Beauty

3 Makeup Trends To Keep On Your Radar this Season

April 22, 2019

Photo by Eloise Ambursley on Unsplash

It’s that time of year again! Yup, The Makeup Show is coming back to New York City and is expected to be even better than before.

The epicenter of beauty will reconvene at the Metropolitan Pavilion where professional artists, legends and industry experts will gather this spring (May 5-6, 2019) in the name of makeup. From stocking makeup kits to the highly-anticipated Beauty Brunch (May 4^th), attendees will have the opportunity to relish in a fun-filled weekend of networking, mingling and educational activities. For those who aren’t exactly pros and won’t be attendance, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

James Vincent, The Makeup Show’s Director of Education & Artist Relations and one of the biggest names in beauty, shared some of the major makeup trends we can expect to see and of course, try this spring/summer season. Our biggest takeaway: glitter isn’t just for little girls.

Check them out below:

The Year of the Cat
Who doesn’t love a classic cat eye? There is not much in makeup that gives such immediate drama as the perfect feline flick. This season sees cat eyes in new colors and more dramatic shapes that allow the wearer to be more individual. Many designers brought dramatic shapes to the runway, but brands like Burberry did it in shades like taupe. Take a look at Danessa Myricks Color Fix or Cushion Color for a large array of color that is also waterproof. Classic houses like Dior showed more artistic flare and finish and many challenged the size and shape of the cat eye. Crown Brush eyeliner pens come in an array of shades and at less than $10 do not break the bank. Kevyn Aucoin at Camera Ready Cosmetics has the most beautiful black liner with a perfect tip for natural or dramatic looks. Kryolan Skin Liner pens come in shades that range from taupe to red and bold blues and allow any person to perfect the cat eye like a pro.

Shimmer and Shine
Glitter has managed to make its way from kids craft projects to fashion in a major way. We saw glitter and shimmer in the form of jewel and foil finishes on the eyes at Giambattista Valli, glitter lips at Jeremy Scott, crystal finish at Valentino and metallic eyes at Versace. Every artist from Val Garland to Pat McGrath are bringing it again this season. Lemonhead at Alcone offers easy to control glitter without the difficult clean up. Shadow palettes like Viseart and MustaeV make it easy to bring jewel tones on to the eyes. For metallics, Mehron Metallic Powder is ideal for real gold and silver touches, try the rose gold for the eyes and lips for an unforgettable look. Stila at Frends beauty gives glitter a fashion forward look for eye and lip with a while collection of jewel tones, glitters and metallics that are perfect for the pro or everyday makeup wearers.

Skin Gang
This season it was a truly glowing, natural look. Every day skin care and beauty routines help to bring a gorgeous complexion all summer long. Start by gently exfoliating with Twinmedix Resurface, a non-granular exfoliant that gets rid of all the dry and dead skin. Rebels and Outlaws Potion are the perfect blend of organic Hydrosol and essential oils infused with Crystal to balance your skin PH and your energy. Protect and moisturize with celebrity secrets from brands like Perricone MD and Mario Badescu Skin Care. For coverage, try airbrush with Mineral Air or Kett Cosmetics for a flawless finish that looks natural and lasts through the intense Texas summer. Try Limelife by Alcone One Drop Wonder and Dew Date for skin that has exceptional glow without the grease.

For tickets and more information, please visit The Makeup Show.

Which beauty trends are you looking forward to trying this season?

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Beautycon NYC 2019: My First Experience

April 18, 2019

Two weeks ago, beauty lovers descended on the Javits Center in New York City for a fun-filled weekend at Beautycon. Not familiar with Beautycon? Well, it’s the beauty mecca for those who can’t get enough of makeup, cosmetics and the social media stars behind their favorite blogs and video channels.

As a beauty blogger with an endless stash of lipsticks and mascaras, I knew it would be an event I’d enjoy. I was right. Thanks to Dove, I was able to attend the 5^th annual event as their guest for an incredible experience that I won’t soon forget.

The legacy brand invited me as part of their inspiring new campaign, Project #ShowUs, designed to tackle beauty bias and representation. Before the two-day event got underway, I got a sneak peek at Dove’s booth and was able to explore their ingenious activation which celebrates beauty in all forms.

The brand partnered with Getty Images and Girlgaze to launch the world’s largest stock photo library 100 percent created by women. Throughout the booth, some of the 5,000 photographs of 179 women from 39 countries were on full display for visitors to see.

In addition to Dove’s interactive booth, they also offered Beautycon attendees free hand massages using their new Body Wash Mousse and Exfoliating Body Polish for smooth, soft skin.

The two-day convention was comprised of countless innovative beauty activations, fun makeup tutorials, invigorating dance breaks, and inspiring panel discussions.

