Makeup Lovers: Go Pro with 12 Painterly Makeup Brushes

Applying makeup is an art, and pros that have the skills are called makeup artists. For a reason. Seriously, even makeup colors are called palettes! And, like artists, we need to invest in the right tools, including brushes! Fingers are great for some applications, but you just can't get the precision and perfection unless you use professional makeup brushes. But, argh! What do all of these brushes DO? What goes where, how?
I live with a professional artist. Art is creativity, it's skill, and it's mastery of tools, materials and techniques. When we apply makeup, our face is the canvas. Using the right brushes can make all the difference. With all the colors we buy, making an investment in the brushes is key to a great makeup experience. (At the end of this blog, you will find bonus tips: how to properly care for your makeup brushes).

Let's go to it, artists! What brushes do you need to complete your professional makeup look?

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FOUNDATION

Flat foundation brushes allow you to apply liquid foundation with good, even coverage for a smooth finish. To use a flat foundation brush: place a dollop of liquid foundation on your hand. Load foundation onto the brush by dipping one side into the foundation "paint". Begin applying foundation to your face, working in sections: the forehead, each cheek, the nose, and the chin.

Once you have foundation on all areas of the face, use the foundation brush to blend it in, using a back and forth motion. This brush is really meant to lay down the foundation, then you can finish up the blend with a beauty blender.

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CONCEALER

Concealer brushes are flat with a tapered point to accurately apply concealer underneath the eye or to cover specific areas. Concealer can primarily be used to blend out dark under eye circles, discoloration, or to hide blemishes. Consider your concealer color. To neutralize specific issues, use a complementary color: use green concealer to cover red areas or an angry blemish, use yellow on purple hued under eye circles, use pink for ruddy skin tone. For under the eyes, use a concealer that is lighter than your natural skin tone, load the concealer brush and start applying from the inside corner of the eye, and work out. For blemishes, use a darker concealer as a lighter color with highlight your pimple, and use the brush to fade out.

Did you know? Using your fingers to apply concealer can cause unwanted creasing. Also, talking about that crease... blend out the concealer with a damp blender. If you set with powder and there are creases, you'll be stuck with those creases. Make sure you are crease free when you powder set!

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POWDER

Powder brushes are great for applying setting powder all over the face. Pick up loose or pressed powder with the flat surface of the powder brush and softly brush all over the face to set liquid foundation and concealers.

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BRONZER

A bronzer brush can be used for contouring, applying bronzer and highlighting. Every beauty guru I know contours and highlights for their perfected looks, and this brush will get you there!

To contour and help slim your face, apply a shade of foundation slightly darker than your natural skin tone. Using the bronzer brush, sweep back and forth under the cheekbone from ear to cheeks, draw blended circles around the temples, and brush along the hairline.

To bronze for a glowy sunkissed look, use a powder bronzer with the bronzer brush along the cheek bones and the forehead.

To highlight and get the shimmery look, sweep illuminator with the bronzer brush just above the cheekbones and down your nose, cupid's bow and chin.

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BLUSH

The blush brush is for coloring your apples. If that doesn't sound like fun, I'm not sure what does! Pick up your favorite blush color with the blush brush (Oh, I love that this rhymes), smile big enough to show your teethies, then sweep blush across your cheek from ear to apples. Apply just enough to start to see color on your skin but not so much that you start to see visible application lines. If you do apply too much, use your bronzer brush to soften it down. I like to use the blush brush for highlighting above the blush line, as the angle of the brush is great for sweeping across the cheek.

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KABUKI

This adorable, short, soft kabuki brush is for blending. After applying your layers of foundation, powder, contouring, blush and highlights, swirl the kabuki brush in circles all over the face to blend and help all of that makeup application look natural and softened.

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EYESHADOW

This brush is best used to apply soft, all over powder eyeshadow to the eye, including the light base color for under the brow.


It's softness also is great for blending eyeshadows after application in order to soften and spread.

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CREAM EYESHADOW

The cream eyeshadow brush can be used to apply cream eyeshadow, yes, but it can also be used for powder eyeshadow colors. I love cream eyeshadows because I feel like the pigment is strong and it lasts.

This brush can be used to pack on powder eyeshadow colors, too. Load up both sides of the flat brush with color, tap off excess powder, and press the color onto the eyelid.

