Make-Up Tips, Products, Merch

Some would say that high priced products like these are the best, however...many great quality make-up can be found at your nearest drug store. Even though I am a faithful MAC wearer, I also like to mix things up, using other great quality, inexpensive make-up brands myself.

Pro Discounts

Here is a list of various Pro Discounts...

Bobbi Brown Cosmetics

Discount Amount: 40%

Requirements: Valid photo identification AND two of the following:

Composite card
Business card with name and specific profession
Editorial page with name credit
Union Card
Professional valid license
Crew call list on production company letterhead
Reference letter from employer

China Glaze

Discount Amount: 50%

Requirements: Professional license - cosmetologist, cosmetologist instructor or nail tech.

Cinema Secrets

Discount Amount: 25% - 15% depending on products

Requirements: Valid photo identification AND two pieces of professional employment or student status.

CoverFX

Discount Amount: Makeup artists are eligible to receive a 40% Pro FX membership product discount on coverfx.com purchases

Aestheticians, Cosmetologists, Hairstylists, Fashion Stylists, Nail Technicians, Costume Designers, Models | On-air talent | Performers and Photographers are eligible to receive 30% Pro FX membership product discounts on coverfx.com purchases.

Requirements:

Agency Information
Website
Coposite Card
Business Card with name and specific profession
Editionial page with name credit
Union card number
Head shot & resume
Professional License (no driver’s license)
Diploma/Certificate
Publication Measthead
Program/press materials with name
Contract on production company letterhead
Creq/call list on Production Company Letterhead Professional letter of reference of employment
Makeup School Information & Student number

Essie

Discount Amount: 50%

Requirements: Professional license - cosmetologist, cosmetologist instructor or nail tech.

Eve Pearl

Discount Amount: 30% - 40%

Requirements: "30% (with proper returned form and proper credentials) or 40% ($50/Black Pearl annual membership fee and returned form with credentials). Once approved (usually within 24 hours) you can start to use your discount. We request that you place your artist discount order via telephone at 212.223.2229."

Frends

Discount amount: up to 40%

Requirements:

Beauty School ID
Beauty School Diploma
Business Card
Business Website
Tear Sheet With Name Credit
Any Other Pro Membership Card
Agency Comp Card
Union Card
Program or Call Sheet
Business Licensing
IMDB Link

Illamasqua

Discount Amount:

Professional Make-Up Artist: 40% 
Student Make-Up Artist: 20% 
Aestheticians, Cosmetologists and Beauty Therapists: 20%
Performers with an Equity card: 20%

Requirements: CV/Resume, ID Card, Contract Cover Letter, Call/Tear Sheet, or College Acceptance Letter

Inglot

Discount Amount: 10% - 20%

Requirements: Three pieces of proof:

Pro Membership Card from other approved Makeup Programs
License of accredited schools of cosmetics
Magazine tear sheet with name credit
Real with name credit
Program/call sheet
Union Membership Card
Makeup Artist Business Card
Agency Representation
Student ID
Enrollment Documentation
Professional Headshot

LIME CRIME (NAIMES)

Discount Amount: 40%

This one you can apply for online! It took them about 2 weeks to approve my application. Let me tell you. This is definitely the one you want to get!!!! Lime Crime partnered with Naimes, and online beauty store! A store that carries other makeup lines as well. Like Two Faced, Ben Nye, Bobby Brown! If you get approved for this, you get discounts on those lines of product as well!!!!! I was TOO THRILLED!!!

APPLY HERE!!!! http://www.naimies.com/studio-pro-invitation.php

LORAC

Discount Amount: 20% to 40% depending on profession

Requirements: You will need to contact the NAIME'S Beauty Center boutique below for LORAC's discount.

NAIME'S Beauty Center • naimes.com • 12640 Riverside Drive, Valley Village, CA 91607 • 818.655.9933

M•A•C Cosmetics

Discount Amount: 30% to 40% depending on profession

Cost: $35 yearly

Requirements: Valid photo identification AND two of the following:

Composite card
Business card with name and specific profession
Editorial page with name credit
Union Card
Professional valid license
Crew call list on production company letterhead
Reference letter from employer
Diploma/certificate from an accredited makeup school

Not accepted: Business licenses, websites, pay stubs or tax forms.

Make Up For Ever

Discount Amount: 20% - 40% depending on profession

Requirements: MAKEUP ARTIST (40%) Open to all working professional makeup artists who can provide:

Two (2) of the following along with a valid photo ID - •MAGAZINE TEAR SHEET WITH NAME CREDIT** •REEL WITH NAME CREDIT •PROGRAM / CALL SHEET •UNION MEMBERSHIP CARD •AGENCY REPRESENTATION (sponsored comp card, representation letter, link to roster)

OR Valid photo ID and the following •PRO MEMBERSHIP CARD from other approved Pro Makeup Membership Program (choice of approved programs is at the discretion of MAKE UP FOR EVER Artist Relations)

MAKEUP STUDENT/ INDUSTRY (20%) Open to students and licensed graduates of accredited schools of cosmetics, cosmetology and esthetics. Also available to models, actors, and performers.

