Darling Faces

SHOUT OUT

2011-05-09T17:14:00.000-07:00

Walking through the mall on Mother's Day I ran across something interesting enough to mention. I met Cheikh Sonko who is from Ghana, Africa. He was selling unrefined Shea Butter in it's most purest form at a craft show. He had a big ball of Shea Butter in a gourd bowl direct from Ghana.

I have never tried raw and unrefined Shea Butter before. I tried it on the back of my hand as he suggested. It feels nice. Still reserve at this point. The next morning, the back of my hand was still nice and soft. I was very impressed. Nothing like the real thing. There are many benefits associated with Shea Butter. Shea Butter has a long history in the ethnic market. A great natural alternative source to petroleum-derived Vaseline which is widely use in the ethnic market as well.

The Shea Butter came in 4 oz and 8 oz plastic containers. The 4 oz was $15 and the 8 oz was $25. Pretty pricey for unstandardized and unrefined Shea Butter. Cheikh Sonko also has it available at wholesale prices. However, he wasn't too interested in pushing wholesale at the craft show. He was more interested in selling us the 4 oz versus a bucket. Most importantly he should not be selling it as retail because there was no proper label on the Shea Butter.

LAILA ALI

2011-04-29T11:17:00.000-07:00

Just in from EuroWeb.com. Laila Ali launches a new line of beauty products. Laila is the daughter of legend boxer Muhammad Ali. Like her father, she is a great international boxer herself. What a perfect idea. Laila is gorgeous and tough. She is the essence of what is beautiful.

The new launch includes purifying shampoo, hydrating shampoo, defining gel, conditioners, hair relaxer, anti-aging cream, tone equalizer, face wash and fragrances. Retailed at $10 - $45 for hair, skin and fragrance products. Contains organic ingredients such as olive oil, shea butter, acai berry and jojoba oil. High quality packaging aimed at the ethnic market and available at Walmart, CVS and Sears.

The ethnic market has been steadily increasing in momentum. The ethnic market is expect to reach 3.7 billion by 2014 according to Packaged Facts. Currently, the amount of shelf space devoted to the ethnic market is quite small. In some major stores, they are not available at all.

Laila Ali's new beauty line will not only do great in the ethnic market but will also do well in the mass market due to the fact that it's a professional high quality line that appeals to the mass.

JOJOWHAT

2011-04-19T14:16:00.000-07:00

Jojoba oil happens to be one of my favorite oil next to Olive oil. The Jojoba oil is not edible like the Olive oil but just as healthy when applied topically on the skin. Jojoba oil is produced from the fruit of Jojoba tree by cold pressing. The Jojoba tree is commonly cultivated in California, Arizona, Mexico and Isreal. Jojoba oil is extremely compatible with the skin's natural oil. It is a natural and stable oil with superior properties that leave the skin soft, supple and smooth. It's commonly used in skin care products like facial moisturizers, night creams and facial daily suncreen lotions. Jojoba oil also helps to heal acne prone skin and acts as a natural sunscreen.

There are several different versions of Jojoba oil; refined Jojoba Oil, colorless Jojoba oil, yellow unrefined Jojoba oil and organic certified Jojoba oil. Not all Jojoba oil is created equal so do your homework before buying.

OXYGEN THERAPY

2011-04-15T15:14:00.000-07:00

Walking through Sephora today at lunch break in search of some moisturizing foundation. I realize there are too many choices at Sephora. I spent all of my lunch time there. I didn't find what I wanted. I got stuck in the perfume aisle smelling all the new scents. I was left dazed and confused with too many choices.

According to wslstrategicretail.com, approximately 25% of consumers are confused in making product purchase decisions because of too many choices.

After more research, I discovered this interesting product, Dermacyte Oxygen Concentrate, which is said to provide high concentrations of oxygen directly to the skin without harsh side effects. This product is not a foundation.

The product contains a highly effective carrier that allows the transfer of natural oxygen without the use of harsh chemical activators like hydrogen peroxide. Who knew? The Dermacyte Oxygen Concentrate helps to boost collagen production, support skin cell metabolism and replenish the skin. The Dermacyte Oxygen Concentrate is ($83.00 for 0.33 oz.) expensive with limited selection but worth taking a serious consideration if you are over 40 and looking for alternatives.

I am not sure about topical oxygen having any benefit when apply to the skin but oxygen at the cellular level is beneficial. The oxygen therapy beauty concept does fall into my innovative and interesting category and therefore worth mentioning it.

For more information about the Dermacyte Oxygen Concentrate, check out buydermacyte.com.

GOLDEN TREATMENT

2011-04-13T13:56:00.000-07:00

This 24 karat gold ion exfoliant concept is an eye opener. The latest idea from a Japanese cosmetics line called Cosme Proud. I saw an ad in Elle Magazine back in 2009 and now in Audrey Magazine. Very interesting because the concept of this product is completely innovative and new.

The Gold Revitalizer is created to mimick babies skin ion balance. Healthy baby skin contains approximately 80% negative ions and 20% positive ions. The ion balance in baby's skin results in babies' smooth and soft skin. With age, the negative ion balance decreases and skin cellular metabolism is affected by it resulting in age spots and blemishes. The modern technical world is filled with positive ion, such as those released with automobile emission gas. The positive ions can get clogged deep in the pores and be very difficult to clean away with regular soap. The Gold Revitalizer's formula emits approximately the same electric currents as the body making it safe to restore the natural ion balance of your skin.

The Gold Revitalizer ($100 for 1.8 oz) is expensive but worth it. You have to clean your face first prior to using this product. Apply a dime size on your fingers and lightly massage all over your face until the gold flakes disappears. Wait 30 seconds. Massage again all over. Rinse with warm water.

