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The Simple Guide To Natural Beach Makeup

The Simple Guide To Natural Beach Makeup

White-sand beaches. Salty sea air. Frozen cocktails. Hello, Summer! It’s time to strut your inner goddess along the stretches of a tropical oasis. But before jet-setting off to paradise, be sure to pack your bags with all of the essentials for a natural beach makeup look. The key to a low-maintenance, long-lasting look is to keep it light, keep it bright and embrace the bronze. Follow our tips below for a simple, fuss-free makeup routine that’s perfect for a sunny beach getaway. Always Start With Sunscreen Regardless of skin color or tanning ability, you risk a plethora of negative consequences for failing to protect your skin from the sun. Before applying even one drop of makeup, coat your body (face and neck, too) in a high-SPF sunscreen. Allow a minimum of 20 minutes for the product to soak in before makeup application. Powder sunscreens are ideal for reapplication later in the day, as they won’t mess up your final makeup look. You may also consider a sunscreen-based primer to prep the skin, like the By Terry SPF50 Invisible Primer. This cream-gel formula is perfect for daily protection, leaves behind a velvet finish and provides long-lasting makeup hold. Avoid Cream Foundations It should go without saying that thick, cream-based foundations won’t stand a chance against heat and humidity. Powder foundations tend to perform better in these scenarios, but likely won’t last if you’re planning to enter the water. Stick to light, sheer, waterproof products that absorb into the skin. Our favorite is the Make Up For Ever Water Blend Foundation. Going foundation-free is the best option, but if you’re worried about lack of full coverage, mix a small amount of foundation into your sunscreen before applying. For blemishes or dark spots, a small dab of concealer, topped with a pressed-powder, should do the trick. Opt For Waterproof Eye Products Well, duh! You can’t go to the beach without waterproof eyeliner or mascara. We’re obsessed with Stila’s Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner, which seriously will not budge no matter how much water-based fun you endure. As for mascara, look for flake-free options, like Inglot’s Volume & Waterproof Mascara. The clump-free, smudge-proof formula adds volume and lasts all day, even after getting wet and re-drying. We prefer to skip eyeshadow altogether - because, well, it’s more natural - but if you’d like a little something on your lids, apply a touch of illuminating powder to the inner corners of the eye and under the brow bone. Ofra’s Glazed Donut Highlighter is a great option. Illuminate and Bronze Speaking of illumination… Amp up your glow early in the day with an illuminating cream above the cheekbones, across the forehead, on the chin and along the bridge of your nose. Don’t worry about waterproof formulas. The sun will give you a natural, sun-kissed glow as the day goes on. While bronzers aren’t necessary for a natural beach makeup look (reference previous sentence), choosing a matte bronzer is best for those beach babes who can’t live without it. Choose a sheer, multi-dimensional color like the ones in BECCA’s Gradient Sunlit collection. Shop The Look Now that you’re equipped with all the beach-makeup-expertise you’ll need, it’s time to stock up on the essentials mentioned above. 1) By Terry SPF50 Invisible Sunscreen Primer 2) Make Up For Ever Water Blend Foundation 3) Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner 4) Inglot Volume & Waterproof Mascara 5) Ofra Glazed Donut Highlighter 6) BECCA Gradient Sunlit Bronzer Tag us on Instagram and Facebook showcasing your natural beach makeup looks, and use the hashtag #crcmakeup for a chance to get reposted! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for at Camera Ready Cosmetics, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!
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YOUR GUIDE TO PERFECT BRIDESMAID MAKEUP