One (1) of the following along with a valid photo ID - •LETTER OF ENROLLMENT (including dates and courses) •PROFESSIONAL LICENSE • AGENCY REPRESENTATION For Models (sponsored comp card, representation letter, link to roster)

•SAG or AFTRA CARD For Actors/Performers

Discount Amount: 40% (20% student/industry discount)

Makeup Magazine Pro Card (IMATS)

Discount Amount: EXCLUSIVE PRO-ONLY times at select IMATS, expedited entry during normal show hours, a 10-percent discount on magazine subscriptions and other special offers.

Requirements: "To apply for the Make-Up Artist Pro Card, please fill out the form below and submit at least two of the following, along with your resumé or cv and a copy of your photo ID, to establish your professional credentials:

Editorial page with name credit
Union card
Professional license
Diploma/certificate from a recognized make-up academy
Program/press materials listing your name
Contract on production company letterhead
Crew/call list on production company letterhead
Current, dedicated website showcasing work
Agency comp card
IMDB listing

Mally Cosmetics

Discount Amount: 30%

Requirements: Submit proof that you are a currently working Artist, cosmetician, or other makeup professional.

Sign up for a MallyBeauty.com account athttp://www.MallyBeauty.com/login/.

Naked Cosmetics Pro

Discount Amount: Unknown

Requirements: Unknown

NARS

Discount Amount: Unknown

Requirements: Professional Percentage Program

NARS offers a discount on its cosmetic products to industry professionals meeting the necessary criteria. Please note all applications are subject to approval.

Professional Editorial Credit Program

The NARS Editorial Credit Program provides artists with the opportunity to receive product in exchange for editorial credit according the specified guidelines. Please note all applications are subject to strict approval.

For more information on the Professional Percentage Program and the Professional Editorial Credit Program and the application process, please contact the program administrator at ArtistProgram@narscosmetics.com.

NYX Cosmetics

Discount Amount: 30%

Requirements: Photo ID plus either option A or B:

Option A - a copy of your active cosmetology license
Option B – a copy of your business card, 3 trade references, 3 of the latest projects you are working on or have worked on, and a copy of a bill or invoice for work

Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics

Discount Amount: 20%

Requirements: "email us a link to your website or online portfolio, along with your mailing address, phone number and preferred email address. Don't have a website yet? Send us a scan of your comp card, a tear sheet (with printed name credit), professional license or diploma or union card instead. Still a student of makeup artistry or cosmetology? Send us proof of your enrollment at your current school, and you'll qualify as well."

OPI

Discount Amount: 50%

Requirements: Professional license - cosmetologist, cosmetologist instructor or nail tech.

Origins Makeup Company

Discount Amount: 40% discount on Facial Skin Care and Color products

20% discount on Bath & Body and Hair Care products.

Requirements: "To apply for the Makeup Artist Program Card, click here to obtain an application. Please return application along with tearsheets, business card and proof of certification to:

ORIGINS Global Communications
767 Fifth Ave, 38th Fl.
New York, NY 10153

Cards will be distributed the first of every month and are only valid in US Origins Retail Stores."

Smashbox

Discount Amount: 20% - 30% - 40% depending on profession/status

Requirements: All three levels require valid ID (drivers license) plus the following:

20% discount (student)

Proof of current enrollment at an artistry based school or certificate program
Valid Photo ID

30% discount (freelance)

Valid cosmetology OR esthetician license
Professional letter of reference
Copy of your business card
Crew call list
Valid makeup artistry certificate within the last 5 years

40% discount (pro MUA)

Valid union card
Copy of a current agency ZED card OR comp card
Copy of your business card
2 professional tear sheets that include your name

Stila Cosmetics

Discount Amount: 20% - 30% - 40% depending on profession/status

Requirements: Two of the following:

composite card
portfolio with name credit
business card
valid union card
head shot
publication masthead
professional license/diploma (aesthetician, hairstylist, cosmetology)
program/press materials with name credit
contract on production company letterhead
crew/call list on production company letterhead
professional letter of reference company letterhead

Temptu

Discount Amount: 10% pro kits; 30% Temptu products (excluding kits)

Cost: $30 annual fee

Requirements:

Tear Sheet w/Name Credit
Agency Comp Card
Valid Union Card
Crew/Call Sheet with Name Credit
Valid Cosmetology or Esthetician License
Letter of Employment