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CREASE

The crease. So, the little part of your eye lid above your eyeball, before your brow begins to raise up... that indentation is the crease. And applying color to that bit is a pain. Push eyeshadow into the brow crease and blend back and forth along that line.

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EYELINER

Eyeliners can usually be applied using the pencil or the brush tip that comes with the product. However, you can use an eyeliner brush if you mix your own eyeliner for a precise line, or use eyeshadow for a smudgy look. Angled eyeliner brushes can be used with gel eyeliner to draw sharp lines.

If you are looking for super precise lines like those required for the popular winged look, you will need a very precise eyeliner brush!

 

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BROW

Brow brushes usually only have the comb part and the brush part. This delightful brow brush has a spoolie on the end so you can tame your eyelashes before working your mascara in!

To expertly style your brows, comb the outer portion down, define the brow arch with a brow pencil, then brush all of your brow up and out toward your ear.

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LIP

The lip brush can be used to apply lipliner, lipstick, lip gloss, or any lip color. Try using line - fill - line. Define the edges of your lips with the lip brush dipped in the lip gloss or loaded from the lipstick bullet.  Use the precision edge of the lip brush to line the lips. Then, use the flat surface to fill in color on the plump parts of your lips. Finish up the lip color application by refining the lip edges one last time.

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BONUS: Brush Care

Always store your brushes with the handle down/bristles up. Or store them flat. Putting the weight of the brush on the bristles will ruin them.

Makeup brushes can pretty gunked up with product, and not only does it affect the way your product is applied, but brushes that haven't been cleaned can hold and transfer bacteria. This technique is exactly how I clean my art brushes, too!

What you will need to clean your brushes: dirty brushes, baby shampoo, warm tap water, two washcloths or hand towels.

1. Squeeze a dollop of baby shampoo into the palm of your hand. Run the brush bristles under warm running water to get it wet, and then start swirling the brush bristles around in your hand. Make sure the baby shampoo totally coats the brush. You should see bubbles. (Yay, bubbles!)
2. Run the brush bristles under warm running water while continuing to swirl the brush around in your palm. Continue to swirl until there is no more product or soap in the brush.
3. Using one of the towels, squeeze the excess water out of the brush. Don't ruffle the brush, just wrap the towel around it and gently squeeze the brush to absorb excess water. (I also like to fling excess water off the brush by holding it and whipping it toward the sink... it's a skill... a messy skill.)
4. Depending on the type of brush, you can gently straighten the bristles. Start at the ferrule (that's the part where the bristles meet the handle - it's usually metal.) and gently pull the bristles from the ferrule to the ends of the bristles to smooth them and reshape the brush.
5. Lay the other towel down flat on the edge of a surface, and lay your brush down on it with the brush bristles hanging over the edge. Allow the brush to dry completely before using it, or your brush will get all gunked up because it is still wet. Do not dry your brushes the same way you store them because the water will drip down into the ferrule and create bacteria issues. You can dry them "hanging up" with the bristles DOWN if you have a purchased or McGyvered brush drying device available.

Bring out your inner artist, and make your makeup a masterpiece.

Check out my Instagram @cheriefrid for clips of these brushes in action!

Facial DIYers: 3 Facial Target Zones for Multimasking

I’ve seen you talking about the multimasking trend, and I know you want to do this great spa facial technique at home. I look for trends, beauty expertise and tools to help you feel beautiful, and I found two articles about multimasking.

The first article is Multimasking Beauty Trend - Face Masks for Glowing Skin by Lauren Valenti, found at Marie Claire.

This article suggests that sometimes trends actually have real value. While some beauty trends can be a bit ridiculous, the multimasking trend actually gives us significant benefits in our skincare routine. The reason lies in the facial zones – the t-zone, the cheeks, the under eye area. Each of these zones is pretty different when it comes to the skincare treatment needed, and multimasking solves that problem in one perfect facial moment. Best of all? Dermatologists use this technique all the time, because it’s effective and efficient.



The second article is Try #Multimasking, An Internet-Spawned Beauty Trend That Isn't Completely Insane, written by  Cheryl Wischhover on Fashionista.

This article links this trend to both clown contouring (it’s a thing) and Asian beauty routines. However, the idea that this is a totally legit beauty treatment was reinforced. It suggests that multimasking works for everyone because making a cocktail of masks allows you to customize your specific needs for every zone of your face.

Pick three mask products that are designed to target three different areas to get the maximum benefits from an at home multimasking facial.