I am really excited about this product because I have really dry skin. After just a week of use I notice a difference in my skin. My skin is softer and more moisturized. I am loving this Gold Revitalizer. I cannot wait to try the Gold Amber Rich Lotion and the Gold Revitarich Emulsion.

To find out more about this Japanese cosmetic line visit cosmeproud.com.

ANNUAL FITNESS

2011-04-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

Every year comes a new-year-resolution that seems to disappear with time. I am quilty of it. Every year we all make a new-year-resolution that seems great at first but fail to stick with us for the rest of the year. It may be exercise, eating healthier, wellness or eco-living lifestyle changes. Through out the years, I have acquired yoga, belly dancing, jazzercise and zumba dvds. I also own a treadmill, YMCA membership and an elliptical machine.

Stop the cycle. The annual fitness resolution is not working. Be kind to yourself. Make use of comforting lifestyle changes to make realistic modifications to your life. Everything in moderations. Self-control is today's important life lesson.

MISS SIGNALS

2011-03-29T07:30:00.000-07:00

Sleep is such an important part of staying healthy. Pregnant women sometimes have trouble sleeping due to massive hormonal changes and their expanding belly. It gets more difficult towards the end of the pregnancy with even less sleep. Our body need to rest and rejuvenate nightly. When we are asleep our body is busy calibrating and fine-tuning our body for the next day.

When you are lacking in sleep, the flow of the body gets disrupted and important information gets missed. Muscles are not at rest. You find it hard to concentrate on one full thought. As a result, a traffic jam results with no beginning and no end. If you have ever gone without sleep for more than 24 hours, you know exactly what I mean.

As infants, we need sleep to grow big and strong. As adults, we need sleep to properly function. How many of you have learned that in college studying for your finals? Coffee can only go so far. Take the time to treat yourself to a restful night of sleep. Work and dirty dishes can wait til you are rejuvinated.

OUTSIDE-OF-THE-BOX

2011-03-28T13:26:00.000-07:00

Here's a really interesting product called Natural Patches of Vermont, basically essential oil body patches. A new way to relief stress, relax and sooth yourself. The essential oil body patch give therapeutic benefit of aromatherapy through a body patch delivery system. Available in lavender, bergamot, eucalyptus, arnica, citrus, lemongrass, rose geranium and tea tree. What a great idea? I cannot wait to try it!

A word of caution, the lavender and tea tree should be used for adults only. Lavender oil and tea tree oil are hormone disruptors in young children.

For more information about this product check out http://www.naturalpatchesofvermont.com/.

INSIDE & OUT CONTINUE

2011-03-22T14:34:00.000-07:00

What you put into your body is just as important as what you put on your body. The essence of beauty is being healthy inside and outside. Keeping our skin healthy means reading the ingredient lists on every packaging and avoiding chemicals that can irritate and harm the skin. Eating the right foods to promote healthy skin.

The skin is such an important organ. It's primary function is to protect your body from harmful irritants, chemicals and the sun. So, listen to your skin. Listen to you body.

Here are some of the beauty tips (some revisited and some new) you can do to maintaining beautiful skin.

* Cleansing

Cleansing is important to keep up with on a daily basis because it's vital to good healthy skin. Cleansing returns your face to its natural state, debris-free and makeup-free skin. Dirty and clogged pores lead to blemishes and acne. Stick with a product that is easy to use.

* Moisturizing

Moisturizing is important to replenish the skin's natural oil and keep the skin soft and supple. Start with a SPF daily lotion and end with a night cream after cleansing each night. I strongly recommend professional facials regularly. For great results, try to get a professional facial at least once every six months. If you smoke or drink regularly, you may want to get a professional facial more often depending on your budget.

* Keep Hydrated
For great skin, drink plenty of water and eat a well balance diet. Stay away from junk food and greasy foods. You are what you eat.

* Teeth Whitening
For a great smile, try to have your teeth whiten according to your dentist's recommendation. Many methods of teeth whitening can cause temporary sensitivity so don't do it too close together. Instead of spending a large sum on whitening toothpaste or products, try regularly rinsing with 25% Hydrogen Peroxide. This will not only help to produce brighter teeth but also gets rid of bad breath.

* Read Labels

Minimize the irritants in your cosmetics and facial care products to maximize beautiful skin. Stay away from washing your face with harsh detergents with sulfates. Sulfate detergents can irritate and strip the skin of it's natural oil and leave your skin dry. Wash your face with sulfate-free products can help to maintain and balance the skin's natural health. Stay away from Propylene Glycol, that can cause acne and irritation. Petrolatum can clog pores and cause acne. Stay away from face products with high levels of fragrance. Fragrance can be irritating and its fragrance oil can cause allergies. Scan for any ingredients that can cause irritation like harsh fragrances that's high on the ingredient list, alcohol, propylene glycol, preservatives like parabens and isothiazolinones. By avoiding these chemicals, you can decrease your chances of irritating your skin.

* Hair Care
Your hair can hide your age better than any other part of the body so keep it healthy and damage-free. If you have damage hair, try an oil treatment at least once a month. Leave conditioner in longer and use a comb to do a comb through before rinsing. If you have gray hair, try coloring your hair every 4 weeks. Manage your hair color with color protective products or gentle shampoos and conditioners that will not strip your hair.

* Update Brows

A beautifully made brow is important because it can totally change your whole look. The natural curve of your eyebrow is the best results for the shape of your face. So, follow the natural flow of your eyebrow with the following tips. Use dark brown brow liner for a natural look. Your brows should start between your nose and the corner of your eyes ending 45 degrees from your nose. Your arch should start where your pupil ends towards the outside of your eyes. With a good tweezer, tweeze above and below the brows and trim with scissors.

