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Category Archives: Beauty Tutorials

Loving… Gatsby-inspired everything!

28 Tuesday May 2013

Posted by freshbeautyblog in AW13 Trends, Beauty Tips, Beauty Trends, Beauty Tutorials, Get The Look, Hair Styling, Hairstyles, Lip Lust, Makeup Shortcuts, Makeup Tips & Tricks, Sparkly Stuff

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beauty, great gatsby, hair, makeup, nail art, vintage

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Not long now before the darling Ms. Buchanan (aka Carey Mulligan) oozes the glamour of the ’20s with her cropped ‘do and swishing flapper frocks on the silver screen — all of which I can’t wait to see!

But until then, here’s some Great Gatsby inspiration to get your heart racing (or should I say ‘roaring’).

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Image: Pinterest

When it comes to nails from the Jazz age, it’s all about digits that represent a touch of art deco. Metallic finishes with gilded gold ascents and rich, jewel tones are what you can expect (and adore).

Forget the fake tan: the roaring 20s were all about porcelain complexions teamed with dark, moody lips and precise brow application. Despite Carey Mulligan channeling a peaches-and-cream skin tone and pale rosy kissers, this tutorial will strike a more winter-appropriate chord with all you makeup mavens out there.

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Prepare for the comeback of twenties-inspired bobs and Marcel waves. You can’t get more Gatsby than that. eal everything in with your favourite top coat, throw on a sparkling headband, and you’re ready to hit a Gatsby party.

Click here for more Gatsby goodness via Pinterest.

❤ Kristina xo

PS. In a beauty fix and need some advice? Or maybe you just want to chat about all things pretty? Drop me a line: kristina@fragrancesandcosmetics.com.au. Or, if you’re in the mood for some eye candy, come and see what I’ve been Pinning over at www.pinterest.com/freshdiscover. Better yet – join me on Facebook for more beauty fun www.facebook.com/freshfragrances. And for a plain old good time, come and follow Fresh on Instagram – @freshdiscoverbeauty – & Twitter@fresh_fragrances.

Cover It: The ultimate guide to concealer

27 Monday May 2013

Posted by freshbeautyblog in Beauty Tips, Beauty Tutorials, Complexion, Get The Look, Ingredient Spotlight, Makeup Shortcuts, Makeup Tips & Tricks

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Tags

beauty, beauty tips, complexion, concealer, cosmetics, makeup

concealer-tutorial-L1

Turns out the secret to having flawless skin is knowing how to apply concealer. Read on to find out how to brush up on your camouflaging skills.

concealer

How to conceal puffiness

You need: highlighter + liquid concealer

Mix a liquid concealer with a tiny bit of highlighter, and dab it on the puffy areas of your face. This will help reflect light and give the effect of smooth skin. I recommend recommend Peter Thomas Roth Un Wrinkle Concealer & Brightener, $55.

youngblood

How to conceal redness around the nose

You need: cream concealer + latex sponge+ loose powder

It’s a known fact that the area around your nose gets oily quickly, so it’s best to use an oil-free cream concealer for heavier coverage. Use your ring finger to pat and blend the concealer into the crease around the nose. Then take a damp makeup sponge, dip in loose powder, and blend. Try Youngblood Ultimate Concealer, $43 coupled with Lavera Fine Loose Mineral Powder, $38.

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How to conceal a pimple

You need: green concealer + concealer pencil + latex sponge + translucent powder

Pencils are best at coating blemishes because the pointy shape allows you to go on the pimple and around it easily. Reach for RMK Concealer Pencil, $51. Then take a damp sponge and powder over the area. If your pimple is red, try neutralising the color by using a green concealer first.

secretconcealer

How to conceal scars or dark spots

You need: cream pot + lifting concealer + concealer brush + latex sponge+ loose powder

To completely erase dark pigment or scars, the heavy coverage of a cream concealer works best thanks to the thicker texture which contains less oil than liquid and therefore lasts longer. Apply the concealer with a brush over the problem area and then apply a dab of lifting concealer, which will provide a highlight. Finish with a damp sponge and loose powder to blend it all together. Try Laura Mercier Secret Concealer, $40.

christian-dior-face-care-diorskin-sculpt-lifting-smoothing-concealer-ivory-women517493

How to conceal under-eye bags

You need: liquid concealer with lifting ingredients + latex sponge + loose powder

To counteract the yellow, bluish hues under the eyes the key is to use a peach-based concealer as it brings warmth to the area. A lifting ingredient like vitamin A prevents the concealer from settling into creases and fine lines. Another key trick is to dip a damp makeup sponge into loose powder and then dab over the under eye area to set the concealer.  Try Diorskin Sculpt Lifting Smoothing Concealer, $56.