Urban Decay

Discount Amount:40% on most UD products (restricted to spending no more than $250 per quarter)

Requirements:

A copy of your driver ’s license or state/federal photo ID
Two of the following:
Professional license (cosmetology)
Editorial page with name credit
Crew/call list on production company letterhead
Union card
Link to website
Business Card
Professional letter of reference

Zoya
Discount Amount: 50%

Requirements: Licensed cosmetologist or nail techs only

This one you can apply for online! It took them about 2 weeks to approve my application. Let me tell you. This is definitely the one you want to get!!!! Lime Crime partnered with Naimes, and online beauty store! A store that carries other makeup lines as well. Like Two Faced, Ben Nye, Bobby Brown! If you get approved for this, you get discounts on those lines of product as well!!!!! I was TOO THRILLED!!!

APPLY HERE!!!! http://www.naimies.com/studio-pro-invitation.php

Primers- they are your best friend!!

Obvious foundation streaks, noticeable pores, redness around the nose -- these are all makeup blunders on par with a glaringly large flake of black pepper stuck between your teeth. Celebrity makeup artist and beauty brand founder, Napoleon Perdis, says these makeup faux pas can be avoided by adding one simple step to your morning routine: applying primer (you're on your own with the pepper though).

Celebrity makeup artists everywhere stress the importance of priming. Makeup primers are crucial at keeping oil at bay while filling in fine lines and providing a smooth canvas for your foundation to stick to, says celebrity makeup artist Charlie Green. Now that we've converted you into a primer believer, here are tips to help you choose the best one for you:

12 Best Makeup Primers

· Skin tone: Primers come in different hues to address specific skin concerns. Green-colored primers will combat redness from rosacea or acne. Mauve/light purple counteracts sallow undertones while pink helps brighten complexions.

· Skin type: First, figure out whether your skin type is oily, dry or combination. Then choose a primer that is suited for those needs.

Once you've got the right formula, apply the primer after all your moisturizing. "It's like waterproofing your skin," says Jim Hammer, a cosmetics chemist at Pharmasol Labs in Easton, Mass. If you apply it before your day cream or sunscreen, those water-based products can't penetrate through to reach your skin. "If you smooth [the primer] on after, your skin can absorb your moisturizer before the primer forms a slick film on top of it," says Hammer.

Now, see the 12 best makeup primers...

No. 12: Sally Hansen Natural Beauty Inspired by Carmindy Luminizing Face Primer, $19.99

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 7.8*
Why: "I tried this product recently and it just made my skin feel so soft and smooth! I love that post-gym workout glow and I can achieve that (minus the workout on those lazy days!) with Carmindy's Luminizing Primer," says one reader. Another agrees saying, "its luminous quality makes your skin really glow -- even under foundation." Readers say this product takes "primer to a new level" as it works as a triple threat: "It works wonderfully as a foundation primer, alone for casual weekends, and triples as a body shimmer. I used it over the summer and it reduced shine, gave me a luminous summer glow, and kept my makeup lasting."

No. 11: Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer SPF 15 with Dermaxyl Complex, $42

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 7.9*
Why: Readers call it the "best primer on the market," because it "makes my skin feel so soft. My foundation went on very smoothly, evenly, and lasted much longer than it does alone." Another says, "I've used this primer for over a year now … and can't live without it. My makeup stays on all day and night. And, it also minimizes my pores, which is a plus." One woman says, "It keeps your face in place. I got this for my wedding, and tested it by running errands on a 90+ degree day when I knew I'd be sweaty -- normally prime conditions for a makeup meltdown. But it lasted all day and didn't get greasy!"

No. 10: Bare Escentuals Prime Time Brightening Foundation Primer, $21

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8*
Why: One reviewer says, "This product is fabulous at evening out my skin and creating a flawless palette for [my] foundation and colors. It's smooth, quick-drying and most importantly, non-irritating." Others say, "I have tried many primers and this one actually does what it says! I am a Mineral Makeup girl, and this definitely sets it for the day." And another woman says, "before I began wearing Prime Time it was impossible to keep my mineral makeup on all day long." And one reader simply says, "It's heavenly."

No. 9: Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation Primer, $39

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8*
Why: "People kept complimenting my 'dewy complexion.' I definitely credit this primer. It's a slam-dunk for dry skin, offering hydration and a smooth surface to apply foundation resulting in a more natural look," says one reader. Another says, "This primer is so unique and it totally delivers. I love the fact that it's gel-based and has vitamins and herbal extracts." And one reader says it's all she needs: "Auto Pilot is by far my favorite primer on the market. When I travel, I even use it in place of moisturizer. It sets my makeup so beautifully and it gives my skin the smooth texture it really needs."