Inner beauty is just as important as outer beauty. For more information on how to have healthier skin and make-up better, continue to subscribe to my website.

INSIDE & OUT

2011-03-21T14:24:00.000-07:00

Understanding inside and out functional skin care is extremely important to having beautiful skin. Our outer appearance is a reflection of our inner health. Some of the important foods to promote healthy skin from the inside are antioxidant rich foods, anti-irritant and anti-inflammatory beneficial foods.

These skin care promoting foods are avocado, acai, blueberry, blackberry, seabuckthorn berry, strawberry, raspberry, pomegranate, apricot, bilberry, broccoli, Brazil nuts, beans, legumes, brown rice, quinoa, millet, rye, oat, black currant, carrots, chocolate, cabbage, kale, collard greens, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, cranberry, cucumber, camu-camu, dark leafy greens, spinach, egg, olive oil, flax, almond, walnut, seaweed, watercress, ginger, garlic, grapes, hemp seed, honey, mangosteen, mushroom, milk, mackerel, herring, tuna, salmon, anchovy, oyster, sardine, lentil, fig, dates, papaya, pepper, pineapple, prawn, prune, pumpkin seed, rhubard, soybean, yam, sweet potato, rice kernel, sake wine, tomato, green tea, black tea, yogurt, whole grains and water.

Let's discuss the more common foods that directly relate to promoting healthy skin. Avocado is available year round. Avocado contains folate which is essential for cell regeneration and a great source of antioxidant. Apricot is rich in fiber, beta-carotene, lycopene, vitamin C, vitamin A, calcium, magnesium, folate, iron and potassium. All of which contribute to healthy skin. Vitamin C is an important building block of collagen. Blueberries contains potassium and vitamin C with antioxidant benefits. Beans are a great source of protein, folic acid, fiber, magnesium, and calcium. Broccoli is high in fiber, vitamin C, folate, glucosinolates and sulforaphane that protects cells from injury. Carrots are available year round. High in antioxidant benefits of beta-carotene and vitamin C. Beta-carotene helps to prevent the formation of wrinkles and age spots. Cucumber is a good source of essential vitamins and minerals necessary for production of collagen. Red Grapes is a great souce of antioxidant. Seaweed and flaxseed contains omega 3, alpha-linoleic acid, and zinc that can help clear up acne, promote supple skin and improve psoriasis. Almond is known for building collagen. Oat is rich in fiber, iron, manganese, phosphorous, calcium, vitamin B and E. All of which are essential to maintaining collagen levels. The oat kernel contains beta-glucan which promotes wound healing and skin scarring. Prawns are rich in calcium, iodine, selenium, sinc and copper which helps to prevent oily skin and formation of acne. Copper is a building block of the anti-aging enzyme called superoxide dismutase. Tomato also contain lycopene, vitamin A and C. Finally, water keep your skin well-hydrated to look younger.

In addition to eating health promoting skin care foods, you can acquire supplements and vitamins in place of having to eat all of the above for healthy skin.

Outer skin care has been discussed on many of my previous posts and will be revisited in detail later.

SAFETY ON MY MIND

2011-03-17T12:43:00.000-07:00

As today's population continues to age and health care continues to rise despite the economy, news that focus on issues in genetically modified foods, natural products, certified organic and edible beauty products are not on the top of my priority list of things to acquire.

Yes, quality and safety matters. In moderation is always the safest policy. I don't think we need to eat or be completely 100% organic or natural in order for us to feel safe. Not all things made by nature are safe. Currently, there is no 100% safety quarantee in natural or organic products. The upside to naturals are that they are biodegradable and good for the environment. Organic products minimizes your exposure to GMO's and toxic pesticide residues. However, natural and organic doesn't necessarily translate to 100% safe.

Challenge yourself to make sound decisions in all the areas of health, taste and safety. Feel free to use the following equation for a meaningful lifestyle. There is no substitute to being beautiful.

Healthy Body + Healthy Mind = Beautiful Person

THAT CLEAN FEELING

2010-09-14T14:14:00.000-07:00

Are you guilty of sometimes forgetting to wash your face before bedtime. How terrible is that for your skin? I am guilty of it. Cleansing is so very important to keep up with on a daily basis. Cleansing returns your face to its natural state, debris-free and makeup-free skin. Clogged pores lead to blemishes and acne. Stick with a product that is easy to use, takes no time at all and done in a flash.

If a facial cleanser is easy to use, then there's a good chance I would try it. I don't have time for fancy products that takes time. Not when I have dinner to make, dishes to catch up with and phone calls to return before the night is over. I've tried the wipes and I absolutely do not like it. I just do not feel clean. I don't get that clean feeling. I prefer the traditional method of washing my face with a facial cleanser and rinsing it with water.

Regardless of package claims, you still have to try a product for yourself to see if it is compatible with your skin and will work for you. The words "natural" or "organic" doesn't necessarily translate to the product being compatible with your skin type. Every individual's biology is different. We have different levels of hormone productions. We have different levels of oil secretions. Depending on age, we also have different skin pH. You have to try a facial cleanser for yourself to see if it'll work for you.

WASH ME AWAY

2009-08-22T07:19:00.000-07:00

Have you gone through carwashes and noticed the large amount of water being used to wash cars? I wonder if all the water is recycled back into use or down the drain and into the sewer system. So, I asked and found out some places actually have water recovery systems to recycle the water back into use while other places simply release it down the drain. Your dishwasher also uses water in the same way. Excessive water usage for one load of dishes. The water from the dishwasher goes directly into the drain.

