Foundation, Concealer, Primer and Powder - What are they?

You just started to be interested in makeup and still confuse Foundation, with Concealer? You don't know what a Primer is for, or the use of a setting Powder? Or maybe you already have your own makeup habits but these complexion products still confuse you? Let's get them all straight:

In order of what goes on your face:

• Primer, there are many different primers for different skin problems but the main goal for most primers is to boost makeup longevity and to create a smooth canvas. Try the Younique Glorious Face & Eye Primer to create a flawless canvas as it evens out the skin's texture, and primes and prepares the skin for premium application of mineral makeup.
• Concealer and Foundation, I don't think it really matters which order for these two if you are just covering dark circles. But if you have spots I would apply the foundation first and then use the concealer to cover any spots still showing. 

Concealer is usually thicker than foundation and is used to add more coverage over a certain area. Try the Moodstruck Minerals Concealer from Younique, as it is 100% natural and chemical-free. The Foundation is usually a Medium coverage and is used to even out your complexion.

• Setting powder, not to be confused with powder foundation, sets your makeup to boost longevity and to decrease shine. I recommend using a flat top powder brush to apply this, pat do not brush across foundation as it will move it and you will end up with uneven patches.

Beauty Tip: How to Reduce Freckles

With Spring here, and the sunny afternoons getting warmer, we tend to be outside a little bit more, enjoying the warmth and getting sunkissed. But for girls out there with freckles, (and as much as we think they're cute and charming), we know for a fact that it's sort of a hassle, because they get intensified.
One quick and easy tip, besides wearing sunscreen, is lemon juice. That's right, lemon juice! Just squeeze a fresh lemon into a cup and dip a cotton pad in it, and apply on your freckles. As you sunbathe the citric acid will work on making the freckles clearer, less intense and less noticeable.
Don't forget to use a good moisturizer as well to prevent your skin to get dehydrated. Try Younique's Brilliant Moisturizing Gel which is a rich and restorative facial moisturizer that is formulated to leave the skin hydrated, energized, and healthy

Applying eyeshadow for the perfect smokey eye

Above on the image you can see a graphic example on how to apply the different pigment shades in order to create the perfect smokey eye, with basically any color palette you chose.
Basically you'll need 3 tones: a darker for definition, a medium to blend and diffuse and a lighter tone to highlight. Try the Corrupted shade (darker), Daring or Irresistible (medium) and Curious (lighter) all from Younique.
The golden rule for the eyeshadow application is "blend, blend, blend!"
Make sure you have good brushes, like the Deluxe Brush to apply the shadow and the Liner/Shader Brush to blend, both from Younique.

How to Make The Foundation Last Longer

There are a few tricks that beauty gurus share on the internet and workshops worldwide, especially when it comes to makeup. Regarding foundation, there are plenty of different foundation types that suit every skin type, from shades, formulas, to packaging, there are really a lot of options out there.
One of the oldest tricks in hollywood and in professional photoshoots is to apply a primer and wait about 2 minutes before applying the foundation, to create a smooth, poreless and a sleek canvas for all the makeup.
So next time you're going out with makeup on and you want it to last, try the Younique Moodstruck Glorious Face & Eye Primer as it is incredible long-wearing, sweat-resistant, lasts all day and is suitable for every skin type and tone.

Quick tip: Are you out of eyeliner ?

You have an amazing event to attend, and you just started doing your makeup. You're aiming for a gorgeous and classy winged eyeliner but your eyeliner is dry, or really running out... oh damn!
Quick, grab a brush, like the Liner brush from Younique, and dip it into your mascara. Remove the excess on your hand or paper towel and draw the black wing. Black mascara is a great substitute for the eyeliner in case of emergency.
Pick a good mascara, one that is waterproof like the 3d Fiber Lashes from Younique, so you'll avoid the liner to run out.

The golden rule when applying minerals

The brand Younique has a very broad range of mineral pigments, with amazingly rich colors, 100% natural, chemical-free, free of talc, oils, preservatives, perfumes, synthetic dyes, and parabens, all that our skin loves! The Moodstruck Minerals Pigment Powders are perfect to use as eye shadow and as eyeliner as well, when combined with Rose Water and applied with a brush.
The brand also has Moodstruck Minerals Blushers in five gorgeous rich tones.
But what's the golden rule when applying mineral makeup?

"Tap, Swirl & Buff" 

Follow these simple steps and you will achieve that natural, flawless skin we all crave for!

Tip: Makeup for every eye color

 

Try the Younique Moodstruck Mineral Pigment Powder to enhance your eyes:

• Brown eyes: Awestruck, Twitterpated and Regal
• Hazel eyes: Crushed, Beautiful and Confident
• Amber eyes: Sassy and Playful 
• Aqua eyes: Sexy and Naive
• Green eyes: Sassy, Famous and Vulnerable
• Blue eyes: Angelic, Daring and Precocious

Makeup Tips For Girls With Glasses

Long go the days that wearing glasses meant you couldn't be pretty, feminine and confident. Times have changed and luckily for us, girls, there is makeup to make us feel even prettier and nowadays glasses are seen more like a fashion accessory than a need.
So here are some tips for rocking those glassses and a flawless makeup:

• Use mineral makeup foundation, or a BB Cream like the one from Younique, which is lightweight and a perfect base for powder concealers. This will avoid the unpleasant marks that glasses leave right on top of the nose.
• Choose neutral pigments on your eyes, like the tones Sexy, Curious and Innocent
from the Moodstruck Minerals Pigment Powder line from Younique.