No. 8: Tarte Clean Slate Primer, $27

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8.1*
Why: Readers like how "it truly does exactly what the name says: Gives your skin a 'Clean Slate.' I don't find it to be oily or greasy in any way, it's just a great product that glides over my skin." One woman likes how "it works well under every type of foundation I've tried it with: mineral powder, liquid, pressed, and cream. My skin doesn't get irritated by it, it doesn't clog my pores, and it leaves such a nice finish on my face." One reader says, "I love, love this primer. I like how it absorbs right away into my skin. It feels so soft, like silk, and my skin has a nice matte look to it after applying it, which I also love! The price isn't too bad either and it keeps my mineral makeup on all day."

No. 7: Laura Mercier Foundation Primer Oil-Free, $30

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8.1*
Why: Readers say the product "goes on light and absorbs in seconds and keeps makeup in place for hours. No more makeup sliding off your face in the humid summer weather. And, it also helps foundation glide over lines, rather than settling in them and making them more noticeable." Sounds like a huge plus to us. Another agrees saying, "My skin looks absolutely beautiful when made up with these products. I have mature skin and the primer smoothes pores and even light wrinkles to let the foundation do its magic."

No. 6: Clarins Instant Smooth Perfecting Touch, $27.50

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8.2*
Why: Readers call this a "must have" and the "holy grail of primers," because it makes skin "smooth as a baby's bottom!" People love that "it fills in lines and pores and allows foundation to be applied more smoothly." And one says, "Some primers are too slimy, some primers are too gunky, this one is just right! The consistency is thick enough to work with but it melts right onto you face erasing the appearance of pores and wrinkles -- and on top of that it FEELS great!" And as a bonus, many were "shocked that the price was so reasonable, being a Clarins product."

No. 5: MAC Prep + Prime Face Protect SPF 50, $26.50

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8.4*
Why: The high SPF is a huge bonus for readers: "I have melanoma and have to be very careful about sun exposure. This product is absolutely wonderful, and I only wish more products went this high on their SPF. [It] is an absolute everyday staple for me." Another says, "I went to Disney World last August and wore this in lieu of a traditional sunscreen on my face and didn't get sunburned all week long. That's quite a feat considering I was sweating profusely and that I'm fairly pale and prone to burning." And one more says, "I have super oily skin and this is the only sunscreen I've tried that doesn't feel greasy. I love that it's two products in one."

No. 4: DHC Velvet Skin Coat, $21

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8.4*
Why: "If I could I would give Velvet Skin Coat 20 stars," says one reader while another exclaims, "Wow! This is the absolute best product for people who want flawless skin." And one says, "I'm hooked. My skin feels like velvet. No exaggeration, I can't stop touching my face!" Another woman says, "Every other primer and filler I have used has sat on my skin like a cold patch on a pothole, and ended up making me break out. This doesn't. It makes your skin feel like velvet, and no zits! A must when I want to look my best."

No. 3: Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer, $36

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8.5*
Why: "This product is amazing. It goes on silky and so does your makeup after this base product. No shine and a healthy glow. Smashbox is really onto something with this primer!" says one reader while another calls it "complexion perfection." "I absolutely adore this product. It makes my skin smooth and evens out splotches and any flakes I may have so I look FLAWLESS." And one woman says, "If I were stranded on a desert island … well, I'd hope I had some water, and a multi-tool, and maybe my husband, but if I got to bring one thing from my daily makeup bag, it would be Smashbox's Photo Finish Primer."

No. 2: Make Up Forever HD Microperfecting Primer, $32

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 8.8*
Why: Those that deal with uneven red splotches say the green primer is the best: "I never really enjoyed using primers because I always felt that they were too heavy and that my skin couldn't breathe. That has all changed since I discovered Make Up For Ever's Primer. It is light, non-greasy and really helps tone my skin. My makeup has never looked better," says one reader, and another calls it "a life saver!" "My cheeks tend to be red ALL the time so when I bought this I was soo excited! It works really well."

No. 1: Arbonne Cosmetics Makeup Primer, $36

TotalBeauty.com average member rating: 9.9*
Why: A reader confides, "I am 55-years-old and have been wearing makeup since my early teens and [this] primer is hands down the best I have ever found! Believe me I have tried almost all of them." Another says, "Not sure how I ever lived without this in my makeup bag. My foundation goes on smoother, I wear less, and it looks better. It's candy for your face." And another says, "This product really does fill in those nooks and crannies on the face even with lots of freckles and sun damage," and one devoted consumer says, "I've been using Arbonne for over two years now and have yet to find a better makeup primer. Its silky texture makes putting on my makeup a joy. LOVE IT."