• T-zone - Use charcoal, clay or salicylic acid masking on the t-zone, that area from your forehead down your nose to your chin. These oily areas need the extra oomph to remove pore clogging materials.
• Cheeks - Extra moisture is usually what’s called for in this area of the face. Hyaluronic acid and moisture is the best way to treat exposed cheek area. 
• Eyes – Eyes need a special product because they are such a sensitive area of our face. Retinol will help with the appearance of aging, or you can target your dark circles.

Remember to selfie and tag with #multimasking to share your DIY facial on Insta and Twitter!

A Perfect Body Spa Gift Set

Still looking for the perfect body spa gift set? With so many options, it's hard to find just the right one. The Frosted Winterberry set has bubble bath for a soothing, relaxing soak, shower gel for everyday, a shower pouf, and body lotion to stay moisturized in the cold winter air.

Types of Facial Cleansers

Liquid/Gel

Liquid/gel based facial cleanser is simple and effective. It usually comes in a pump, and when combined with water, will work into a lather. Acne cleansers often come in a liquid or gel form, but include acne fighting ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.

Cream

Cream facial cleansers have a thick consistency. There are foaming cream cleansers that can be applied to damp skin and then rinsed off. There are also cold cream cleansers that can be applied and wiped off with a soft, damp cloth. Cream cleansers are not recommended for oily skin.

Bar

Bar soaps that are specifically designed for facial use are the best choice. Other bar soaps are going to be too drying for the facial skin. The Neutrogena original transparent facial bar is the most well known facial bar soap product. The biggest clue that the bar soap is too drying is if your face feels tight after you have cleansed. To counter this, moisturize immediately and avoid using that particular bar soap.

Cleansing Cloth

My personal favorite, the cleansing cloth is a disposable fiber based cloth that is immersed in a cleansing liquid. When pulled from the package, the cloth has moisture and can be used to gently cleanse the face. However, it is important to rinse with water to remove all of the dirt and oil that was loosened with the cleansing cloth.

Scrub/Exfoliant

Scrubs and exfoliants contain physical ingredients that exfoliate the skin to slough off contaminants and dead skin cells. There are scrubs and exfoliant products such as crushed or powdered fruit or nut seeds, salts, sugars, sands, oatmeal, seaweed, and microbeads (plastic). There are also chemical exfoliants that use acids or other chemicals. Exfoliants are great for the skin when used once a week, for example. Daily use is simply too abrasive.

Toner

Toners come in varying degrees of strength, from rosewater refreshing toners to alcohol based astringents. Many dermatologists suggest that using alcohol based "toners" (or astringents) are actually very damaging to the skin, causing severe dehydration. However, a rosewater or similar tonic can have positive contributions to your skin care routine, including balancing pH levels and managing oil on your skin.

Mask

Masks are so quintessentially spa, with the image of a delicious product slathered all over our face while we relax comfortably to the sound of running water or crystally new age music. There are also an infinite number of types of masks, including clay, cream, dry and peel, warmed, and cream or gel. Each of these could have a myriad of ingredients targeting specific skin concerns, so it is important to identify the purpose of the mask and follow directions carefully. There is even a new trend of multimasking where different masks are applied to different areas of the face to address multiple concerns simultaneously. That said, masks can really be wonderful tools when you have to freshen your facial skin for a big event, or manage a specific issue with some frequency.

Brush

The brush. It was the newest thing in skin care a few years ago, and you either love it or you hate it. The facial cleansing brush is motorized, and the brushes help to slough dead skin cells, reduce acne and increase blood circulation.

December Birthstone: Tough Turquoise

December’s birthstone is tough turquoise. This turquoise birthstone ring features an oval shaped turquoise stone. It is set in twist and CZ embellishments. Turquoise symbolizes healing power and strength . Introductory price of $29.99 (will be $59.99)

 

Eccentric Peanuts Personalities

Peanuts started in 1950 as a comic strip in the dailies. It features a group of personality rich kids and an aspiring writer dog named Snoopy.

What I've always found interesting about Peanuts is the psychological complexity of the characters, portrayed through light hearted satire. Their personalities and odd quirky behavior can resonate even today: Charlie Brown, with his low self esteem and neuroticism, his little sister Sally has a learning disorder, Linus is just ready for anything, Lucy has mood swings, and Snoopy is a total type A. What Peanuts shows us is that we are all unique and all imperfect... and that's OK.