• Avoid a thick eyeliner stroke, so your eyes don't look too small. Make a thin line instead to give your eyes more definition and open.
• Make your eyelashes bigger and voluminous with the Younique 3D Fiber Lashes for an extra glamorous look.
• Chose brighter and colourful colours on your lips.

Where to highlight the eyes

Here's a great tip for those who have small eyes or droopy eyes: where to apply the highlighter pigment. The ideal is to create a diagonal line illusion, from the inner corner, the center of the eyelid and brow bone, as you can see in the image.
Try the Younique Moodstruck Minerals Pigment Powder in the tone Curious to highlight your eyes without and blend it with the rest of the eyeshadow with the Younique Deluxe Brush for a natural yet gorgeous look.

Makeup trick of the day: The Perfect Winged Eyeliner in Less Than 2 Minutes

Mastering the eyeliner doesn't come easily and requires a lot of practice, especially if your hand trembles. The brush is thin and the perfect eyeliner is precise. To draw a perfect wing it requires time, calm and dedication.
But here's a trick to make it easier and much more faster: duck tape! Yeah you heard me, duck tape is one of the professional makeup artists best kept secret, and a girls best friend when we're in a hurry.
Cut a little piece of duck tape (the size of your thumb), stick it to your hand and remove it 3 times, in order to remove the excess of glue. Then place it in the upwards direction from the outer corner of your eye, and get the eyeliner. This trick works with either a gel eyeliner, liquid or pen. Draw the wing as you want, and don't worry too much about the shape, as the duck tape is there to make it perfectly defined. when you're done, remove the duck tape and re-touch the area with the foundation or with the BB Cream, in case you're using it.
If you want to achieve this effect but not in a dramatic way, for daytime for example, try Younique Moodstruck Minerals Pigment Powder in the tone Corrupted, mixed with 1 or 2 drops of the Younique Rose Water to create a liquid liner perfect for daytime, office or college.

Tip of the day: Make Your Own Highlighter

Are you out oh highlighter or can't seem to find the perfect shade for your skin tone? Or, have you been out enjoying these lovely Spring afternoons and got a tan, and your highlighter doesn't fit anymore?
Don't worry, you don't have to break your piggy bank and buy 10 different random shades: try the Younique Moodstruck Minerals Pigment Powder in the tones Curious and Sexy and mix them all together until you find the perfect shade (lighter VS rose). You can also use these pigment powders as eyeshadows, especially in the brow bone, and mix them with a neutral gloss, like the Younique Lucrative Gloss in the tone Loyal, for a twist in your lips.

Homemade scrub for oily skin

If you have oily skin, take advantage of the vitamin properties of almonds and the antiseptic properties of honey. It's pretty easy:
You will need 5 peeled almonds and 2 tablespoons of honey. To prepare the scrub, start by shredding the almonds (use a shredder) until the texture looks almost like sand.
Then, mix the honey with the shredded almonds, and gently exfoliate the face skin previously cleaned in round movements.
Wash it off with warm water until your skin is completely clean, and apply your daily moisturizer, like the Younique's Brilliant Daily Moisturizing Gel, as it will leave your skin feeling revitalized, toned, and radiant.

Beauty Habits That Will Give You Wrinkles

• Smoking - if you have this habit, get rid of it, and get rid of it soon! It doesn't bring you any benefit to your health, its a waste of money and your skin loses the natural elasticity causing premature wrinkles, aging spots and loss of glow.
• Drinking - as we all know, alcohol dehydrates the skin, with the time, it will appear less plump and fresh in the morning after drinking alcohol and, just like with smoking, the skin will lose the natural elasticity and form wrinkles due to a lack of hydration. 
• Food: refined food, too much sugar and high glycemic foods trigger inflammation through the body causing the insulin levels to blow, breaking down collagen and elastin, which will cause sagging skin and wrinkles. Stick to more natural foods, such as vegetables, lean proteins and fruits for a better looking skin.
•  Not removing the makeup: we get it, you're tired after a full day of work, or after a great fun night with friends at night but going to sleep with makeup on is a big mistake, as you will be clogging your skin with chemicals while it was supposed to be breathing clean while the rest of the body rests. 
• Not applying moisturizer: especially women that have combined/oily skin tend to think that because the skin doesn't flake, they don't need any moisture. It's a wrong idea, as we all live surrounded by pollution and chemicals that will damage the skin. Try the Younique Brilliant Moisturizer on a daily basis, as it is formulated to leave the skin hydrated, energized, and healthy as it nourishes the skin with powerful ingredients. Brilliant leaves your skin feeling revitalized, toned, and radiant.