All the panels featured industry leaders talking about subjects around race, beauty, inclusion, media and social justice. For example, Dove hosted the panel, “I Deserve to Be Seen: Beauty Bias & Representation,” moderated by former Teen Vogue editor-in-chief Elaine Welteroth, with guests from publishing and journalism.

Another interesting panel, “Black Girl Magic On the Big Screen,” featured Marsai Martin, Issa Rae and Regina Hall from the new comedy, “Little,” which discussed beauty standards and what it’s like being a black woman in Hollywood.

Oh, and did I mention the convention’s headlining guest? Yes, America’s favorite no-holds barred Bronx native, “okurr!” Yep, the one and only Cardi B was on hand to discuss managing finances and fame in the popular “Making Money Moves” session.

And it wasn’t just all makeup and panels. Hair is also a big part of what makes us feel beautiful. Thankfully, the event was chock-full of hair care brands. From SheaMoisture to the Mane Choice, the convention was teeming with well-known and up-and-coming brands to satisfy our hair care cravings.

Beautycon is a must for those who enjoy all things beauty. For me, it was an honor and privilege to be a guest of a brand that I’ve admired and used for as long as I can remember. Attending Beautycon fortified my self-esteem and restored a bit of confidence that I’ve been lacking these past few months. Hearing uplifting stories and seeing gorgeous images that represent me, I was reminded to embrace and celebrate my own unique beauty!

Have you ever attended Beautycon? If so, how would you describe your experience?

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Review: It Cosmetics Gives Women ‘Confidence’ with New Skincare Products

February 27, 2019

They say confidence is the best accessory (oh and a smile), but without confidence, your smile surely wouldn’t shine as bright.

That’s why confidence was the running theme at It Cosmetic’s mid-winter soiree last night. The leading beauty and cosmetics brand took attendees on a splendid journey celebrating confidence and showcasing new products from their “Confidence In a…” line.

Upon entering the lavish and incredibly inventive event held on the city’s west side, editors, bloggers and influencers were asked to check their insecurities at the door. In turn, guests’ “insecurities” like fine lines, dark circles, dry skin and other perceived beauty shortcomings were transformed into literal cases of confidence.

After receiving our self-assurance boost at check-in, we were whisked into the main event where we were given boarding passes and passports to leave behind all insecurities and embrace our inner confidence.

Throughout the venue, there were stations spotlighting the new offerings including, Confidence in a Foundation, Confidence in a Gel Lotion, Confidence in a Cream Rosy Tone and Confidence in a Neck Cream. Additionally, there were several swoon-worthy photo stations that served as pretty backdrops to complement the product launches.

From billowy cotton-candy to pink lemonade-infused signature cocktails, the event was teeming with special touches and creative details throughout.

Here’s the scoop on all the four new products:

Confidence in a Foundation: This lightweight, full-coverage foundation is similar to my favorite, CC Cream by the brand, but provides a flawless finish that stays put and hydrated for up to 24-hours. Plus, it’s matte, which works wonders for those who suffer from oily skin. Available in 48 alluring shades, you’re bound to find the perfect match. Available here, $32

Confidence in a Gel Lotion: Oil-free, this moisturizer is a lifesaver for those with dry, sensitive skin. The water-like gel makes absorption easy and virtually weightless. Thanks to cactus flower extract and ceramides, it seeps into pores creating a smooth, filter-like finish. For dry, sallow skin, this is the answer to your skincare woes. Available here, $36

Confidence in a Cream Rosy Tone: I’ve been using Confidence in a Cream for a couple years and couldn’t be happier with my supple, radiant results. When I learned about the new Rosy Tone offering, I was a bit skeptical. As a brown-skinned woman, I feared that the pinky-peach hued cream wouldn’t complement my dark skin. Luckily, I couldn’t have been more wrong. Somehow the Creamsicle-smelling moisturizer masterfully provides maximum hydration with a hint of pink that gives an enviable flushed glow. You won’t regret giving this Rosy Tone a spin in your beauty rotation. Available here, $48

Confidence in a Neck Cream: Nothing ages a woman more than her neck. Ok, I’m not sure if that’s scientifically proven, but most people would agree. Enter Confidence in a Neck Cream. This firming moisturizer is formulated with ingredients like seaweed extract to provide elasticity and tautness that blur wrinkles and keep your neck smooth and tight. Ditch your stash of turtlenecks and opt for v-necks so you can flaunt your décolleté confidently. Available here, $52

What brings out your confidence?

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Review: Amazing Beauty Hair Extensions

February 18, 2019

Last year was hard. The unexpected loss of my beloved cousin and several other relatives who passed, 2018 was a depressing year. The trauma and stress of losing loved ones took a toll on me mentally and physically. The most noticeable setback was on my head, front and center: my hair. I suffered extreme shedding and multiple seborrheic dermatitis flare-ups, which also cause temporary hair loss. To say my hair was under attack would be an understatement.

