Blurred Lines

YSL has – yet again – succeeded in transforming normal skin into the perfect silk canvas. The newest additions to their infamous Touche Eclat collection are the Blur Primer and Blur Perfector.

A little goes a long way with these products – especially the Primer – and depending on where you are going, you can probably skip the foundation.

YSL Blur Primer is the first step toward smooth, dewy skin.

YSL Blur Primer is the first step toward smooth, dewy skin.

The Primer was my go-to skin product for hot summer nights. After applying a light moisturizer, I blended a small amount of product onto my face for the perfect dewy glow. There was no need to carry pressed powder around since it minimized shine.

The Blur Perfector comes in a universally flattering rosey hue that evens out skin tone. It is an ultra lightweight buildable product that can be used to touch up and remove oil throughout the day.

Worn alone or under foundation, YSL Blur Perfector provides sheer coverage and creates silky smooth skin.

Worn alone or under foundation, YSL Blur Perfector provides sheer coverage and creates silky smooth skin.

Both products fill in fine lines, hide pores, and create the illusion of perfect skin. If you are looking for a product to replace foundation in your daily routine, or if need to prep your skin pre-foundation, these products are definitely a great beauty investment.

New Season, New Skin Care

As we move into a new season, it is always good to make changes to your skin care routine (Note: changing seasons are also a good reminder to swap your shampoo and conditioner).

As the weather gets colder and we spend more time indoors blasting the heat, you may find that you need a richer, more intense moisturizer than what you use during the warmer months. Hydration and exfoliating masks also become your best friend when combatting dryness.

I recently went through all the beauty samples that I had accumulated in the last year and was pleasantly surprised by some of my finds. Even though I never want summer to end, these masks, moisturizers and cleansers will hopefully make the transition into fall more bearable.


Budget Balancing Mask: Freeman Dead Sea Minerals Anti Stress Mask  (freemanbeauty.com)

The Dead Sea Minerals Anti-Stress Mask by Freeman is one of the best masks I have used, budget or otherwise. It has a pleasant sweet/salty/lavender smell, the smooth texture of clay, and leaves your skin soft, radiant, and refreshed. I have fairly sensitive skin and have never had any problems with any Freeman masks. I also highly recommend their Cucumber Peel-Off Mask. If not for the cool, refreshing feeling, than just to pretend that you are Patrick Bateman for ten minutes.

Freeman Dead Sea Minerals Anti-Stress Mask

Freeman Cucumber Peel-Off Mask

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Break the Bank Mask: Boscia Luminizing Black Mask (sephora.com)

Boscia Luminizing Black Mask

 

More than anything, this mask is fun. It looks like pure tar and peels off in one sheet if applied correctly (be sure to keep it away from your eyebrows and hairline as it is quite sticky and will rip out the hair). It is great on sensitive skin and always leaves my skin feeling clean and looking bright. Apply a face oil after using this, and your skin will feel like pure silk.

 


Oil-Based Cleanser: Josie Maran Argan Cleansing Oil (sephora.com)

Josie Maran Argan Cleansing Oil

I tend to stick to Murad for use with my Clarisonic and the Aveeno Moisturizing Bar to remove eye makeup. Recently, however, I have been using the ultra-rich Josie Maran Argan Cleansing Oil. It removes makeup well (I still prefer removing eye makeup with my Aveeno bar) and leaves your skin feeling smooth and hydrated.

To use, shake cleanser and apply to dry skin with dry hands. Gently massage face to remove dirt and oil. Wash with warm water – notice how the previously oily/sticky cleanser becomes almost milky.

 

Sensitive Skin Cleanser: First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser (sephora.com)

First Aid Beauty Face Cleanser

For those with sensitive skin, First Aid Beauty’s Face Cleanser is a great transitional product. Formulated for sensitive skin, this product will not irritate and even moisturizes as it gently cleans.

To use, dampen face with warm water and massage a small amount of cleanser onto face. The formula will foam and become milky as you work with the product. Gently rinse off with warm water.

 


Face Oil 2.0: Fresh Seaberry Moisturizing Face Oil (sephora.com)

Fresh Seaberry Moisturizing Face Oil

During the warmer months, I swear by Josie Maran’s 100% pure Argan Oil or Light Argan Oil. When your skin starts feeling tight and chapped with the cold weather, however, I find the Seaberry Face Oil is a little more intensive. This oil is still fast absorbing and light enough that you can wear it underneath another cream or SPF.