Tips to Look Younger

• Wear sunscreen: no matter what skin color or tone, or type, or whether it's summer or winter, just wear sunscreen, and wear it often. Don't wait for the first wrinkles to appear to start taking care of your skin: the sooner you start, the better you will look in the future.
• Use lemon juice in your age spots: the Vitamin C and the citric acid in lemon juice can help gradually fade the sports and even your skin tone.
• Avoid alcholic drinks: alchol dehydrates the skin, and a dehydrated skin will gain wrinkles and spots much faster.
• Use a gentle facial cleanser every day, like the Younique Awake Facial Cleanser , as it will remove the impurities and unclog your pores, without drying the skin.
  
  

3 Beauty Trends to Quit in 2014

• White eyeshadow - It might look great in fashion editorials, but in a common daily routine, it's not the most subtle of looks. If you want to highlight the inner corner of the eye, try a light pink or champagne tone, such as the Younique Moodstruck Mineral Pigments, in the shades Curious or Sexy, for a more subtle and natural look.
• Shimmer Bronzing -  shimmer bronzers are great for summertime and the beach parties, but for a daily routine, especially if you're going to highlight and contour, go for a matte formula, or else you might end looking too juvenile and less sophisticated.
• Overdone eyebrows - We get it, puckering can be addicting, the brows never seem to be thin and perfect enough. But be careful as you might end up loosing the balance: not too thick and not too thin, keep it in the middle for more balance, and a youthful look.

How to avoid tired eyes

Having tired eyes is something that affects many people, whether you spend too much time looking at your computer screen, or TV, or had a bad night of sleep or... it just simply happens!
Here's some tricks to prevent that to happen:

• When removing your eye makeup, be gentle: the skin around your eyes is very thin, and rubbing the makeup remover around them can make the skin reddish and irritated. Plus, if you're gentle, you'll prevent future wrinkles.
• Still on the subject of removing the makeup: don't rub the cotton pad from the way down, as the black mascara and eyeliner will be deposited right under your eye bag, giving the illusion of even darker eye circles. Instead, rub the cotton pad in small circles. 
• Cucumber slices are not a myth: try applying them in your eyes, after removing the makeup, to freshen up your eye area.
• A washcloth damped in Younique's Rose Water is great to give back vitality to your face. It also helps to clean the area in a gentle way without damaging the tissue.
• Apply concealer: it's still the best option to cover the dark circles and enhance your eyes instead of the eye area. Younique Minerals Concealer is great, as it is free from chemicals, preservatives, oils and perfumes.

Tricks to get fuller lips

1. Exfoliate: use a damp soft toothbrush or damp cotton pad to remove the dead skin and boost the circulation on your lips;
2. Use a lip liner to draw the contour a little bit outside of the lip line (don't overdo it, 1 mm is more than enough, or else the effect might look fake;
3. Pick a tone close to your natural lip color
4. Matte formulas are better for creating the effect of full lips. However, you can use a sheer light gloss, like the Lucrative Lip Gloss by Younique, in the shade "Loyal", just in the center of the lips to create the illusion of more volume.

Create a custom lipgloss

Some days we just feel like trying something different, instead of the regular lipgloss or lipstick. And with mineral pigments, the possibilities to create new shades are endless. You can mix the pigments, make it darker, or lighter, or make a tone colder or warmer.
It's easy: try the Moodstruck Minerals Pigment Powder from Younique, there are 30 different tons, the pigments are oil and chemical free. Just mix them with vaseline or with a transparent gloss, until you achieve your ideal shade.

Tip of the day: 3D Fiber Lashes

If you're looking for a dashing mascara effect, with more volume and length than a regular mascara, but without the discomfort of the false lashes, the 3D Fiber Lashes by Younique is the way to go.
It's the new favorite product by makeup youtubers and everyone is after this new formula that is putting all the other mascaras at a lower level. They are water resistant, but easily washes off with warm water and facial cleanser at the end of the day.

Easy "smokey eye"

There isn't any makeup look that is more versatile than a smokey eye. It's classy, contemporary and not that hard to achieve if you follow the catwalk tricks:

• Start by applying the black liner both in the upper lash line as well as in the lower lash line.
• With a liner brush by Younique, wet it in Rose Water and then take a lighter Mineral Pigment to open the look, try the shade Feisty and apply in the inner corner.
• with the same brush, still wet from the Rose Water, take a darker pigment, like Corrupted from Younique and apply through the whole lid, with the "shader" part of the brush. The wet brush will create a more diffuse look and will ease the smudge.
• Finish the look with a nice layer of the 3D Fiber Lashes mascara.

How to look good hangover

There's nothing worse than having to wake up early for another day at work, or classes, after a party night. Sure those shots were fun, but the headache and the puffy not-glowing face the next day pretty much speaks for itself: you feel bad and you look bad.
How to face the office, the colleagues and the boss? Here's a quick guide:

• Wash your face with warm water, clean all the makeup left on your face with a cotton pad damped in Rose Water. Use the Awake Facial Cleanser from Younique, as it will unclog your pores and make your skin look brighter.
• Apply moisturizer, as alcohol dehydrates the skin.
• Use a BB cream to unify your skin tone. Younique has a broad range of tones, make sure you don't choose a tone that is too light for you, or else you will look pale.
• Apply concealer on your dark circles. 
• Don't overdo your makeup: just some mascara to pop your eyes, and a little blush for a healthy glow to your cheeks and you're ready to go, looking healthy and fresh.