Enter: Amazing Beauty Hair, 100 percent natural hair extensions. I’ve never worn clip-ins. In fact, last year was the first time I ever wore extensions of any sort (I donned two cornrow braids). That might be hard to believe, but prior to last year, I always had thick and healthy medium-length hair. But thanks to the unwelcome stress, my cherished strands took a major hit.

Thanks to Amazing Beauty Hair Extensions, I was able to restore the fullness that I’d had most of my life. The afro texture (12 inch) was spot-on with my 4c kinky-coily hair. Being an extensions amateur, I was afraid that they wouldn’t match my hair and I wouldn’t know how to properly install the all-natural human hair clip-ins. To my surprise, it was so easy that my 9-year-old daughter could do it!

It’s as simple as sticking a few bobby pins in your hair and voila! Each box comes with varying widths to customize your style. Instantly, my lackluster twist-out was transformed into a thick mane of luscious curls. I couldn’t believe how effortless it was for a hair extensions novice like me. Plus, it restored my confidence. As a woman, having hair issues can wreak havoc on our self-esteem, which I experienced firsthand.

Amazing Beauty Hair Afro Kinky Coily (12 inch) clip-in extensions available here, $85.

While I’ve taken the proper steps to manage my stress levels and seek treatment for my scalp problems, Amazing Beauty Hair clip-ins keep me looking and feeling good in the meantime. And they look so natural that no one notices when I’m wearing them—not even my husband! They blend in so well that it subtly adds oomph.

Now that I’ve discovered how simple they are to install, I’ll use them whenever I want to switch things up or add length. Whether you’re a clip-in newbie or master, these extensions are a must for upgrading your look.

Have you ever used clip-in extensions? If so, what do you love the most about them?

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Why The Mane Choice’s Tropical Moringa Is a Top Pick for Curly Hair

February 8, 2019

When it comes to hair care, The Mane Choice is one of my main choices (pun intended). Finding brands that work for me and my daughter’s hair can be challenging, but The Mane Choice is one that I can count on to satisfy our individual hair care needs.

I’ve tried several of the black-owned brand’s collections and have been thoroughly impressed — Tropical Moringa, one of their latest, is no exception. The delightfully-scented line includes a shampoo, conditioner and hair mask. The fragrance is so inviting that it mentally transports you to an exotic Caribbean island where coconut piña coladas and pineapple smoothies are on deck.

Infused with biotin, sweet oil, honey and moringa seed oil, each of the products brings out the best in both of our unique hair patterns. As someone who suffers from dandruff and occasional seborrheic dermatitis flare-ups, the shampoo effortlessly removes stubborn flakes, leaving my curls fresh and scalp clean. Also, since my hair sheds a lot during the winter months, the refreshing lather locks in moisture to prevent breakage. For my daughter who doesn’t have dandruff or breakage issues, the shampoo leaves her hair strong and smelling good without drying it out.

It’s no secret that we natural girls love a good conditioner, and this one doesn’t disappoint. It’s thick and rich, which I love because it saturates my coarse, kinky-coily hair providing it with ultimate hydration. Thanks to the sweet oil and honey, it provides an enviable gloss that’s hard to achieve with other products. For my daughter, who has finer, looser curls, it isn’t too heavy and doesn’t make her hair feel dense or weighted down. Instead, it restores moisture and defines her natural texture by enhancing her springy ringlets.

While I haven’t tried the other products from the line, since they’re packed with the same restorative and strengthening ingredients, I’m sure they’ll deliver the same supreme results.

Have you ever used any products from The Mane Choice? If so, what are some of your favorites?

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Dermatologist-Approved Winter Skin Tips To Keep Skin Healthy All Season Long

January 23, 2019

It’s no denying that Old Man Winter has arrived. With cities across the country dipping into the single digits over the weekend, freezing weather is officially here. That means keeping skin moisturized is more important than ever. Frigid winds and cold temperatures can wreak havoc on skin so taking the proper steps to keeping it healthy is key.

I caught up with Dove dermatologist Dr. Mona Gohara to get her tips and advice on how to keep skin in tip-top shape all season long.

BGG: What are the biggest changes your skin undergoes during the colder months?
Dr. Mona Gohara: In the winter months, your skin is subject to cold temperatures outside and the jacked-up heat inside. Both can irritate the skin barrier causing inflamed, itchy and flaky skin.

BGG: For women suffering from skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema, what’s the most crucial tip to help them protect and treat their skin during the winter?
DG: Be gentle to your skin and avoid irritants. Wool sweaters or a harsh cleanser used in the shower that strip our protective skin barrier could be stoking the fire.

