Makeup Lovers: MAC Cosmetics Select Loyalty Program

How many of you are makeup lovers? I thought so ;-) If you enjoy playing with makeup, wear makeup daily or are a makeup artist, then I'm sure you are aware of different loyalty programs offered by various stores. These programs typically offer points, based on purchases, and after you accumulate a certain amount you will receive makeup or skin care goodies; dollars off your purchase amounts; cosmetic bags; or even invites to special events!

Sephora and Ulta are two places that I shop regularly because they offer loyalty programs. And it's a simple way to say thank you to consistent customers. Well, MAC Cosmetics has FINALLY jumped on board!

MAC now offers what they call their "MAC Select" program, and if you shop there often, you need to sign up. As a beauty professional I go through a TON of makeup, and although I don't all of my kit isn't MAC products, I do love some of their blushes, lip colors, lip liners and powders. 

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They have 3 different levels of the program: Seduced, Devoted and Obsessed. You will automatically become part of the "Seduced" level when signing up. You'll be able to purchase exclusive products (I've already ordered a lipstick shade that was designed from the trends of this year's runway looks), receive complimentary samples and free shipping for online orders.

To become part of the "Devoted," you must spend at least $150 . . . And some of you can spend that in less than  5 minutes! Some of the added perks are a free express makeup application and an anniversary gift from MAC.

The premier tier for you makeup addicts is "Obsessed." This level is perfect for makeup artist and all of you MAC fans. If you spend $500 or more at MAC, this is for you! You're spoiled with being able to shop new collections before anyone else (and we know how quickly things can sell out), receive enhanced product samples, a Back to MAC tracker and so much more!

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This isn't for everyone, but if you shop MAC often, why wait?! You can check it out here!

Stay beautiful! . . . Inside and out.

My Favorite Concealers

As a makeup artist, I try out tons of products.  I use them on myself, my clients and at photo shoots to test out the quality and look of anything new. If you take a peek into my kit you will see many different brands, some you may be familiar with, some you may not.

There are certain products and brands for me that are staples, or what some people call a "holy grail" product. But for me, those are mainly my foundations. Outside of that, I'm open to new things as long as they are high quality, work well with other products, and look amazing on camera.

When it comes to concealers, I am quite picky. Mediocrity simply will not do . . . And I can honestly say that as of the last 2 years, my top concealers have stayed the same so I thought I would share!

One of my faves is MAC Cosmetics' Pro Longwear Concealer. This is a must-have for the majority of my bridal work and for oily skin. MAC Cosmetics describes it as, "A lightweight fluid concealer, that provides medium to full coverage with a comfortable, natural matte finish. Gives a smoother, flawless looking finish on skin. Helps to conceal flaws, dark spots, skin-discoloration and under-eye circles." 

MAC Cosmetics Pro Longwear Concealer

I agree completely with the description and appreciate that you can customize coverage with this product. I will say however, if you have very dark under-eye circles, you may need to color-correct before using this concealer. The bottle does have a pump, however it pumps out too much product at once, so be careful . . . It can get kinda messy. But it comes in 16 different shades, and 1 bottle goes a long way, well worth the purchase.

 

Another great option is by NARS. Their Radiant Creamy Concealer is so fabulous! I love it for dry and normal skin. I also use it often when I'm creating a "no makeup" makeup look. NARS says, "Coveted by artists for its luxurious texture and luminous finish, Radiant Creamy Concealer evens skin with lightweight medium to high buildable coverage. Enriched with hydrating,  multi-action skincare benefits and light diffusing technology, it creates a softer, smoother complexion, while instantly obscuring imperfections and diminishing fine lines and signs of fatigue."

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

What amazes the most about this concealer is that the consistency is so super creamy, yet it has great staying power! I believe there are a total of 10 shades to choose from and NARS always has the most amazing and sleek packaging. 

 

Cover FX Cream Foundation is a "concealer" product I often recommend to my clients. I realize it isn't labeled a concealer, but I love it because it's a product you can use as both foundation and concealer. The consistency is creamy, without the greasiness. As a makeup artist, I love using it as a concealer on areas that may need a bit more coverage. According to Cover FX, "An antioxidant rich, 2-in-1 concealer and foundation offering broad spectrum SPF 30 protection with medium to full, buildable coverage."