 

 

 

My First “Anti-Aging” Cream: Lancome Reenergize Lift Multi-Action SPF 15 (sephora.com)

Lancome Renergie Lift Multi-Action SPF 15

I am now at the age where preventative beauty treatments are necessary. My first dip into the “anti-aging” pool is with Lancome’s Renergie Lift Multi-Action SPF 15. Not knowing what to expect, I quickly fell in love with this cream. It is a thicker moisturizer that absorbs quickly and leaves your face feeling quenched.  Your skin also has a refreshed appearance and refined texture immediately.

 

 

I am pleasantly surprised by some of the beauty finds in my “sample” drawer. Let me know if you have tried any of these products and how they have worked for you!

Happy Canada Day!

Happy Canada Day, everyone! I will be celebrating July 14th when #BiteBeauty releases their exclusive Canadian-inspired lipsticks!

Canada Wins with Bite Beauty's exclusive Maple Collection.
Canada Wins with Bite Beauty’s exclusive Maple Collection.

Bite has created five Canadian Maple Matte Creme Lipstick shades ($28, Sephora.com) and a Maple Agave Lip Mask ($30), all with a delicious maple scent.

The Maple Collection from left to right: Maple Agave Lip Mask, Warmed Maple, Candied Maple, Braised Maple, Sugared Maple, Mulled Maple.

The Maple Collection from left to right: Maple Agave Lip Mask, Warmed Maple, Candied Maple, Braised Maple, Sugared Maple, Mulled Maple.

Earlier this year I fell in love with Bite. Their highly pigmented hues and wearable reds guarantee a smooth application and are flattering on everyone. How will I choose one or two shades from this collection?  It is like deciding between a St. Lawrence market Canadian bacon sandwich, or maple syrup pancakes for breakfast – the choice is nearly impossible!

My New Favourite Beauty Mecca

When travelling outside of North America, I rarely purchase beauty products. It seems like every thing from Cover Girl mascara to MAC lipstick costs at least twice as much as back home. Fortunately, I discovered the Australian beauty chain, Mecca, in Brisbane’s Queen Street Mall.

The store has a great selection of trusted cosmetics, skincare, and hair care brands like Bobbi Brown, GlamGlow, and Bumble and Bumble, as well as Australian brands. I was especially excited to see a wide assortment of Korres products – one of my favourite beauty brands from Greece.

The best part about Mecca: they have converted US pricing on their exclusive lines, into $AUD. That means brands like Josie Maran, NARS, Mario Badescu, and Korres are as close to US pricing as possible (only you are paying $AUD instead of $USD)

I had a great time shopping in Maxima Wintergarden thanks to the helpful staff, beautiful store, extensive selection. and my new Korres Water Lily body butter.

If you find yourself in Australia, I highly recommend checking it out.  http://mecca.com.au

The Australian cosmetics superstore, Mecca Maxima.

The Australian cosmetics superstore, Mecca.

The Best Travel Accessory: My Clarisonic

The stress of travelling always takes a toll on my skin. Between all the sunscreen, sweat, and environmental pollution, even if I feel completely relaxed, my skin would look tired and rough. I have been using the Clarisonic Aria for more than one year, and my skin has showed  huge improvements as a result (especially when travelling!) Since using the device, moisturizer and sunscreen glides on with ease, and foundation application is especially smooth. The Clarisonic is definitely an investment, but it has improved my skins’ texture and help minimize noticeable breakouts.

What is a Clarisonic?

The Clarisonic device will give you the most effective and gentle one minute face wash. It combines sonic pulses with unique brush heads to cleanse pores and remove impurities without damaging your skin. Their standard brushes are designed for all types of skin including delicate, sensitive, normal, deep pore, acne prone, and radiance. The company also makes specialty brushes for the face, body, and feet. Play around with the brushes and device speeds to find the perfect combination for your skin.

How I use it:

All Clarisonic models feature a one minute timer with three mini beeps to help time cleaning your face. It is important not to use your Clarisonic more than one time per day so you do not strip the natural oils from your skin. I use mine every evening to remove makeup build up, but use it less often if your skin is too sensitive.