Additional tip: drink lots of water and eat a salad, the hangover will pass ;)

Quick tips for softer hair

• Wash your hair with shampoo every other day and use conditioner in the ends every day;
• Don't wash your hair in hot water, but in warm water instead. Finish it with a cold water rinse;
• Use a heat protector spray, specially if you use the hair dryer and stylers;
• Make a hair mask at least once a week. If you want to avoid chemicals, try an organic solution by applying 2 tbsp of virgin coconut oil all over your hair, but especially in the ends. Leave it for a couple of hours and then wash it as usual.
• Avoid chemicals. If you want to change your hair color once in a while just for fun, try the Younique's Moodstruck Pigments to get the hair chalk effect, as they are chemical free and free from parabens, oils and perfumes. 

Beauty habits men secretly hate

1. They hate products with a bad or strong smell, such as toners, some night creams and some foundation formulas. 
2. Glittery products: men hate to see all their stuff with glitter sparkling all over, like in their clothes and in their brush beards. Make sure you keep your glittery eye shadows away because they will secretly hate that mess. Chose a mineral pigment instead, like the mineral pigments by Younique, not only they don't have any smell, but the texture doesn't spread or stick like glitter and they are natural products.
3. Products that look painful or too aggressive: they see eyelash curlers as a pair of scissors right next to your eyes and every exfoliator that will leave your face red as a tomato right after using it will make him suffer just by looking at you. Try using a powerful mascara instead of the eyelash curler, like the 3D Fiber Lashes from Younique, as it will instantly make your lashes look curled, and avoid an abrasive scrub on your skin. Try the Awake Facial Cleanser by Younique instead, as it contains a range of beneficial ingredients that awaken and cleanse the skin. Its thick texture transforms into an effective lather to dissolve oil and makeup, rinsing away pore-clogging surface debris, impurities, and excess oil. It refines the skin texture, brightens skin clarity, and minimizes the look of pores over time.

Eyebrows: Threading vs. Tweezing

The choice is always personal, as there are those who defend the Threading method, and others that defend Tweezers. The difference is in the result of the final brow shape. By using tweezers the results will be more defined brows as it will remove the hairs individually giving them a clean, precise look. By threading even the very fine hair strands come off. It is highly recommended for those who prefer a more natural look.
But there are some who defend that Threading is what was done years ago before tweezers were invented and that tweezing is far more precise and hygienic?

As for waxing, it is too harsh on the delicate skin around the eye area, as well as lack of precision, which can ruin the eyebrow shape and burn the delicate skin.

In using both methods, it is highly recommendable that you clean the eyebrow area very well, both before the tweezing or threading process, as well as after. Younique's Rose Water is a great option, as it revitalizes the skin and acts as a tonic.

Revigorating Homemask

After having your skin scrubbed and clean, mix a packet of mint leaves with 1 cup f water and 2 tablespoons of Younique's Rose Water and apply this lotion with a cotton pad all over the face, neck and chest.

3. In the blender add 1 cup of water and 1/2 beetroot and strain. Reserve half of the mixture and heat the other half until warm. Dissolve 1 gelatin sheet and mix everything.

4. Apply the mask all over your face with upward movements (upwards). Remove after 15 minutes and apply Younique's Brilliant Daily moisturizer.

Homemade face scrub for a lazy sunday

Cheap and efficient, homemade masks can be made with ingredients you have at home and the result is really good and pretty:

Homemade Scrub - To renew the skin 

Ingredients:
1 teaspoon of brown sugar
1 tablespoon of thin oatmeal flakes
2 tablespoons of honey
1 small portion of Younique's Awake Facial Cleanser

Preparation:
Mix all ingredients. First, wash your face thoroughly with water. With the face still damp, apply the scrub in circular and upward movements, always in from the center in the direction of the side of the face, towards the ears and scalp margins.
Wash your face with warm water afterwards and apply your moisturizer, or try the Younique's Brilliant Daily Moisturizing Gel, for a toned finish.

Makeup Tips For The Ladies in Braces

Wearing braces might seem something that only teenagers do. But the number of adult women who have to wear braces have been increasing a lot since some years and, what was considered a taboo, is now the more and more acceptable and even fashion.
But it doesn't mean that all women feel comfortable and confident wearing them, and even if they do, it doesn't mean they shouldn't be careful: just because you got some eyes on you, doesn't always mean it's for the best reasons... And just because you are wearing braces, doesn't mean that you're not gorgeous or should ignore your beauty routine. The main trick is: enhance your other features other than the mouth area:

Skin: Make sure your skin is flawless, choose a good BB Cream or a good foundation if you really need a foundation. Younique has a broad range of skin tones for BB Creams which are actually very lightweight on the skin. Use a concealer on your scars and dark circles but only if you really need it, don't follow a makeup routine just because it's what they say you should do, learn your own features. It's preferable to look more natural than to have the cakey effect on your skin, especially if you're wearing braces, since it will make 2 things drawing attention (and not for the best reasons). Choose a peach or light rose pigment as a blush, for that healthy glow on your face.

