How to Flawlessly Apply Lipstick or Lipgloss

Everyone knows that "practice makes perfect" but what if there were shortcuts? Chances are, your lipstick or gloss isn't always going to look photoshoot ready, but taking care of your lips and learning the best type of application for lip products can dramatically improve your results. With a swipe of pretty pink or fierce red, you can alter your whole persona...so why mess it up with feathering lipstick and uneven gloss? These tips and tricks will ensure you an impeccable pout, so purse your lips, my lovelies!

• Smooth your lips. Take a spoonful of sugar and add a couple sprinkles of water until it becomes a thick paste. Apply it to your lips generously and softly brush with your toothbrush for 30 seconds on each lip. Rinse off. Apply lip balm.
• Protect your lips. Apply lip balm (I prefer Burt's Bees Ultra Conditioning) a couple minutes before you do your makeup. This gives your lips time to absorb the moisture and soften. Blot off before you apply any other lip products.
• Line around your lips with concealer. This not only helps you reshape your lips how you want them, but also protects your lip line and keeps your lip products in line. Be sure to blend it in with your skin so that it isn't noticable.
• Line and fill in your lips. Line your lips with lip liner and fill your whole lip in with the same shade lip liner. This not only helps against feathering and smudging, but gives your lipstick/lipgloss something to hold onto.
• Apply your lipstick/lipgloss with a brush. Using a brush gives you more control over the product itself and where it is applied. You can reach the small corners and paint over each curve with ease.
• Blot and reapply. Give it a minute or two and blot (gently) before applying another layer of lipstick or gloss (you don't have to use a brush this time). Taking the time to blot and reapply really helps the product stay on longer and look even more vibrant.

Perfect lips don't have to take an insane amount of skill or time. These steps may seem like a lot, but when you actually do it, it's much quicker and gives you the results you want every single time. Follow these steps and I promise, you'll have no problem looking your best at any given moment.

xoxo,
TrinaD. <3

Review: Maybelline Volum' Express the Mega Plush gel/mousse Mascara

"The Mega Plush" - Maybelline

        Whether you're strolling through Sephora or Walgreens, there never seems to be a shortage of mascara. Some, promising longer, doll-eyed lashes, others...thick, lush lashes that frame your eyes like a curtain. While "break-through" advances in the beauty world are constantly popping up and on the shelves, many disappoint. I, myself, have had my fair share of broken promises and when I saw the new ad for this "amazing new gel/mousse mascara", I forgot all my past failures and decided to give it a chance, despite the obviously fake lashes in the photo. In other words, I couldn't resist. Oh, beauty products have always been my weakness, and in this case, how glad am I that it is...

Pros: the "flexor-brush", no clumps, brush size, soft lashes, longer lashes

Cons: not much volume, semi-long dry time

Sure, there are other mascaras that you can angle the brush/head with, however, this was built to be angled and stays in that position until you move it. This not only makes my life slightly easier but also helps reach the small corner lashes too. Along with the new gel/mousse formula, comes the disappearance of clumps. You might get one clump once in a while, but significantly less than with other brands of mascara. I also like the brush size, a lot. It's not too big, but just the right size for me to quickly apply mascara without having it stab my poor eye. (Never a dull day with me, my friends...) The new formula also gives you great, soft supple lashes that aren't flaky or brittle, as promised. While it does make my lashes look longer, I don't really notice a difference in volume and compared to some other brands/types of mascara, the drying time seems a tad bit longer.

My Final Decision: Overall, it's a good mascara. Clump free, long, and soft lashes that will surely make your eyes the focal point. While the volume was a bust, the product itself is not. Yes, my lovelies...I recommend.

xoxo,
TrinaD. <3

Review: Sally Hansen Crackle Overcoat

              Everyone knows that the latest craze when it comes to nails is crackle nailpolish but while OPI came out with the first of its kind, every brand of nail color seems to be coming out with its own version. However, with all of the choices it's hard to know which brand delivers so I decided to take matters into my own hands...or onto my hands I should say. After testing multiple brands I concluded that my favorite was Sally Hansen's Crackle Overcoat which can be found in most drugstores. Here's why I chose it...

Pros: 8 shades to choose from, easy to use (even for inexperienced nailpolish users), decent price, available at drugstores, it works like promised, quick dry time, looks gorgeous after sealed with a shiny top coat

Cons: it takes a little practice to get the hang of it (maybe after one or two fingers and it's easier to do it on yourself than on others)

      Like I said in my "Pros" section, there are 8 different crackle shades to choose from. That might not seem like too many but you always have to use a base color and your choices are endless there so you never have to have the same look twice! It comes in a hot pink, denim blue, black, gold (a very tasteful shade), violet, white, red, and silver. The price for mine was about $6. 50 and I would say that it's a good price considering the popularity of the product. While the OPI brand is only available at specific beauty stores...this polish is sold at Walmart, Walgreens, etc. so it might be easier (and cheaper) to purchase for some. For me, this crackle polish dried in about a minute and it was extremely easy to apply once I got the hang of it (only took me two fingers to get it perfect, which is a lot less than some other brands). Also, it looks absolutely fabulous if you paint on a shiny top coat to seal it (which you should always do but it looks especially good) because it really brings out the colors and makes it a lot bolder.