I start by washing off any eye make up since you should not use the Clarisonic too close to your eye area. Try using an Aveeno moisturizing bar – it is gentle and removes all traces of eye makeup.

Dampen your face and the brush head with warm water, and then spread a quarter-sized amount of cleanser on your face. Find a cleanser that works for your skin, and that the texture works with your device. I use Murad Acne Cleanser with 1.5% salicylic acid and the deep pore brush head.

With a thin layer of cleanser on your face, start the Clarisonic and make small, slow circles on the different segments of your face. I divide my face up into 4 different segments to work on between beeps: left cheek, right cheek, nose and chin, and forehead.

When your minute timer is finished, you Clarisonic will automatically shut off. Rinse it well and store standing up to allow the brush to completely dry. The device is completely waterproof and can be fully submerged in water, so you can even use it in the shower.

Once your skin is fresh and clean, it is time to apply your moisturizer. Since you removed most of the impurities from your skin, it will absorb your products better and give you a fresh, youthful glow. Try using Josie Maran 100% Argan Oil – it will leave your skin feeling like silk.

Brush Care:

Like your toothbrush, your Clarisonic brush will eventually wear down and start to gather bacteria. The company recommends changing them every three months, but I have found, with good care, brush life can be extended to about four months. After that, the bristles lose their tension and there is too much bacteria gathering.

Happy Earth Day! Pass the Olive Oil…

As you know, I am always looking for natural cosmetics and moisturizers. In the spirit of Earth Day, I am shining a light on the cosmetic applications of olive oil.

Many people use olive oil for cooking because it is rich in vitamins, nutrients, antioxidants and can even help lower cholesterol. It is also found in many cosmetics and hair products because its ability to hydrate, cleanse, condition, and protect hair and skin.

Here are some of my favourite cosmetic applications for olive oil.

  • Olive Oil as Makeup Remover
    • Add a few drops of olive oil to a cotton ball. Gently remove make up and rinse face with warm water.
  • Olive Oil and Honey Hair Mask and Scalp Treatment
    • A healthy scalp is important to healthy hair. In addition to promoting hair growth, having a moisturized scalp will help reduce oil buildup on your hair. A weekly hair and scalp treatment will help your scalp and hair feel and look better.
    • Mix 1/4 cup olive oil, 2 tablespoons honey, and the oil from 3 Vitamin E capsules together. If mixture is too sticky, add some more olive oil.
    • Use a paint brush or basting brush to distribute the mixture over damp hair.
    • Wrap hair in a plastic bag. Leave for 90 mins before rinsing with warm water. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner.
    • Hair will feel smooth and supple.
    • Depending on your hair texture, too much olive oil on your scalp may weigh your hair down. Try adding a few drops on the crown of your head and spreading it with your fingers. Leave on for 90 minutes, and shampoo as needed.
  • Olive Oil “Cuticle Cream”
    • Gently massage nails and cuticles with a  few drops of olive oil.
  • Olive Oil Bath
    • The fastest way to smooth, supple skin is with an olive oil bath.
    • Add 5 tablespoons of olive oil to a warm bath, and soak.
    • The warm water will open your pores and allow you to absorb the moisturizing oil.
    • Indulge your skin  post-bath by using a light application of olive oil as a full body moisturizer.
  • Olive Oil on Salad
    • To get all the benefits of olive oil, make sure you take it internally, as well. Use it in raw applications such as on salads or finishing a pasta dish. Having olive oil raw ensures you are getting all the good nutrients that can otherwise be destroyed when oil is heated during cooking.

I hope this inspires you to incorporate olive oil into your beauty routine. Your skin will love you for it.

Switch up your regular moisturizer with olive oil! Your skin is drinking up the products you use - what better than something you eat?

Switch up your regular moisturizer with olive oil! Your skin is drinking up the products you use – what better than something you eat?

 

The Only Scrub You Will Ever Need

I am always looking for multi-use products that simplify my beauty routine, declutter my make up vanity, and provide a healthier alternative. My latest recipe discovery is the perfect body scrub that takes seconds to whip up.

  1. Mix equal parts brown sugar, coconut oil and honey in a microwavable dish.
  2. Microwave 15 – 20 seconds until coconut oil has melted.
  3. Mix and store in a covered dish or use immediately. Smooth onto hands, lips and dry patches to gently exfoliate and nourish.