BGG: Should you apply extra moisturizer during the winter to your skin? If so, why is it important to your skincare regime? What do you recommend?
DG: I think it is important to provide moisture to your skin every single day. This can be in the form of cleanser, such as Dove Body Wash, which has a formula with 1/4 moisturizing cream, leaving your skin softer after just one shower. If additional moisture is needed, using a cream instead of a lotion will give you the most bang for your buck. Creams are mainly oils, while lotions are primarily water based. Moisturizing right after the shower within 3 minutes is optimal.

BGG: There’s a misconception that SPF is only necessary during the summer and warmer months, why is it critical to apply year-round?
DG: If you can see your hand in front of your face, then there is enough UV light to cause skin cancer or damage. Also, visible light which comes in the form of lightbulbs in your office or home can cause skin damage. Therefore, SPF 30 or higher should be a part of your daily routine, not just when the sun is shining bright.

BGG: What temperature is the best for showering during the winter?
DG: Warm water is the best temperature. Keep it not too hot and not too cold.

BGG: When it comes to properly cleansing the body via bathing or showering, is one better than the other for your skin?
DG: It’s a personal preference, but I prefer showers.

BGG:Is there a motion (circular, etc.) that you tell your patients to use that’s more beneficial for washing your skin? Loofah sponge or wash cloth? Which is less harsh for the skin?
DG: Soft cotton washcloths or your hands are the best to use. Loofahs can be a bit too harsh and can do damage to the skin barrier. Use a circular motion to stimulate blood flow.

BGG: How often should the skin be exfoliated with scrubs, polishes, etc.? Why?
DG: Exfoliate once a week at minimum. We lose 50 million dead skin cells a day – that’s a lot! Leaving them to linger can leave the skin dull and less vibrant.

BGG: Why do you recommend Dove’s Body Wash and/or Foam Wash?
DG: Dove Body Wash and Shower Foam are made of the gentlest cleansers, are sulfate free, pH neutral and Dove Body Wash is also microbiome gentle. The skin microbiome is a living protective layer and requires gentle skin care to remain balanced. Harsh cleansers can disrupt the microbiome, but Dove Body Wash is microbiome gentle. A win-win!

What moisturizers and body wash do you use to combat harsh winters?

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Ashley Stewart Crowns ‘I Am Ashley’ Winner

September 21, 2018

Last week, Ashley Stewart crowned its “I Am Ashley” ambassador search winner.

For the second year, the leading fashion brand conducted a nationwide #FindingAshleyStewart tour in search of an ambassador who embodies the brand’s ethos: kindness, resilience, confidence, community and of course, fashion.

BROOKLYN, NY – SEPTEMBER 15: A view of venue exterior during Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Brad Barket/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

After a seven-month search, which included tour stops in Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Harlem, Dallas, and several other cities, Tiffany Gosa-Flamer of Chester, Pennsylvania, took home the title.

BROOKLYN, NY – SEPTEMBER 15: (L-R) Kendra Powe, Sharonda Gradberry, Chelsi Moree, Tiffany Gosa-Flamer, James C. Rhee, Mary E. Allen, Raquel Wells, LaShawn Kinley and Diane Diaga attend Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

BROOKLYN, NY – SEPTEMBER 15: Tiffany Gosa-Flamer attends Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Held at Kings Theater in Brooklyn, the finale showcased eight finalists vying for the chance to win the $10, 000 prize package, a new Ashley Stewart wardrobe, makeover, tour-sponsored gift prizes, a photo shoot, and participation in features across Ashley Stewart media platforms for one year.

BROOKLYN, NY – SEPTEMBER 15: Loni Love (L) and La La Anthony speak onstage during Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

The evening was filled with inspiring stories from the contestants, good music and fierce fashions. Hosted by Loni Love, comedian and co-host of the daytime talk show “The Real,” the two-hour show was an empowering celebration of women.

BROOKLYN, NY – SEPTEMBER 15: Soledad O’Brien appears onstage during Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Brad Barket/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

Media maven Soledad O’Brien and radio personality and actress Lala Anthony were also in attendance on behalf of the brand to present close to $150,000 in charities and individual scholarships to several students across the country.

Plus, the event featured amazing ’90s throwback performances by MC Lyte, SWV and Naughty by Nature.

BROOKLYN, NY – SEPTEMBER 15: SWV perform onstage during Finding Ashley Stewart 2018 at Kings Theatre on September 15, 2018 in Brooklyn, New York. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images for Ashley Stewart)

finding-ashley-stewart-finale-brown-girl-gumbo

Me with my friend Shelley at the Finding Ashley Stewart Finale in Brooklyn, NY.

“Becoming Ashley Stewart 2018 means that I have a great opportunity to empower girls, teens and women across the nation, and share my story of how I turned my life around,” said Gosa-Flamer. “It’s a true privilege and honor, and I’m proud to say that ‘I Am Ashley’.”

Do you shop at Ashley Stewart?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Beauty, Fashion | 1 Comment