FASHION FAIR

Eunice Walker Johnson founder and director of Ebony magazine and Fashion Fair cosmetics.

The journey to becoming the largest Black-owned cosmetics company in the world began when Johnson noticed models, in the Ebony Fashion Fair show were mixing foundations to create the right blend to match their hues. Initially she approached existing cosmetics companies and urged them to create a line to meet the specific needs of Black women. Unfortunately, this request was met with great resistance.

Mrs. Johnson and her late husband John H. Johnson, publisher of Ebony and Jet magazine, went to a private lab that developed formulas out of the mixtures the models created. After successfully applying this makeup on the models in the fashion show, the Johnsons produced Capsule Collection, a mail-order package in 1969. Based on the overwhelming response, it was clear there was a demand for a Black cosmetics line.

Fashion Fair Cosmetics was born in 1973, named after the fashion show that inspired it. With its feminine pink packaging and a wide range of shades, Fashion Fair Cosmetics was strategically marketed to high-end department stores. The line continued to expand by introducing skin care, fragrance and hair care products that addressed black women's needs.

A trusted brand by many, Fashion Fair Cosmetics remains deeply rooted in the African-American experience. The line can be found in fine stores across the United States as well as in Canada, the United Kingdom, Africa, the Caribbean, France and other countries around the world.

In 2008, the brand embarked on a makeover by introducing a new logo, more modern, contemporary packaging and a wider range of shades. The brand's focus remains dedicated to offering products, services and education that address the unique complexion needs for women with deeper skin tones.

Almost 40 years after the first counter opened, Fashion Fair Cosmetics continues to pursue itâ€™s vision to become the preeminent global company that people of color trust to help them look and feel beautiful.

STILA

Stila Cosmetics was founded in 1994 by celebrity makeup artist Jeanine Lobell. The name Stila (pronounced STEE-la) was derived from the Italian word "stilare," which can mean "to pen". Stila's official website is quoted as saying that they chose that name because they believe every woman’s makeup should be as individual as her own signature.

Estée Lauder Companies bought Stila in 1999 and sold it to Sun Capital Partners, Inc in the spring of 2006. As a result of the new ownership, the brand had become a standard at Sephora and is also sold on its Web site, but it has been pulled from most of its brick-and-mortar retail outlets, including Nordstrom. Upon its sale to Sun Capital Partners, Inc the three dedicated boutiques were closed (the locations seem to belong to Estee Lauder as they were replaced with boutiques for other Estee Lauder brands.

In 2009, Stila became a Lynn Tilton\ company when it was sold to the private equity fund Patriarch Partners, LLC

How to apply...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CB_EEC12eXc

Stila liquid eye-liner.

LANCôME

Since its inception over 75 years ago, Lancôme has epitomized beauty and glamour with a quintessential French touch. Founded in 1935 by Armand Petitjean, Lancôme’s name was born when the cosmetic chemist encountered the historic ruins of the Château de Lancosme while vacationing south of Paris. The mystic yellow flowers that covered the estate grounds inspired the golden rose emblem of the brand.

Some of the silver screen’s most iconic stars have graced the pages of Lancôme campaigns, from Isabella Rosselini, Juliette Binoche and Anne Hathaway to Julia Roberts, Kate Winslet and Penélope Cruz. Supermodels such as Daria Werbowy, Arlenis Sosa and Elettra Wiedemann are also part of the Lancôme family, as are Julia Restoin Roitfeld, Beauty at Every Age Expert Sandy Linter and YouTube sensation Michelle Phan.

Lancôme produces a bevy of beloved products, including Trésor Eau de Parfum, Juicy Tubes, Bi-Facil Eye Makeup Remover and the Définicils mascara franchise that has remained a top-ranking mascara for over a decade.

Armand Petitjean, Lancôme founder.

MAKE UP FOREVER

Dany Sanz, founder and creator of MUFE.

On her beginnings:

I was working in theater to do the decoration, and I didn’t think of becoming a makeup artist as I was painting. One day, however, some makeup artists in the theater asked me to help them with the masks they needed to paint. They said, “it’s too artistic and we’re not artists, can you help us?” Why not? For me, it was painting. I did it on the face of one dancer, and thought, “Wow, amazing!” People said to me, “You are a very good makeup artist,” but no, I’m not a makeup artist, I’m a painter! Can you imagine what happened after?

It was a very nice experience for me to paint on the skin. After a few, I decided that the face was too small of a canvas, so I decided to paint downwards to paint the entire body. Nobody was doing that at the time.

Dany began her company 25 years ago in France - shortly after also opening Europe's first makeup school. No wonder she had so many gorgeous tips:

* Never leave home without: "Color. A bit of blush makes you look younger, healthier, and prettier. Always always wear blush."

