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Inside IMATS 2012

Wed, 20 Jun 2012 09:04:00 -0400

By Katalina Mitchell

IMATS (The International Make-Up Artist Trade Show) is most comparable to Fashion Week for the cosmetics industry. Artists, vendors, and enthusiasts alike gather for the event every year to discuss the latest trends, demonstrate application techniques, and sell discounted professional products. IMATS New York was spectacular. Here are some of the most memorable moments from the event.

Award-winning keynote speakers, such as J. Roy Helland (2012 BAFTA and Oscar winner for The Iron Lady) and Kabuki, whose clientele includes Lady Gaga and Madonna, gave inspiring lectures and advice, benefiting both new artists and professionals.

Student competitions gave onlookers a chance to see upcoming artist’s work. Two competitions (beauty/fantasy and character/prosthetic) were held over the two-day event. Winners received a feature in the next issue of Make-Up Artist Magazine.

The Makeup Museum showcased the latest in television, film, and stage makeup. Shown here is the prosthetic mask created for The Green Goblin in the musical, Spiderman: Turn Off the Dark.

“Khuraira Dark Circle Complex Primer”

“Khuraira Dark Circle Complex Primer” a primer for under eye concealer. This bright orange and creamy primer is distinctively formulated to be compatible with any skin tone. The primer both camouflages dark circles and sets concealer, which will make it last longer throughout the day. Ruka, Khuraira’s adorable intern (shown left), instructed how to use the product to receive optimal results. First, apply the primer with a concealer brush, then apply your preferred concealer on top and blend. This product retails for $30 on khuraira.com.

“Yaby Cosmetics Freestyle Palette”

Yaby Cosmetics specializes in fully customizable palettes. You can mix and match eye shadows, blushes, foundation, and many other cosmetic products all into one palette, based on your personal preference. Yaby founder, Liz Yu, explained the functions of her most innovative palette to date: “the freestyle palette.” What makes this palette so different from any on the market is the absence of framing and wells. This means any cosmetic product that is small enough to fit in it can be used, giving it the ability to mix and match multiple brands in one palette. If your favorite blush or shadow isn’t already magnetic, Yaby sells “grippies,” which make any cosmetic aluminum pan magnetic. Another convenient feature is the stainless steel mirror, which doubles as a scratch-proof mixing surface. The palette can be purchased at yabycosmetics.com for $21.75.

The best thing about IMATS? The event is open to the public! Unlike most beauty expos, the discounts, seminars, and insider tips typically reserved for industry professionals is available for everyone. If you love makeup and want to learn more about the industry, visit imats.net to find out when the event will be held in a city near you.

Is Faster Better?

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 19:28:00 -0400

By Gary Wong

For the average female, taking the necessary time and effort to transform from the groggy, sleep-ridden beast into a polished and pretty vision may not be high on the list of priorities when rest and comfort are jeopardized. Running late for work certainly isn’t fun either, especially when a professional appearance and dress code are expected to be maintained, regardless of morning time constraints. A large part of this professional image lies in makeup and cosmetics, a feat all on its own for many women. For some time now, women have been trying to find a way to cut down the time of a full makeup routine without jeopardizing the final result.

Cosmetic companies are currently introducing many new products to the market which are either a more efficient alternative to their original counterpart, or are even surprisingly multi-purpose. Beauty Balm (BB) cream is the new powerhouse product that is taking Asia by storm. This product appeals to the Asian aesthetic of having a fair complexion as most companies only produce BB cream in a maximum of 1-3 shades. BB cream is also the beautiful hybrid of a foundation, primer, pore filler, SPF and skincare making it the “holy grail” of all facial products. If fussing with a cream is still too much hassle, Dior has developed the Airflash foundation, an aerosol foundation. That’s right - with a quick spray, a layer of skin-perfecting foundation is applied all over the face. L’Oreal recently developed the One Sweep eye shadow, a product that in theory would be foolproof, quick and effective. With one swipe of a curved sponge, three eye shadows can be applied to the entire eye area, saving women from having to spend precious minutes fussing with brushes and individually packaged eye shadows.