Almost all of my car washes are at SuperAmerica and Holiday stations. However, these places don't really tell you if their system is GREEN. Even if these places did have GREEN systems, it was not obvious to me.

Carwash places need to advertise what their system features so that customers can make an informed decision. If you are a savvy carwash owner or a supplier, take note. People are always looking for alternatives to leave a smaller carbon footprint.

Water is an important part of health and beauty. Conserving water is vital. After all, we are made mostly of water content. Create less impact on the environment by recycling and using less.

VISUAL IMPACT

2009-06-24T13:23:00.000-07:00

Since my last blog calling for beauty packaging reduction. Countless emails poured in for those of you who are marketing experts. This section is a follow-up to the packaging reduction blog.

I know the current economy call for a greater level of visual impact on the shelf to attract people who are tight with their wallets. I understand the importance to have a packaging carton that communicates with consumers and help the product stand out from the competition. But I feel the same can be achieved by thinking outside of the box. Why not focus on the label design on the bottle, add a jewel, a bow and a ribbon on the bottle instead of using a packaging carton. Why not focus on the quality of the formula and not the visual impact. We can seek different techniques and technology that can generate unique looks and ideas for visual impact. There are so many avenues we can take to reduce and help our planet.

The focus on packaging carton reduction saves money, energy consumption, and most importantly trees. Overall, better for the environment.

The consumers of today have learned to appreciate recycle, reuse and reduce. It's the beauty industy that's behind the times.

BEAUTY SECRETS

2009-06-23T08:45:00.000-07:00

Beauty secrets other women practice but don't regularly tell their friends about.

* Professional Facials
For great results, try to get a professional facial at least once every six months. If you smoke or drink regularly, you may want to get a professional facial more often.

* Keep Hydrated
For great skin, drink plenty of water and eat a well balance diet. Stay away from junk food and greasy foods. You are what you eat. You can keep your skin soft and moisturized by moisturizing at night. Use a night cream or a heavy cream before bedtime.

* Teeth Whitening
For a great smile, try to have your teeth whiten according to your dentist's recommendation. Many methods of teeth whitening can cause temporary sensitivity so don't do it too close together. Instead of spending a large sum on whitening toothpaste or ADA-appoved products try regularly rinsing with 25% Hydrogen Peroxide. This will not only produce brighter teeth but also gets rid of bad breath.

* Hair Care
Your hair can hide your age better than any other part of the body so keep it healthy and damage-free. If you have damage hair, try an oil treatment at least once a month. Leave conditioner in longer and use a comb to do a comb through before rinsing. If you have gray hair, try coloring your hair every 4 weeks. Manage your hair color with color protective products or gentle shampoos and conditioners that will not strip your hair.

BEAUTY PACKAGING REDUCTION

2009-06-11T07:35:00.000-07:00

Sustainable packaging in the cosmetic industry is everywhere. People are talking about it on TV, in magazine ads, trade magazine articles and etc. Are we really recycling, reusing and reducing?

There are fantastic cosmetic packaging recovery programs, packaging made from sustainable materials, biodegradable packaging and packaging that contains some recycled materials. We are recycling and reusing but we are definately NOT reducing.
From innovative spiral paper tubes to 3D boxes, these packaging are beautiful on the shelf but these packagings are in excess and not in the best interest of the environment and its end users. Do you really need that extra packaging? The packaging you open and toss. You keep only the plastic or glass dispensing container.

As end users and retailers, we need to demand for packaging reduction instead of sustainable packaging. The focus on reduction saves money, energy consumption, and time. Overall, better for the environment.

The new business model needs to focus on REDUCTION. It's not a trend. It's the future.

HAIR DAMAGES

2009-02-13T19:01:00.001-08:00

How to avoid hair damages.
Proper care of hair is vital to self-image. Your hair is only with you for a short period of time because it's continuously growing. Most importantly, hair can hide your age better than any other part of the body.

Proper hair care will keep hair healthy and beautiful. As in skin care, no one type of hair care can satisfy the needs of all customers. Using the right kinds of shampoo, conditioner and treatments with the right additives that will strengthen the hair can minimize damages.

Vitamin B
Wheat Proteins
pH balanced

These are the oldest and less fancy ingredients but they work better than any other fancy ingredient.

Hair care companies mix shampoos and conditioners with different variations but they fail to inform their consumers in understanding terms what ingredients are present for what purpose. The only avenue for concerned consumers is to consult a trusted stylist or a cosmetic specialist.

Read the ingredients on the back of the label and if you need help with the terms get yourself a cosmetic reference book.

Is it worth it to protect your skin and hair from damages?
You are definitely worth it!

FOCAL POINTS

2009-01-31T18:36:00.000-08:00

Poise and elegance is a communication of body language. The body language of confidence. When you feel your best you are confident. To accomplish elegance, create focal points that are alluring to the senses.

Here are some tips to create alluring eyes.

Foundations: Apply a stick foundation to the center of the face and on eyelids. You may need to blend two or more shades to create the look you seek. Begin to blend outwards and downwards. Apply under-eye concealer.

Eyes: Apply dark warm brow pencil to brows. Use a gold tone shadow to highlight under the brow bone. Apply copper cream shadow at the crest of the eyelids. Apply dark brown cream shadow to the small of the eyelids. Blend in powder black eyeshadow. Apply black eyeliner around entire eyes. Using an eyeliner blend brush, blend upwards at the far corner of the eye. Finish with black mascara. Curl lashes. Wait until the makeup is completely dry before applying the full strip of black eyelashes to the top lash line. Add a gold tone shadow to the inner corners of the eyes.

Cheeks: Apply a powder bronzer along the cheek bone. Apply a translucent highlighter powder above the apples of the cheeks, temple and chin.