My Final Decision: If you're into the new "crackle nails" trend then I definitely recommend getting Sally Hansen's Crackle Overcoat. It works well, looks great, and is easily your ticket to fun and gorgeous nails.

xoxo,
TrinaD. <3

Tips For Using Liquid Eyeliner and Emergency Substitutions (Requested by Livvie J.)

       Liquid liner can do wonders, but it's not always easy to use. Especially for beginners, using the liner can get messy, sloppy, and frustrating. While you can use a stick liner to add emphasis to your eyes, liquid is just more smooth, versatile, and faster (once you get the hang of it). You can go natural or bold with it and with a precision point brush to provide you with the best control possible, it will be simple to master once you learn the basic tricks. If you're looking for a colorful, bold look, why not go for a sparkly pink, purple, or even green liner? Who says classic is always best? Liquid eyeliner is also commonly used for popular looks such as the cat-eye/winged look. But whatever color, style, or brand you choose, make sure to not use waterproof to practice first. It'll come off easier and you can use water (instead of eye make-up remover) to get it completely off.

Tip #1: When you apply liquid eyeliner, don't close your eyes. It makes the lines uneven because when you open your eyes, they're different from when you close them. If you're not comfortable doing that, then squint.

Tip #2: Use your pinkie finger as support. When you're applying liner and your hands are shaky or you just want extra control, lay your pinkie on your nose or cheek for support. It'll help stable your hands.

Tip #3: If you have trouble making a straight line, make three dashes - one at the inner corner, one in the middle, and one at the outer corner (change to dots when you get better and then none at all) - and just connect them afterwards. This trick can also be used (and is suggested) for swirls, intricate details, etc.

Tip #4: If you run out of liquid liner, just dip an angled brush in water, shake once, and then run it across black eyeshadow and apply to eyes. You may also use mascara, but it's a lot thicker so it might be harder if you're not comfortable using liquid eyeliner.

Tip #5: If you want to look natural, but still define your eyes, then take a normal eyeliner stick and apply it to your lashline. NOT above or on your waterline, but right where your lashes are growing. You just want to fill in the spots where your eyelashes aren't and it will make your lashes look incredibly thick and it will definitely make your eyes pop but still have a natural feel (and look) to them.

Tip #6: Practice. It's not a hard skill to learn, but you do need to practice doing it for it to look good. Use an old one that ran out, a plain eye-liner brush, or even that one in the shade of blue that you don't like but keep locked up in your cabinet.

But whether you're an eyeliner enthusiast or a beginner, I hope that my tips helped you and thank you for reading my blog.

xoxo,
TrinaD. <3

At Home Facial for Beautifully Glowing Skin (Tutorials for Natural Exfoliator + Mask Included)

        Blemish-free, glowing skin can be hard to achieve, especially for active, acne-prone teenagers. But having healthy and beautiful skin doesn't have to be a hassle. You also don't have to spend hundreds of dollars on products that "may" work or load up on concealer which might even make your condition worse. Making your own face exfoliators and masks at home are a cheap alternative to store bought products that are packed with glow dulling chemicals and residue. It's all natural, quick, and fun to do! Treat yourself to a facial without the bill that comes with it! Do it with friends or do it yourself...either way, you deserve some time to relax and make yourself even more gorgeous!

*Please remember that washing your face 2 - 3 times daily is key (at least once with a cleanser); doing this facial alone will not get rid of all your blemishes. Also, do not do this more than once a week. Constant exfoliation is not healthy for you skin for it may cause irritation. Please be extra cautious if you have sensitive skin.

 

Step 1 - Cleansing

• Cleanse  you face with your ordinary cleanser to rid your skin of the grime, dirt, and oil. I use Go Clean 360 Anti-Breakout Cleanser with the little scrublet.(orange bottle).
• Wash off with warm water to open up pores.
• Pat your face dry. You do not want to irritate it any more than you have to.

Step 2 - Exfoliation

Citrus Sugar-Rose Exfoliator

• 1 lime/lemon
• Granulated sugar
• Rose water

1. Take one lime or lemon and squeeze about 1/2 teaspoon of juice into a small bowl.
2. Start by adding one tablespoon of sugar. Use real granulated sugar. Keep adding more until it is slightly watery, but you can feel resistence while stirring. It should be a little bit thinner than a paste.
3. Add one more teaspoon of sugar.
4. Add 5 drops of rose water to the mixture. Stir well.