Eyes: They are the main star, where all the attention should be focused on. The classic smokey eye works all the time, a simple cat eye with a dark eyeliner never fails as well. Try the Younique's Liner Brush dipped in Rose Water and the Moodstruck Mineral Pigment in the shade Corrupted to achieve a smoother and last longing effect.
The cherry on the cake should the the lashes: make them big and voluminous with the 3D Fiber Lashes mascara.

Lips: Avoid the lip glosses and shimmer, choose nude, soft, peach and opaque shades.

And don't worry: braces aren't forever !

The Best Lip Shades For Dark Skin

Today's post is all about dark skin tones and their best lipstick colors.

Day: Just a transparent lip gloss will leave your face with a luxurious fresh for daytime. If you prefer to play with colors, pick a shade between pink (Lavis) or orange brown (Livid) . All shades from Younique's Lucrative Lip Gloss.

Night: Choose a plum, wine (Lethal) or purple shade. Also from Younique's Lucrative Lip Gloss. If you choose a lipstick instead of gloss, go with a velvety finish as it will make it look more chic!

The Best Lip Shades For Brunettes

Following the previous blog post, dedicated to blondes, let's talk about brunettes and their shades for the lips:

Day: Choose colors such oranges (Lovesick) and corals for a colored look. A coffee tone (Lucky) leaves matches a basic and beautiful look! Both lipgloss shades from Younique's Lucrative Lip Gloss Collection.

Night: strong tones like terracotta (Livid) and burgundy highlight brunettes skin. 

Tip: Run from red shades that are too open.

The Best Lip Shades for Blondes

Many of us women out there struggle to find the right shade of lipstick or gloss, that one color that no matter what you're wearing will definitely enhance your whole look. So here's a quick guide to choose the right color, starting with blondes:

Day: Choose a nude tone (like Luxe), or if you want more color, choose a light pink (Loveable), peach (Ladylike) or watermelon (Lethal). All shades from Younique's Lucrative Lip Gloss.

Night:Create a chic contrast to the skin using a deep red (Luscious) or cherry, also from Younique collection.

Tip: Avoid brown tones, going off the pink of his skin

The wonders of Rose Water

It's one of the oldest beauty tricks in the whole world, used by numerous women from all generations: the Rose Water.
It has lots of benefits:

• Refreshes and revitalizes the skin 

• Excellent for soothing irritated skin 

• It helps to clean the pores 

• With regular use it helps to lighten the skin (in case you have blemishes or acne scars)

• It prevents the skin aging and the appearance of wrinkles 

• It's a natural antiseptic, which is good for treating skin infections 

• It helps stimulate the nervous system (hence the baths with roses or oil / rosewater) 

• It has an anti-bacterial action

The best uses are in the morning, right after the shower and before applying the daily moisturizer and makeup, and at night, right after the makeup removing routine, or skin cleaning routine, as it has a calming and soothing effect.

Younique has launched their version of the Rose Water which can be used as described before, but it can also be mixed with the Mineral Pigments for a smooth and creamy application, such as eye shadow and eye liner.

How to look astonishing in photos

Either you're a selfie lover or your friends keep taking pictures to everyone in the group while you are out having fun, one thing is for sure: those pictures will surface Facebook or Instagram, and you got to look great.

Here's some tips:

1. Skip the heavy foundation: with the rise of the BB Cream on the market a couple of years ago, there are alternatives to foundation that will cover the small imperfections and make your skin tone even, without the full cover that a foundation provides. Younique has a broad range of BB Creams that suit every skin tone, from Cream to Carob.
2. Master the "contouring" technique: choose a bronzer powder with little to no shimmer, and apply with the right brush. We can't emphasize enough the importance of a good brush on contouring. Try the Blusher Brush from Younique, as it has an angular shape, you will be able to control the amount of bronzer and the precision as well.
3. Don't forget to highlight and to apply a little bit of blush as well, to make you look healthy and glowing.
4. If you want to look as natural as possible but still good in pictures, skip the eyeliner and apply a good mascara, as the 3D Fiber Lashes. Everyone will wonder how your eyes look so beautiful and enhanced without any trace of eyeliner.
5. Moisturized lips are a must, paired with a nice lipstick or gloss.
6. Strike a pose: forget the tacky duck face. Embrace your natural beauty and smile, your features will be enhanced and you'll look natural and beautiful.

The best manicure at home

By doing your nails at home, not only you are saving some bucks, but it can be therapeutical as well. Just sit down in some relaxing position and start these steps:

• Step 1 : Start by removing the nail polish with a good amount of acetone. If they are too big and damaged, cut them to a fair length.

• Step 2 : After cutting, file the nails as you prefer : if you opt for a square format start by the middle and then the lateral zone ; if you prefer a more circular shape , start by filing the sides towards the center, always with slight movements .