Cover FX Cream Foundation

 If you use this as a foundation, I recommend using a Beauty Blender or a Real Techniques Makeup Sponge for application. If you are using wanting to use it as a concealer, try using a smaller makeup brush to apply it, then tap to blend. I know that it comes with a sponge for application, but if you use that and each time it goes right back in the compact, it is accumulating bacteria . . . Which is a no-no for your skin.

 

Kevyn Aucoin Sensual Skin Enhancer is another product you can use as foundation and concealer. It may be a bit pricier, but it is well worth the investment. I love to use it for just about anything . . . Photo shoots, special event clients, brides, everyday concealer  . . . You name it, it works. The Kevyn Aucoin website says, "A versatile skin-enhancer used to achieve a youthful, dewy complexion. Use as a concealer, highlighter, or over-all foundation . . . Great for all skin types."

I think this product is perfect for highlight, foundation, and as a concealer when you need just a bit more coverage for certain spots. It is used regularly on the red carpet and one that I keep personally at all times. I typically apply this using a damp makeup sponge or a stippling brush (like the MAC #188 brush). It all depends on what I'm using the product for and whether I want a thing natural layer or full coverage.

Last, but not least, is Make Up For Ever's Full Cover Concealer. Can we say PERFECTION! This product is not only in my kit, but the kit of many makeup professionals . . . Including those that do TV/film, fashion, editorial EVERYTHING! Make Up For Ever says, "An ultra long-lasting, oil-free, waterproof, concealer that provides  full coverage with a matte finish." This product provides such amazing coverage, I can sometimes use it to cover tattoos or extreme pigmentation. 

Make Up For Ever Full Cover Concealer

The color range is pretty good, but of course as an artist I typically mic a couple shades to find the perfect one. Ever though it is made to be full coverage, it can certainly be thinned out. It's a concealer every makeup lover should have. And if you are someone who likes a "no makeup" makeup look, you must have this product.

If you don't see your favorite concealer on this list, comment below and let me know what your favorite is! I feel like I have tried everything, but someone may surprise me, LOL. I look forward to seeing your suggestions.

Would anyone be interested in a video on this list?! Let me know!

Stay Beautiful! . . . Inside and out.

The Perfect Super Bowl Lips!

So I'm sure you're thinking, "What does the 2015 Super Bowl have to do with makeup?!" Well, at most Super Bowl parties you eat, snack and drink quite a bit right? Wouldn't it be great to not have to even think about whether your lipstick is smeared all over your teeth? Or if your "red lips" are on your chin after your finished that yummy slider?

No one wants to be thinking about those things, you just want to enjoy time with your friends and family, while enjoying the snacks! So I'm going to tell you my Top 3 long lasting lip options so that you can relax and enjoy cheering for the Patriots! (or Seahawks :-) The great thing about these options is that they are easily accessible to pretty much everyone. There is no need to order online . . . You can find them at a nearby mall, Sephora or Ulta!

First up are the MAC Cosmetics Pro Longwear lipliners. These are fabulous! I keep many of them in my kit, and even though they are long lasting, they go on quite smoothly. There are several shade options, so there is something for everyone. Before applying any other lip product,  line your entire lipline with this pencil and then use it like you would a lipstick to increase staying power. 

Stila Cosmetics makes a liquid lipstick called Stay All Day Liquid Lipsticks. Yes, these stay all day. But what I love most, are the color options they have! There is a vinyl line of these, OMG! Seriously, head to your nearest Ulta to try them out.

Last, but certainly not least, are the Kat Von D Everlasting Liquid Lipsticks. There is a reason so many people rave about these little treasures. Between brides and my teenagers for prom, they work perfectly. Many of my clients now keep 1 or 2 of these in their makeup bags ;-)

Now that those lips are covered, find there perfect pair of blue jeans, a cute top, and enjoy the party! Don't forget to subscribe to my blog for more makeup and beauty tips below :-)

Stay beautiful! . . . Inside and out.