While several TV and movies have been made featuring the Peanuts gang, the 65th Anniversary will be celebrated with The Peanuts Movie, releasing in theaters November 6, 2015.

Snoopy has become a beloved beagle icon, but the whole cast of characters is a revered group of individuals that truly stick together as friends.

	Throw with Snoopy, Woodstock, Charlie Brown, Lucy, Linus and Sally
	18" plush Snoopy cuddle pillow that plays "Linus & Lucy" theme song
	3" plastic figurine set with Snoopy, Linus, Charlie Brown and Lucy

November Birthstone: Charming Citrine

November’s birthstone is charming citrine. This citrine birthstone ring features a teardrop shaped genuine citrine stone. It is set in an elegant sweeping sterling silver ring with a full line of CZ embellishments. Citrine symbolizes happiness, joy and optimism . Introductory price of $29.99 (will be $59.99)

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October Birthstone: Opulent Opal

October’s birthstone is opulent opal. This opal birthstone ring is sterling silver with oval simulated opal. Two CZ embellished hearts are on each side, with silver tapering down to the band. Opal symbolizes beauty, power and prosperity. Introductory price of $29.99 (will be $59.99)

Skincare Focus: Cleanse

Wash your face every day, but use a gentle cleanser so natural moisture is not stripped away. There is no need to wash more than once a day unless you have gotten particularly dirty (with sweat, dirt, sunscreen, or environmental yucks). I like using a clean washcloth to dry off with. You can use a hand towel, but I find it easier to store clean washcloths right by the sink - I throw it right in the laundry and get a fresh one the next day - and it's big enough to do the job!

Cleansers remove oil, makeup and dirt

• Elements cleansers
• Anew cleansers
• Clearskin cleansers

Sweat clogs pores

Be sure to cleanse! Exercise and sweating is actually GREAT for your skin, as it helps remove toxins. Unfortunately, after you cool down, if sweat remains on your skin, it can contribute to pores getting clogged which can lead to acne issues. Find a cleanser. The best thing to do is cleanse your face before you exercise and after you exercise. You should cleanse before because leaving makeup on your skin can prevent the sweat from excreting and can block pores. You should cleanse after because the sweat accumulates and can clog pores or contribute to infections.

Keratolytics (acne treating ingredients)

Certain ingredients in cleansers and masks are keratolytics, which help to loosen the dead skin cells and hardened materials trapped inside pores.

• salicylic acid
• benzoyl peroxide
• glycolic acid

Why Facial Masks?

Regular cleansing is super important to help keep your skin clean and healthy. So why bother using a facial mask?! Here's why: When you cleanse your skin every day, you are removing makeup, dirt and other impurities from the SURFACE of your skin. Cleansing removes the oil build up, makeup we wear and other dirt and particles from the epidermis. But, the epidermis has multiple layers (5, in fact!). Mask once a week to avoid overcleansing, which can actually produce more oils!

Facial masks help do three key things in addition to cleansing:

1. Facial masks exfoliate dead skin cells from the epidermal layers. Exfoliating revealing the healthy skin cells below. 
2. Facial masks invigorate the skin and encourage blood flow, and that increased circulation will also give you a healthy glow. 
3. Facial masks will unclog pores, allowing cleansers to remove the built up oils and dead skin cells that have accumulated.

Facial Masks

• Clearskin® Pore Penetrating Black Mineral Mask
• Clearskin® Professional Liquid Extraction Strip
• Planet Spa Amazonian Treasures Hydrating Face Mask with Brazilian Acai and Berries
• Planet Spa Perfectly Purifying With Dead Sea Minerals Face Mask

Acne Solutions

Nobody wants acne. But so many of us have it. And, honestly, acne is probably one of the most common skin problems we all face.

Acne is caused by infected hair follicles. The sebaceous gland creates sebum, which is an oily, waxy substance. When the hair follicle pore becomes clogged with dirt or dead skin cells (keratin), the sebum cannot be excreted and becomes susceptible to bacteria. This can develop into an infection, which creates acne in several different forms. There are MANY things that can cause the infected hair follicle: dead skin cell build up, hormones, a greasy environment, even stress.

