Brows

Hi Terri! I have pretty decent brows, but you can’t really see them because they’re so light in color ( I have naturally blonde hair). I don’t like filling them in with a pencil, is there another alternative to make them stand out? -Sonja

Hi Sonja! I think a lot of natural blondes have this issue and there are some great alternatives to a pencil! Try using a tinted brow gel. This will add a light wash of color to your existing brows and really make them pop in a natural way. I recommend the Maybelline Express Brow Fast Sculpt Mascara. If you are someone that gets your hair colored, next time you are at your salon, ask your stylist to add a little bit of the color to your brows. This will give a more semi-permanent solution that is less day-to-day maintenance.

Setting Spray

I use a powder and then a setting spray to make my makeup last longer, but I find that my makeup is still wearing off pretty quickly throughout the day. Is there a certain way I should be applying my makeup to ensure it lasts all day? -Helena

Hi Helena! If powder and setting sprays aren’t working for you, try using them in a different way. For example, you could mix the setting spray into your foundation, or spray it onto your brush or beauty sponge before applying the foundation. Finding the right makeup routine for your skin is really about experimentation. If you haven’t found a setting spray you like, Film and Television Makeup Expert, Rebecca Alling, says  Danessa Myricks’ setting sprays are her go-to. 

Puffy Face

When I wake up in the mornings my face is a bit puffy. Is there anything that can help with this? ~Mallory

I have the same issue, Mallory. Ice Rolling works wonders! As you move the ice over your skin, it reduces puffiness and inflammation, redness and other irritations, tightens, and even aids in the absorption of skincare products.
There are tons of ways to go about this depending on your budget and skin sensitivity level. For instance, an ice cube from the freezer works great. However, if your skin is too sensitive for that direct contact, you can use an ice roller tool like this one from KITSCH or the Golden Ice Globes from Glycelene for added luxury and skin-energizing benefits. 

Wavy Hair

I have wavy hair and I love how my waves look when my hair is still wet, but as it air-dries it becomes limp and frizzy. Is there a way to combat this? ~Zara

Hi Zara, great question! It’s important to keep wavy hair hydrated because that keeps curls bouncier and smoother. Use a hair mask once a week to add extra moisture. Another way to enhance waves is to apply a curl cream while hair is still damp.This will help prevent frizzing and help keep your curls intact as they dry.

Of course, the thing about curls is — they are unpredictable! So, you may find that even after you’ve done all these things, your hair may still need a few extra twirls with a curling iron or wand to get the waves you crave.

P.S. We consulted Hairstylist Extraordinaire, Richard Marin, and he recommends Furterer Sublime Curl Curl Nutri-Activating Cream.

Concealer

It seems every tutorial has different advice on where to put my concealer. Where should I be applying it? ~Kristen

Hi Kristen! My rule is to use concealer wherever you need to even out skin tone, brighten or minimize imperfections. For example, if you want to minimize puffiness under your eyes or hide a blotchy patch on your cheek, only apply it to those problem areas.
When you apply too much concealer in areas or use it in areas it isn’t needed, it actually does the opposite of what you want and enhances fine lines and texture.
Concealer placement should not be a “stamp-on” routine, and it will be different for everyone. Before each application, take a moment to look at your face and consider what you want to accomplish with your makeup. This will help you decide where concealer is necessary and where it’s not.

Eyeshadow

Hi Terri! I feel like my eyeshadow color doesn’t show up as vibrant as I would like it to. I do have some discoloration on my lids from veins. Could that be the reason? Is there a solution? ~Traci

Traci, this is something most people experience in one way or another. Skin tends to be a little darker on and around the eyes in general and lids also can have veins that show, broken capillaries, etc. Whatever the case may be, it can prevent your eye shadow from showing its true color. A quick fix is to first put a small amount of concealer or foundation on your eyelid and then set it with a translucent powder (like the Amazing Cosmetics Powderset). That way you have an even-toned canvas to apply your shadow to!

Grooming Brows

I hear people using the term “grooming” when talking about eyebrows, but I’m not sure what that really means. ~Anya

Hi Anya! Grooming your brows is making sure the hairs are uniform and not unruly. At the simplest level, it’s as easy as running a clean spoolie brush through them with upward strokes to be sure they are in place. You can go one step further by using a brow gel (clear or tinted) to help them hold their shape all day.

Perfect Lip Line

What can I do to get a sharp line every time I apply my lip liner? ~Samantha 

Samantha, so glad you wrote in. Clients ask this question all the time. The trick to getting a perfect line is to keep your pencil sharp. It’s best to use a sharpener specifically for makeup products, like the one we sell in our vTb Boutique, but you can use a regular pencil sharpener if you’re in a bind. Sharpening your lip liner helps ensure a perfect line and a sanitary application because it freshens your pencil each time!

Blotchy Skin

My friend is getting married in May. I’m thrilled to be a bridesmaid, but the dress shows my chest. I’m very self-conscious because I have a lot of splotchiness due to sun damage. Do you have any tips? — Monica

Monica, I have the perfect product for you! Body Coverage Perfector from Westmore Beauty is a body makeup that I use on myself and my clients. It evens out skin tone and leaves a very natural, smooth finish. The best part—it doesn’t run or rub off when applied properly. I used it on a client who wore a white ensemble, and it did not transfer at all. I like to apply it with a brush, let it dry for 10-15 minutes, and then buff it out with a makeup powder puff. Check out our tutorial and review of this product on our Mini Masterclasses page for a more in depth description! Enjoy the wedding and be assured you will be a beautiful, unblotchy bridesmaid!

Skin Care

I have a serum, oil, and moisturizer with SPF in it that I use, but I’m not sure which order to put them on. 
— Lucero

I think everyone has this question! A good rule of thumb is to apply the lightest consistency first. So: Serum, then oil, and moisturizer last. Not only does it sit best that way, but it also works to your ultimate skincare advantage by placing the active ingredients closest to the skin and the protective ingredients on top.
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