❤ Kristina xo

PS. In a beauty fix and need some advice? Or maybe you just want to chat about all things pretty? Drop me a line: kristina@fragrancesandcosmetics.com.au. Or, if you’re in the mood for some eye candy, come and see what I’ve been Pinning over at www.pinterest.com/freshdiscover. Better yet – join me on Facebook for more beauty fun www.facebook.com/freshfragrances. And for a plain old good time, come and follow Fresh on Instagram – @freshdiscoverbeauty – & Twitter@fresh_fragrances.

Cannes Film Festival 2013 Makeup How-To: Cara Delevingne

22 Wednesday May 2013

Posted by freshbeautyblog in Beauty Tips, Beauty Trends, Beauty Tutorials, Complexion, Eye-mazing, Eyebrows, Get The Look, Lip Lust, Makeup Shortcuts, Makeup Tips & Tricks, Skincare, Sparkly Stuff

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beauty tips, cannes film festival, cara delevingne, eyebrows, foundation, Lipstick, makeup, makeup tutorial, mascara

cara

I’m simply besotted by British model Cara Delevingne at last week’s Cannes Film Festival 2013 red carpet. The runway starlet embraced the evening’s vintage theme with a daring black lace Burberry number teamed with dazzling jewels and flawless make-up.

Not many people can pull of lips, tips, brows and a smoky eye, but this beauty pulled it off with ultimate style. Hats off to you, Cara!

Learn how to get her awe-inspiring look below:

GET THE LOOK

STEP ONE: Get a radiant canvas by prepping your skin with Glamglow’s Tingling & Exfoliating Mud Mask (celebrities go crazy for this stuff, especially before red carpet appearances!).

STEP TWO: Mix equal parts of Yves St Laurent Le Teint Touche Eclat Illuminating Foundation with NARS Illuminator in Copacabana and then apply to your face using a makeup sponge or Kevyn Aucoin Super Soft Buff Powder Brush. Blend outwards towards the hairline. Dab some concealer under your eye area to disguise dark circles if needed.

STEP THREE: Add a touch of soft, just-pinched colour to your cheeks with Jane Iredale PurePressed Blush. Apply lightly onto the upper part of your cheekbones and dab outwards and upwards until fully blended.

STEP FOUR: Achieve the model’s smouldering smokey eye make-up with a hint of iridescent silver sparkle at the inner corners of the eyes thanks to RMK’s Ingenious Powder Eye. This will help bring out the brightness in your peepers. Complement this by lining the eyes with a gel liner and then add a few dustings of Pixi Smoky Eye Wand on the outer corners of the eye. 

STEP FIVE: Apply mascara to the upper and lower lashes with a lengthening formula like Sisley Phyto Mascara Ultra Stretch.

STEP SIX: Get Cara’s famous eyebrows by brushing them upwards with a tinted brow gel such as GloMinerals GloBrow Gel.

STEP SEVEN: Finish with a dark, sensuous red lip with Lancome La Laque Fever Lipshine in #104 Simply Red and pucker up.

Don’t forget to leave your tresses loosely teased and tumbled for a take on the more sophisticated blow-wave.

Now you’re ready to shut the whole red carpet down!

❤ Kristina xo

PS. In a beauty fix and need some advice? Or maybe you just want to chat about all things pretty? Drop me a line: kristina@fragrancesandcosmetics.com.au. Or, if you’re in the mood for some eye candy, come and see what I’ve been Pinning over at www.pinterest.com/freshdiscover. Better yet – join me on Facebook for more beauty fun www.facebook.com/freshfragrances. And for a plain old good time, come and follow Fresh on Instagram – @freshdiscoverbeauty – & Twitter@fresh_fragrances.

Cannes Film Festival Makeup How-To: Lana Del Rey

19 Sunday May 2013

Posted by freshbeautyblog in Beauty Tips, Beauty Trends, Beauty Tutorials, Complexion, DIY, Eye-mazing, Eyebrows, Fresh discover beauty online, Get The Look, Lip Lust, Makeup Shortcuts, Makeup Tips & Tricks, Red Carpet, Sparkly Stuff

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cannes film festival, celebrity, get the look, lana del rey, makeup, makeup how-to, makeup tutorial, red carpet

lana del ray

I’m obsessing over Lana Del Rey’s nude-brown lips, which are offset perfectly by a matching smoky brown eye and chic, filled-in brows. And check out those Gatsby-inspried finger waves! Seriously sexy, I say.

Lana debuted this sultry style at last week’s Cannes Film Festival Opening Ceremony red carpet, stunning the crowd with an embroidered detailed gown that dragged behind her. Hats off to you, Miss Del Rey!