* TIP – create a moisturizing body bar to smooth your skin in the bath. Mix 2 : 1 coconut oil to brown sugar. Line a small dish with plastic wrap and pour in the mixture. Let the mould set in the refrigerator and within half an hour you will have a coconut sugar moisture bar.

 

The only scrub you will ever need: brown sugar, coconut oil and honey gently exfoliate while nourishing and moisturizing the skin.

The only scrub you will ever need: brown sugar, coconut oil and honey gently exfoliate while nourishing and moisturizing the skin.

Happy Long Weekend!

Wishing everyone a Happy Easter, Happy Passover, or a Happy Spring Long Weekend!

Take a moment to relax, reflect, and take a stroll outside… Just remember to bring your Fresh Sugar Rose Lip Treatment.

Enjoy!

Take a moment to relax with some jasmine tea and Fresh Sugar Rose lip treatment.

Take a moment to relax with some jasmine tea and Fresh Sugar Rose Lip Treatment.

Essential SPFs

It is easy to forget about your SPF routine in the winter darkness. Now that the sun has decided to emerge, it is a good time to replenish your SPF supply and throw out any expired products.

Always remember to apply sunscreen after you wash your face and before your moisturizer and make up. Products with chemical sunscreen ingredients (like oxycinnamate) may be inhibited by some lotions and will not spread evenly on the skin. To be sure your SPF is being absorbed, apply sunscreen, wait for a few minutes, and then continue with your moisturizer and beauty routine. Finally, remember to re-apply throughout the day, especially when sweating.

I make sure to use a minimum SPF 30 so it performs properly with a thinner layer. The risk with SPF 15 is that it will not protect as well if you do not apply a thick enough layer. Here are my favourite SPF’s that have proven themselves swimming in the Mediterranean, exploring Australia, and everywhere in between.

Drug Store Deals

Coppertone Face SPF 30 (oil free) has been a staple in my cosmetics bag for years. It feels light and has great staying power.

Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch SPF 30 (oil free) is a recent discovery and a great addition to my sunscreen repertoire. The product is fast absorbing and you cannot feel it once it dries. Because it is oil free, you can use it on your body and face without worrying about break outs.

Ombrelle SPF 60 (oil free) is a little heavier than Coppertone Face, in my opinion, but excellent if you have dry skin. This product is great for sensitive skin and applies easily.

Banana Boat Sport Spray (SPF 30) is always with me for pool days. The nozzle has a wide radius so you can reapply by yourself. This used to be my favourite body sunscreen because of its light feeling…until I tried Hawaiian Tropic.

Sephora Splurge

Unlike most SPF/moisturizer combos, Josie Maran’s Argan Oil Moisturizer (SPF 47) leaves skin fully moisturized. While it feels heavy at first, it absorbs quickly. I have not tried it yet in the summer sun, but it provided great moisture throughout winter.

My SPF staples from Left to Right: Coppertone Oil Free, Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch, Ombrelle, Banana Boat Sport Spray, Josie Maran Argan Oil Moisturizer SPF.

My SPF staples from Left to Right: Coppertone Oil Free, Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch, Ombrelle, Banana Boat Sport Spray, Josie Maran Argan Oil Moisturizer SPF.

Tickled Pink

One of my favourite people is getting married and her gorgeous blush and gold colour palette needs to be acknowledged! I had the privilege of attending her Pinterest-worthy bridal shower yesterday and, for a few hours, felt like it was actually spring.

Light pink hydrangeas, pink ombre layer cake, and a table of homemade Italian sweets are guaranteed to put you in a good mood.

The perfect Pinterest bridal shower with a plethora of homemade goodies, a pink paper flower wall, fluffy hydrangeas, and a polaroid station.

The perfect Pinterest bridal shower with a plethora of homemade goodies, a pink paper flower wall, fluffy hydrangeas, and a polaroid station.

In homage to the festivities, I have showcased some of my favourite pink cosmetics that will put a smile on your face and get you ready for spring.

Pink products to put a smile on your face (clockwise): Fujifilm Instax mini 8 instant camera; OPI Nail Lacquer in Passion; L'Occitane Rose Bonne Mere Soap; Korres Body Butter in Jasmine; Bite Agave Lip Mask in Champagne; Dior Creme de Rose Smoothing Plumping Lip Balm; Aquiline Pink Sugar Parfum; NARS Blush in Angelika.