Lips: Apply a neutral lip liner and a sheer high shine lip gloss.

SCENTED MESSAGES

2009-01-25T09:38:00.000-08:00

Beauty is a balance of body, mind and soul through all the senses.

One of the senses discuss today is the sense of smell. I've heard of scented notes and invitations for all sorts of occassions via snail mail but I have never heard of sending a scent through a cell phone or as an email attachment. Hard to believe but it's true. This technology is on its way to Japanese users. Soon, it will be find its way into our hands.

The Japanese internet provider NTT Communications has just introduced the first mobile fragrance communication for cell phones. The new technology allows people to send smells through cell phone or email attachements. When the scented communication is sent to a device (cell phone) fitted with a portable fragrance atomizer, the scent is emitted exactly as the sender intended.

Users can send their own scent creations. There are no limits to user's individual creativity. Users can create their own unique fragrance note and send their friends their favorite scent, much like sending pictures or video clips.

Many of the premium hotels and retailers have long used sensory marketing to get people to spend more. Now the sense of smell finds its way into technology.

AVOCADO MASK RECIPE

2009-01-24T21:19:00.000-08:00

Ingredients:

1 fresh avocado (peeled and pitted)
1 tablespoon jojoba oil
1 teaspoon olive oil

In a clean bowl with a potato masher and spatula, mix all the ingredients until smooth and uniform. Scrape the sides as often as you can to produce a smooth mask.

Apply to skin. Do not get it in your eyes. Leave on for at least 30 minutes. The avocado is full of essential minerals and oils necessary for healthy skin.

Make only enough for one time use. The mask will turn brown over time. Best when it's fresh.

Tips:
Choose a soft avocado
Wait until the avocado is at room temperature before mashing it.
Wear a napkin around your neck while you have the avocado mask on.

Bon AppiFacial!

2008-01-12T14:41:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for the ultimate beauty secret in a bottle? Look no further. The perfect place to start is from within. Start with self-preserving, natural and sustainable products that will keep you looking the best you can for as long as you can.

Wellbeing is really the balance of what you put into and onto your body. What you put into your body is just as important as what you put on your body. So, why do so many people choose to buy products without reading the labels?

The essence of beauty is being healthy and celebrating our skin that naturally protects us from the sun. Keeping our skin healthy means reading the ingredient lists on every packaging and avoiding chemicals that can irritate and harm the skin.

The skin is such an important organ. It's primary function is to protect your body from harmful substains. So, listen to your skin. Listen to you body.

Blush Blending Secrets

2007-12-12T12:51:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite way to apply blush is blending a foundation with a blush to get the desire color and a more natural appearance. Apply blush color below the checkbone. Blend the foundation with the same blush and apply on the apples of the cheeks.

I also like to blend blush with a bronzer or a light lumizer to get a soft luminous look. Don't forget to apply a small amount of highlighter or luminizer to the temples to finish the look.

If you have pale skin, try a very sheer bronzer. Bronzers should be only a shade or two darker than your skin. If the bronzer is too dark, you will look un-natural. You may even look dirty depending on your skintype.

I like to use mineral cosmetics because I can easily blend. However, not all of the techniques involve powders. I will incorporate liquids depending on skintype and individual needs. For everyday use, I love to use mineral cosmetics. For stage and camera friendly makeup, I like to use a combination of both liquid and minerals for a more dramatic look.

Happy Holidays

2007-11-27T20:59:00.000-08:00

As the holiday seasons approaches, let's not forget about yourself. Celebrate and reflect on what you've accomplished and endured for 2007. It's also a good time to treat yourself for surviving another year. Give yourself a day at the spa or some quiet time at home with a facial.

Winter can be harsh on your skin. Especially during this time of the year, please stay away from washing your face with harsh detergents that contains sulfates. Sulfate detergents can be irritating and will strip your skin of it's natural oil and leave you with dry skin. Washing your face with a sulfate-free face wash will help to maintaining the balance of your skin's natural health so you will not require such a heavy day cream for the winter months.

This post is all about balance and being good to your skin. So, don't be afraid to try new things.

Skin Type

2007-11-12T18:28:00.000-08:00

There are as many types of skin as there are people. No two people are alike with the same skin. My brother has acne prone skin while I was blessed with good skin. He's slightly darker in tone while I am lighter in tone.

After trying so many face products, I've come to the conclusion that there is no one standard in the beauty industry. Each cosmetic company has its own system depending on the type of products offer. However, there are similarities in normal, dry, oily and combination skin types.

More research still needs to be done to better understand Asian skin. There is no evidence that darker skin is oilier than lighter skin. According to my Dermatologist, there have been good results clearing up skin problems by simply discontinuing the use of cosmetics skin care products for six months or more. WOW!

I have sensitive skin. If you have sensitive skin you have to be careful in selecting the right cosmetic products and identify the ingredients that can irritate your skin. Stay away from Propylene Glycol, that can cause acne and irritation. Petrolatum can clog pores and cause acne. Stay away from face products with high levels of fragrance. Fragrance can be irritating and its fragrance oil can cause allergies.

For more information on harmful and irritating cosmetic ingredients check out A Consumer's Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients by Ruth Winter. I highly recommend this book. I haven't had a chance to read through it yet. But I've used it as a reference and taken it with me while shopping for cosmetics. It's a wonderful tool. Thank you, Kou Naturals for suggesting the book.

Creative Brows

2007-11-08T08:33:00.000-08:00

A beautifully made brow is just as important as good skin.

The brow can totally change your whole look.