* How she makes her makeup last: "When creating new products, I always think first about actors. Everything I make must first work on a stage."

* If you love her made for high definition line: Her HD foundations and HD powder are best sellers at Sephora, so this is big: She's going to launch HD concealer in 10 shades. AAAHHH!!

* The 25-color question: MUFE has 25 shades of foundation. Yes, a lot. "We consider ourselves an ethnic brand; we are creating shades for every color of skin you will find in the world." No wonder my insanely hard to match yellow-undertone skin loves Dany.

MUFE founder dany Sanz applying her products on a model.

MAC COSMETICS

MAC Founder Frank Angelo

Make-up Art Cosmetics, better known as M·A·C or MAC Cosmetics, is a manufacturer of cosmetics founded in Toronto, Canada and headquartered in New York City, New York.

M·A·C Cosmetics, Makeup Artist Cosmetics, was founded in Toronto, Ontario, Canada by Frank Toskan and Frank Angelo in 1984. The first U.S M·A·C store opened in 1991, in New York.

The company's products were initially specifically designed for professional make-up artists, but are now sold to consumers worldwide.

Long before their company history, MAC cosmetics founders directed their product line towards professionals in the beauty and fashion industry who had to rely on heavy cosmetics, cake makeup and stage makeup to create the visual effects needed to withstand bright lighting during photo shoots. Who better to rise up to this demand than a fashion photographer? With a glamorous image and a celebrity endorsed product line, MAC cosmetics took the beauty industry by storm. Finally the novice makeup artist could create special effects without the use of stage makeup. The average city gal could create an urban look that was wearable from nine to five with evening cocktails after hours, and brides finally had a cosmetic line they could rely on to capture beautiful wedding photos.

Estée Lauder Companies acquired controlling interest of M·A·C in 1996, then completed their acquisition of the company in 1998. Original founder, Frank Angelo, died in 1997 due to complications during surgery.

How To Master False Eyelashes

Kim K shows us "Bombshell-like" length.

As an avid false eyelash wearer myself, I thought that I would provide a few tips for you fellow bombshell's out there. Even though it is very convenient, wearing false eyelashes for over 1 week just does not look very good! Let's be honest ladies...you actually sleep in them! Imagine all of the eye crust that your eyes acquire at night, on top of the coat of eyelash glue. No one's going to tell you how it really looks, but here we're all about maintaining beauty in a healthy fashion. My personal recommendation is that falsies should not be worn longer than 1 week. Men don't find it very attractive, and neither do some of us "Make-up fiends". Remeber ladies, I'm only telling you this inportnat info out of all of the "Bombshell Love" that I have for you, now let's please make that change...QUICKLY! :-)

Laura Mercier's makeup artist, Matin spilled the secret to the fullness: fake lashes. And offered these pro faux-lash application steps. Check out other celebrity-approved beauty tips from makeup experts.

1) First, wiggle the band that holds the lashes together between two fingers. This softens it, so it curves better. (If it's too straight and stiff, it won't stay stuck on your lids).

2) Curl your eyelashes with your lash curler.

3) Put a tiny strip of glue on the band. If you put too much, blow on it to let it dry a little bit.

4) Hold down your lid with one hand and apply the strip to the base of your lashes with the other.

5) Finish with two coats of mascara. (But skip the mascara if you plan to re-use the lashes, since it'll make them dry and clumpy after a few hours.)

Read more: How To Apply Fake Lashes - False Eyelash Application - Cosmopolitan

BOBBI BROWN

Bobbi Brown backstage at The Heart Truth fashion show in 2009

As a successful makeup artist with access to everything in the market, Bobbi found nearly all products looked too artificial, making it impossible to create a gorgeous, no-makeup look.

Ten years into her freelance career, a chance meeting with a chemist at a magazine photo shoot changed everything. "I had the idea to create a lipstick that didn't smell, wasn't dry or greasy, and looked like lips, only better—and I told the chemist about it," she says.

The chemist made the lipstick following Bobbi's unprecedented specifications and the result was Brown Lip Color, a pinky-brown shade. Nine other brown-based lipstick shades followed soon after, and Bobbi’s set of lipsticks was complete.

In 1991, her 10 lipsticks debuted at the Bergdorf Goodman under the name of Bobbi Brown essentials. Bobbi was expecting to sell 100 in a month. She sold 100 within the first day.

The message was clear: Women wanted makeup that was simple, flattering, and wearable.
Read more on the birth of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics at http://www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com/

The go-to guide for all things Make-up!

NARS

François Nars

http://www.vogue.com

Behind every great fashion beauty there lies a great makeup artist. In the case of a long string of one-name supermodels—Christy, Cindy, Linda, and Naomi—that magician has been François Nars, a bespectacled Frenchman whose wand is his makeup brush and his alchemy, transforming mere women into glamazons.