Pink products to put a smile on your face (clockwise): Fujifilm Instax mini 8 instant camera; OPI Nail Lacquer in Passion; L’Occitane Rose Bonne Mere Soap; Korres Body Butter in Jasmine; Bite Agave Lip Mask in Champagne; Dior Creme de Rose Smoothing Plumping Lip Balm; Aqualina Pink Sugar Parfum; NARS Blush in Angelika.

Enjoy!

Bite Beauty: Good Enough to Eat

I recently became a VIB Rouge member at Sephora (meaning I spent way too much money there throughout 2014). When my new card arrived, it was accompanied by a delightful deluxe sample of Bite Beauty’s Luminous Creme Lipstick in a custom brick red VIB Rouge shade.

Bite Beauty's exclusive lipstick for Sephora VIP Rouge customers. Luminous Creme Lipstick in the perfect shade of brick red.

Bite Beauty’s exclusive lipstick for Sephora VIP Rouge customers. Luminous Creme Lipstick in the perfect shade of brick red.

The lipstick was made in Canada, has a fruity yet non-overpowering aroma, and a wonderful smooth application. The creamy consistency moisturizes, has the perfect matte finish, and great staying-power.

Bite uses all food grade, non-GMO ingredients, no synthetic fragrances (great for those with sensitive skin), and no synthetic dyes. This lipstick also contains trans-resveratrol – the antioxidant-rich ingredient in red wine that helps reduce the appearance of lines.

Bite Beauty's Smashed Agave Lip Mask is a new favourite: hydrating and has sheer, buildable colour. A must-have.

Bite Beauty’s Smashed Agave Lip Mask is a new favourite: hydrating and has sheer, buildable colour. A must-have.

I was so impressed by the lipstick that I had to try another Bite product. During the day, I am very minimal with my make up and like using tinted lip balms. They are also especially useful at the gym where I do not wear any make up. I saw that Bite’s Agave Lip Mask had great reviews and decided to try the newest colour, Smashed Agave.

The balm, also made in Canada, smells like real vanilla bean and has a slightly sticky texture. On a cold day in Toronto, it may take a little warming it between your hands to get it to squeeze out of the tube easily, but that just means there are no synthetic stabilizers to maintain the texture (think about the difference of butter vs. margarine when they are kept in the refrigerator. Synthetic margarine is easily spreadable, whereas natural butter has to come to room temperature).

Demonstrating the buildable colour of Bite Smashed Agave Lip Mask: One, two, and three sheer coats lets you determine the colour intensity while always delivering incredible hydration.

Demonstrating the buildable colour of Bite Smashed Agave Lip Mask: One, two, and three sheer coats lets you determine the colour intensity while always delivering incredible hydration.

A little goes a long way with this mask. It is incredibly hydrating and long-wearing, and has a sheer wash of natural pink colour. For more colour, layer on one or two more sheer coats, or use your favourite lipstick on top. It is a great product for year-round, daily use. I am excited to try more products from Bite.

wen sweet almond mint cleansing conditioner

Is “Wen” Worth the Hype?

Infomercial-junkies everywhere have thought about trying Wen products at least once. The cleansing conditioner system replaces your shampoo and conditioner, and should provide exceptional results when used with their own styling products.

I have been using the original Sweet Almond Mint formula for more than three months and am constantly confused and conflicted about its performance.

You should read and follow the instructions before your first use, but you will quickly figure out what works best for your hair. For long hair, they recommend using 24 – 32 pumps of cleansing conditioner. They suggest using half the pumps (12 – 16) for the first wash, and repeating with the rest. I always wash and repeat, but instead of pumping all the product into my hand at once, I use 5 pumps to distribute over the sides of my scalp, another 5 pumps on the crown, add a little water to disperse the product, and then the final 5 pumps to clean the back of my head and pull through the ends (15 pumps total for the first wash). I rinse and repeat with 4 pumps for the sides, 4 pumps on the crown, and 4 underneath and through the ends (12 pumps for the second wash).