• Step 3 : Wash your hands with soap and water, rubbing them well, and then dry them .

• Step 4: Apply a moisturizing cream on hands and nails, giving special attention to the cuticles, as they should stay hydrated and soft. If you're not a big fan of moisturizer formulas, that are often too greasy, try Rose Water instead, as it moisturizes and revitalized the skin, leaving you with divine hands.

• Step 5 : Push back the cuticles with cotton or a Q-tip and remove the excess with pliers, but be careful, cut just the bare minimum, because the cuticles are protecting the nail.

• Step 6 : Before applying the nail polish, apply a base coat, especially if you have nails with an irregular surface (base coats are specifically designed to smooth these imperfections ).

• Step 7 : Apply the nail polish in the center of the nail and then spread to the sides. The layer should be thin so that it lasts longer. Remove the excess with a toothpick or you can actually dip a liner brush in acetone, as the oblique angle of the brush is ideal to remove just the extra (just don't forget to wash the brush with soft soap after, so it doesn't get ruined). If you are not very precise or don't have much patience for this step, do not worry. With the hand washing it will eventually come out. 

And that's it, you can now do your makeup and take a stroll to town, have a glass with your friends, go out to dinner with your husband, and be prepared to receive some compliments on how beautiful your hands look.

Eyeliner tips

It's a known fact that eyeliner is as beautiful as intimidating: it requires a certain mastery on applying it. If you're a beginner, it will require that you learn how to steady your hands and do some touch ups. If you're already a pro, these are some tips that will most certainly help to keep the black line in its place:

• Let it dry: if you want to avoid the liner on your crease, allow it to dry for about 30 seconds with your lids closed. This will prevent the liner to be pressed against the lid.

• Use a primer: I must confess, eyelid primers are one of the best inventions in makeup, as it will allow your eyeliner (and even your eye shadow) to stay in place through the whole day. But if you don't have a primer, use a concealer before applying the liquid liner, it will help it hold in place and will avoid the rest of the eyelid to become greasy.

• Try mixing the Younique Mineral Pigment with the Rose Water, to create a liner: they have a wide range of colors, but if you still prefer the darker shades, Corrupted and Devious are the perfect ones to go with. Apply it with the Liner brush for more definition. Or check out their brand new Precision eyeliner pencils. They glide like a gel liner and, like the pigments, stay all day. 

• Seal it with powder: after having the liner shaped, use an angled brush to seal it with a powder eye shadow over the liner.

• Apply the mascara after the eyeliner: it's one of the most repeated mistakes by beginners, to apply the mascara before the eyeliner, thinking that the mascara will work as a support. The problem is if you apply the liner after the mascara, it tends to displace the lashes, causing clumps.

• Choose a waterproof formula: it's simple, it lasts longer, especially if you suffer in the upcoming allergy season (watery eyes will thank you by choosing a waterproof formula).

Pamper yourself in just one hour

To take advantage of this 1 hour in the best way, here are some coordinates you can do:

• 5 minutes:

Start treating the face , wiping the skin well . Then apply a scrub (which can be homemade ) and remove the dead cells from the face, smoothly .

After removing the scrub, apply a mask ( to moisturize , firm or clean the pores , for example) .

• 5 minutes:

While the mask works , let's move to the hair hydration . Damp your hair and put a deep hydrating mask on your hair, particularly on the ends. Put an old warmed towel ( wet it with hot water and twist it ) around the head, leaving the mask acting.

• 5 minutes:

Now let's turn again to the face: remove the mask and apply your daily serum and moisturizer.

• 15 minutes :

While hair mask works, let's move to the nails: make sure the nail polish is good or if it needs some retouch. If you don't like bold colors, try the soft ones instead: milky white or light pink - a simple touch that makes all the difference .

• 15 minutes :

Having the nails completely dry, let's jump to the bathroom . Exfoliate the skin of the body, preferably by placing the scrub with dry skin also for a more effective action. Give particular attention to the rough areas of the body such as knees , elbows and feet .

Then wash body and hair , removing the mask and applying the shampoo and conditioner .

• 5 minutes:

After the bath, moisturize well , with a cream or oil of your choice . Re- hydrate the face, which, with the warm bath water tends to dehydrate a bit .

• 10 minutes:

After hydration pick up an outfit that will make you feel special and do a natural makeup look. Just 5 minutes is enough to achieve a simple but at the same time, beautiful makeup .

The right foundation

There are 3 types of foundation: a compact , cream and fluid
Why choose one over another ?  

• Compact foundation - It is suitable for all skin types ; - For those who like a textured powder, semi - matte , velvety and prefers an application sponge ; - Perfect to bring in the portfolio , as turns out to be very compact and allow retouches throughout the day ;   

• Cream foundation - Ideal for drier skins ; - For anyone who is a fan of rich textures and moisturizers ; - The application is done with the aid of a brush or with the fingertip ;   

• Fluid foundation - Is the preferred normal to oily skin , precisely because of their lighter , fresh and oil-free texture; - As the base cream , the application is also made with a brush or your fingertips ;   Need help choosing your base ? In the next post some suggestions for bases !