I am among the many Asian women who have hard to manage brows. The best methods for my funky eyebrows is the use of gel/mascara to hold it in place and occasional maintainence with a precise tweezer. If you have a bad tweezer, it can be painful and takes quite a few tries to pluck a single hair. However, if you have a good tweezer, it makes all the difference. I use a fantastic tweezer by Lancome.

The natural curve of your eyebrow is the best results for the shape of your face. So, follow the natural flow of your eyebrow with the following tips.

1) Your brows should start between your nose and the corner of your eyes. And end 45 degrees from your nose.
2) Your arch should start where your pupil ends towards the outside of your eyes.
3) With a good tweezer, tweeze above and below the brows and trim with scissors.

Use dark brown brow liner for a natural look. You don't want to look made-up. You want to look naturally beautiful. Whenever possible, wear mineral make-up. Mineral make-up is not only IN but it's so light and plus it lasts all day. Why would you wear anything else!

Lead Lips

2007-10-30T13:59:00.000-07:00

I thought it's extremely important that I tell my readers about the potential hazards of some lipsticks and the controversy surrounding the finding of lead in lipsticks that was conducted by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics or EWG.

The campaign tested 33 brand name lipsticks and found that more than half of them contained detectable amount of lead. And one third exceeded the FDA's limit in candy.

Are you wondering what that means? Well, it means the chances of the lipstick sitting in my purse containing lead is pretty high. I would have no way of telling if the one sitting in purse have lead or not because it's not listed on the ingredient list. I tossed that lipstick box a long time ago. I wish there was ingredients printed on the lipstick tube. You will find that not many lipstick have it printed right on the lipstick tube.

Why we need to stay away from lead? According to Enviroblog.Org, lead is "a proven neurotoxin that can cause learning, language and behavioral disabilities. No amount of exposure is without harm. Pregnant women and young children are most vulnerable since it can cross the placenta and interfere with the normal development of the fetus."

In response, representatives of the cosmetic community have said lead is not added directly into the lipsticks but may be a natural occurance and that lead exposure from cosmetics is very little in comparison to lead exposure in food, water and the environment. Cosmetic companies review all raw materials to ensure that they contain the lowest levels of impurities. I am assuming the lead must be coming from the impurities found in the making of lipsticks and not added directly to the lipstick.

As a consumer, I want to know how to avoid getting lead in my lipstick. So, I visited EWG.ORG to check out which lipstick does not contain lead. If you go to SkinDeep they have all sorts of recommendations for safe cosmetics. What a great find!

I toss the one sitting in my purse. Another trip to the cosmetic counter to try on new shades for the winter. Something light and sheer with added protection from the elements. I came out with a high shine lipstick with oriental beige and a hint of diamond sparkle. I love it! Natural lips are soooo IN right now.

Round Faces

2007-10-23T11:17:00.000-07:00

Kou Naturals' Clay Mineral Foundation

If your face is round...you might want to try the following tricks for this Holiday Season.

Foundations: Select a foundation that is a shade or two lighter than your face and a second shade that matches closest to your skin tone. With the lighter foundation, apply to the center of your face with a Kabuki brush. With the second darker shade such as the Clay Mineral Foundation by Kou Naturals, blend and contour towards the outside of your face. This will offset your face and make it look less rounded.

Eyes: Apply a matte light brown eyeshadow to brow (preferrably lighter than your foundation.) Use a Golden Taupe Mineral Eye Shadow by Kou Naturals over the eye lids. Blend with this color to create dept, heavier at the base where the fold is and lighter over the lids. Apply dark brown eye liner to top and bottom. Apply dark brown brow pencil to eyebrows. Curl lashes and apply black mascara.

Cheeks: Apply lighter foundation above the apples of cheeks with a small powder brush. Apply Kou Naturals' Sienna Mineral Blush to the apples of cheeks with a larger blush brush. With the Clay Mineral Foundation and a small powder brush, apply a straight line along the sides of your nose. This will make you look like you have a bridge, creating a less flat and rounded face.

Lips: Apply a neutral lip liner to the lips. Apply a warm peach lipstick. Coat with a lip gloss to finish the look.

The Clay, Golden Taupe, Seinna and peach colored lips all have yellow undertones to compliment Asian skin. This is a great professional look for everyday wear. I call this the "take me seriously" look. Ideal for seminars, presentations and interviews.

Night Out

2007-10-22T11:12:00.000-07:00

Kou Naturals Jet Mineral Eye Shadow

Here is one of my favorite Night-Out look when I hang out with the girls.

Foundation: Select a shade lighter than your skin tone that has yellow tone. Apply a primer or a day lotion. Apply the light pressed mineral foundation on the T-zone of your face. Now, with a foundation that matches your skin tone, blend and contour towards the outside of your face with a kabuki brush. If you have more to cover, you can repeat this process two or three times until you get the coverage you need. For spot coverage, brush on mineral foundation directly over the area that needs extra coverage. With the second coat (this should be the foundation that matches closest to your skin tone,) blend and contour with the second foundation towards the outside of your face.

Eyes: Apply a light golden brown eye shadow to the brow. Apply silver at the base, inner corner of eyes and a thin line under the eye. Appy JET black mineral eye shadow by Kou Naturals to the folds of your eye closest to your lashes. Blend with the silver shadow for a smoldering look. Apply black eyeliner to the top and bottom. Brush on Jet Mineral Eye Shadow to the brow. Brush over with a brow brush to set the shadow in place so it doesn't fall out. Apply black mascara. Wait for mascara to dry. Finish with fake lashes as close as possible to your lashes.

Cheeks: Apply highlighter above the cheek bone and at the temples. This process will take care of any eye shadows that have fallen onto the cheeks or any finger prints from applying eye makeup. Finish the look with a pink blush to the apples of cheeks.