The most important thing I discovered when using Wen is that you cannot rush the final rinse. After trying to rinse the product out of my hair while standing upright, I flip my head over and rinse it again with cool water, focusing on the scalp. It is very important to wash all the product off the scalp and finish with cool water, otherwise it will leave your hair flat with an oily residue. They recommend applying one pump of product to the ends of your hair as a leave in, but I find that makes my hair look too heavy and needs to be washed sooner.

It takes some getting used to the feeling of applying conditioner to your scalp, especially when using so much product for one wash. The first time I used Wen, I pumped the full 12 pumps into my hand and felt like I had used most of the bottle. If you follow their directions, you will go through the bottles fairly quickly (around one bottle per month), but you will probably find that you can go an extra day or two without washing your hair.

I am conflicted about Wen because, while my hair feels very soft and has great shine, if you are in a rush and do not rinse everything perfectly, or do not rinse with cool water, you have to wash your hair sooner. I also feel like their styling products leave my hair feeling dry and brittle. Despite the rave reviews I have heard about Wen over the years, the cost does not justify the results, for me. I will stick to my all time favourite shampoo and conditioner, Pureology for colour treated hair.

wen sweet almond mint cleansing conditioner

Is Wen worth the hype? The original Sweet Almond Mint formula does not perform as well as it smells.

Oscar 2015 Beauty: On the Carpet and at Home

Below are some of my favourite beauty looks from the 2015 Oscars. You can easily re-create the looks at home with my tips and product recommendations.


“No Make Up” Make Up

One of my favourite beauty looks for every day is the “no make up” trend. It has been all over the NYFW runways, so it was no surprise that many starlets, including Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Jennifer Lopez, opted for the trend.

Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Jennifer Lopez let their natural beauty shine through with a natural make up look.

Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Jennifer Lopez let their natural beauty shine through with a natural make up look.


Showstopping Lips

For evenings, I love bold lips and sultry eyes. This look is a classic for the Red Carpet and a definite nod to Old Hollywood. Margot Robbie, Lupita Nyong’o, and Jena Dewan all looked confident and beautiful with their statement make up.

Margot Robbie, Lupita Nyong'o, and Jena Dewan exuded confidence and glamour with their sultry eyes and bold lips.

Margot Robbie, Lupita Nyong’o, and Jena Dewan exuded confidence and glamour with their sultry eyes and bold lips.


Get the Look

Every look you see on the red carpet has one thing in common: a foundation of healthy, glowing skin.

When prepping your skin for a flawless face, what you put into your body is just as important as what you put on. A healthy lifestyle that includes daily exercise (sweating out the toxins!), SPF, and proper nutrition is the best place to start.


1.   When Life Gives you Lemons, Make Lemon Water: Cleaning from the Inside Out

Having suffered from acne as a teenager and still having my occasional struggles, I now have the healthiest skin I have ever had in my life. I start each morning by drinking a glass of warm water and lemon juice. Among its many benefits, lemon water helps to cleanse your system of toxins, and maintain skin’s radiance with its antioxidant benefits. Start your day with lemon water, and then eat your greens (if you prefer, have them as a juice or shake) half an hour after drinking your lemon water. Your body will be prepped for digesting and metabolizing all the healthy vitamins they have to offer.

Make sure you are getting all the necessary vitamins. Vitamin E helps maintain healthy skin, eyes and immune system. I always make sure to take my Vitamin E supplement with my Vitamin D (to promote a healthy immune system, bones and teeth). Unless you live in a sunny climate, chances are you are not getting enough Vitamin D from moderate sun exposure.

Vitamin supplements are the second best way of making sure you are getting all your necessary daily vitamins. It is always best to consume the natural vitamin source by enjoying a balanced and colourful diet. The more colour, the more natural vitamins. Kale, spinach, broccoli, beets, red bell peppers, nuts and lean proteins are staples to my daily diet and include a wide range of necessary vitamins.

Please note, the above diet and supplement regimen has helped my skin, but may not be for everyone. Please consult a physician prior to taking supplements or making dietary changes.

2.   Water, Water Everywhere

Staying hydrated is incredibly important to maintain a healthy body, immune system, and flushing out toxins (toxins that can inevitably cause acne). Wherever you are, no matter what time of day, you should always be drinking water. While you should be drinking your 2 Litres throughout the day, I start each morning with 1 L, including my lemon water, so I do not forget. It is easier to drink 1 L than you might think, especially if you prepare a full teapot for personal consumption. Coconut water can also substitute some of your water intake for the day.