YOUR GUIDE TO PERFECT BRIDESMAID MAKEUP

Choosing the perfect bridesmaid makeup look for a bridal party is tough. Countless factors determine the final look: the wedding theme, the venue, the dress, the time of day … the list goes on. Follow these classic, go-to tips to make your wedding day seamless and stress-free. (And to ensure you and your bridesmaids make it down the aisle on time and looking fabulous!) 3 Main Focus Areas for Bridesmaid Makeup Looks: Face Eyes Lips Bridesmaid Makeup FOR THE FACE Prime, prime, prime! Before you apply any makeup to the face, be sure to use a mattifying primer to reduce shine and ensure the foundation stays put through hour-long photo sessions (and the ceremony, of course!) There are countless primers to choose from, but one of our favorites is the Bioderma Sebium Control for those with an oily complexion.This quick absorbing, moisturizing lotion smoothes, mattifies and provides instant, deep down results for naturally beautiful skin that stays matte all day and night. For those with a more mature complexion, Mehron Skin Prep Pro prolongs weartime while providing lasting hydration to plump up the skin for a hydrated and fresh appearance. Once you’re primed and ready to continue the bridesmaid makeup look, choose a lightweight, full-coverage foundation that will translate well on camera. We recommend TEMPTU’s Perfect Canvas Hydra Lock Airbrush Foundation, which comes in 20+ shades, does not transfer, and lasts all day. The semi-matte finish leaves a natural-looking appearance.  If you don’t have the airbrush applicator, we recommend TEMPTU Air, which weighs less than one pound and is easy to pack in your kit. BRIDESMAID EYE MAKEUP A classic smokey eye is the most common wedding bridesmaid makeup look because it’s easy to achieve and customizable depending on the colors you want to incorporate. To start this bridesmaid makeup look, you’ll want to apply a light silver or gold eyeshadow across the lid.. Choose an option with a little shimmer to enhance the bridesmaid eye makeup. We love using Viseart Sultry Muse because it offers a wide range of tones perfect for a wide range of complexions and eye colors. Next, you’ll want to apply a dark or jewel tone matte shade to the crease of your eyelid. Concentrate on the outer corner of the eye and blend upward toward the brow bone. Depending on the color you’re after, La Femme offers a variety of affordable shades perfect for a smokey eye. Finish the bridesmaid eye makeup with a light neutral color across the brow bone, like Kitten by Stila. If you’re looking for an eye palette that has all the colors you need in one for the best bridesmaid eye makeup looks, the Viseart Grande PRO 1X Palette offers all the shades you need to create looks ranging from soft glam and natural to deep and smokey.  BRIDESMAID MAKEUP FOR THE LIPS A neutral lip is a perfect way to balance out a smokey bridesmaid eye makeup. Choose a lip creme for added shine without the messy look that gloss can create. We’re loving lip palettes like Ben Nye’s All for One  or Danessa Myricks Beauty Luxe Cream Palettes in Nudist and The Feminist. Each palette boasts a wealth of shades that can be mixed and matched to create the perfect lip shade.  If you’re going for a bolder look, the Besame Red Lipstick is a true classic. Modeled after the iconic red lip made famous in the 1920s, this bright and vibrant lipstick leaves a full-coverage, semi-matte finish with just one coat. 30-MINUTE BRIDESMAID MAKEUP WORKSHOP This event has passed, but be sure to sign up for our text messages and emails to be notified of future classes, events, and sales! With bridal parties getting bigger and bigger, the key for any bridal makeup artist is maximizing efficiency to save time. Camera Ready Live has teamed up with pro makeup artist Erin Blair to showcase tips and tricks that will elevate your bridal makeup career. Learn how to simplify your makeup kit and speed up your process to execute a beautiful bridesmaid makeup look in just 30 minutes or less. After the demo, you'll get a chance to test out the new tricks you've learned during the hands-on segment of this workshop. Be sure to bring your kit so you can practice with the tools you're most familiar with! ABOUT PRO MAKEUP ARTIST ERIN BLAIR Erin Blair Gobin has been one of Dallas-Fort Worth’s leading bridal makeup artists for almost 15 years. She is the owner of Erin Blair Makeup & Hair Design, which handles approximately 150 weddings each year. Erin Blair is a member of the Knot: Best of Weddings Hall of Fame and a five-time nominee of the AACWP Vendi Award for best wedding hair and makeup in Dallas-Fort Worth. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by makeup artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set.  If you don’t find the product you’re looking for at Camera Ready Cosmetics, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!
Beauty Tutorial, Bridal, Makeup, Makeup Artist Career Tips
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Developing Your Drag Queen Character, Part 2: By Dallas Sheraton (aka Pro MUA Michael Moran)

Developing Your Drag Queen Character, Part 2: By Dallas Sheraton (aka Pro MUA Michael Moran)

