EDUCATION AT CAMERA READY

Mario Dedivanovic helped perfect the Ilios Beauty Light Ring with lighting industry expert Kelly Mondora and Nikon World Ambassador Jerry Ghionis When it comes to makeup artistry and how the look appears in photography and video, great lighting can make or break the entire look!  That's why we teamed up with the Ilios Lighting Team for an Instagram Live (view the entire demo below!) to show their lighting solutions in action and to unveil their newest arrivals, the travel-friendly versions of their best selling Ilios Beauty Ring. There's a reason Kim Kardashian told them it's "literally the best makeup light I have ever seen!" VIEW THE TABLE TOP MIRROR The NEW Rechargeable Table Mirror offers true color daylight for makeup application on the go. It easily detaches from the base for travel.   VIEW THE WALL MOUNTED MIRROR This NEW revolutionary wall mirror and light can be mounted without needing nearby electricity due to its long-lasting rechargeable battery. VIEW ALL ILIOS PRODUCTS Experience the most true to daylight makeup lighting and mirror solution, and discover why ILIOS offers our best selling mirror! When it comes to makeup artistry and how the look appears in photography and video, great lighting can make or break the entire look!  That's why we teamed up with the Ilios Lighting Team for an Instagram Live to show their lighting solutions in action and to unveil their newest arrivals. If you missed the Live, don't worry. We saved it for you. Follow us on Instagram to watch the live event or keep reading below for a full recap! Topics discussed during the event include: The importance of using great lighting for makeup application The importance of the lighting temperature and intensity for makeup application How to ensure the lighting or ring light you use as a makeup artist or makeup lover can make or break how the makeup appears on film, photography, or in person at an event How the Ilios Beauty Ring and their newest products provide light that's as close to daylight as you can get A live demo with a real model to see how the lighting impacts how her makeup appears Watch the Live Demo! View this post on Instagram A post shared by CRC | Pro Makeup Store (@camerareadycosmetics) Why Great Lighting is Important for Makeup Application Cameras have come a long way for film and television, but even cell phone cameras can take images and video in 4K! It's no wonder many people feel the need to use filters, but with the proper lighting, you won't need it. That's where Ilios comes in. The Founders (who are also world-class experts in makeup artistry, photography, and lighting) wanted to create lighting that mimicked the beautiful natural window-lighting we all crave on those beautiful sunny days. It's perfectly diffused, softened by the window glass, and perfect for makeup application and photography. Their Beauty Ring (and their newest products) offers the most accurate daylight lighting in portable ring light, but it goes beyond that! It also offers a warmer setting and a "blend" setting to help adjust the lighting in any environment you're in, and it offers five brightness levels to ensure you're applying makeup in the same type of lighting environment where you'll be filming, photographed, or in for an event. Why It's important to use the proper lighting level and temperature while doing makeup Imagine you apply makeup with a standard light with only one temperature (let's say, cool), but you're filming video or being photographed in a candlelit room - the makeup that was so skillfully applied will look completely different. With the Ilios Beauty Ring and its lighting options, you can set the light to be the same lighting and intensity you'll be in during the event while being filmed or photographed, or even while going live, to ensure you look your best! Learn More About Our Camera Ready LIVE Co-Hosts About Jerry Ghionis, Nikon Ambassador & award-winning photographer   At the top of his field for 3 decades, Jerry is an expert on lighting and bringing out the best in people. With the flair of a fashion designer and the ingenuity of an architect, his style can be described as vintage glamour that meet contemporary fashion.   About Kelly Mondora, the Lighting Expert   Mondora has leveraged her decades of experience building lighting for the film and photography industry to offer a higher-quality alternative to the sub-standard makeup mirrors currently on the market. Wanting the well-respected perspective of a Hollywood makeup artist, she reached out to Dedivanovic and pitched the product to him. She also folded in famed fashion photographer Jerry Ghionis to gain insight from the photographer's perspective. The Current Ilios Product Lineup The first product the Ilios Lighting team created is a makeup artist and content creator favorite - the Ilios Beauty Ring. The Ilios Beauty Ring is a makeup mirror, ring light, and phone stand all in one. The Ilios Beauty Ring is the result of the collective efforts of the renowned lighting expert and makeup artist, promising to deliver the perfect lighting for makeup application, selfies, vlogging, and video conferencing. To help makeup artists and creators use the product on the go, they also offer a traveling case for protection and a light stand so it can be set up at a variety of heights for different locations and setups. Ilios Beauty Ring LEARN MORE Ilios Travel Case LEARN MORE Ilios Light Stand LEARN MORE Watch the video to learn more about Ilios and its features: Ready to Experience Ilios Lighting? Are you ready to elevate your makeup application and photography with Ilios Lighting? Click here to shop! Have questions? Our Beauty Advisors are here to help at beautyadvisor@crcmakeup.com. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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. 