If acne is severe, a dermatologist should be consulted because it might be a factor related to something else, or the dermatologist can provide a prescription topical or oral medication for the acne. Over the counter (OTC) products can help mild acne or occasional breakouts. Active OTC ingredients that have been proven effective for acne include Benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. It is the ingredients that help solve acne problems, not scrubbing. If you have acne, avoid scrubbing or even exfoliating too frequently because that can damage the skin and actually make the acne worse.

Daily, consistent skincare is a lifestyle treatment for acne. In addition to diet and stress reduction to help control acne, cleansing and treating your facial skin will consistently keep the sebum production under control and help solve acne flare ups.

Enlarged pores are follicles that have been clogged with sebum, which makes the pore dilated, so it looks larger and more visible. (Pores are always open and present, but they usually don’t look visibly open.) Oily or oil producing skin makes pores look larger, so reducing the oil will contribute to a smoother looking skin. Cleanse with a gentle cleanser, preferably one with salicylic acid to exfoliate the pore and the skin’s surface. TRY Clearskin® Professional Deep Pore Cleansing Scrub with Salicylic Acid  Moisturize with a lightweight lotion, not a cream. TRY Anew Vitale Day Lotion SPF 25  

Blackheads are open comedones which are filled with sebum and keratin at the opening. The “black” is not dirt, it is actually the melanin that is present in the sebum and when it is exposed to air, it oxidizes and turns darker.

Pores can be extracted, but this should really be done by a licensed esthetician or dermatologist, as extractions can damage the skin or push bacteria further into your pores. Instead, TRY Clearskin® Professional Liquid Extraction Strip  OR Clearskin® Pore Penetrating Black Mineral Mask  Kerotolytic ingredients, like benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid and salicylic acid, work to soften and loosen the keratin sitting in your pores. TRY Clearskin® Blackhead Eliminating Daily Cleanser

Whiteheads and pimples are closed comedones that have trapped bacteria and are inflamed and swollen from infection. Once a whitehead has developed, it becomes more difficult to treat. The best thing is to work to prevent closed comedones by cleansing daily. Whiteheads should never be “popped” at home; pins or extractors can never be sterilized enough and will cause bacteria to spread and contribute to skin scarring. Severe acne can be treated by a licensed esthetician or dermatologist.

Papules and pustules are more infected versions of pimples. As the bacteria increases, white blood cells attempt to destroy it, which can lead to further swelling and inflammation. Pustules may even have a yellow center. The white gunk that oozes from a large broken pimple is pus, which is a delightful combination of dead skin cells, bacteria and infection. TRY Clearskin® Blemish Clearing Overnight Treatment I also use a spot treatment of tea tree oil on painful whiteheads. Dip a cotton swab into the tea tree oil and apply directly onto the pimple area on freshly cleansed skin.

 

Milia are hardened chunks of keratin that are trapped just below the skin’s surface. They look like tiny pimples, but they do not look red or inflamed, don’t increase in size and do not go away like a pimple might over time. While the best way to remove these is with lancing at an esthetician’s office, milia can be reduced with microdermabrasion and prevented with daily cleansing and a sunscreen (because sun damage is a contributor). If the milia are really bothersome but you don’t want to head to the esthetician, TRY Anew Clinical Resurfacing Expert Smoothing Fluid

 

Nodules and cysts are buried beneath the skin’s surface. Nodules are hard spots of keratin, and cysts are filled with pus under the skin. Both can hurt! If you have nodules or cysts you really should be seeing a dermatologist for treatment. For severe acne treatment at home, but you cannot afford a recommended product such as Proactiv, TRY Clearskin® Professional Acne Treatment System 

 

Damage done? If you have been cursed with severe acne, or you used extraction methods that left scarring, you may have acne marks, redness, acne scars, or pick marks. Your skin has essentially been damaged, and it can take some serious effort to make your skin smooth and elastic again.

• Texture problems? Skin texture can look bumpy, uneven or leathery. TRY Anew Clinical Advanced Retexturizing Peel with Glycolic Acid . It is like having a glycolic peel at home!

• Discoloration or hyperpigmentation? Redness or other discoloration of the skin can occur after acne breakouts. TRY Anew Clinical Absolute Even Multi-Tone Skin Corrector . The advanced formula reduces the look of 7 types of discoloration: dark spots, uneven skin tone, post acne marks, brown patches, blotchy red patches, freckles, and sallowness.