3.   Start with a Blank Canvas

Now that you have thoroughly cleansed and purified your body, your skin is surely looking radiant. To create the perfect canvas for your make up, wash your face with a gentle cleanser (or if you have very dry skin, plain water). Pat your face dry with a soft towel making sure not to scrub. You do not want to irritate your skin or spread oils if acne is a concern.

Once skin is cleansed, it is time to moisturize. I start by lightly patting an eye cream onto the eye lid, around the orbital bone, and under the eye.

Use your fourth finger to apply in soft taps so you do not pull the gentle skin around the eye. Next apply your moisturizer and SPF in that order. If using multiple moisturizers, apply them from lightest, to richest formulas.

My preferred moisturizer is Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil Light, followed by an oil-free SPF. If you are going out at night, skip the SPF so you do not feel the product build-up.

Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil Light, available at Sephora.

Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil Light, available at Sephora.

To perfect your already glowing complexion, use your fingers to apply a thin layer of NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer. Conceal any blemishes and underage dark circles with NARS Creamy Radiant Concealer, gently tapping with your fourth finger. I also blend a small amount of concealer on the upper eye lid to provide a smooth base for eyeshadow, or just to provide a flawless appearance. When you are happy with your blending, use a fluffy brush to dust a sheer translucent powder, like NARS Pressed Powder, over the entire face. This will set your make up base. Keep the pressed powder with you throughout the night for touch ups.

Three steps to a perfect complexion: NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer for sheer coverage, NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer, and NARS Pressed Powder.

Three steps to a perfect complexion: NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer for sheer coverage, NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer, and NARS Pressed Powder.

4.   Building the Look

Once your skin and base is complete, the rest of the look is easy. Choose either your eyes, your lips, or your cheeks to emphasize, unless you are going monochromatic for the “No Make Up” trend.

Among the Red Carpet trendsetters, there are subtle differences between each of the women.


 

Make Up Nudists

Jennifer Aniston – Greek Goddess

Jennifer Aniston has perfected the California-Surfer-Greek-Goddess look like no one else. Growing up Greek, myself, she has been a pinnacle of beauty and elegance that I used to shape my own look. To replicate subtle healthy glow, use to products with a bronze hue keeping the skin matte, lips glossy, and eyes bold. Use a matte bronzer, like NARS Bronzing Powder, and apply highlighter under the brow bone and above cheeks for a glowing look. Use a subtle brown gloss with some shimmer, like Laura Mercier Lip Glace in Bare Beige, and load lashes with a curling mascara like Dior Overcurl.

Reese Witherspoon – Pale Perfection

Reese has perfected the “No Make Up” trend, with the only noticeable colour being on the eyes. The subtle orange-brown showcases her blue eyes, and her muted creamy pink lipstick is meant to look like she is not wearing anything. Using a peachy brown eye shadow hue like MAC Eye Shadow in Texture, sweep the colour onto the upper lid and lightly as a liner on the lower lid. Her cheeks are dusted with an ultra-sheer wash of colour, like Clinique Blushing Blush in Aglow, and the lips have just enough colour and sheen to look healthy. Try Bite Beauty Luminous Creme Lipstick in Salut.

Jennifer Lopez – Glamour Barbie

Jennifer Lopez’s make up is all about big lashes and a luscious, healthy looking Barbie-pink smile. To get the look, prep the eye by applying a thin line of dark eyeliner like Lancome Le Crayon Eye Kohl in Black Coffee  to help false lashes blend in. Next, glue your band of false lashes as close to the lash base as possible. For a dramatic look, choose a dense set like 156 Genevieve by Make Up For Ever. Complete the look with a light pink lipstick with a blue undertone like Buxom Full Bodied Lipstick in Mistress.


 

Bold Bombshells

Margot Robbie – Understated in your Face

For going out, Margot Robbie’s look is a personal favourite of mine, and is incredibly easy to pull off. Start with defining your brows with a matte shadow and lightly pulling the colour through the hairs with an angled brush. Lancome Color Design Eyeshadow in Vintage works well for my dark chestnut brows. Load upper lashes up with a black volumizing mascara like Dior Diorshow, and lower lashes with MAC Extended Play. Finish the look with a matte, orangey-poppy red lipstick, like my personal favourite NARS Heat Wave.