What you need to know about blush

Blush is that wonder pigment that can change your whole look from pale, to healthy & glowing face.
From powder versions, to cream formulas, there are plenty to choose from. But do you know what to look for in a blush?
Here's a quick guide:

1. Pick your blush according to your skin type: a powder version is more suitable for oily skin, and a cream one goes best in dry skin.
2. If you choose a cream blush, blend the color into the apples of your cheeks as much as possible, for a natural look.
3. Blushes last between 12 to 18 months, so in case you have the same blush for years, maybe it's time to replace it to a new one.
4. Choose the right brush: a bigger brush isn't always better, try an angled brush, as it makes for a precise application and contour.
5. Slightly tap off the excess powder from your brush before you apply, so you don't risk overdoing it. You can always apply a little bit more after, if needed.
6. Experiment with different colors: blushes come in a variety of colors: pink, coral, peach and neutrals. 

Quick trick for greater lashes

The trick is to use an eyelash curler before applying the mascara: use a blow dryer to slightly warm the curler, the heat will help the lashes to keep the curl effect more effectively. Press the curler right on the lash line for 5 seconds. Lightly press it again in the middle length of the lashes.
Then apply the mascara: the "it" mascara of the moment is the 3D Fiber Lashes as they create an extraordinary volume and length, creating the effect of bigger eyes.

How to prevent lipstick from getting on your teeth

Red lipstick screams "sexy" all over, it's such a rich color, suitable for either brunettes or blondes. But what about those times you think you're smiling flawlessly, super confident, only to find out that your teeth are red too? It's the same with other colors too, even with nude tones, as they can create a yellow layer effect: gross.
To prevent this? It's easy, and in just 3 steps:

1. before the lipstick, apply a lip balm, it will create a smooth canvas for the pigment; help the lipstick pigment to stay in place;
2. use a lip liner, always in the same color as the lipstick, as not only it creates definition but helps the lipstick to stay in place;
3. apply your lipstick evenly through your lips, and gently insert your thumb straight out of your mouth: this will clean any pigment that was on your inner lips, the ones in constant contact with your teeth.
4. Add some lipgloss, if you like.

And don't forget to smile ;)

These foods are ruining your skin !

I'm pretty sure Leonardo Da Vinci and Picasso didn't chose bumpy and stained white canvas for their masterpieces, they wanted the best, clean & smooth canvas. And it's the same with makeup: a smooth and healthy skin is the best canvas for a flawless makeup. And how to achieve that? Well, there are two ways: Exfoliators, moisturizers and beauty masks; and nourishment.
The rule number one for perfect skin is: drink plenty of water, the rule number two: don't go to bed with makeup on. As for rule number three, a list of forbidden foods that ruin your skin:

1. Chocolate: it increases the production of interleukin -1b, a marker of immune system inflammation, which causes an increase of the inflammation due to acne.
2. Sugar and high carb foods: they will increase your insulin levels causing the skin to create more sebum (oil).
3. Dairy: Not only they will increase the insulin levels as well, but removing the fat from the milk (to become skim milk) means more lactose (sugar) which will contribute to rosacea and acne.
4. French fries: they lack nutritional value, lack antioxidants, which are essential fighting the free radicals, and are very high in salt (that will create bloating and puffy eyes).
5. Alcohol: it dehydrates, and this is reason enough to be careful. 

We're not saying you should stop for good the consumption of all these foods for good, but remember: moderation is key!

Make up essentials to carry on the bag

You don't have to carry your whole necéssaire with the whole range of eyeshadows and blushes that you own. But having some essentials in your purse can save the day, like when you leave home in a hurry without having the time to do any makeup whatsoever or when your colleagues invite you for that after hours drink at the new hip pub, or the party you totally forgot you were invited to.
Carry some wipes, there are brands who have small sized packages or pocket versions. Not only they will clean the oiliness and pollution residues but also will give your skin some moisture. Carry a BB cream, a concealer, a black kohl pencil, a mascara and colored lipstick like rose or red. The BB Cream is enough coverage for both day and night, it will even your skin tone. If you have that party after work that you had forgotten, apply some concealer under your eyes to make you look less tired. With a black kohl pencil you can draw a few lines on your eyelids and smudge with your own finger, and make another line on your lash line to give more definition to your look. The mascara will make the final touch by creating volume and depth to your look. Double the layers of the mascara if you're going to that pub or party. Last but not least: the lipstick. If you chose rose or red tones you can also use it as a blush, just smudge a little bit on your cheeks with your finger and you're ready to rock that party.

How to make your hair grow faster

Everyone knows at least someone (if not themselves) who wants to grow their hair faster and stronger. Long hair is one of the oldest symbols of femininity and a beautiful, long and well treated hair caught the attention of both men and women. It's a sign of health and youth.
There are tricks to make the hair grow faster and healthier, a treatment that comes from within. Of course there are good hair products, and tools but if you don't eat well and drink plenty of water, I'm sure all the chemical treatments won't do miracles.
Drink water: drink plenty of water, not only it does wonders for your hair, but to your whole body as well, flush those toxins out! Your skin will look cleaner and fresher and your make up will last longer in a clean and healthy canvas.
Eat well: foods that are rich in Omega-3, proteins and vitamin D promote hair growth and a healthy scalp, like salmon and eggs.
Get your antioxidants right in as well, like oranges, yellow peppers and berries: vitamin C will prevent hair breakage and will give strength to your hair.
Add sunflower seeds and almonds to your salad: not only they will provide an extra flavor to it, but the sunflower seeds are abundant with Vitamin E, which promotes the blood flow to the scalp and a faster hair growth, and the almonds are very high in biotin, which will help your hair grow faster and thicker.

