Eco Chic

I recently spent a sunny spring day in Chicago surrounded by beauty goodies from EcoTools, the brand that brings eco-conscious beauty products to the forefront of looking absolutely amazing! A great range of hair and makeup brushes, face and body sponges and even a variety of faux lashes were all at my disposal to use, in sessions led by the EcoTools beauty team. I wanted to share some of the GREAT tips and how-tos with the products, which can swiftly improve your beauty routine.

[Makeup Tools & Looks Expert Teni Panosian, applying BB Cream with the Skin Perfecting Brush]

And now…tips time!

[The EcoTools Sleek & Shine Finsher, Styler = Smoother, and Quick Volume Styler Brushes]

Build Some Volume & Texture In Between Washes

With the help of dry shampoo and a texturizing spray, you can mask the flatness, oils, and obvious “second day hair” look, but the final step of getting your hair to look fab is with the Styler + Smoother half round brush. Move your hair from side to side with the brush, applying just a short blast of heat via the blow dryer to work in the product and build the volume and matte hair look.

Don’t be Afraid to Tease

Your hair, that is! You can backcomb it gently, which is the fastest way to build some instant volume, using the Sleek + Shine Finisher brush, which can also be used for smoothing over any bumps or mess-ups.

Are You Using the Right Brush?

I know that buying a brush may seem like a no-brainer, but you could be optimizing your tresses further by using a brush more specific to your hair type. For example, the EcoTools Quick Volume Styler is for short to medium hair, while the Full Volume Styler is meant for longer locks. Plus, the aerodynamic Eco-Vent system helps hair to dry 20% faster than other brand’s brushes, leading to great style in a jiffy.

Makeup: (session led by Makeup Tools & Looks Expert Teni Panosian)

Work in the BB Cream or Foundation with a Specific Brush

Sometimes it can be a challenge to get a flawless finish from foundation or a BB Cream, but having the right tools can make a world of difference. The Foam Applicator Brush  (pictured) is basically my EVERYTHING right now, hands down,  as the contour gets right into those hard to reach spots (under the eyes) and is easier to grip and manipulate than holding a regular sponge to blend. The Skin Perfecting Brush is also a HUGE help, as its designated specifically for the texture of BB/CC creams, has a great contour, and a ton of super soft bristles to really nestle the product into your pores.

Set the Look with Powder

Once your makeup look is complete, finish it off by setting everything with a dusting of mattifying powder. Use the awesome, oversized Face & Body Sculpting Brush or Sheer Finish Kabuki Brush for a good once-over!

Remember Your Brows

It’s easy to forget about them, but the brows really do play a large part in framing the face and completing the look. Put  them into place with the Lash & Brow Groomer Brush, and add a little filler via a liner or shadow with the help of the Eye Enhancing Duo Set for added depth, fullness, and color enhancement.

Lashes: (session led Bath, Spa & Lash Expert Carly Cristman)

When in Doubt, Cut Them in Half!

If you are afraid of faux lashes, or are dedicated to a more natural look, cut the lash in half, and apply it to the outer lash line. With less to lie down into place, you’re sure to get the hang of it. You can also try even smaller pieces, like the Natural Accent Lashes (all lash kits come with formaldehyde-free lash glue and an applicator).

Tap, Tap, Press Into Place

Once you’ve laid the lash track down, use the tip of the applicator to firmly, yet carefully, tap into the lid, so that it’s definitely secure.

Finish off with Mascara 

Once your lashes are on  (my faves are the Everyday Definition Lashes), add an extra few swipes of mascara to blend the look together.

[The Pure Complexion Deep Cleansing Sponge, Dry and Wet]

Exfoliating Can Be a Gentle Process

Especially when it comes to your face, you never want to be overly zealous and too rough.  The Pure Complexion Deep Cleansing Sponge not only looks cool, but feels soft and silky Konjac vegetable fiber, as well as the ability to get fully soaked, yet completely dry out and be used over and over again- perfect for travel!

Sometimes, Just Your Everyday Product is Needed for a Quick Refresh

Sounds weird, BUT a once-over with go-to usual body wash and a special kind of sponge or glove can get your skin squeaky clean, its circulation going, and the dead skin cells with it!  The EcoTools Bath & Shower Glove (there’s also a mitt) goes the extra mile when it comes to all over glow,  gently buffing and cleansing in one fell swoop.

Lock in the Moisture While You Sleep or Relax

The best products are the ones that work for you, while you’re doing…nothing! During the session with Carli, we made our own natural body scrubs that had great hydrating oils in them like olive, coconut, and tea tree, and it would be extra beneficial to lock in that moisture, or add an additional one into the mix. Spa Moisture Gloves or Spa Moisture Socks are perfect to slip on while you’re sleeping or watching TV, and will give your hands and feet the most buttery soft feeling, ever!

[High volume miracles happen with a little teasing!]

[My completed look, using all of these EcoTools products]

Full Disclosure: Fashion Pulse Daily received products and accommodations courtesy of EcoTools while in Chicago.