Makeup artists and enthusiasts vary in their opinions on time-saving products, but most agree that artistry should never be sacrificed for efficiency. An aerosol foundation may sound like the perfect solution for a quick application, but can easily end up in your hair, clothes, simply anywhere but the face. The time spent cleaning up after that “efficient” product might as well be put into properly applying and blending foundation. Makeup artists, whether freelance or at your local department store, are there to assist and guide you through application and technique. Learning and educating is commonly found to be a passion among makeup artists. The feeling of helping someone believe that they are beautiful is the ultimate reward. A customer’s visit is also how cosmetic companies stay in business and how artists make a living. Products like the One Sweep detracts from artists and cosmetic companies alike, causing women to believe that eye shadow can be applied beautifully and tastefully without proper general technique (i.e. blending). Time may be saved in the morning, but have these products accomplished their purpose: to enhance the complexion? Does patchy foundation and uneven eyeshadow sound like qualities of a sophisticated, polished woman?

Alternatives serve to simplify, not to replace. Especially in cosmetics, products are usually sold individually not to drain your wallet, but to be customized and tailor-fit to your own personal aesthetics. Artists at makeup counters can actually show customers how to remedy those late-to-work mornings with an under-five-minutes makeup routine. Rather than spending extra dollars trying and failing time and time again, why not make an investment and spend time with an artist, learning about their products and tools? After all, it is your own face.

High and Tight : Origins of The Barber Shop

Tue, 29 May 2012 16:28:00 -0400

By Dave Panton

     A checkerboard floor, warm mahogany wood, brass light fixtures, the teal glow of Barbicide. The biting tingle of Lucky Tiger Tonic, the pungent musk of tea tree, snipping of shears, the friendly banter, the crisp snap of a newspaper while a young man shines shoes. A gentleman reclined in a leather chair as a straight razor glides across a hot Burma lather. This was golden age of the barber shop. In today’s world, where the rule the faster the better seems to apply, this history may be forgotten by many. Perhaps it’s the time to stop and remind ourselves of the rich tradition barbering carries.
     Derived from the Latin word barba, meaning beard, barbering’s roots stretch as far back as 6000 years. Egyptian primitive razors and combs have been excavated from the tombs of Pharos laid to rest long ago. Further, Genesis, the first book of the Old Testament, references the practice of grooming and its dominance in the Egyptian culture. Most notably the first actual account of the word barber appears around 595 B.C. in Ezekiel 5:1, NKJV: “And you, son of man, take a sharp sword, take it as a barber’s razor, and pass it over your head and your beard.”
     Around the same time, barbering was introduced to Grecian society. Used as a status indicator, frequent haircuts signified a life of wealth and leisure. While haircuts were performed frequently, the beard was a grand showing of machismo. That soon changed by order of Alexander the Great. As war raged, Alexander declared all must be clean-shaven. Initially intended to protect against enemies snatching beards during battle, the style transcended much further.
     The Greeks bequeathed the fresh face to the Romans around 300 B.C. Roman culture, fixated on opulence and indulgence, and adopted barbering as a routine social affair. Luxurious bathhouses became gathering places where men discussed news, gossip, and politics.
     The Middle Ages carried a darker side to the trade. Barber-surgeons, for over 500 years, transformed the profession to include medical procedures, most infamously bloodletting. This barbaric practice, thought to cure illness, drained the blood from the forearms of its patients. The soiled dressings were hung outside to dry and reuse. These bloodstained banners became synonymous with barbers, eventually fashioning the modern barber shop pole.
     The infantile stages of the United States, plagued with turmoil, set the stage for barbering to solidify strong contributions to race relations. Slaveholders, finding self-grooming degrading, enslaved “waiting men,” serving as personal groomers. Trusted enough to hold a straight razor next to the neck of their owner, strong bonds were formed and in turn opportunities presented. Even through racial upheaval, African-American barbers maintained pride in their skill, dubbing themselves “The Knights of the Razor”. As the country split in civil war, these barbers remained unified, often becoming respected community leaders. Upon the onset of the mid 20^st century, the traditional African-American barbershop was conceived, making way for the golden age of barbering. A direct correlation rests between value and longevity, yet the golden age marks the decline of barbering.
     However, today’s men’s grooming trends are turning back to classic styles, with modern elements. These styles require fine training, superior shear skill and mastering of the razors. The time has come for a revival, to revel in this longstanding tradition, to honor its global conquest, and respect its endurance over the test of time. Capturing the essence of the barber shop, Mark Twain expresses, “All things change except barbers, the ways of barbers, and the surroundings of barbers. These never change.”