NARS Cosmetics is a Shiseido-owned cosmetics and skin care company founded by François Nars, make-up artist and photographer.

The cosmetics line began with twelve lipsticks sold at Barneys New York. Since then, NARS have created various multi-use beauty products. The minimalist packaging was created by Fabien Baron and has been hailed as a modern design icon.[1] In 1996, Nars started his first advertising campaign doing the photography for the ads himself.[2]

Product shades carry provocative names like 'Orgasm', 'Deep Throat', 'Striptease,' and 'Sex Machine'. NARS 'Orgasm' blush is one of their most top-selling products, being Best of Sephora's Best Blush for 2006, 2007 and 2008. The success[3] of the 'Orgasm' products led to the creation of gift sets such as the 'Safer Multiple Orgasm' set, which includes a NARS Multiple (a cream stick which can be used on eyes, lips, or cheeks) in 'Orgasm' as well as two condoms[4]. They have also developed an 'Orgasm' nail polish.[5]

Some of the most popular NARS products are blushes, lipsticks/glosses, brow pallets, and world famous eye-shadow pallets. The shadows are pigmented and come in an array of beautiful colours.

NARS is like MAC Cosmetics in the fact that they are both on high ends of the make-up world. Neither brands can be found in Drug Stores.

In the United Kingdom, Nars products are sold in Harvey Nichols and Selfridges and is a brand favorite of Madonna and Victoria Beckham. In the United States, NARS products can be found in 42 states and the District of Columbia.[6] They are sold at Sephora as well as in department stores, including Lord & Taylor, Barneys New York, Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdale's, Neiman Marcus, and Nordstrom. In Canada NARS can be found in the department store Holt Renfrew as well as Sephora and The Bay. Their current CEO is Louis Desazars.

KAOIR COSMETICS

http://kaoir.com/index.php

Bio Keyshia Ka’oir (formerly known as Keyshia Dior) is a model, actress, stylist, & entrepreneur extraordinaire. She is the owner, CEO and creative force of KA`OIR Cosmetics, a company that she started in 2011. Her cosmetic line embodies everything that she is; it’s bright, young, and vibrant as demonstrated in the KA`OIR commercial that aired nationwide on major cable channels, that include MTV, VH1, E!, BET, Bravo and Style. She recently changed her name to Keyshia Ka’oir to represent her brand at all times. Keyshia “stands out from the rest”, and it is this unique ability that has made her success so impressive. She’s not afraid to be herself and she’s definitely not afraid to go after her goals.
Exerpt taken from http://keyshiakaoir.com/bio/

E. BY EVELYN LOZADA

Basketball Wives star Evelyn Lozada has taken her wild personality and put it into this creative makeup line. A cosmetic line designed by the same creators of MAC Cosmetics, which gives it the quality women need in a makeup line. Not only is it great quality, it is also affordable.

Order your palette ladies!

REVLON PHOTOREADY MAKEUP

I can honestly say that this product works just as great as any high end cosmetics line, from personal experience. Not only is the Revlon brand endorsed by one of the most beautiful women in the world, but it is also very affordable and looks great on any skin tone. Remember, all cosmetics lines are not for everyone, so you just have to find that one cosmetics brand that works best for you. Shop around, get samples. speak to MUA's at your local department store to guide you in the right direction of what you should be using. And always remember, your primer does make a dramatic difference!

Revlon Photoready Foundation is available in twelve (12) shades: Ivory, Vanilla, Shell, Nude, Natural Beige, Medium Beige, Cool Beige, Golden Beige, Rich Ginger, Caramel, Cappuccino and Mocha.

Revlon Photoready Makeup in Medium Beige

NYX COSMETICS

NYX products are sold in various make-up stores such as Ulta Beauty.

NYX was named after the ancient Greek goddess who ruled the night. We offer a variety of products ranging from eye shadows to foundation and brushes to eye lashes and glitter to glosses. Everything a professional makeup artist needs for the job or a goddess needs to create her look for a night on the town and rule the night life in this modern techno-savvy world.

NYX originated and is headquartered in the heart of sunny Los Angeles. The cosmetics line was founded in 1999 by a young entrepreneur named Toni Ko. Ms. Ko has been involved in color cosmetics since she was a teenager and has always desired to create and share a line of cosmetics that provided quality products at approachable prices.

Here’s the catch: NYX offers the best quality of cosmetics at attractive prices. Yes, that’s right, you can splurge without guilt. This has made NYX the fastest growing cosmetic company in the United States. The ultramodern and stylish packaging fused with the huge selection of highly pigmented colors continues to catch the eyes of many hip and sophisticated makeup gurus and has become a fave in their kits.

