Skin Care: The Basics

When was the last time you updated your skin care routine? If you don't have a routine, it is time to get started. And if you have been using the same thing for 5 years . . . It's time for a change. I often advise my clients to choose skin care over makeup, "If you have to choose between investing in skin care or investing in makeup, choose skin care." Flawless makeup always requires beautiful skin.  

Our skin is the largest organ we have and most of us need to do a better job taking care of it. This doesn't mean you need to have 5 products you use in the morning and 8 you use at night. It simply means protect, nourish and pamper your skin. 

Everyone has different needs when it comes to their skin and this can be based on your location or climate, skin type and even your age. It's important to assess your skin (or speak to a professional) before choosing the right products.

Once you establish a skin care routine, you must be consistent. Only change things up when necessary; like when the seasons change or you notice a drastic difference in your skin type. 

The most common question I'm asked in regards to skin care, has to do with the order in which products are applied. Generally, serums are applied first, then gels, lotions, and creams. You want to start with the thinnest consistency. And if you have extremely dry skin, finish off with an oil.

What is your favorite skin care item that you own? And what would you like to add to your current routine? Comment below and feel free to ask any questions!

Stay beautiful! . . . Inside and out.

Flawless Celebrity Beauty: 2016 Grammys

The 2016 Grammys! As a musician, and therefore a music lover; I look forward to the Grammys every year!

My favorite beauty looks of the night (in no particular order) were Kaley Cuoco, Lianne La Havas, Demi Lovato, Taylor Swift and Ellie Goulding. I personally wasn't a huge fan of the fashion choices, but the makeup!

Kaley Cuoco's makeup was done by makeup artist Jamie Greenberg, who has worked with Cuoco often. What I love most about this look is it's simplicity. Greenberg focused on skin with this look, using REN Skincare. The nude lip is the perfect shade and the lashes add that touch of glam that is needed for the red carpet.

Getty Images

Getty Images

Lianne La Havas looked stunning! Her gown, by Vivienne Westwood, was a work of art! I love that her team allowed her gown to be the "standout" and kept everything else minimal. Her skin looked like skin! It wasn't overly made up, and her lips, the perfect shade of pink.

Getty Images

Getty Images

Demi Lovato, rocked the "no makeup" makeup look. Her makeup artist Jill Powell used some of my favorites from Koh Gen Do (Aqua Foundation), Yves Saint Laurent (Touche Eclat) and NARS Cosmetics (lip gloss in Gold Digger). This would work as bridal makeup look for all you engaged ladies needing some inspiration ;-)

Getty Images

Getty Images

Taylor Swift's makeup was spot on. When you are wearing bright and bold colors, your face should never be competing. It should compliment. The lip color, in a slightly different shade than her top, was superb.

Getty Images

Getty Images

I am still in love with Ellie Goulding's makeup look. Her pink pout, bronzed skin and perfect brows were soft, feminine, and flirty. 

atlanta celebrity makeup artist

Let's finish with this . . . Why do you watch the Grammys? Are you a music lover? Do you just watch the red carpet portion (interested in the fashion, makeup, hair, etc)? Love the interviews? Sound-off below in the comment section!

Stay beautiful! . . . Inside and out.

Luxury Skin Care: La Prairie

As a makeup artist, I am always on the hunt for quality skin care. For my kit, I need products that provide immediate results. But I am always on the lookout for products to recommend for my clients to implement into their skin care routine.

I came across La Prairie the beginning of last year, but did not try out anything until November. They are considered a luxury brand, but you know what they say, "You get what you pay for."

La Prairie has many products to choose from, but a standout to me is their Skin Caviar Luxe Sleep Mask. It is an evening treat for your skin . . . Like combining a moisturizing cream, that gently exfoliates as well.

Atlanta makeup artist

For me personally, I noticed my skin looked more "plump," and the texture was smoother. Allure (the beauty expert magazine) gave the Skin Caviar Luxe Sleep Mask a, "Best of Beauty" award for 2015. The packing is gorgeous and quite modern (for those of you who like to keep your vanity looking almost as beautiful as you), and it comes with a small brush for application. I would suggest having an additional brush for application, if you are going to use this more than once a week. Or be sure to thoroughly clean the brush after each use.

This would be a great option for you brides the night before your wedding day! What's your current favorite moisturizer for nighttime? Be sure to try this one out and let me know your thoughts!

Stay beautiful! . . . Inside and out.