GET THE LOOK – MAKEUP

STEP ONE: We’re going to begin with eye makeup first. This means you can get away with a bit of trial and error and wipe everything off if anything goes wrong or dust away the residue from your cheeks without messing up your base. Start by priming your entire eyelid and along your lower lashline.

STEP TWO: Put a light slightly shimmery white color all over the lid, such as Korres Sunflower & Evening Primrose Eye Shadow in #10 White.

STEP THREE: Take a black liquid liner pen (I love Giorgio Armani Maestro Liquid Eye Liner) and line the upper lashline with a sharp cat eye and continue it on the lower lashline until the eye is fully lined. Create a dramatic flick on the end that extends out and upwards. For any mistakes, use a bit of makeup remover on a q-tip to clean up the line.

STEP FOUR: Place a chocolate brown eyeshadow, like Chanel’s Illusion D’Ombre Long Wear Luminous Eyeshadow in #86 Ebloui, in your crease as a transition colour. Blend outwards until it connects with the winged liner. You can also draw a white eye pencil in your waterline to make your eyes appear bigger and brighter.

STEP FIVE: Make sure skin is prepped with a moisturiser or illuminating primer before applying your foundation. Once that’s done, spread Laura Mericer Moisture Supreme Foundation (or a similarly hydrating formula) onto your face with a makeup sponge to recreate Lana’s fresh, glowy base. To get an airbrushed finish, blend makeup all over, including the eye area, starting in the middle and working your way out.

STEP SIX: Look for a lightweight concealer in a colour one shade lighter than your skin. Dolce & Gabbana Perfect Finish Concealer is lightweight and creamy and will blend into the skin crease-free. Cover the darkest part of under-eye circles—usually right below the inner and outer corners. If other little skin flaws aren’t quite covered by your foundation, dab on a tiny bit of concealer there too.

applying concealer triangle method

PRO TIP: Apply your under-eye brightener in an inverted triangle under the eye to lift and light up your face.

STEP SEVEN: Contour your face with a cream blush for a subtly dewy finish. Smile and lightly apply the blush stick to the apples of the cheeks and blend the colour backward. If you feel you have applied too much, use a clean makeup sponge to pat over the top to pick up some of the colour until you get your desired result.

STEP EIGHT: To imitate Lana’s perfectly groomed arches, pluck out any strays and brush the hairs into their natural shape. Then select a matte shadow (reach for Benefit Brow Zings Brow Shaping Kit) in a shade that matches your brow colour and use light, brisk motions to brush the colour over your hairs. Blend well. Use an eyebrow brush to gently brush your brows back into place once you’re done with the shadow.

lip liner

STEP NINE: Line the lips with True Lips Lip Liner Smudger Pencil in #17 (almost exact to Lana’s lip colour). Take the liner and put two dots in the two highest parts of the cupids bow on your lip. On the bottom lip, put a horizontal dash in the center of the lip, as close to the edge as possible. Then connect the three marks together with short strokes of the pencil against the edges of your lips. Take it slow so you get a precise shape. Don’t forget the corners of your mouth!

STEP TEN: Finish with a lick of Christian Dior Rouge Dior Voluptuous Care Lipcolor in No. 428 Pisanelle Pink to get Lana’s red carpet-worthy pout in a flash.

Don’t forget to slick on some false lashes and smile for the papparazzi!

Do you love this look? Would you try it? Yes or no?

❤ Kristina xo

PS. In a beauty fix and need some advice? Or maybe you just want to chat about all things pretty? Drop me a line: kristina@fragrancesandcosmetics.com.au. Or, if you’re in the mood for some eye candy, come and see what I’ve been Pinning over at www.pinterest.com/freshdiscover. Better yet – join me on Facebook for more beauty fun www.facebook.com/freshfragrances. And for a plain old good time, come and follow Fresh on Instagram – @freshdiscoverbeauty – & Twitter@fresh_fragrances.

Get The Look: Weekend party makeup

17 Friday May 2013

Posted by freshbeautyblog in Beauty Tips, Beauty Trends, Beauty Tutorials, Complexion, DIY, Eye-mazing, Eyebrows, Get The Look, Lip Lust, Makeup Shortcuts, Makeup Tips & Tricks, Runway Beauty

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cosmetics, get the look, makeup, makeup how-to, makeup tutorial, runway, runway beauty, winged liner

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TGIF! It’s almost the weekend which means it’s time to set aside your office-appropriate makeup in favour of a more bold and glamorous look. The star of the show? A blue winged liner! Yes, you heard correctly. This runway trend can easily be fused with your weekend (or dancefloor) attire. Here’s how:

1) For sheer, dewy coverage mix equal parts illuminator with a tinted moisturiser and apply with your hands. The heat from your fingertips will help the formula soak into the skin seamlessly.