  Once you've identified the Drag character you want to be, it's time to make sure she lives and breathes in the world outside. That means you’re going to have to piece her together.When it comes to Drag, there are a lot of "pieces." To start off, find a pair of good heels that you can walk in. Nude, open-toe, strappy shoes are best for those of you with big feet. They extend the length of the leg with no discerning finish to the foot. A closed-toe high heel with tons of rhinestones only says, “look at my gigantic feet!” Walking in your new shoes can be a whole other story. I happened to discover I was born to be on a runway, but I’ve seen some Queens who look like newborn colts. That's never a good look. I recommend shoes that do not have too large of a platform, as it can be quite a balancing act. Just find a pair at least 4-inches off the ground. (And make sure they match your purse!) Speaking of purses, you will need a sizable bag that can fit all of your makeup. Remember this rule: It is better to don a beautiful handbag with no label than to try passing off a fake designer bag in front of a room full of homosexual experts. Your Coco Chanel bag may as well be a set of handcuffs if it’s not the real thing. However, if you are a Comedy queen, then flaunt whatever knockoff bag you choose! Regardless of the handbag you buy, the important thing to remember is to find a bag large enough to fit all of your last-minute accouterments. (I can’t count how many times I’ve left the house absolutely flawless, only to discover once I was at a show that one of my eyelashes had lifted or my lipstick was smudged.) In any case, be prepared! In your handbag be sure to bring lash glue, a touch-up lipstick or gloss, foundation powder, eyeliner, and black eyeshadow. Why black eyeshadow? Because you'll need to enhance your smokey eye even more once you realize there’s a man with a lot of money in the room ready to pay for drinks. Forgive me, I  digress... Next on the list: your outfit! Drag queens, just like women, come in all shapes and sizes, but it is rare for a boy to be built for women's clothing. If you are buying from a store, go one or two sizes up and have it taken in for the perfect fit. Otherwise, find a seamstress, and pay to tailor-fit your fashion. The biggest rule of Drag fashion is to never look like you are stuffed into an outfit. Too many Queens make this mistake and end up looking like a Christmas ham that is strung and ready for the oven. Your Drag clothes should accentuate your figure effortlessly and beautifully. If you're a bigger Queen, you can still wear fashion fabulously. Look at Whitney Paige, for example. She was a plus-sized entertainer and Drag performer who always looked svelte in everything she wore! Regardless of your size, unless you weigh 90 pounds, you probably need a girdle. And a strong one at that! Remember undergarments are supposed to be worn UNDER your clothing. Choose a flowy outfit with a bold print, sparkle or bright colors to camouflage your undergarments well.  To pull your look together, you'll also need a wig. Choose a high-quality synthetic wig that can withstand heat for styling. That’s right, you'll need to learn how to style your wig! Don't just pull the wig out of a box and slap it on your head. You'll end up looking like a member of the witness protection program. Caring for and styling a wig probably requires a blog article of its own. But the key rule to wig styling is this: let your hair frame the face. It's best to style a wig while it's on your head and with your makeup already applied so you can see what suits you best.  This brings me to my final part of your Drag shopping list: makeup! You will definitely need a lot of that! Of course, I highly recommend shopping at Camera Ready Cosmetics for all your cross-dressing necessities. Not only will you be camera-ready, but you'll be stage-ready as well! For foundation, choose a full coverage formula like Kryolan, which is the standard in Drag makeup. Kryolan foundations eliminate texture and discoloration, leaving your skin with a smooth and silky finish that is sure to deceive anyone into thinking you're a fierce female. (Which you are!) For a finishing powder, I always use Cody powder from the drugstore. Set your foundation with this powder, and you'll notice how soft and flawless your skin can look. You will need a good set of eyeshadows, as well. Ben Nye or La Femme are high-quality, affordable options. Then accentuate your smokey eye with a black eyeliner. Inglot 77 is blacker than Satan‘s heart, and it has stolen mine for being the best eyeliner in the business. Finish your eye look with dramatic false lashes, like the ones from Lash Pop. When it comes to lipstick, find one that you don’t mind wasting around the glass rim of a cocktail. Expensive isn’t always best. That same statement applies to brushes. You'll need makeup brushes to apply a variety of different products, and BH Cosmetics makes affordable brush sets that can’t be beaten. Now that you have an idea of how to get started, it's time to create a look that's all your own. Remember, darlings, once you've completed your look for the first time, it's always worth asking for a second or third opinion from people who have good fashion and makeup taste. That means NOT to ask your best friend. It's her job to be nice to you. Ask a successful Drag Queen who you admire. (Afterall, she just may become your Drag Mother. Don't know what I'm talking about? Read Part 1 of my blog series here.) Or, you can always ask me: Dallas Sheraton. I may not be your mama, but I’ll always tell you the truth. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for at Camera Ready Cosmetics, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!
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MAKEUP EXPIRATION GUIDE: WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR FAVORITE BEAUTY PRODUCTS