• Acne scars? Do you have visible acne scars that appear like enlarged pores, craters or keloids? Microdermabrasion can work to correct the visibility of scarring, but if you aren’t ready to head to your esthetician for that, TRY Anew Clinical Resurfacing Expert Smoothing Fluid . It is 79% as effective as a professional microdermabrasion.

After treatment, help your skin rebuild collagen and elasticity with Anew Clinical Overnight Hydration Mask which includes encapsulated hyaluronic acid.

September Birthstone: Sparkling Sapphire

September’s birthstone is sparkling sapphire. This sapphire birthstone ring is sterling silver with a marquis cut 3/4 carat sapphire. Hugged by curves of CZ accents, with silver tapering down to the band. Sapphire symbolizes sincerity and faithfulness. Introductory price of $29.99 (will be $59.99)

Incredible Skincare Solutions, Backed by scientific research

Taking care of your skin can lead to more than just a glowing face; it can help boost your self esteem, and radiate confidence! Regular care of your skin, especially facial skincare, can make a difference.

Avon Skincare Institute

The Avon Skincare Institute is leading skincare research. Skincare scientists are going beyond the beauty industry to explore genetics, botanical ingredients, and sleep research. Avon, as a company, has been a leader in skincare research for decades. (Did you know that it was Avon that brought AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acid) to the beauty industry?) Avon has a global research and development team of over 200 scientists, working to continue innovative skincare and aging research and bring breakthrough skin cleansers, treatments and moisturizers to you.

We truly care about women feeling good from the inside out.

Current Industry Research

Just this month, August 2015, Avon scientists have presented breakthrough anti-aging skincare research at the summer conference of The American Academy of Dermatology. The research is centered around a protein called “dynein” (pronounced dye-neen) which has to do with transporting nutrients and mitochondria within skin cells. Additional research is focused on autophagy, which is related to how cells remove damage. Both denein and autophagy decline as we age, leading to lines and wrinkles. This kind of research is innovative, and will contribute to the continued development of anti-aging skincare products. Read more here: Avon Scientists Present Research Behind Groundbreaking Anti-Aging Discovery at Summer Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology

Anew Skincare Specialist

I have worked to become an Anew Skincare Specialist with Avon, and my training allows me to recommend Anew products to you based on your skincare needs. There are several Anew lines of skincare, from Vitale to Reversalist to Platinum to Ultimate that will each address specific skincare concerns. In addition, Anew Clinical products have specific targeted solutions! Avon’s latest skincare product, Anew Power Serum, was inspired by Nobel Prize winning research.

Seriously, Serums.

Target all signs of aging and Boost treatments and moisture

Serums are powerhouses for skincare. The secret to serums is that the moisturizing ingredients, like oils, have been removed, so that the serum is a concentration of active anti-aging ingredients. Serums contain smaller molecules which allows them to absorb into the skin more efficiently. Emollients or moisturizer carriers have larger molecules, so they function more as a barrier to lock in moisture.

The finer molecules allow the anti-aging ingredients to deliver more potent results. That's what makes serums a powerhouse.

Serums should always be applied to cleansed skin. Serums do not replace your skincare, they work to enhance what you are currently using. Because they are concentrated, they do not carry the moisturizing element that you still need, so continue to moisturize as you normally would. Plus, that serum will improve the absorption of the moisturizer, enhancing the anti-aging benefits.

Imagine a serum that can detect where additional skin treatment is needed, plus a boost that amplifies your current skincare regimen. Anew Power Serum is lightweight, and designed to be used in conjunction with existing skincare because it focuses on the visible damage to skin and delivers anti-aging results. It is a general treatment that helps with smoothing, coloration, lines & wrinkles and sagging.

The inspiration for Anew Power Serum originated with the 2013 Nobel Prize award for Physiology research in cellular transport

I participated in an online Chat with Anew Power Serum Innovator Pradeep Yadav on August 25th, and he offered some insight into the chemistry of this incredible formula! He shared that the Anew Power Serum is concentrated to really target and deliver maximum anti-aging results. It is definetely meant to be used in conjunction with all other regimen, including after cleansing, and before any other targeted treatments, and under moisturizer. It boosts the benefits of the moisturizer, day and night. Again, this Power Serum boosts your current regimen, so that makes it suitable for layering. This is definitely a unique serum!

Fragrances 101

Ancient perfumery has a 4,000 year history, and fragrance chemistry has used a variety of herbs, spices, flowers, resins, woods and even animal materials.

