Magic Wand

I would be remiss to chat with you Lovelies, about all things fabulous, without mentioning some of my coveted makeup secrets. Because bridal makeup my specialty, I'm constantly editing my techniques, tools and cosmetic choices for optimal beauty, seamless color and complexion perfection.

Now we all know that beautiful makeup starts with great skincare. I have a whole arsenal of products that I use for different times of the month, (estrogen spikes can wreak havoc on your skin) and different times of the year. This is really important because the seasons have different affects on the skin. And using the same products all year 'round can be counter productive. Now as with everything, there is an exception to the rule. See I'm an avid exfoliator. It's paramount to getting rid of fine lines, having luminous skin and a dewy, youthful appearance. But sometimes using a product with microcrystals can be a little harsh, especially for certain times of the month. So my go to product is Ice Element's 2- Minute Miracle Exfoliating Gel. This stuff is AMAZING! I have to admit I was a little skeptical upon discovery but boy am I glad I gave it a try. This is without a doubt a product I can use all year around. I use this on my brides before doing anything else.

"This non-granular exfoliating gel offers exclusive technology to dramatically renew the look and feel of your skin. An intensive deep cleansing and beauty treatment with soothing Aloe Vera, natural botanical extracts and Hyaluronic acid (humectant). Gently exfoliates dead skin cells, removing dulling debris and excess oils. Rich in natural moisture to nourish new skin leaving it refreshed and vibrant. Great for dry skin and enlarged pores. Visible difference in just one use!"

The first time I used it, I followed the directions of course, smoothing the gel unto my skin and letting it set for a few seconds as it liquified. Once liquified, I began to rub my skin in a circular motion all over.. lo and behold.. little balls of dirt, dead skin, something ..looking like wet lint, was all over my face. Not a cute site but I felt I on was on to something. So I rinsed and patted my face dry with a paper towel. (I never use a face cloth, more on that in another post) And voila, the most moist, supple, luminous skin my I've experienced to date, outside of a professional facial. It was so much so that Treasure even noticed and you know, men hardly notice anything beauty related.


Ok, tangent over.. so the reason I sing the praises of this product and exfoliating in general, is so that you get the most perfect canvas to apply makeup. It is vital to obtain that "second skin" foundation application.

Now for my next secret, the foundation brush. But this is not just any brush, it is the holy grail for achieving complexion perfection. I use this brush for all my clients and the results are remarkable!! You see, I'm totally a Virgo (perfectionist) especially when it comes to my work, my artistry. Nothing incenses me more than when makeup needs to be re-touched, via photoshop. So it's always my goal to impart techniques to give my clients the most picture perfect skin, even thisclose up. My tool of choice is Tricia Sawyer's Foundation Brush. Not only is it THE BEST foundation brush but just look at it... it's ultra fabulous! Unlike any brush on the market. Not only is it chic but it has a nice weight and is made extremely well. It's luxury in your well manicured hands.

"Unlike flat brushes that streak across your face, my Foundation Brush has a unique shape which allows you to buff in your cream foundation for a more natural and flawless finish. The rounded tip allows you to follow the natural curves of your face."

With this brush, very, very little product is needed. Just pick up a little cream foundation (gives the best coverage and can easily be sheered down) and buff into skin. It's like MAGIC, dare I say like the erase tool in Photoshop. Yeah, it's THAT good. All of the blemishes and discoloration disappears yet your beautiful skin shows through. Now you can have your fairy godmother's magic wand right in your makeup bag!

[www.triciasawyer.com]

[www.iceelements.com]