MAKEUP EXPIRATION GUIDE: WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR FAVORITE BEAUTY PRODUCTS

When it comes to your favorite makeup products, here’s a truth that many find hard to accept: makeup doesn’t last forever. Mascaras. Liquid eyeliners. Foundations. Moisturizers and toners. These are a few of the many products that do, unfortunately, have a shelf life. We aren’t writing this because we’re heartless. If we could use our favorite mascara until the bristles fell off, we would. But we’re writing this to protect you from the harmful bacteria that live and grow inside everyday beauty essentials – it’s important to check those makeup expiration dates!  This handy makeup expiration guide will serve well in moments when you wonder, “Is it time to replace?” So, let’s dive into the “when” and “why” of checking the expiration dates on cosmetics and refreshing your beauty favorites. How Long Does Makeup Last? This is the burning question, right? The truth is, it varies by product, and with so many different types of products, figuring out how long your makeup lasts can feel overwhelming. While mascara only lasts for a few months, some products may last you years. We’re here to break it all down and answer those questions, like, “Does eyeshadow expire?” so your products continue serving you flawless looks instead of bacteria and gook. We’ll help you check the expiration dates on the following makeup products and tools: Mascara Foundation Powder Liquid or gel eyeliner Eye and lip pencils Skincare Brushes Makeup Expiration: Mascara Shelf Life: 3-6 months once opened While you may check the expiration date on your makeup and see it’s years away, that only applies to unopened mascara. Once opened, mascara needs to be replaced more frequently than any other beauty product. Every time you pump a mascara wand back into its tube, the product traps bacteria, which can cause harmful eye infections. 3 Tell-Tale Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Mascara:  It’s dry and clumpy Bristles have excessive buildup Scent change Shop Mascaras  FOUNDATION Expiration  Shelf Life: 6-12 months Unlike powder formulas, liquid foundations contain oils or other ingredients that break down over time. Pump containers provide more protection than ones with an open top. For open-top foundations, it’s best to put the product on a palette or mixing tray before applying with a clean brush or sponge.  How to Tell if Your Foundation is Expired When a foundation is nearing expiration, you may notice dryness or changes in consistency. If the consistency seems normal, but you know you’ve had the foundation for a long time (no judgment), it may be worth checking the expiration date on your cosmetics! Shop Foundations Powder Makeup - Does Eyeshadow Expire? Shelf Life: 3 years Because they don’t require large amounts of water to manufacture, powders, like setting powders and powder eyeshadows, have a longer shelf life than most other cosmetic products. To prevent the early makeup expiration of your powder products, store in cool, dry locations with the lids firmly closed. When to Replace Expired Powder Makeup If you notice powder becoming more difficult to blend or chalky, the makeup is expired, and a replacement is due. Shop Eyeshadows Shop Powders How Long DOes LIQUID OR GEL EYELINER Last? Shelf Life: 3-6 months Like mascara, liquid eyeliners should be at the top of your frequent replacements list once the bottle is opened – despite what the makeup expiration date on the bottle says. Because this product is applied to the eyes, you’re at higher risk of contracting an infection if the makeup is nearing expiration. When to Replace Liquid or Gel Liners The most common sign of expired liquid liner is a dry formula. Most people think adding a little water will prolong the life, but doing so helps bacteria to grow faster. A product like Inglot Duraline or Cozzette Matrix Mixing Liquid can help revive a drying gel liner, but since you're opening and closing it frequently, replace it every three to six months, depending on how often you use it. Shop Liquid Eyeliners EYE & LIP PENCILS – Does That Makeup Expire, Too? Shelf Life: 1-2 years Pencils tend to last longer because they are constantly being sharpened, which provides a clean, fresh layer before each application. However, it's important to disinfect and sharpen them after every use since they're being used on the eyes and lips, where bacteria levels are higher than other areas of the face. How Do You Know When to Replace Lip and Eye Pencils? Aside from checking expiration dates on cosmetics, it’s difficult to tell when an eye or lip pencil has gone bad. A good rule to follow is to replace pencils that no longer sharpen easily. For example, pencils that frequently break off after sharpening are best to toss. If you notice they're changing color, the makeup is expired, and it's time to throw them away. Discoloration is often a sign of mold growing within the product - yikes. Shop Eye Pencils Shop Lip Pencils Do SKINCARE Products Expire? Shelf Life: Varies, but typically 12 months The shelf life for skincare can vary based on the ingredients, packaging style, and frequency of use. However, a good rule of thumb, aside from checking the skincare expiration date, is to replace it if it's been more than a year. How to Prolong the Life of Skincare Products After a year, moisturizers and toners lose most of their beneficial properties. The efficacy of the active ingredients decreases over time, and some deteriorate each time they're exposed to air. Others include ingredients that break down with exposure to light or extreme temperatures, so be sure to read the label, check the products’ expiration dates, and store them properly. Always apply these products with clean hands. Never add water to prolong the life of these products, as it dilutes the formula. Shop Moisturizers Shop Toners Can Makeup BRUSHES Expire? Shelf Life: N/A  Thankfully, makeup expiration dates don’t apply to brushes. They can last for decades if you properly care for them. Purchase an all-natural, deep-cleaning brush cleaner to rid your bristles of pesky bacteria and buildup. Crazy Merman offers a variety of vegan brush cleaners that smell amazing and make your brushes like new again. Will I Ever Have to Replace My Makeup Brushes?  If your brush sheds with every use or no longer applies product evenly, it may be time for replacements. Shop Brush Cleaners Shop Brushes OTHER Makeup Expiration GUIDELINES Knowing how to properly identify when expired makeup needs to be replaced can help keep any makeup products you purchase from causing an infection. Here are some tried-and-true bonus tips to help you figure out if your makeup is expired and teach you how to check those pesky makeup expiration dates:  1) Write the date of purchase or open date on the outside of each product. 2) Federal law requires all makeup products to feature a PAO (Period After Opening) or BBE (Best Before End Date) symbol. A PAO symbol applies only if the shelf life is 30 months or more. Any less, and the product will feature a BBE symbol to signal makeup expiration date. 3) Products made from natural ingredients will include a makeup expiration date that applies even if unopened. 4) If you can’t find an expiration date on your makeup or skincare product or a PAO or BBE label, check for the manufacture date. This will help you to know if the product is nearing expiration, as many unused cosmetics lose their quality over time.  To answer specific questions about your makeup products, email our beauty experts. Then shop our site to replace expired makeup with fresh products! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by makeup artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs She dreamed of having a pro makeup showroom where artists could play with professional products without the typical makeup store attitude.  Today, our team of beauty industry veterans works together to curate the best quality products on the market. We partner with brands who respect the industry and formulate products for true working artists. You won’t find CRC in high-end malls, and we don't wear matching brush belts. If you want to play with products for a few hours and buy nothing, that's okay ... come in and play! Our store is your playground.    
Makeup, Makeup Artist Career Tips, PRO Tips
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7 Must-Have Products For A Dramatic Makeup Look