Permanent Makeup: Here To Stay?

Fri, 18 May 2012 14:22:00 -0400

By Lauren-Ashley Spencer

Permanent makeup is a cosmetic technique used to enhance the colors of the skin and lips, produce artificial eyebrows, and create designs that resemble makeup, such as eyeliner. These practices involve injecting dyes into the top layer of the skin, enhancing certain features of the face. Why has this become so popular? Convenience, the appeal of a permanently made-up face, and cosmetic facial corrections are all reasons why tattoo makeup has stayed steadily popular over the past few decades. But with more makeup and beauty trends being at the forefront of society and the fashion world, will a permanent line of eyeliner or the arch shape of an eyebrow continue to be steady procedures?

As with normal tattooing, before you undergo a procedure, it is important to be sure that you are ready to have the ink for the rest of your life. Because cosmetic tattooing and permanent makeup is done on parts of your face, this is especially pertinent, for your face is most often what is seen first upon meeting someone. Results from procedures such as, adding pigment to lips and skin areas, lining eyes and eyebrows, and adding colors to the eyelids simply mimic basic makeup applications. Upon receiving these procedures, sometimes, undesired results are found by patients: the wrong color, uneven lines, or too large of a design.

Should you undergo a permanent makeup or cosmetic tattooing procedure? Well, it is important to look at the objectives. Makeup trends are consistently changing, with flutter eyeliner that mimics the early Egyptians, cat eyes worthy of Cat Woman, herself, consistent lip color trends that vary from berry shades to nudes, and eyebrow shapes from bushy to bleached. Permanently tattooing eyeliner, lip color, or eyebrow shape to your face is a large commitment, and you never know what beauty trends could be on the horizon. Wouldn’t you rather have the option to change the way you look everyday instead of waking up to the same makeup? In my opinion, experimenting with beauty and makeup trends is exciting and fun, and certainly not something to give up!

Eco-Friendly: Celebrating Earth Day in the Beauty World

Fri, 18 May 2012 14:10:00 -0400

By Lauren-Ashley Spencer

Earth Day is all about going green and expressing our concern for the planet we live on by making a small change in our routines or habits. I have come across some products for face and hair that will both help save our planet and make anyone who uses them look fabulous.

Josie Maran’s cosmetics line is completely eco-friendly, but two products in particular have generated a lot of buzz. The all purpose color finger paints and the line’s signature mascara have become staples in the organic beauty world. The finger paints serve several purposes, including blush and creamy eyeshadow, and come in a variety of shades.

Physician’s Formula has been a long-standing force in the world of foundation and concealer, and their “Organic Wear” line only adds to the company’s appeal. “Organic Wear” was the first organic makeup line ever created, with both 100% organic products and packaging. The “Organic Wear” product with the most focus is the Face Sculpting Trio, which provides foundation, concelear, and bronzer all in one palette.

Above all, Alima Pure was the second company to get the organic stamp of approval. Their Luminous Shimmer Eyeshadows are only $9.00, and come in a wide variety of shades and sizes. To remove everything, try, “Yes to Tomatoes Blemish Clearing Towlettes,” which are 98% organic. These wipes are not tested on animals, prevent breakouts and blemishes with salicylic acid, and control the amount of oil on your face.

When it comes to hair, I know how easy it is to get into a specific regimen, but consider these products next time your shampoo runs out. Lush Shampoo Bar is equates to 3 full bottles of shampoo. You get a longer usage out of it, and reduce your carbon footprint by avoiding the use of a plastic bottle.

Nustyle Organic Hairspray is the most buzzed about all-natural spray in the industry. It is plant-based, and made with all certifiable organic ingredients. Organic quinoa protein adds body to your hair and smooths hair fibers to prevent frizz. Herbal gums give your hair extra fullness, and rice syrup adds hair thickeners to your mane.