Fragrance Concentrations

Fragrance concentration is the percentage of "aromatic compounds", and determines how long a scent will last and how strong it will be. From most strong and lasting to least strong and lasting:

• parfum, up to 40% aromatics, lasting up to 8 hours
• esprit de parfum, up to 30% aromatics, lasting up to 6 hours
• eau de parfum, up to 20% aromatics, lasting up to 5 hours
• eau de toilette, up to 15% aromatics, lasting up to 4 hours
• cologne, up to 10% aromatics, lasting up to 2 hours

Avon has eau de parfum, eau de toilette and cologne.

Chemists classify "aromatic compounds" by their molecular structure, in categories like "ester", "terpenes", "amines", "aldehydes", and "ketones". But we like to refer to scents by their main aromas, like rose, jasmine, orange blossoms, greens, and musk (respectively). It is the scent ingredients that are often the most alluring, and we love to take in the aroma of a unique blend, like blackberry, rose and vanilla.

Apply Fragrances at Pulse Points

If you love fragrances, your fragrance should be applied at pulse points:

• behind the ears
• on the neck
• at the inner wrists
• the inside elbows
• behind the knees. 

Applying too much fragrance is not only unnecessary, it can also create allergen problems for others around you. If you apply the fragrances just to your pulse points, you enjoy the aroma on your own body, and you smell "nice" to others close to you, but you will not overpower others with scents they may react to.

Layering Fragrances

Help your fragrance last all day by layering it with same scent shower gels, bath oils and body lotion.  Avon has these for many of their fragrances!

Fragrance Notes

Fragrance notes are the combinations of aromatic compounds that work together to create beautiful aromas. They are layered and designed to release over time and in response to body heat.

• Top Notes: Your first impression of the fragrance. What you smell right away, it also evaporates right away. Usually a light scent. 
• Middle Notes: The heart or substance of the fragrance. This is a pleasant and smooth odor that will carry the fragrance.
• Base Notes: The body of the fragrance, that will last the longest. This is the scent you will have at the end of the day.

Did You Know? Your body chemistry actually changes a fragrance when you apply it. So, the same fragrance will smell different on different people! Avon fragrance samples instruct you to apply the fragrance to the wrist, because the body heat at pulse points help to amplify the scent, and it will help you determine how it smells on you, whereas a scratch and sniff or smelling the sample itself wouldn't.

Current Perfume Trends?

Light floral scents are in for fall, as are earthy, spicy, "global" scents.

Layering different fragrances to create your own unique blend is definitely in, though it does take some trial and error to get your own perfect scent just right!

You don't wear the same clothes every day, so why wear the same fragrance every day? On trend right now is having a wardrobe of different scents to wear based on mood or destination.

Serious personalization is very trendy, if you can afford it! There are many companies offering personal mixology so you can create your very own scent. Some even have bottle and logo design to go along with your aromatic chemistry experiment!

August's Birthstone: Precious Peridot

August’s birthstone is precious peridot. The peridot birthstone ring is sterling silver with a round center 3/4 ct. Peridot with shining CZ embellishment. Peridot symbolizes balance and healing. Introductory price of $29.99 (will be $59.99)

 

Lip Crayons To Color In The Lines

My first thought when I saw lip crayons: What the hay is a lip crayon and why would I use it?

Then I realized... it's lip balm, lip stick, lip gloss and lip pencil ALL IN ONE! Mind. Blown.

When I have a busy work or mom day, I still need to reapply my _fillintheblanklipthing_. I admit, I do not use a mirror. Like, ever. I'm just winging that lip color application. Which is one reason I really like these lip crayons! They are so easy to apply, and I don't need a mirror to know that it's looking good.

 

So let's talk about these cute little crayons. They are easy to hold, and easy to apply. It's like a crayon. A four year old can do it! SO easy and fun to color in the lines.

Bonus, they even add hydration with the Vitamin E and Shea Butter.

Avon has just released 7 new CREAM shades, for extra creamy lips... so it's sort of more like an oil pastel than a Crayola!

July's Birthstone: Radiant Ruby

July’s birthstone is radiant ruby. The ruby birthstone ring is sterling silver with a gorgeous 3/4 carat princess cut simulated ruby in the center surrounded by CZs. I adore the flowery look to this cut and CZ setting. Ruby symbolizes devotion, integrity, courage, and happiness. Introductory price of $29.99 (will be $59.99)

Anti DV Anthem

Madonna's "Unapologetic Bitch" might just be my new anti-domestic violence anthem.