7 Must-Have Products For A Dramatic Makeup Look

We don’t know about you, but Ru Paul’s Drag Race has us feeling inspired lately. The false lashes. The vibrant colors. The flawless foundations. (And let’s not forget the glitter!) It’s almost too glam to handle. But for those of us who prefer our makeup a little less extravagant, there are ways to create drag-inspired looks that work for date night, dinner with the girls or events requiring a little flair. We headed to our warehouse to search for (and test) the best dramatic makeup products, in hopes of putting together a perfectly curated list of go-to products when the mood for glam strikes. We’re happy to report that we did just that! Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the 7 must-have products for achieving a dramatic makeup look. 1) Ardell Lashes Whether you’re looking for added volume or extra length, Ardell has a lash to meet your needs. But since we’re talking drama here, we’ll focus on two of the brand’s bestsellers - the Double Up line and their magnetic lashes. The Double Up line includes eight different lash variations, each with twice the amount of lashes than a normal falsie for a fuller, thicker look. Each lash is knotted and feathered by hand to ensure long-lasting wear and premium quality.   Ardell’s Double Wispie magnetic lash line is perfect for those trying to avoid messy self-adhesives. These reusable lashes are pre-curved and easy to apply for quick volume, length and definition. And just like the Double Up line, they include double the amount of lashes for added drama. Shop Ardell Double Up 201 Lashes Double Up 202 Lashes Double Wispie Magnetic Lashes 2) Lash Pop Lashes This up-and-coming lash brand has taken over social media and quickly become a favorite amongst Instagram influencers and beauty lovers. The vegan, cruelty-free brand creates ultra-glam falsies that will make your inner diva come alive. We can’t get enough of their three bestselling styles: Pink Fire (three-dimensional volume), Send Nudes (long, thick, spiky and winged) and Red Rari (silky, long and wispy). Lash Pop carries a variety of other styles, including more natural options for everyday wear, and each pair of lashes is delivered in an adorable lollipop-esque case. Shop Lash Pop Pink Fire Lashes Send Nudes Lashes Red Rari Lashes 3) Lemonhead Spacepaste What’s a dramatic face without a little glitter? Lemonhead’s Spacepaste is a full coverage, mess-free glitter paste designed for use on the face and body. The unique formula is easily manipulated to achieve the level of shine desired, and when you’re ready to de-glitter simply wipe away with water. The Spacepaste dries quickly and stays in place all day. Not to mention, it smells fabulous. Each jar is infused with essential oils. Use as a highlighter, eyeshadow or allover body glow. Shop Lemonhead Spacepaste 4) Perfect Poutz Silky Lip Creme Glamourous. Bold. Richly pigmented. These silky, liquid-matte lip cremes are stunning and made to turn heads. The metallic shine to each of the five shades is eye-catching, yet subtle. Colors range from burgundy to bright red to nude. The formula is long-wearing, does not feather, and offers a liquid-wet to dry-matte finish without depleting moisture. For best results, allow 15 seconds for the product to settle after application. Shop Perfect Poutz Metallic Matte Silky Lip Creme 5) Ben Nye Lumiere Grand Eyeshadow The highly-pigmented shades in the Lumiere Grand line are shimmery, vibrant and perfect for a dramatic look. With 22 available color options, these bold eyeshadows provide a shimmery, pearlescent finish to intensify your eyes. Apply them wet or dry to enhance the opacity. The formula is smudge-proof and water-resistant when sealed with the Ben Nye Final Seal Matte Sealer. Shadows are sold individually to fit any of Ben Nye’s Metal Palette Boxes, or you can purchase a Lumiere Grande Palette with 12 pre-selected shades. Shop Ben Nye Lumiere Grand Color 6) Ben Nye Precision Eye Liner New from Ben Nye, the Precision Eye Liner gives you full control of your look with an easy-to-use felt tip. Available in five shades, the formula is pigmented and smooth for a look as dramatic as you make it. An added bonus, this liner is water-resistant and features a contoured handle for easier gripping. Shop Ben Nye Precision Eye Liner 7) Joe Blasco Ultrabase Foundation Loved by pro makeup artists and touted by Kim Kardashian as a must-have “old-school” foundation, the Joe Blasco Ultrabase is a staple in makeup bags worldwide. This creamy, weatherproof and ultra-lightweight foundation is packed with color to conceal stubborn blemishes and uneven skin tones. With this product, a little bit goes a long way for maximum coverage. Choose from 38 shades to find your perfect match. Shop Joe Blasco Ultrabase Foundation Are you ready to get GLAM?! Shop our site and build your own collection of go-to products for a dramatic makeup look About Camera Ready Cosmetic Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for at Camera Ready Cosmetics, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!
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Glowing, Hollywood-Perfect Skin: A Melanie Mills Gleam Products Review