Lips: Outline the lips with a neutral lip liner. Apply a light pink lipstick. Finish with a coat of shiny lip gloss.

Inviting shiny lips and silver eye shadows makes you pop and get you notice...

This is a dramatic and fun look for selective and fun occassions. If you're looking to have fun, this is definitely a look for FUN.

Fall Tricks & Tips

2007-10-19T19:50:00.000-07:00

Kou Naturals Almond Mineral Foundation

Look for gold, plum and bronze tones with creamy sheer lip colors for this Holiday Season.

As we all know, we become a shade or two lighter than normal during the winter months. So, when you're shopping for foundations, get at least two shades to work from. By getting two different shades, you elimate the need to make another purchase when your natural tone shifts from season to season. Foundations can be very expensive. Get one that's your natural tone and one a shade or two lighter for the winter (a shade or two darker for the summer) months. This way you can blend and contour your look to give a natural look throughout the season.

For a flawless look, keep it fresh and simple. I like to use mineral cosmetics because it feels lighter. Plus, it's great for my skin. One of my favorite find is Kou Naturals' Almond Foundation.

Foundations: Apply the lighter foundation to your T-zone. With a kubuki brush, blend outward with the darker foundation to the outside of the face.

Eye Shadows: Use a highlighter eye make up to brighten your eyes by applying it on the brow bone. Use a light matte color if you're over 35 or a shimmer if you're under 35. Shimmers will hightlight wrinkles and creases. Apply a golden eye shadow to the folds of the lids blending for a soft look over the folds. Creating a uniform transition from base to brow bone. Apply a small strip of plum eye shadow to the base. Use a dark brown eyeliner on the upper, lower lids and eyebrows. Apply black mascara on lashes.

Blush: With a blush brush, blend bronze blush to the apples of cheeks.

Lips: Apply bronze lip liner and a sheer lipstick or gloss to finish the look. Bronze with yellow undertone really give a healthy and natural glow to Asian skin.

I love this look. This is one of my favorite looks during the day. Gold, plum and bronze are all colors of the holiday seasons. Avoid dark bronze with red undertones, this is not complimentary to Asian skin. Any look can be achieved with a little practice and proper lighting.

Green Lips

2007-10-16T19:51:00.000-07:00

The benefits of integrating nature with our daily lives is essential for every woman even if we are conscious of it or not. As a Makeup Artist, I am definitely more aware of my self-image than my environment. But for the last couple of years, with the tragedy overseas and New Orleans disaster have made me aware of my environment that goes beyond my backyard.

Take a little time to do a bit of yard work to relieve stress. It really does a body good. There is just something about nature that really inspires and rejuvenates the soul.

I don't remember how many times my mother reminded me of the importance of mind and body balance. Inner beauty is just as important as outer beauty. Yes, imagine it coming from me! Did I mention it's also cool being green?

My little tidbits for being green and loving it!

Tinted Moisturizer SPF 8

2007-10-01T15:03:00.000-07:00

Kou Naturals Tinted Moisturizer

This is perfect for almond skin tone or lighter skin.

It's so light. Perfectly evens out my skin tone while moisturizing. I wore it during the summer. I have yet to try it for the winter months. I have to add that a-little-goes-a-long-way with this Tinted Moisturizer. The spreadability was awesome. So you don't get so much "tint" on one surface area. Creates a very even coverage. The yellow tone really looks nice on my skin.

I love the fact that it doesn't leave a ring around my collar. This Tinted Moisturizer is really custom formulated to be worn under mineral makeup. It acts as a primer to hold and seal the mineral makeup for a long lasting wear. I would recommend you use the Tinted Moisturizer first before applying the mineral foundation and other makeup.

This triple action moisturizer is great for light coverage to give a natural glow of health and youthful appearance. Tested at SPF 8, the Tinted Moisturizers are ideal to even out skin tones, create a youthful look and protect from premature aging.

I applied it liberally on my face and neck. The results were amazing. For best coverage results and skin protection, I would recommened you apply it liberally after cleansing, toning or exfoliating.

Facial Cleanser

2007-09-28T20:36:00.000-07:00

KOU NATURALS DAILY FACIAL CLEANSER

This natural sulfate-free Facial Cleanser is so foamy and creamy - yet it's a liquid cleanser. I love the creamy feel while washing my face with it. Most sulfate-free products aren't as foamy. This Facial Cleanser produces so much foam. The creamy foam totally ROCKS.

Made from Oat and Coconut! The Facial Cleanser is so mild you can use it twice a day without worrying about stripping your skin.

I love the smell of this Facial Cleanser. It smells so fresh and clean. I feel so refreshed and clean after washing my face with it.

Another great attribute of the cleanser, it doesn't sting the eye. I can open my eyes during washing to see what I am doing. Where I am applying. Turn on the tab. Grab the towel when I am done. After using this, I am never going back to using facial cleanser that sting my eyes. It tells me that it's extremely gentle for my skin since it's so gentle on my eyes.

This state-of-the-art Facial Cleanser gently removes dirt and make-up without harsh detergents. A gentle daily facial cleanser with a unique sulfate-free formula. This product is ideal for sensitive skin and skin prone to acne since it provide such mild cleansing action to reduce unwanted oil and dirt on the surface of your skin that can plug pores and produce blemishes.

Kou Naturals' Facial Cleanser is my favorite find. You need to go out and get it!

Beautiful and Serene

2007-09-25T21:02:00.000-07:00

Vietnam on a cloudy day. Still as beautiful and serene as ever.

