May 17, 2016
by Rachael Comeau
[Starter Set brush kit and Expert Thermal Styler hairbrush]
Calling all newcomers to EcoTools: there are two new great introductory products that may very well have you hooked! The brand prides itself on being a leader in the world of eco-friendly beauty products, and carries a range of bath-friendly items to hair brushes and cosmetic accessories.
Your first foray into the makeup brush side of EcoTools should be the Starter Set brush Kit . The set covers all of the essential makeup categories (some brushes can double up for various kinds of makeup): Blush, Shading, Angled Eye-liner, Concealer, and the LashBand Brow Groomer. At only $12.99, it provides a great value and even comes with a travel sized cosmetic bag to protect your brushes, wherever they may roam.
The second noteworthy brush is the Expert Thermal Styler hair brush. This tool enables professional-looking blowouts a reality for anyone, and comes in two sizes (large and small) for use, depending on your hair length. The brush is designed to create long-lasting style and volume, and even reduces dry time by up to 20%, which also reduces the exposure to heat damage. The large size, for medium-to-long hair, is priced at $13.99, and the smaller size, for shorter hair, is priced at $12.99.
EcoTools products are always available online and in select retailers worldwide, such as Ulta.
April 12, 2016
by Rachael Comeau
The beloved retro (and value)-inspired U.K. beauty brand, Soap & Glory, has made a run for the money with the launch of its cosmetics line here stateside. The most recent line of products are super affordable and cover all the bases, including items for your eyes, lips, and all-over face. Noteworthy items include the Sexy Mother Pucker Pillow Plump XXL Lip Plumping Gloss, which comes in four versatile colors, and even tastes delectable. The gloss leaves your lips with noticeably more volume while also locking in moisture, and is priced at a mere $14.
Also worth trying is the Thick & Fast High Definition Collagen Coat Mascara. With collagen as a key ingredient, this product adds considerable volume to your lashes, while lengthening and curling them all at once. Start by applying one coat with the V-groove side of the 7-Sided Fan Flare-180º Brush, and finish by rolling the brush from roots to tips for maximum effect. You’ll be all set for all-day wear, again for a nominal price of $14. Other items include the Glow All Out Luminizing Face Powder, the One Heck of a Blot Instant Perfecting Power Primer, and the Kick Ass Instant Retouch Pressed Powder (pictured in the slide show above).
The entire line of cosmetics is under $20 per item, and is available now exclusively at Ulta stores nationwide and online at Ulta.com.
March 23, 2016
by Lane Botha
Whether your curl type is loose, classic, tight or kinky, the Queen of Curls, Ouidad, has a product tailored to you. The new Curl Immersion Collection is designed specifically for kinky curls. It brings consumers with this curl type a unique and luxurious salon line featuring lovely natural ingredients such as grapeseed, coconut, rosemary and sage oils. Not only does the collection consist of five products plus a travel set, but it is also complemented by the 3-step Express Hydration Treatment Service offered at Ouidad’s flagship salons.
While kinky curls aren’t exclusive to one ethnicity, the demand for styling products for this hair type is increasing as more African American women continue to embrace their curls. Ouidad’s distinctive blend of breathable, water-soluble, and plant-based ingredients will deliver moisture to the internal layers of your hair and add beautiful definition to your curl. If your goal is to understand, enhance, and properly care for your curly tresses, look out for The Curl Immersion Collection that will be available beginning June 2016.
March 21, 2016
by Rachael Comeau
Sarah Hyland at the 2016 Oscars
We’re now entering that tricky transition period from winter to spring, a time that can be extremely difficult not only in terms of clothing, but beauty as well. Fresh out of a season packed with bulky knit sweaters and long pants, your skin is probably paler than you’d like it to be during this time of year. Luckily, there is a simple solution to this beauty dilemma:
self tanner. This can be an intimidating product for many people, so I got some expert tips from makeup artist Allan Avendeno, who recently did actress’s Sarah Hyland’s beauty look for the Oscars using tanning products from Vita Liberata.
Q: What was the inspiration behind this look?
A: Sarah’s silver gown was definitely a factor in making her skin perfectly bronze and glowing. It was a nice contrast between the silver on her body and the golden hue on her skin (achieved with Vita Liberata Marula Oil Self Tanner).
Q: What are 3 do’s and 3 dont’s of self tanning?
A: – DO shower and exfoliate before self tanning.
– DON’T moisturize before self tanning.
– DO use a mitt to apply the self tanner for no streaks.
– DON’T use your hands to apply the product. You will more than likely leave streaks, and you can’t apply the product fast enough all over your body before it stains your hands. A big mess!
– DO use proper moisturizers that don’t break down the tan, but actually prolong your color (like Vita Liberata Moisture Boost Body Treatment).
– DONT use products like baby oil or lotions with greasiness because your color will disappear fast!
Q: Is there a specific skin care routine you should go through while wearing self tanner?
A: Avoid using scrubs and shower oils. After showering, hydrate your skin, but with the proper moisturizers that don’t strip the tanner.
Q: What are the best makeup products to use to compliment a tanned look?
A: With a tan complexion, a beautiful peach or coral blush and a peach stain or lip balm will give you a perfect, healthy glow!
All Vita Liberata products can be purchased online at www.vitaliberatausa.com.