There have been others...
Katy Perry "By the Grace of God"
Florence and the Machine "Shake it Out"
Dresden Dolls "Delilah" (a personal favorite, mainly because it's Amanda Palmer)
Foo Fighters "Best of You"
Alanis Morissette "Sympathetic Character"
Pretty much every song Ani DiFranco has written.

There are more. Why are there so many?

Summer Skincare Workshop

This is information archived from my Summer Skincare Workshop Facebook event on June 28th. 

My Skin Story

For a long time, I never did anything for my skin. Like, I would clean my face of course, but I never wore moisturizer or makeup. Then I realized that my skin was getting damaged.

Everyone was always yelling at me to wear sunscreen in the summer (which I did!) but it didn't matter. I would burn to a bright lobster red anyway... it didn't matter how much sunscreen, what SPF or how frequently I reapplied it... Red. And after the burn and the red... peeling. Not fun.

My face wasn't much better. That was also red all the time. I would flush (it sort of looks like blushing) but it was more than just embarrassment; my face would flush red in reaction to almost anything: cold, heat, changes in temperature, alcohol, and, yes, adrenalin. So I started wearing makeup to cover the red. I actually would shop for a concealer with a green tone and slather that on my cheeks and neck to cover the red. (Color theory: green and red are opposite on the color wheel and green neutralizes the red.) After I realized that product (!) could actually help my appearance and confidence, I started paying more attention to my skin.

7 Things That Damage Skin

Skin Type Tissue Test

SPF and Photoaging

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor.  For basic protection, SPF 15 is ideal. Higher SPFs only offer a small percentage more of protection. And here's a dirty secret: SPF only protects against UVB. UVA also causes sun damage and skin cancer.

Ultraviolet light from the sun is categorized based on wavelength. UVA is long wave, UVB is short wave, and UVC doesn't penetrate the ozone.

In order to be protected from UVA rays, you have to see one of these phrases on your sunscreen product: multi spectrum, broad spectrum or UVA/UVB protection. These products will contain either a chemical UVA protective ingredient (like a somethingbenzone - there are several - or Ecamsule) or a physical UVA protective ingredient, like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide.

Photoaging is the lifetime accumulation of skin damage as a direct result of sun exposure (or tanning UV rays). There is actually a really fascinating anecdotal evidence of a truck driver who has photoaging effects clearly visible on the left side of his face. So, his face is significantly damaged and wrinkled, dry, and rough as a direct result of being exposed to sun on the left side of his vehicle because he spent so much time in the driver's seat! Crazy, right? Google "Bill McElligott".

UVB rays can penetrate the epidermis, is what causes sunburns, initiates the skin to produce melanin and can contribute to skin cancer.

UVA rays can penetrate deeper, into the dermis. Here, the skin's collagen and elastin can be damaged, and over time the dermis thins, causing the epidermis layer to droop and sag.

Sunburns are the initial clue that the sun has damaged the skin. However, signs of early photoaging can also include melanin production in spots (think freckles), the new presence of spider veins, and wrinkles that form around the eyes and mouth. Long term photoaging effects are seen more visibly as deep wrinkles, spider veins around the nose, rough skin texture, and most frightening, the presence of skin abnormalities that could signal skin cancer.

Sun is a significant contributor to skin aging: wrinkles, dry skin and age spots (increased melanin). Most skin damage from the sun happens during the summer. A single, simple way to prevent sun damage is sunscreen. SPF of 15 or higher, apply a lot, reapply frequently especially if you are sweating or swimming, choose one with broad spectrum protections (which has chemical or physical ingredients to protect from UVA as well as UVB). Use lip balm with an SPF. Wear hats, sunglasses and UV reflecting clothing. Make sure ears, neck, elbows and knees are covered. Men, women AND children/ white, ruddy, brown AND black skin all need sun protection (while darker skin have more melanin which acts as an SPF, and dark skin tans more than burns, sun damage is still occurring and skin cancer still is a risk!).

Skincare Solutions

How do you find solutions to your skincare problems? Well, you can:

1. Try your local drugstore, 
2. Look in Ulta, 
3. Browse high end department stores, 
4. See a dermatologist (especially important if you think you have something that might be skin cancer), 
5. Ask a friend about skincare products she recommends!