Glowing, Hollywood-Perfect Skin: A Melanie Mills Gleam Products Review

In an effort to protect ourselves from expensive tanning salons and excessive sun exposure, beauty lovers have suffered from a fair share of fake-tanning mishaps. We’re talking bright orange skin, sloppy streaks, darker-than-the-rest-of-your-body hands, feet and elbows, stained clothing and the list goes on. If you’ve searched high and low for a moisturizing body bronzer that A) doesn’t smell awful, and B) doesn’t streak, stain or transfer onto clothing, you’ll find a perfect solution with Melanie Mills Gleam products. Our team had some fun testing the Gleam products in our studio, and we’re excited to share the brand’s signature gleamalicious bronzers and powders. Keep reading for our review of the Melanie Mills Gleam collection. Gleam Body Radiance Choose from six available shades - which are compatible with any skin tone - including, Opalescence, Disco Gold, Peach Deluxe, Rose Gold, Bronze Bold and Deep Gold. These pigmented formulas diminish the appearance of small stretch marks and varicose veins, leaving your skin with a smooth, velvet finish. Unlike self-tanning products that stain your skin or require multiple applications to reach a desired look, Gleam Body Radiance gives you an instant sun-kissed glow that lasts up to 24 hours. The formula dries instantly, will not leave streaks, does not stain your skin and won’t transfer onto clothing. The products also leave a sweet, floral scent that will last all day. Gleam Body Radiance products support anti-aging and hydration with ingredients like Green Tea Extract, Aloe Vera, Jojoba Oil and Olive Oil. The formula also includes skin-perfecting ingredients like Kalpariane (a wrinkle filler) and Brown Seaweed Extract (a skin tightener) to leave your skin with a healthy glow.This stuff REALLY works, and you can watch our Brand Ambassadors, Chris and Lauren, show you these products in action here. Shop All Gleam Body Radiance Products 1oz. Melanie Mills Gleam Body Radiance 3.4oz. Melanie Mills Gleam Body Radiance Gleam Radiant Dust   This finely-milled, all-natural powder leaves your skin with a subtle shimmer and irresistible, natural glow. The key ingredient (high-grade pearls) works to draw light in, rather than reflect it. Available in four shades (Bronze Gold, Deep gold, Light Gold and Rose Gold), the collection is beautiful all on its own, or as a finisher with any of the Gleam Body Radiance products. All of the shade options work well with any skin tone. Most often used as a body highlighter, the Radiant Dust collection leaves your skin with a soft, dewy glow. Also safe to use on the face, many beauty lovers have found the collection to be perfect as a bronzer, blush, highlighter or eyeshadow. For a seamless application, we recommend applying the product with a makeup brush or powder puff to ensure a smooth finish free of fine lines. Shop All Gleam Radiant Dust Products Melanie Mills Gleam Radiant Dust Mini’s Melanie Mills Gleam Radiant Dust Gleam Body Sealing Spray Once you’ve finished applying the Gleam Body Radiance or Radiant Dust (or both!), use this ultralight sealing spray to lock in your glowing, radiant look. The lavender-scented formula, infused with Aloe and Jojoba, leaves a matte finish and ensures your other Gleam products won’t transfer. For best results, allow Gleam Body Radiance a few minutes to set before applying the sealing spray evenly. Purchase The Gleam Body Sealing Spray Melanie Mills Gleam Body Sealing Spray Luxury Face and Body Brush   This silky, natural-hair brush is perfect for applying any of the Radiant Dust products or other loose powders you include in your makeup routine. The slanted head makes the perfect tool for applying the product to your body and was created with the Gleam Radiant Dust jar in mind. Purchase The Luxury Face & Body Brush Melanie Mills Luxury Face and Body Brush Melanie Mills “On-The-Go” Kits For all you busy beauties