2) Draw a fine line of electric blue eyeliner onto the top lid.

3) Shade in silver eye pencil on the inner corners of the eyes.

4) Apply blue mascara on the lash tips only: try applying with a fan brush.

5) Define the brows with powder or a pencil.

6) Lightly highlight down the center of nose & above the cupid’s bow.

6) Brush some soft rose blush across the cheek bones.

7) Finish with a lip balm.

Too easy!

products usedSHOP THE LOOK

1. Clarins Blush Prodige Illuminating Cheek Color in # 01 Lovely Rose, $49, 2. NARS Illuminator – Laguna, $45, 3. Becca Luminous Skin Colour Tinted Moisturiser SPF 25+, $64, 4. Estee Lauder Shimmering Powder – Pearl, $47, 5. Jane Iredale Super Shape Me Eyebrow Kit, $93, 6. Korres Soft Eyeliner Pencil in # 5S Silver, $10, 7. Yves St Laurent Dessin Du Regard Waterproof Long Lasting Eye Pencil in No. 9 Azure Blue, $39, 8. L’Occitane Shea Butter Organic Moisturizing Lip Balm, $20, 9. Yves St Laurent Dessin Du Regard Waterproof Long Lasting Eye Pencil in No. 9 Azure Blue, $39

Would you wear a blue winged liner?

❤ Kristina xo

PS. In a beauty fix and need some advice? Or maybe you just want to chat about all things pretty? Drop me a line: kristina@fragrancesandcosmetics.com.au. Or, if you’re in the mood for some eye candy, come and see what I’ve been Pinning over at www.pinterest.com/freshdiscover. Better yet – join me on Facebook for more beauty fun www.facebook.com/freshfragrances. And for a plain old good time, come and follow Fresh on Instagram – @freshdiscoverbeauty – & Twitter@fresh_fragrances.

The eyeliner trick every lass should know about

13 Monday May 2013

Posted by freshbeautyblog in Beauty Tips, Beauty Tutorials, Eye-mazing, Get The Look, Makeup Shortcuts, Makeup Tips & Tricks

≈ 1 Comment

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eyeliner, eyes, makeup, makeup tips, tightlining, tutorial

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Tightlining is the kind of genius beauty tip you’ll have wished you discovered earlier – it makes that much of a difference. Smaller eyes appear larger, narrow peepers appear wider and it also adds a dose of joie de vivre to any beauty look. It’s amazing what a little eyeliner and know-how can do for your peepers!

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Image Source: Beautylish

Above are step-by-step instructions from Beautylish of how you can tightline your blinkers and below is a video tutorial from one of my favourite Youtube v-loggers, Pixiewoo, which walks you through the whole star-gazing process.

 

Here’s an array of mega awesome eye pencils you can nab to get the look:

eyeliner1SHOP IT: 1. Clarins Waterproof Eye Pencil, $31, 2. Helena Rubinstein Feline Blacks Eye Pencil, $33, 3. Youngblood Extreme Pigment Eye Pencil, $22

❤ Kristina xo

Ps. In a beauty fix and need some advice? Or maybe you just want to chat about all things pretty? Drop me a line: kristina@fragrancesandcosmetics.com.au. Or, if you’re in the mood for some eye candy, come and see what I’ve been Pinning over at www.pinterest.com/freshdiscover. Better yet – join me on Facebook for more beauty fun www.facebook.com/freshfragrances. And for a plain old good time, come and follow us on Instagram – @freshdiscoverbeauty – & Twitter@fresh_fragrances.

Complexion Perfection: The easy 6-step skincare routine

08 Wednesday May 2013

Posted by freshbeautyblog in Acne, Anti-Aging, Beauty Tips, Beauty Tutorials, Complexion, DIY, Fresh TV, Get The Look, Ingredient Spotlight, Pampering, Skincare

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I get it. Creating the perfect skincare routine for yourself can be a battle and a half, particularly with so many product options out there. Does the moisturiser or the serum go on first? Do I really need an eye cream? Does toner even do anything? Why do I need a cleanser when I can just use wipes? Yup, the very thought can be overwhelming.

But don’t fret, this easy peasy video that I’ve compiled for all you beauty mavens will take you step by step through the process of a perfect skincare routine so you can emerge each night with a flawless, glowing canvas. Press play to achieve clear skin nirvana!

skincare steps

SKINCARE STEPS

Step 1: Remove your makeup with wipes or a gentle makeup removing formula.

Product used in video: Bare Escentuals i.d. Take Off Facial Wipes, $19

Step 2: Apply cleanser to remove the residue of the wipes and get rid of daily grime, makeup, dead skin cells, and oxidised sebum. Build into a lather before rinsing off and then pat dry with a soft towel or cloth. Choose a creamy cleanser if you have dry skin or a clear cleanser if you have oily skin.