Looking to color your hair? Try Organic Color Systems. They boast professional integrity, and can be found in many salons. It is the world’s only hair color line that is completely vegan and organic. Organic Color Systems offers 54 color options and is ammonia-free. Comb it all out with the Tela Beauty Organics Boar Bristle hairbrush, made completely out of boar bristles that penetrate through the scalp and distribute conditioning oils all throughout your hair.

Whether you have a separate bin to recycle in your kitchen, or you fill up your gas tank a couple times a week, consider fitting one of these organic products into your beauty routine. I promise that the Earth’s appearance isn’t the only one who will be looking better.

A Lesson in Lathering: How to Choose the Right Shampoo

Fri, 18 May 2012 14:02:00 -0400

By Katalina Mitchell

With numerous brands and an endless selection, picking a shampoo can be confusing and a bit intimidating. The key to healthy hair is understanding your personal hair needs. With this guide, your next trip down the shampoo aisle will be easier than rinse, lather, repeat.

1. It’s not about the money [money, money].

Forget about the price tag. Your hair is worth spending a few extra dollars to get the essential nutrients required for it to be healthy. Remember, salon-grade shampoos tend to be higher in price but are typically more concentrated which means they will last longer.

2. Nose no goes.

PLEASE do not choose your shampoo based on how wonderful it smells. Save the tropical paradise for your body wash and choose a shampoo that is appropriate for your hair type.

3. Read ‘em and weep.

The right ingredients can make or (literally) break your hair. Be sure to check what is in that shampoo before you use it, especially if you pick one that is not sold at your local salon. Avoid shampoos containing sulfates if possible. If a sulfate-free shampoo is not available for your hair type, look for one containing a gentle cleansing agent like Sodium Laureth Sulfate (versus Sodium Lauryl Sulfate).

4. Let’s Clear Things Up

Almost every hair type can benefit from a clarifying shampoo. Cleansing your hair of the products used is essential to prevent build-up.

No two heads of hair are the same. Whether your hair is coarse and dry, or fine and oily, there’s a shampoo for you. Here’s a list of our favorite recommendations:

1. Curly or Coarse: Both curly and coarse hair tends to be dry and frizzy because the oils created at the root of the hair follicle cannot move easily down the hair shaft. This type of hair should not be washed every day because it will further strip the oils your hair needs. When choosing a shampoo, look for hydrating compounds found in wheat germ oil, shea butter, nut oils, silicone, and glycerin. DevaCurl No-Poo is a great choice for these types of hair.

2. Fine or Oily: Be sure to find a shampoo that is specifically intended for frequent washes, as fine hair tends to get oily very quickly. A general rule of thumb for this hair type is to go for a clear shampoo, rather than a creamy one which will be too heavy. The ingredient to look for in these shampoos is panthenol, which will help thicken your hair. Also, rather than washing your hair every day, use a dry shampoo in between washes. It will absorb those unwanted oils and add volume. We recommend trying Paul Mitchell Lemon Sage Thickening Shampoo.

3. Color or Chemically-Treated: Following any color or chemical transformation, consider the new condition of your hair when buying a new shampoo. After these treatments, hair needs to be reinforced with protein found in ingredients such as wheat and soy extracts or silk amino acids. Dermorganic’s Conditioning Shampoo is infused with argan oil and is a terrific option.

4. Distressed: If hair has been over-processed from color or fried from excess heat, it is considered “distressed.” Hair in this situation needs special care with a shampoo that will fortify weakened areas and protect the integrity of the hair. Pureology Essential Repair is a suggested choice.

5. Aged: Signs of aging hair include change in texture, increased dryness or dullness, diminished density, and breakage. When checking the ingredients, look for peptides and ceramides to help reinforce the hair fiber and natural oils to soften and add shine to locks that lack luster. We recommend trying Redken Time Reset, which was created specifically to replenish porous, age-weakened hair.

6. Thinning: With age comes the inevitable grief over thinning hair. Luckily, hair companies are constantly updating the technology in shampoo formulas to combat the problem. Aveda’s newly-released Invati line has generated a lot of buzz with clients who saw improvement in hair density and overall growth. Consider Aveda’s Invati Exfoliating Shampoo if you think your hair meets these criteria.

Ultimately, there are many brands to choose from, and sometimes finding the right one comes down to trial-and-error. Don’t give up! If the shampoos you try do not work out, talk to your hair stylist at your next appointment and explain your frustration. Even if your salon does not carry the right shampoo for you, your stylist should be able to point you in the best direction. Best of luck to your locks!