NYX Cosmetics is now known to top makeup artists, celebrities and style insiders around the world as a professional line featuring one of the widest arrays of shades available.

http://www.nyxcosmetics.com/about-nyx

Toni Ko

Toni Ko, Founder & Chief Creative Director

"Every woman is different and I try to offer products and choices that help them be beautiful, self-possessed and confident to match their individual, unique styles."
Toni Ko
Founder & Chief Creative Director
NYX Cosmetics

Bigger, Sexier Eyes

First, reach for liner. Skip black — like an LBD, it narrows your shape — and use a colored one to define your top lash line, says celebrity makeup artist Carmindy. (Blues and greens not your thing? Reach for slate, which looks awesome on everyone.) Now, swipe a shimmery white shadow onto your inner corners in a sideways V shape to catch light, which widens eyes. Finally, make your eyelash curler your BFF. Crimping the top lash line angles hairs so tips are closer to your brows, expanding the entire eye area. Immediately lock in the curve with two coats of lengthening mascara.

Wet n Wild Idol Eyes, $2 each

Read more: Flawless Makeup Tips and Tricks from Makeup Artists - Cosmopolitan

Plush, Pillowy Lips

Grab a colorless lip balm with shimmer, and apply it to the skin just above your cupid's bow — the area below your nose and between the peaks of your top lip. Adding light to that area creates the illusion of larger lips, explains Carmindy. Then apply a moisturizing lipstick. Hydrating ingredients, like hyaluronic acid, bind pout-plumping water to your mouth. Make sure it has a high-shine finish; matte versions don't reflect light. Finish with a swipe of the shimmery balm on the center of your bottom lip.

Sally Hansen Full and Radiant Lip Definer, $9.95

Read more: Flawless Makeup Tips and Tricks from Makeup Artists - Cosmopolitan

Perfect-Looking Skin

Using a concealer brush, apply cover-up to any pimples, making short, quick motions, like you're spackling. Why a brush? The tapered bristles can get into the crevices of a blemish better than your fingers can, says Mally Roncal, celeb makeup artist in NYC. Be sure your concealer is made with zit-zapping salicylic acid; two separate formulas (zit cream and cover-up) layered won't stick to skin. Set everything in place with a skin-tone matching powder.

Dior Concealer Brush, $22

Read more: Flawless Makeup Tips and Tricks from Makeup Artists - Cosmopolitan

Killer Cheekbones

To make round cheeks look more chiseled, you'll need a highlighting powder and a bronzer that's two shades darker than your skin tone. (Get both in a multicolor palette, like the one at left.) Make a fish face, and dust the bronzer on the hollows of your cheeks. Smile, then brush the highlighter from the apples of your cheeks to your temples. "The contrasting tones define and shape cheekbones," says Los Angeles makeup artist Joanna Schlip.

Bobbi Brown Shimmer Brick in Bronze, $38

Read more: Flawless Makeup Tips and Tricks from Makeup Artists - Cosmopolitan

Uniform Brows

If you've tried filling in a brow scar without much luck, check this out. "The skin on a scar is smoother and has fewer pores, so pencils and fine powders just don't adhere," says Carmindy. Tinted waxes or creams are a better-sticking option. Choose one in a shade that matches your brows, and make short, light strokes in the direction of hair growth. Finish by blending color through the entire brow (not just the bald spot) for an even, believable shape.

Revlon ColorStay Brow Enhancer Tinted Wax, $9

Read more: Flawless Makeup Tips and Tricks from Makeup Artists - Cosmopolitan

A Tinier Forehead

Bangs will instantly fill the gap between your brows and hairline. But if you'd rather not make the cut, reach for a matte bronzer (shimmer will spotlight the area's size) and a big powder brush. "Bronzer creates a shadow, helping a too-large area appear smaller," says Schlip. Swirl bristles into the bronzer, and tap off any excess to keep the shade light and natural. Sweep the brush along your hairline from temple to temple several times then in circles to blend.

Physicians Formula Mineral Wear Bronzing Veil, $12

Read more: Flawless Makeup Tips and Tricks from Makeup Artists - Cosmopolitan

A Slimmer Nose

Shrink a larger or wider nose with this two-pronged attack: Apply your usual foundation to your nose, then swipe a streak of highlighter down the center of its bridge and back up in a straight line. "The paler color sandwiched between the foundation-coated skin will make the sides of your nose appear darker and slimmer in seconds," says Carmindy. Set with translucent powder, which won't darken the illusion.

Mark Hook Up Highlighter in Natural, $6

Read more: Flawless Makeup Tips and Tricks from Makeup Artists - Cosmopolitan