Product used in video: Aesop Parsley Seed Facial Cleanser, $47

Step 3: To remove any leftover traces of dirt, add a little bit of toner to some cotton pads and wipe gently across your face before rinsing. Pat dry.

Product used in video: Elizabeth Arden Visible Difference Gentle Hydrating Toner, $27

Step 4: Apply an antioxidant-infused serum to the skin and let it soak in for five minutes.

Product used in video: Perricone MD Chia Serum, $97

Step 5: Massage a dollop of moisturiser into your visage once the serum has fully absorbed.

Product used in video: La Mer Creme De La Mer, $251

Step 6: Dab eye cream around the orbital socket of the eyes and pat it into the skin until fully blended. Don’t rub as this can damage the delicate skin around the eye area.

Product used in video: Clinique Repairwear Laser Focus Wrinkle Correcting Eye Cream, $67

EXTRA STEPS: Exfoliate once or twice per week on clean skin and apply a purifying or hydrating mask once per week on evenings that you don’t exfoliate.

❤ Kristina xo

Ps. In a beauty fix and need some advice? Or maybe you just want to chat about all things pretty? Drop me a line: kristina@fragrancesandcosmetics.com.au. Or, if you’re in the mood for some eye candy, come and see what I’ve been Pinning over at www.pinterest.com/freshdiscover. Better yet – join me on Facebook for more beauty fun www.facebook.com/freshfragrances. And for a plain old good time, come and follow us on Instagram – @freshdiscoverbeauty – & Twitter@fresh_fragrances.

Masterclass: Get Cara Delevingne’s fun ‘n’ flirty beauty look

30 Tuesday Apr 2013

Posted by freshbeautyblog in Beauty Tips, Beauty Trends, Beauty Tutorials, Complexion, Eye-mazing, Get The Look, Lip Lust, Makeup Shortcuts, Makeup Tips & Tricks, Tutorials

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beauty, bronzer, cara delevigne, eyebrows, eyeliner, get the look, how-to, Lipstick, makeup, tutorial

cara1 Cara Delevingne is hands down my biggest girl crush at the moment. From all the wild and wacky poses she pulls to the hilarious slogan t-shirts she rocks and those perfectly groomed arches — it’s fair to say that this British supe du jour is a beauty to behold!

And considering this gal has well and truly exploded onto the fashion and beauty landscape, leaving a trail of chaos and eyebrow envy in her wake, I think it’s only fair that I bring all you Cara lovers out there ye olde’ makeup tutorial which features one of my favourite looks from the young supermodel.

GET THE LOOK

1. Prep the skin with a hydrating moisturiser and let it really sink into your visage before you start to apply your makeup, so as to smooth out your base.

2. To achieve Cara’s matte golden glow, smooth on a coin-sized amount of Calvin Klein Runway Radiance Illuminating Cream. The light-diffusing, long wear formula will act as a primer by locking your makeup into place and will also provide just the right amount of coverage.

3. Add a layer of Youngblood Liquid Mineral Foundation over the top of your illuminating cream. The glow-getting, moisturising formula will make your features come to life while the sheer finish will accentuate your best bits. Apply with a foundation brush to avoid any heaviness. If you’re using a stippling brush, dab the brush into the foundation and tap it all over your face a circular motion for even application. You might want to also dab lightly around your nose and under your eyes with a sponge afterwards to conceal every corner and crevice.

4. Apply a correcting concealer to any blemishes or dark circles by dabbing the product into your skin (never swipe it across!).

5. Add the finishing touches to your complexion with a swipe of translucent finishing powder to set your handiwork into place and also create a matte finish.

6. For a next-level glow, add a dash of GloMinerals GloHighlighter along your cheekbones or right above them if you want to sculpt out your cheeks. Just blend well so you don’t look like you have a weirdly shiny line across your face. You can also add some down the center of your nose to visually slim it slightly, on your browbone, in the inner corners of your eyes to make your peepers look bigger and right in the dip of your cupid’s bow to accentuate your lips.

7. Achieve a warm glow by brushing Laura Mercier Mineral Powder Bronzer along the jawline from the ears to the corners of the lips. Make sure to blend with soft brush strokes upwards and inwards. You can also use the bronzer to create a wash of warmth over your eyelids before you apply your liquid liner. This offers subtle definition as opposed to the punch you get from shadow.

8. Line your upper lash line with a black liquid liner, such as By Terry Ligne Blackstar Intense. Layer it, and then create a dramatic flick outwards (for a more detailed guide on how to do this, click here). Then, lightly line the lower inner rim of the eye with black kohl.