on the go, Melanie Mills offers mini Gleam Body Radiance kits to tuck away in your purse or makeup bag. Each kit comes with three Gleam Body Radiance products to ensure you’re glowing radiantly wherever you go. Kit #1 includes the Rose Gold, Bronze Gold, and Deep Gold shades, while Kit #2 includes Rose Gold, Peach Gold and Disco Gold. Shop All Gleam Kit Collections Melanie Mills Gleam on the Go Kit 1 Melanie Mills Gleam on the Go Kit 2 For more information about Melanie Mills products or other cosmetic lines carried by Camera Ready Cosmetics, shop our website, stop by our pro makeup showroom or email our beauty ambassadors at service@crcmakeup.com About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics, and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for at Camera Ready Cosmetics, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!
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4 Simple Steps To Flirty Lips

4 Simple Steps To Flirty Lips

This Valentine’s Day, whether you are out with your special someone, or with a group of friends (#singlelife), a beautiful lip color that lasts is essential for a night filled with sipping wine and eating chocolate.  Before selecting the perfect shade for your Valentine’s Day evening, you want to make sure your lips are prepped and primed to sustain a lasting, vibrant color.  Step 1: Exfoliate Begin with a lip scrub; Cinema Secrets’ Lip Scrub is a great option for a smooth canvas. Prep your lips with this gentle, yet effective, exfoliator by buffing away rough, flaking skin. Use a warm towel, or tissue to remove any excess scrub or dryness. Now, you have plump, pillow-soft lips. Step 2: Moisturize Follow the exfoliation with a moisturizing lip balm. Rosebud Perfume Co.’s Mocha Rose Lip Balm Tin is perfect for Valentine’s Day. Why? It is a blend of mocha, vanilla and chocolate –perfect for the occasion. Apply a liberal amount onto your freshly exfoliated pout. After waiting a minute for the balm to moisturize, remove any excess. Step 3: Line the lips Now, it is time to pick the perfect lip color! Valentine’s Day is the perfect day to wear a bold red, burgundy, or pink lip. Select a color that makes you feel sexy and confident. Something you may not wear normally. Choose a lip pencil to prep for the coordinating lip color. Invest into a luxury line; By Terry's Crayon Levres Terrybly has a gorgeous selection of lip pencils, perfect for this occasion. Use shades of red in Cancan, Red Alert, Wine Delice and Dolce Plum to compliment a darker lip.   Step 4: Fill them in For a lasting lip color with little fuss, choose a liquid lipstick. Caked Makeup has a great selection of liquid lipsticks, and if you haven’t had the pleasure of using them, they smell amazing too. If you are looking for a more dazzling look maybe you should try a liquid metallic lipstick. Kevyn Aucoin has a selection of vivid lip colors that go bold with a high impact, metallic finish. Go with The Molten Lip Color in Bronze to create a look with a beautiful red-brown combo and a unique sheen. If reds and burgundies are a little too much for your plans, check out NYX’s Soft Matte Lip Cream. These seductive shades have a plush, matte, nude finish. Each uniquely sultry and will hug the shape of your lips ever so perfectly. Caked Makeup Lip Fondant Holla Back Kevyn Aucoin - The Molten Lip Color Molten Metals NYX - Lip Lingerie Lipsticks By this point your lips will be irresistible, but here is a final recommendation: Create an ombre effect. Start with a darker shade from your lip line, transitioning to a lighter color as you move closer inside your lips. If you want to have options, the Viseart 12-Color Lip Palette would give you a variety to mix and blend, or leave as is, giving a natural, satin finish.   Now that you have ideas and choices for Valentine’s Day, what will be your go-to look?
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2018 Pantone Color of the Year