Is the "No Make Up" the new trend?

Cameron Diaz and Nicole Ritchie started this back in December but apparently it's becoming fashion! Last week on Paris Fashion Week Giambattista Valli's models graced the catwalk looking clear and clean, as if they were just out of the spa.

Stella McCartney went the minimalist way and presented her catwalk models in a sparse foundation layer.
So I wonder: is the minimalist make up, clear and sheer face the new trend for Fall/Winter 2014?
Gladly Younique has a wide range of choice when it comes to BB Cream: from the palest skin tone, to the ebony shades, just the enough to rock the bare naked catwalk trend.
But don't forget: fashion fades, style is eternal! There's no crime in sparkling up those eyes and lips with a little bit of fun and color.

A mascara quick trick that will make a difference

This is a very simple trick that all the celebrity make up artists have been using for ages:
Dip the brush into the mascara as usual, then clean it on a tissue. That's right, just swap it into a paper tissue to remove the excess of the mascara and they apply as usual. Allow a few seconds to dry and then repeat the procedure: this way you won't get the lumps on your lashes and the two layers of mascara will make your eyelashes fuller and bigger.
Don't worry about wasting the product on the tissue, you would have the clogged excess on the top of the mascara tube anyway and plus, mascaras have a very short expiration date (about 6 months).

How to make your foundation last longer

The most important trick to make your foundation last longer is to have a good skin as a canvas. Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying that if you have scars or acne your skin isn't good enough to make the foundation last. But, just like the painters choose a good & clean canvas to paint, it's the same with make up, specially the foundation.
Whether you were graced by nature to have a flawless skin or you have oily skin or acne, you need to clean your skin with a product suitable for your type;
Apply a moisturizer before the foundation, make sure your moisturizer is suitable for your skin type as well: if you have oily skin, choose an oily free product;
Applying a primer before the foundation (and after the moisturizer) is key: you will be able to keep the makeup in place through the whole day while preserving the moisture you applied before. A specific eye primer is essential as well, to keep your eye shadow and eyeliner in place;
Choose a good foundation, mineral foundation does wonders as they usually have a thin layer finish avoiding the "cakey" effect and set it with translucent powder, for a matt finish;
Before applying the lipstick or gloss, make sure your lips are moisturized as well, specially if you're wearing a long wearing product, since they are usually very drying;
Last but not least, flaunt that precious smile of yours: happiness radiates your inner shine, and that lasts even longer than foundation!

How to look more awake in the morning

Mornings are a toll, we all know that. If you're not a morning person you just want to stay those 5 extra minutes in bed feeling comfortable. But the clock doesn't stop, and you can't get late to classes, you can't arrive late to work and you still need to get the kids ready to school. And you don't want to arrive to any of those places with that puffy face that begs for more sleep by itself.
Now get up and try this:
Get one of those cold gel eye masks and store it in the fridge the night before. In the next morning, put it in your face while you prepare the kids to school (they will laugh at you, but isn't it nice to start the day with their giggles?) or, while you prepare your breakfast. A couple of minutes will do the trick.
You don't need a lot of make up to look good, just stick to the basics: apply BB cream to even your skin tone: Younique has a range of tones that are suitable for every skin color.
Draw a black line on your upper lash line to bring the eyes up. Don't worry if your hand isn't very precise, you can smudge the line with a brush or even with a simple Q-tip. Apply the mascara in both your upper and lower lashes to open up your look, and some blush on your cheeks to give your face that healthy look.
Finish it with a pink or coral gloss and you're ready to go!

Tips for perfect lips

It doesn't matter what a great color that lipstick is, or how vibrant that new lipgloss feels: if your lips are dry and flaking off, it won't look good. Dry lips can happen both in summer, with the direct sunlight, the heat and dehydration, but also in winter because of the dryness of the air and also because of dehydration: how many of us forget to drink water when it's so cold outside?
Luckily for us, there are some quick tricks to get perfect lips and rock that new lipstick. If they're really flaky try this homemade recipe for an exfoliator:

1. Mix one tablespoon of honey with one tablespoon of brown sugar and then apply gently into your lips. This will help the dry flaky skin to moisture and gently come off without hurting;
2. But if you're in a hurry, leaving the house in 15 minutes and already on the way of applying make up, get a piece of cotton and damp it into very warm water (be careful not to burn yourself, don't make it too hot), and gently swap your lips in one direction. Damp it in the water as many times as you need, the warm water is emollient and the cotton will just remove the peel.

Now you can apply your lipstick or lipgloss and rock it with soft beautiful lips!