9. Finish with several lashings of Bobbi Brown Intensifying Long Wear Mascara on the upper and lower lashes. Start at the roots and use a zigzag motion all the way toward the ends, this way you’ll fully cover the lashes while keeping them separated.

10. Now time for the best bit – recreating Cara’s bold brows! Using Calvin Klein Duo Brow Palette, lightly coat the brush bristles in the shadow that perfectly matches the colour of your hair. Then, use a lighter touch to ensure the pigment coats your hairs, not your skin, and always make sure you’re brushing in the direction of the hair’s growth. Continue to coat your brows until you create your perfect bold shape. You can also use the tweezers in the set to pluck away any strays.

11. Complete Cara’s iconic look with several strokes of bright, punchy matte lipstick. Dolce & Gabbana Classic Cream Lipstick in Provocative is almost spot on to the shade in the image above. The trick is to apply some foundation on your kissers before you swipe on your lippie so the colour shows up bold and doesn’t rub off easily.

Now all you need to do is strike a crazy Cara-like pose and you’re done!

cara1Just in case you didn’t get enough of Cara…

❤ Kristina xo

Ps. In a beauty fix and need some advice? Or maybe you just want to chat about all things pretty? Drop me a line: kristina@fragrancesandcosmetics.com.au. Or, if you’re in the mood for some eye candy, come and see what I’ve been Pinning over at www.pinterest.com/freshdiscover. Better yet – join me on Facebook for more beauty fun www.facebook.com/freshfragrances. And for a plain old good time, come and follow us on Instagram – @freshdiscoverbeauty – & Twitter@fresh_fragrances.

Beauty Without Botox: How to fake looking like you’ve just had a face lift

28 Sunday Apr 2013

Posted by freshbeautyblog in Anti-Aging, Beauty Tips, Beauty Tutorials, Complexion, Eye-mazing, Fresh discover beauty online, Get The Look, Ingredient Spotlight, Makeup Shortcuts, Makeup Tips & Tricks, Skincare, Sunscreen, Tutorials

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anti-aging, beauty, complexion, skincare, tips, wrinkles

gwenythbeautywithoutbotox

It seems like every woman’s greatest fear is to look gasp, her actual age. But fighting the hands of time doesn’t have to be about hating the changes your skin and body are undergoing. Rather, the aging process should be about embracing and enhancing your best bits without the need for invasive surgery or needles. After all, ageless beauty is about feeling good in your skin, right?

This particular mentality is starting to be adopted by some of Hollywood’s biggest A-listers. Gwenyth Paltrow recently announced she was giving up botox in favour of more natural beauty processes. Similarly, Nicole Kidman is also taking the no-needle pledge.

According to The Age, the big skincare shift is toward preservation and nourishment as opposed to the ‘burn baby burn’ approach of previous decades. Beauty gurus are now touting the benefits of investing in good skincare products from an early age that come turbo charged with active ingredients like peptides, stem cells and antioxidants as opposed to being frozen-into-oblivion or having to go under the knife.

In light of this, read ahead to learn how you can get similar youth-boosting effects with less invasive tactics. From correcting crow’s feet to covering pigmentation and wrinkles, consider this the ultimate anti-aging bible!

fine lines

ISSUE: FINE LINES AND WRINKLES

As we age, the skin begins to lose its elasticity due to dehydration and the constant contracting of facial muscles. Sun damage can also contribute to creating pronounced creases in the skin. Your eyes, mouth and forehead are often the most common areas to cop it.

CURE:  When it comes to warding away wrinkles, it’s important to stimulate the formation of new collagen and hyaluronic acid (a natural sugar in the skin that attracts and binds water, keeping it soft, smooth and firm) with the right products. A hydrating day cream with plumping properties such as peptides and silicone derivatives will provide instant gratification to the skin by filling in lines and crevices. Serums and treatment masques infused with antioxidants are equally as important in helping to rebuild the skin while protecting it against future damage. Finally, a night cream containing retinoids, which are derived from vitamin A, will stimulate circulation and increase cell growth, which speeds up the skin’s regeneration process and ultimately its metabolism. Because retinoids can be irritating, first timers should prep skin for 2 weeks with an antioxidant such as coffeeberry or green tea.

SHOP IT: 1. Olay Regenerist Micro-Sculpting Super Cream, $42, 2. Prevage Anti-Aging Intensive Repair Daily Serum, $261, 3. SK-II Stempower Rich Cream, $232, 4. Priori CoffeeBerry Day Complex, $105

sunscreen

ISSUE: SUN DAMAGE

Most of the UV rays that bombard us on a daily basis are UVA, which penetrates deeply into the skin and ravages collagen, thus producing age spots, wrinkles and dry areas.