2018 Pantone Color of the Year

In 2000 the Pantone Color Institute developed their first “Color of the Year,” and every year since designers and artists have eagerly anticipated the announcement of the coming year’s color.   We couldn’t be more excited about the 2018 Color of the Year, which is PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet. “A dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shade, PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future” according to Pantone.   “The Pantone Color of the Year has come to mean so much more than ‘what’s trending’ in the world of design; it’s truly a reflection of what’s needed in our world today” said Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute.  Expect to see the color everywhere – home décor, marketing graphics, fashion, and yes MAKEUP! Pantone best describes how the shade works for beauty. "The complex and deep nature of the color is well-suited for beauty looks created by combinations, blends, and ombres. A singular matte purple on the lips or nails makes a bold statement of non-conformity, while softly blended metallics and shimmers in Ultra Violet transform the eyes into windows to the cosmos."  Camera Ready Cosmetics has cultivated a collection inspired by the mystical shade Ultra Violet.  
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Poll: Ben Nye Final Seal vs PPI Blue Marble SeLr Setting Spray

Poll: Ben Nye Final Seal vs PPI Blue Marble SeLr Setting Spray

Let's have a friendly debate: Final Seal or Marble SeLr? Both are awesome. Both are formulated for professional makeup artists to help lock in makeup for maximum longevity. Whether you're doing a Red Carpet event or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro which of these setting sprays is your go-to? Imagine this: Your day starts off with a twerking contest, the following hour you go on a brisk walk around the mall, then a zombie apocalypse begins. You need your makeup to survive all of this. Pick your potion. Ben Nye Final Seal PPI Blue Marble SeLr - Smudge-proof - Waterproof - Matte Finish - Minty - Best for Oily Skin/ Combo - Alcohol-free - Waterproof - Sensitive skin - Unscented -Semi- Matte Finish If You Could Only Choose One Of These Holy Grail Setting Sprays...Which Would It Be? Ben Nye Final Seal PPI Blue Marble SeLr Stay Tuned! Your Winning Choice Will Go On Sale Next Week. Poll Maker
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seven ways to sparkle and shine this season - Blog Camera Ready Cosmetics

7 Ways to Sparkle and Shine This Season

Amplify your highlight by using a creme luminizer with a powder highlight By layering a liquid and powder highlight, you are ensuring your highlight stays put while adding dimensionality. Apply highlighter to the high points of the face where the sun naturally hits. Add a luminizer to your body oil or lotion  Want to stay dewy, glowing and moisturized? Add a drop of liquid highlighter in with your favorite body oil or lotion to indulge the skin in an other-worldly glow!   Add glitter to your nails Skip nude nails this time of year in favor of something a little more flashy by adding your favorite glitter top coat for that extra pop this winter. Pro Tip: Use a makeup sponge and dab the glitter polish onto the sponge, then apply the polish to your nails using the sponge. The result is a fully covered, opaque coat of glitter. Use liquid latex around the edges of your nails to protect the skin from messes, then simply peel off when you're done! Try on a pair of glamorous lashes Eyeshadow isn't the only way to go glitzy! Have fun with lashes filled with accented rhinestones for that extra pop.  Mix a drop of liquid highlighter into your foundation Not all glitter has to be intense as sometimes you may want to be a little more subtle. Add a couple drops of your favorite liquid highlight into your foundation for a refined dewy finish to the skin. Apply using a beauty blender for an air-brushed finish.     Add that extra shine to your lips with glitter Be the star of the show with this season's hottest lip trend. Apply glitter over your favorite shade of lipstick by using a small detail brush for the ultimate shine!   Turn heads with glitter liner Dip your liner brush in your favorite glitter and apply it over your eyeliner for a unique look. You'll certainly turn heads with this alluring look! Start off by applying your favorite eyeliner and apply matching glitter on top of the line you just created. You'll be turning heads all night!
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