• After you are done patting your face dry, take the exfoliating face scrub into your hands and apply to face. Do not be rough with skin, it may cause irritation.
• Add more if needed. Rub skin GENTLY for at least 1 minute.
• Rinse off with warm water. Do not try to rub it off. Let the water wash it away instead.
• Pat face dry.

Step 3 - Face Mask

Pumpkin-Avocado Face Mask

• 1/2 can pumpkin puree
• 1 avocado
• 2 tablespoon cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon honey
• 1 teaspoon milk
• 1 egg + 1 egg yolk
• 5 drops rose water

1. Mix them all together and gently apply to your face, avoiding the eyes and mouth.
2. You may use an eye mask, but I don't recommend it because it has strings that would get in the way. I suggest going the old-fashioned way with cucumber slices for your eyes. (optional)
3. Relax for 15 minutes.
4. Rinse it off with warm water and pat your face dry.

Step 4 - Moisturize

Normal/Dry Skin: Use your regular moisturizer to soften skin as the last step.

Oily Skin: To moisturize your face but keep it from getting oily, use a cotton ball to blot on rose water all over your face. It does wonders and smells great!

Step 5 - Enjoy your clean, smooth skin!
I hoped you liked this tutorial and saw it as something helpful. Thank you for reading and have fun!


xoxo,
TrinaD. <3

New Posts Coming Soon!

      I apologize for not updating in a while, but I've been studying for my AP exams and finals. Worry not, though....I have many new posts coming soon. Reviews, tips, and tutorials - the whole package. Once again, thank you for you patience and purse your lips and bat your lashes cuz you're in for one sweet treat with what's coming soon. ;)

xoxo,
TrinaD. <3

Bohemian-Chic Hair and Makeup Tutorial

This totally fun and super easy Boho-chic look will definitely go with a flowy dress or cute sandals like these!

      
           So I came up with this look on a bored Saturday morning. I was planning on going to the mall later that day and decided that my normal makeup routine was just too...well, routine. I wanted to try something new, but still cute and not super bold. I wanted a fun look that I could easily rock any day. So the hair that I did was basically a side braid...with a special twist. And the makeup is a beautiful cinnamon gold color lined with a splash of aqua! So simple, yet so eye-catching!

The materials that you need for the hair are:

• 1 inch curling iron (optional)
• heat protectant
• anti-frizz serem (I recommend Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-frizz Serem)
• clear elastics (can be found at the dollar store)
• hairspray

The materials needed for the makeup are:

• Covergirl Eye Enhancers Eyeshadow in Aqua Paradise, Snow Blossom
• Bronzer (optional)
• Your normal concealer/foundation products (if you don't use them then it's fine)
• Eye primer (optional)
• Covergirl Lip Perfection Lipstick in #275 Kiss or Covergirl Natureluxe Gloss Balm in #265 Sandstone (or a nude color, if you prefer) (optional)
• Any kind of clear gloss (optional)
• Maybelline Eyeshadow in Cinnamon Spice (High-Pearl)
• angled brush
• a little bit of water
• Mascara (any kind)

Hair:

TIP: If your hair is already wavy, curly, etc. or you just don't want to curl it, then just skip the curling part of this look. I like to curl my hair so that the braid doesn't look too "perfect" and so that the loose pieces that come out are wavy and frame my face, but this is YOUR look, so you decide what you want to do.

1. Spray heat protectant evenly and brush out your hair to distribute the product throughout all of your hair. Take your curling iron and curl your hair (do not spray hairspray, leave it until the end). It doesn't have to be neat or even going the right way, as long as your result is curly or wavy.

2. Leave the curls alone so that they can set and fall out a bit.

3. After about 5 minutes, lean your head back and shake out the curls so that they're slightly messy.

4. Pull all of your hair to one side. Leave out what you want (I usually leave some strands out to frame my face).

5. Make two loose side braids. Make sure that one is bigger than the other (it doesn't matter which). Just make sure that the braids fall on top of each other, not next to each other. Secure with elastics.

6. Twist the two braids together tightly (because they will untwist slightly) and secure the bottom with an elastic.

7. Loosen up the braids (slightly pull out some strands, make it messier) until you have the look that you want.

8. Take your serem and apply some to your braid for shine and control.

9. Hairspray and enjoy!

Makeup:

1. Apply your concealer, foundation, and bronzer if you wish.

2. Apply the eye primer to your whole lid (if you are using it).

3. Take your cinnamon spice eyeshadow and apply it all over your lid.

4. Take your angled brush and dip it in water. Shake the brush once so that any excess water comes off. Gently glide the brush over the aqua eyeshadow so that it becomes a liquid liner and line your top lid. Line it as thick or thin as you wish.

5. Wipe of the angled brush and repeat it with the cinnamon spice eyeshadow on your bottom lid, as a normal eyeliner.

6. Using your finger, blot on a little of the snow blossom eyeshadow onto the inner corner of your eyes to brighten them.

7. Apply your mascara and lipstick with gloss.

8. Enjoy your beautiful new look!

xoxo,

TrinaD. <3