Are Mall Makeovers Free?

Fri, 18 May 2012 14:00:00 -0400

By Lauren-Ashley Spencer

Have you ever been to the mall, walked up to your favorite beauty supplies counter, and been offered a makeover using all of their products by a trained professional? If so, you certainly are not the first. A question that comes to mind when I think of this whole situation is why would these people use all designer products, and provide their services for free? Well, ultimately, they wouldn’t.

It is said that whether you are just walking by and asking to test out a new product, or make an actual appointment with the makeup counter, there is actually a sort of agreement that is made with the makeup brand that you are a potential customer. While it is understood that if you try a product out and turn out not liking it, you are certainly not expected to purchase it. But, if you have a salesperson apply several products to your face, or even receive a full-on makeover, you should certainly consider purchasing a product or two.

Keep in mind that when you are sitting at the stool of one of these professionals, other mall-goers cannot. You obviously are sitting there to receive personal attention of the professionals, and therefore, are occupying their time. If you know for sure that you do not have the money to spend on any of the products offered, don’t waste the time of the professional when they could be helping a paying customer. If you are unsure about whether you will purchase or not, make sure to speak up and let the salesperson know that you may not be buying today, but rather another time, or that you are just testing a few new products out to see how they look on you.

If you end up finding something you love, then great! This means that the makeup artist feels validation that they have done their job correctly. If not, be sure to go back another time and receive treatment from your favorite counter again. Chances are, the salespeople love the practice, and are hoping that you will soon become one of their loyal customers.

On Pins and Needles: A Guide to Proper Tattoo Maintenance

Fri, 18 May 2012 13:55:00 -0400

By Katalina Mitchell

A tattoo is a commitment, not just because the ink is permanent, but because the upkeep required afterward is a lifelong responsibility. Whether you just joined the club, or your ink rivals Kat Von D, here is some key post-tattoo information and skincare guidelines to stick by.

1] Wrap it up.

As pretty as it may be, a new tattoo is considered an open wound. Skin is extremely sensitive and irritable after undergoing the trauma caused by the abrasive procedure. It is important to keep skin protected from airborne bacteria, which may lead to infection, by wearing a bandage. Keep the bandage on for a minimum of two hours after leaving the shop.

2] Rinse. Lather. Repeat.

After removing the bandage, the wound needs to be disinfected. With your hands, gently apply lukewarm water with mild, liquid antibacterial soap directly onto the skin and wipe. Pat dry with a cloth or paper towel. Apply a light coat of antibacterial ointment, such as A&D or Aquaphor, to keep the skin hydrated. Repeat as directed for 3-5 days.

3] Lotion is Your Friend.

Once the initial swelling and redness subsides, you can begin to apply lotion. It is best recommended that the lotion be dye, fragrance free, and from a credible brand such as Jergens, Nivia, or Lubriderm. Apply lotion regularly to the tattoo from now on to keep skin hydrated.

Be a flake.

Peeling and light scabbing are perfectly normal reactions so don’t panic. The key here is not to pick or scratch. Instead, apply warm compresses to scabs, and hydrate peeling skin with an oil-free lotion.

H2O Do’s & Don’ts

Submersing a new tattoo in water can cause serious damage. You can shower the day you get your tattoo, but do not immerse it in water. Avoid swimming and shaving for at least 2 weeks. Less contact with water means faster healing time.

No tanning allowed.

Stay away from the sun or tanning beds for the first few weeks after getting your tattoo. UV rays cause tattoos to fade quickly. They also increase your chances of developing skin cancer. Always wear a minimum of 30 SPF when spending time outdoors to keep your tattoo vibrant.

Watch Out!

Reactions to the ink can occur within hours of getting a tattoo or even years later. If you experience an abnormal skin reaction, contact a dermatologist immediately. This can be a sign of skin disease. Check your tattoo regularly for changes in appearance to prevent undiagnosed conditions.

Proper tattoo aftercare is essential. The better you care for your tattoo, the longer it will hold its vibrancy which in the long run means less touch-ups. Following these simple rules will ultimately keep your skin healthy and your tattoo in great shape.