Lupita Nyong’o – Dewy Perfection

When applied with a light touch, luminizers can be your best friend and will take your look to new heights. For Lupita’s dewy skin, mix a little bit of luminizer into your foundation or tinted moisturizer (before applying your setting powder). Her make up artist has used it all over, but you can also control the product and just apply under the brow bone, above the cheeks, the bridge of the nose, and lightly on the chin. Try BECCA Shimmering Skin Perfector in Opal. Next, create a smokey eye look with a cool icy shade like Make Up For Ever Eye Shadow in ME 116 Silver. Polish your pout with a beautiful glossy and glitter bronze like Buxom Full On Lip Polish in Ava.

Jenna Dewan – Magic Mink

Jenna Dewan’s look is all about lush, soft, mink lashes. Similar to Jennifer Lopez’s lash-ious look, apply a thin line of black eye liner to the upper lash line so the lashes blend seamlessly. Try the Too Faced 3-Way Lash Lining Tool to wiggle colour as close to the lash roots as possible. Apply a band of dense lashes like Make Up Forever Lash Band 30 Zoe. Finish the look with an electric orange-red lip stick like MAC Lipstick in Lady Danger.


By following my easy make up and skin care tips, you can replicate your very own red carpet beauty look at home. The most important thing with make up is to have fun! If you do not like the look, just wash it off and start again.

 

Oscar 2015 Fashion Recap

The Oscars are one of my favourite events of the year. They showcase new trends in fashion and beauty, introduce us to up and coming actors and actresses, and celebrate major moments in film history.

There were too many beautiful fashion and beauty moments from the evening. Here are some of my favourite trends.


Blushing Belles

Blush is one of my favourite tones. It is flattering on all skin tones, and always looks clean and elegant. Jennifer Aniston, Oprah Winfrey, Anna Kendrick, and Jennifer Lopez were among my favourite looks on the red carpet in the blush trend.

jennifer aniston, oprah winfrey, anna kendrick, jennifer lopez, oscar 2015, oscar, academy awards

Jennifer Aniston (in Atelier Versace), Oprah Winfrey (in Vera Wang), Anna Kendrick (in custom Thakoon), and Jennifer Lopez (in Elie Saab) wearing  blush at the 2015 Academy Awards.

 


Winter White

White was a prominent colour on the red carpet both for women and men. There was a truly magical quality about the icy sparkle on Best Actress winner Julianne Moore, Jena Dewan, and Anna Faris.

Julianne Moore (in Chanel), Jena Dewan (in Zuhair Murad), and Anna Faris (in Zuhair Murad) are white hot at the 2015 Academy Awards.

Julianne Moore (in Chanel), Jena Dewan (in Zuhair Murad), and Anna Faris (in Zuhair Murad) are white hot at the 2015 Academy Awards.

 


Red Hot

Red was not my preferred colour on the red carpet, but Rosamund Pike and Dakota Johnson definitely changed my mind. They stand out on the carpet and in the crowd like true break out stars.

Rosamund Pike (in Givenchy) and Dakota Johnson (in custom YSL) sizzle at the 2015 Academy Awards.

Rosamund Pike (in Givenchy) and Dakota Johnson (in custom YSL) sizzle at the 2015 Academy Awards.

 


Honourable Mention

Emma Stone is one of those remarkable women who is incredibly beautiful, funny, and talented. Like most people, I would love for her to be my best friend. Shout out to her for embodying the epitome of old Hollywood glamour in her sparkly custom gown.

Emma Stone stuns in her chartreuse Elie Saab gown at the 2015 Academy Awards.

Emma Stone stuns in her chartreuse Elie Saab gown at the 2015 Academy Awards.


 

One of my favourite actresses and style icons, Jennifer Lawrence, was noticeably absent from the red carpet. With a handful of movies coming out in 2015, she will surely be back next year.

Jennifer Lawrence as the face of Dior in an upcoming campaign.

Jennifer Lawrence as the face of Dior in an upcoming campaign.

Blog

I am always on the lookout for new beauty trends, products, and even natural cosmetic alternatives. Beauty, however, starts on the inside, and what you put into your body is just as important as what you use on the outside.

Here is a collection of some of my favourite products, tips, and tricks to looking and feeling your best!