Skin Care

2007-09-24T08:33:00.000-07:00

We can go ahead and blame our genes, blame the sun, blame our hormones, blame excessive alcohol, blame smoking and blame our diets. But no matter what the cause of our imperfections, I believe that we can all achieve beautiful skin. We just need to find the right product for our skin type to get it.

This goes back to my very first blog of finding the right skin care for my Asian skin. Found Kou Naturals! Finally a product made for my skin.

Kou Naturals is a family owned business with a long history of research and development in skin care. The company has been in the beauty industry for over ten years formulating cosmetics, especially in Asian skin care. I was very impressed with their company's mission. Kou Naturals is on the cutting edge of the skin care business.

A manufacturer you can trust, who is dedicated to caring for Asian skin; to help all Asian women decent be the best that we can be. Love the concept. Love the products.

You can find Kou Naturals in Audrey Magazine http://www.audreymagazine.com/ and at Spa Week Organization http://www.spaweek.org/ for free prize giveaways.

Asian Faces

2007-09-23T15:56:00.000-07:00

Your skin tone may tell you a lot about your genetics. If your skin looks light, but you have Middle Eastern or Asian ancestry, this doesn't mean you get categorized with the rest of the ivory and beige foundation wearers. And if you are seeing a Dermatologist, always ask your Dermatologist to see if they're an Asian skin expert. You might not have the same results in the same Dermatologist office that your best Caucasian friend uses.

I say this because a 2004 published report by Nature Journalism (Nature.com) said cosmetics companies and scientists from around the world have expanded their efforts to understanding Asian skin. Specialist say that women of east Asia have different skin problems and needs. Picking the right products and getting advice from a professional about blemishes before they become scars is the best policy for keeping your skin looking its best.

Stay away from pink and red undertones, these undertones are not made for Asian complexions, making you look too orange or chalky and dull looking. A yellow undertone is best for Asian complexions, giving a natural look. You want to enhance what you have, not change it.

The best place to test your foundation is on the jawline or the inner wrist. The foundation needs to blend in well around the jawline giving a flawless transformation from face to neck.

For eye shadows, use light colors during the day. Darker, bolder colors such as purple, charcoal or blue are reserved for nighttime. If you have a fold, use both light and dark colors to multilayer. Use light shadow on the inner lid and darker color on the outer layer. Apply a highlighter under the brow to complete the look. If you have no folds, you may want to stick with similar lighter colors to create a uniform look. I do not recommend using eyeliners for Asian eyes. This makes your eyes appear small. You want to brighten and open up your eyes. Mascara and eyeshadow will produce beautiful eyes.

For more information on how you can make-up better, continue to subscribe to my website or you can read "Make-up for Asian Women" by Jacelyn Tay and "Asian Faces" by Taylor Chang.

My recommendation for the day is do not be afraid to BLEND BLEND BLEND!

Whitening Products

2007-09-22T08:23:00.000-07:00

I absolutely do not recommend using whitening cream with harsh actives such as Kojic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Hydroquinone and Arbutin on a daily basis unless you are using it as a treatment prescribed by a Dermatologist. As an Asian woman suffering from Hyperpigmentation, I've done a bit of research on the subject. It looks like the active material in these whitening products target your natural melanin without discrepancies for the ones that needed treatment.

Every Asian women's goal is to protect what you already have for as long as possible. The natural SPF protective factor you're born with...that may be medium or dark complexions depending on your ethnicity.

A whitening product not only whitens those melanin that has gone array but all melanin it comes into contact with, thereby whitening all the other normal melanin your skin naturally produces as well. This makes your skin volunerable to UV damage, making your skin more susceptible to premature aging. This increases your chance of premature aging. Why would you want that?

Now, you would have to buy a SPF product to cover and protect your skin from the sun. In the end, spending more!

I say take a different approach. Why not try to prevent the darkening of the skin or the lightening of the skin in the first place. I am talking about minimizing the irritants in your cosmetics and facial care products.

I recommend you to read the ingredient list first before you buy cosmetics. You want to scan for any ingredients that can cause irritation like harsh fragrances that's high on the ingredient list, alcohol, propylene glycol, preservatives like parabens and isothiazolinones. By avoiding these chemicals, you can decrease your chances of irritating your skin.

I also want to recommend buying products that's already tested for irritation. Usually labelled as "Dermatologist Test" or Clinically Tested." I only buy cosmetics and facial care products with that claim.

People often asked me, "What's your secret for looking so young?" My answer is, "Maintianing my natural beauty." Stay away from irritating practices like exfoliating too often for your skin type. I say this because there is no one-size-fits-all approach to exfoliating. Every women's skin is different depending on genes. The more sensitive skin you have, the less you should exfoliate.

Give it a try and you too can have great skin without spending a fortune on lazer surgery and glycolic peels.

Darling Faces

2007-09-21T11:45:00.000-07:00

Friday, September 21, 2007

CREATIVE THINKING

Are you like me? I have sensitive skin. I suffer from Hyperpigmentation. I've developed dark spotes on my neck, leg and neck. I spent so much time and money trying whitening cream to anti-irritating lotions. Nothing worked.

I am a firm believer in inner beauty and wear very minimal foundation. I caught The Early Show on CBS with Julie Chen on Asian Beauty. I was amazed at the topic of how no two Asian women are alike with make-up artist Taylor Chang-Babaian denouncing the one-size-fits-all approach the big beauty companies are taking. I completely agree with her! I need something that's created exclusively for me because I have different skin needs.

I am Asian decent. I have a hard time finding the right foundation for me. My make-up have been a trial-n-error method for as long as I can remember. Only recently have the Asian skin tone been a topic for major beauty companies in the United States.

Now that we have somebody who is addressing the different needs of make-up for Asian facial features. I am waiting for someone who is going to address the facial care for Asian skin.