CURE: The one product that will help stave off the years is a broad-spectrum sunscreen. The skin has an incredible ability to heal itself once you start blocking UVA and UVB rays and you’ll see an improvement in both texture and tone. To boost protection, choose a sunscreen or an additional topical product that contains antioxidants such as green tea, pomegranate, and vitamins C and E. Research shows that these supercharged products offer extra insurance against the onslaught of UV-produced free radicals

SHOP IT: 1. Peter Thomas Roth Sheer Liquid SPF 50 Anti-Aging Sunscreen, $67, 2. John Masters Organics Natural Mineral Sunscreen SPF 30, $51, 3. Orlane Extreme Anti-Wrinkle Care Sunscreen SPF 30, $213, 4. Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Lift and Firm Day Cream Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 30, $70

lips1

ISSUE: AGING LIPS

Over time the area on and around our lips begins to lose its youthful convexity. Fine lines, sagging, loss of volume, thinning and pigmentation begin to appear and lack of moisture and suppleness is evident.

CURE: It’s important to employ a daily ritual to help rejuvenate the lip’s vitality. Look for products that contain hydrators like shea butter and sunflower oil or antioxidants like rosehip. To disguise lost collagen and lip thinning, enlist the help of a treatment that contains hyaluronic acid fillers which help boost volume beneath the skin’s surface to smooth the lips and the surrounding areas. Products that lift and tighten the kissers, while providing the perfect surface for lipstick are also imperative.

SHOP IT: 1. La Prairie Cellular Lip Line Plumper, $112, 2. Swissline Cell Shock Cellular Lip Zone Corrective Complex, $98, 3. Bloom Organics Soothing Lip Balm – Beeswax & Shea Butter, $18, 4. Once Upon A Time Anti-Wrinkle Plumping-Smoothing Lip Balm, $20

sagging

ISSUE: SAGGING SKIN

Ageing causes a decrease in the production of collagen and elastin, as well as the amount of natural moisture, leading to a loss of firmness and elasticity which in turn produces a sagging effect.

CURE: Your focus should mainly be on rebuilding the skin so look for products that contain retinol (vitamin A) or hydroquinone, as well as antixoidants like Vitamin C and coenzyme Q10. You can also replenish your skin with products containing lactic acid for hydration.

SHOP IT: 1. Cellex-C Formulations Advanced-C Skin Tightening Cream, $164, 2. Adrien Arpel Cellular PPRX, $49, 3. Dr. Brandt Time Arrest Cream, $125, 4. Estee Lauder Re-Nutriv Ultimate Lift Age-Correcting Creme, $354

pigmentation

ISSUE: PIGMENTATION

Sunlight, environmental factors and the natural passage of time all contribute to the development of dark spots, skin pigmentation and uneven skin tone. There’s also emotional stress and hormonal changes during pregnancy and menopause to contend with.

CURE: Key ingredients to consider when trying to control hyperpigmentation are Vitamin C and hydroquinone which improve irregularities and the appearance of  dark spots, while evening out the skin tone. Similarly, retinol-based products makes the skin smoother, firmer, and more even-toned. Exfoliation is also pivotal to the facial rejuvenation process. It increases dermal volume, making skin look less wrinkly and uneven and will also help fade brown spots and redness. A scrub or a chemical exfoliant, such as a glycolic peel or a lactic-acid cleanser are great at curing the effects of age-induced pigmentation. 

SHOP IT: 1. Jan Marini Age Intervention Enlighten Plus, $136, 2. Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant, $82, 3. Aesop Parsley Seed Facial Cleanser, $47, 4. EmerginC Complexion Perfection, $109

eyes1

ISSUE: UNDER EYE BAGS

It’s normal for eyes to bag slightly due to decreased elasticity of the skin as you age. Stray blood cells leak out of under-eye vessels, potentially causing the area beneath to darken and appear bruised.

CURE: Eye creams or serums containing retinol can help thicken the thin skin under the eyes, making it look less transparent. Anti-aging eye cream products containing vitamin K will also help dark circles fade. It’s also important to boost the  circulation underneath your eyes to brighten the area and reduce puffiness. Try an eye cream with a metal applicator to help this process. Also, don’t ever underestimate the power of a good concealer! Start by putting on eye cream—concealer can settle into fine lines of all skin types, especially drier complexions. Then apply a generous layer of concealer from the inner corner of the eye around to the outer corner with a concealer brush. Pat and press the product into the skin to blend. If there’s still any darkness visible, apply a second layer of concealer. Set the concealer with a dusting of face powder that matches your foundation.

