest beauty miracles can be found in a 9 ml container, known as mascara. Talk about an instant eye opener, mascara is a vital component to the five-minute makeup regimen. It takes seconds to apply and instantaneously brings your eyes from tired and droopy to awake and bright-eyed. Not a huge mascara fan? You can also use a clear mascara, it has the same effect but without pigment. Even if I am taking my kids swimming that day, you better believe I have at least two coats of waterproof mascara on my lashes! My favorite mascara is L'Oreal Voluminous Original Mascara in Carbon Black.



By Andres Hernandez [CC-BY-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)],
via Wikimedia Commons

Away with the lipstick, it’s all about the gloss

 When you are going for a light makeup look, lighten up on the lips. Forget about the lipstick and liner, look for a nude to pale pink gloss. You want a sheer gloss that can be applied with your finger so it doesn’t look overdone. If you don’t like the feel of lip-gloss, use a tinted lip balm like Neutrogena Revitalizing Lip Balm. It feels delightful on your lips and gives a hint of color.

Whether you are gracing the cover of Cosmo or just strolling the supermarket with kids in tow, this 5-minute makeup routine will make those frumpy mom days a thing of the past.

www.blushNbeauty.com
 

My FIRST Boudoir photoshoot!

 

I have always wanted to style a boudoir photoshoot and finally got the opportunity! For those of you who aren't familiar with boudoir, they are basically a sexy but classy photoshoot that is the new craze in the beauty industry. Whether you are celebrating your youthfulness or just creating a unique gift for your significant other, boudoir shoots are so much fun!
 
I had the pleasure of working with the talented Jayme Montoya, she is Idaho's finest luxury boudoir photographer. Her studio, located at 4320 Challenger Way, Caldwell, ID is simply amazing. 

The experience goes something like this: Upon arrival at the studio, you are dressed in a sexy silk robe (if you so desire). Then it's on to hair and makeup. You relax and unwind with a glass of wine or some of Jayme's tasty peppermint tea. Then you're whisked off to this beautiful "bedroom" set up with a bed, classy headboard, and some seriously sexy sheets! Before the boudoir shoot begins, she takes a few glamour shots to get your warmed up. It is seriously a unique and luxurious experience unlike any other. Jayme captures the most elegant, classic photos of her clients. I love how she is all about highlighting your best feature and camouflaging whatever you are self conscience about.
 

                                 Here is the beautiful Savana Maxon:

Savana made my job pretty simple that day because she is a beautiful girl to begin with! The airbrush loved her perfect complexion. She wanted a natural look but with a kick and I think we definitely hit the nail on the head.

If you girls are looking for the perfect gift or just want to take some super hot photos, Jayme Montoya is the best in the business!
 
www.blushNbeauty.com

Your Bridal Trial-What Every Bride Should Discuss with their Hairdresser & Makeup Artist

So you're getting closer and closer to your wedding day! What an exciting time of your life. You've chosen the venue, mailed the invitations, even picked out a dress. But have you scheduled one of the most important items on your checklist-your bridal trial?

Your bridal trial is one of the most important and fun things to do of all the events leading up to your wedding day. Bridal trials are all about you! You get to spend some time in the salon with your girlfriends getting pampered, who doesn't like that? It's also the first time you will be seeing just how beautiful you will look on your wedding day! Although this appointment is major fun for you and your wedding party, it is also a very important time to make some pretty tough decisions regarding your hair and makeup needs for your wedding day. The venue, your dress, the type of wedding you are having all play a vital role in determining your overall look for the day. Having a bridal trial will help choose the best style for your hair and makeup that will coordinate with your wedding plans.

 

Your Hair and Makeup

I stress the importance of bridal trials because it’s usually the first time you and your hairstylist and makeup artist meet. This is when they can learn more about your hair and skin. Many times brides have a certain look they have seen in a magazine for their hair and in reality their hair is not thick enough or long enough to achieve that look. You may need hair extentions to get the look you want or you might decide to go with a different look completely. The texture of your hair plays a major role in the hairstyle. You need to go with a style that your hair can support and will last the entire evening. Having an outdoor wedding might mean having a different hairstyle than an indoor wedding. Lighting is important in choosing your makeup, the sun tends to wash you out in photos. Your makeup artist can add more bronzer to make sure you are perfectly shaded in your photos. The humidity, wind, and weather elements all play a role in deciding which look to choose for your wedding.

 

 

 

 

Your Dress

 

Always bring a picture of your wedding dress with you to the consultation. Depending on the cut and style of the dress, your stylist may have better hairstyles that would compliment your dress. Wedding gowns come in all shapes and styles. You want to ensure that your hair matches and compliments your dress. For instance, if you are wearing a modern, sleek satin gown, you may want an elegant updo as a hairstyle. Your stylist might also suggest hairpieces that would accent your hair and dress.

 

Your Wedding Theme

 

Be sure to discuss the overall theme of your wedding with your stylist. There is a big difference between a country themed wedding and a black tie affair. You want to make sure your overall appearance is in line with your theme. Your stylist may have suggestions that you didn’t think of when deciding on a hairstyle or makeup look.

 

Remember your hairstylist and makeup artist are your friend. Their job is to ensure you are fabulous on your wedding day. Equip them with as much information as possible regarding your wedding and in return they will create a look that best suits your needs.


www.blushNbeauty.com

 

 

 

 

The Importance of Having a Bridal Trial

With so many new hair and makeup trends it is imperative to have a bridal trial. I cannot tell you the number of brides who have come to me with a trendy bridal look and during the consultation completely change their mind. The advice I always  give my brides is to go for a classic, timeless look that will be beautiful not only today but in the years to come. We have all seen old wedding pictures of brides who went for trendy looks that were hot in their days. But now when you look through their wedding albums those fashionable looks of that time have come and gone and they are left with photos that look "dated." Keeping your look simple but classy will ensure a timeless look that can be appreciated in years to come.

One of my brides, a beautiful girl from Orlando came in with a picture of a bride, thick black eyeliner, winged at the ends. Her lipstick was bright red and her lashes were to the moon and back! Editorially speaking, the bride was stunning. However, this bold makeup rarely looks appealing on every bride. Skin tone, eye shape, and face structure play a major role in this type of trendy look. I'm not saying my bride couldn't pull it off, but after our consultation where she showed me pictures of her dress, her wedding location, and discussed her colors and vibe it was apparent to me this look would not best suit her needs. I did however want her to try the look anyway so if-in-fact she did not like this look, she could know in her mind that she tried it and it just wasn't for her. Here is the look she thought she wanted: 

 

Initially her favorite feature of this look was the bright red lipstick, after our consultation she did not like the red lipstick at all. She is the type of girl that doesn't wear makeup on a daily basis and prefers a more natural look when she does wear makeup. When she saw herself with thick black eyeliner, bright red lips, and winged liner and lashes she felt it was pretty, but it just wasn't her. And that is exactly what I stress to my brides, be YOU on your wedding day. On her actual wedding day this is the look she went with:

 

 

A timeless, classic look that will be stunning when she looks back at her wedding album in the future. She thanked me for my insight and I helped her discover who she really wanted to be on her wedding day. And as you can see, she looked amazing! 

 

It is so important to have a trial before your wedding. Not so that your makeup artist or hairstylist can talk you out of the look you want, but help determine the best possible look for your wedding day. I know weddings are expensive and most bridal trials are not free, but it is in your best interest to splurge a little and get the look you want so that on your wedding day, you are the most beautiful version of YOU!

 

www.blushNbeauty.com