SHOP IT: 1. Dr. Dennis Gross Lift & Lighten Eye Cream, $79, 2. Olay Rejuvenating Eye Roller, $33, 3. Jouer Age Repairing Concealer, $34, 4. Eve Lom Eye Lift, $112

crows feet

ISSUE: CROW’S FEET

The lack of a fatty tissue layer is what causes crow’s feet around the eyes to become visible. Eventually, the fatty tissue layer is lost or becomes thinner as time progresses, hence how creases start to appear. Constant muscle contraction from smiling or squinting as well free radicals and UV exposure can damage cellular DNA and lead to eye crevices.

CURE: Amino acids called hexapeptides can block the nerve signals that cause muscles to contract around the eyes, as they work on the same principle as Botox. When applied, the ingredients subtly inhibit muscle movements to soften wrinkles and prevent new ones from forming around the blinkers. The ingredient retinol also helps to tighten and smooth out smile lines.

SHOP IT: 1. Chantecaille Nano Gold Energizing Eye Serum, $315, 2. Pevonia Evolutive Eye Cream, $81, 3. SK-II Wrinkle Specialist, $190, 4. Guinot Hydrazone Eye Contour Serum Cream, $58

brow

ISSUE: AGING EYEBROWS

Like your skin and hair, your brows can start to show their age. They can thin out, become coarse and unruly, or turn gray.

CURE: Just as a new hairstyle can trim away the years, a well-groomed, well-defined brow can lend your face a years-younger look. Use a brow powder to fill in patchy spots and make your arches look thicker or lengthen your brow tails with a pencil. If your brows are mostly gray, dyeing them is the best fix. Ask your stylist if your salon offers the service (it’s often free when you get your hair coloured).

SHOP IT: 1. Laura Mercier Eye Brow Groomer Brush, $19, 2. Jane Iredale Super Shape Me Eyebrow Kit, $88, 3. Lashem Measurable Difference Eyelash & Brow Enhancing Serum, $86, 4. Shiseido Natural Eyebrow Pencil, $31

PRO TIP: Your skin reflects what you eat. Chemicals and processed foods are toxic to your cells and cause degeneration, making you look older. Your skin is an eliminating organ, and if you’ve got a poor diet or are dehydrated, your complexion will show it. Plenty of fresh fruit, veggies and water will help alleviate dull skin and the overall aging process.

❤ Kristina xo

Ps. In a beauty fix and need some advice? Or maybe you just want to chat about all things pretty? Drop me a line: kristina@fragrancesandcosmetics.com.au. Or, if you’re in the mood for some eye candy, come and see what I’ve been Pinning over at www.pinterest.com/freshdiscover. Better yet – join me on Facebook for more beauty fun www.facebook.com/freshfragrances. And for a plain old good time, come and follow us on Instagram – @freshdiscoverbeauty – & Twitter@fresh_fragrances.

Weekend DIY: Colour code your keys using nail polish!

27 Saturday Apr 2013

Posted by freshbeautyblog in Beauty Tips, Beauty Tutorials, DIY, Nail Art

≈ 2 Comments

Tags

diy, how-to, keys, nail polish, organise, polish, tips, tutorial

keysI am the absolute worst when it comes to my keys. I have a gazillion and one different types so when I need to actually unlock something, it can take ages to find the right one. Totally annoying!

So after scrambling around in the dark the other night outside my apartment, I realised it was time to get my butt organised and establish a way of deciphering between each key… using nail polish!

I’ve amassed an endless supply of varnishes, but most I just don’t ever use. So this weekend I thought I’d utilise as many as possible with a little DIY session.  I decided to paint each individual key a separate colour using my polishes to make all of my unlocking woes a little bit easier.

It’s easy, pretty and fun to do so I thought I’d share a few simple instructions of how you too can get organised.

HOW TO COLOUR CODE YOUR KEYS

1. Lay out a napkin or piece of newspaper to ensure you don’t spill any polish on the surface that you’re working from.

2. Wipe down the key using some water and a cotton bud to get rid of any dirt or grime.

3. Paint the top of each key a bright colour. 2 – 3 coats should do the trick.

4. Wait at least half an hour for each to dry.

5. Set with a top coat – just as you would your nails!

6. Make sure you keep a colour guide somewhere as a reference if you ever forget what each key is for!

That’s it! Now you have a set of colour coded keys so you’ll never have to waste time fumbling around in your bag for the right one. You can even add a layer of glitter over the top to funk things up a bit. Have fun!

❤ Kristina xo

Ps. In a beauty fix and need some advice? Or maybe you just want to chat about all things pretty? Drop me a line: kristina@fragrancesandcosmetics.com.au. Or, if you’re in the mood for some eye candy, come and see what I’ve been Pinning over at www.pinterest.com/freshdiscover. Better yet – join me on Facebook for more beauty fun www.facebook.com/freshfragrances. And for a plain old good time, come and follow us on Instagram – @freshdiscoverbeauty – & Twitter@fresh_fragrances.

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