Quick temperature changes can wreak havoc on your hair, but don’t worry! We’ve got you and your tresses covered! We've enlisted the help of our in-house Hair Care Expert, Jess, for tips on how to combat the effects of cold weather on your hair and not hide under a hat! IN THIS BLOG, WE WILL BE DISCUSSING THE FOLLOWING FALL AND WINTER HAIR HACKS TO KEEP YOUR PREVENT DAMAGE AND REPAIR WEATHER-STRESSED STRANDS Scale back on the hot showers Refrain from over-washing your hair Double up on moisturizing Change up your post-shower routine Limit heat-styling Tip #1: Take it easy on the hot showers during the winter As nice as it is to take a steamy shower after a long chilly day, while it may FEEL nice - it is quite damaging! Hot water strips away your hair's (and skin’s) natural oils, which in turn dries up the shaft of your hair. We know, it’s a bummer but your hair will thank you! We recommend washing your hair in warm or lukewarm water and if you’re feeling bold - switch to cold water at the very end to help seal the hair follicles and lock in moisture! If this tip sounds familiar, it’s because our in-house skincare expert suggests the same thing for cooler-weather skincare! PRO Tip: Using a more emollient lotion with occlusive ingredients (like petrolatum, squalene, jojoba oil, or olive oil) on the hands and body along with a facial oil can also help seal in moisture and slow moisture loss during the drier seasons. Tip #2: Cut back on frequent hair washes during the fall and winter Overwashing can alter the PH of your skin, especially if your hair is prone to dryness. Give your scalp’s natural oils a chance to do their job of replenishing those locks! If your hair is on the oily side, we recommend a good dry shampoo between washes to extend your hairstyle! We recommend our First Class Charcoal Detox Shampoo by IGK! This dry shampoo packs a punch on even the oiliest of scalps, and contains a charcoal powder that eliminates odor + oil! Tip #3: Double up on Moisturizing during the winter Restore moisture during cooler months by giving your dry or fine hair a deep conditioning hair treatment every week. Applying a hair mask will do wonders, and helps replenish + restore the moisture that’s been lost in your dry scalp. Temperature changes from dry heat indoors + cold air can cause the moisture on your scalp and skin to deplete. We recommend Olaplex No.8 Bond Intense Moisture Mask 1-2x per week as a conditioning and reparative mask treatment! Tip #4: Change up your post-shower routine for fall and winter Hair is more susceptible to breakage when it’s wet, so after showering, try not to rub your hair dry! Instead, gently press the water out with a soft, microfiber towel, and comb your hair softly with a wide-tooth comb while it’s still damp, working from the ends upwards. We recommend using a soft brush, like the R+Co Detangling Brush, and waiting until your hair is about 80% air-dried before combing and blow drying. PRO Tip: Avoid harsh bristled brushes! They can tear up your hair follicles, so opt for a brush that is more gentle if you can! Tip #5: Avoid overheating your hair during the fall and winter We know it’s hard to resist using styling tools, especially when the weather is brisk, but if you can go without - your locks will thank you for it! Most flat and curling irons nowadays heat up to 450 degrees (twice the temperature at which water boils), so if you must use them, make sure to adjust the temperature settings on your styling tools to eliminate damage. You can get creative and try using braids, buns, twists, and ponytails to give your hair a much-needed break from the heat! Feeling Inspired? We hope this blog has given you a few hair care tips to keep your locks looking camera ready! If you have any additional questions, our Beauty Expers are here to help, so click here to send them an email. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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.

No matter how well your skin has behaved so far this year, be sure to read this blog because even the most predictable skin can be prone to irritation, dryness, or become sensitized as we transition into the cooler months. That's why our in-house Skincare Expert Chelsie is sharing the Top 5 Skincare Misconceptions for the seasons ahead! In this blog, we will be discussing the FOLLOWING COMMON SKINCARE MYTHS and mistakes: Not adjusting your environment/lifestyle during the cooler and drier months Using the same facial cleanser during all seasons Mistaking dry, rough texture for dead skin cells vs moisture loss from the skin barrier Only using sunscreen during the spring and summer Not taking advantage the cooler months for professional skincare services Fall/Winter Skincare Mistake #1: Not adjusting your daily routine/environment to meet your skin's needs We love to stay warm and toasty during the cold weather, however, if we stay in the hot shower too long or have the thermostat on high, we are potentially setting ourselves up for dry skin. Having the heat too high or taking extra hot showers to stay warm will draw out necessary moisture from your skin and can cause it to become dry and more sensitized skin. To combat this, use lukewarm water and don't take unnecessarily long showers. To prevent moisture loss at home (or even at work), add a humidifier to the rooms you spend the most time in! These both help to maintain moisture levels in your home so that the drier air does not seek moisture from your skin, but instead from the environment! PRO Tip: Using a more emollient lotion with occlusive ingredients (like petrolatum, squalene, jojoba oil, or olive oil) on the hands and body along with a facial oil can also help seal in moisture and slow moisture loss during the drier seasons. Fall/Winter Skincare Mistake #2: Using the same facial and body cleanser during all seasons Our bodies are amazing and can adjust how much sweat and oil it produces to adjust to our ever-changing environments, but sometimes they can use a helping hand. During the warmer months, the main concerns may be reducing blackheads and combating excess oil production, so reaching for a gel-based cleanser during the spring and summer can help! However, in colder weather, gel cleansers may leave the skin feeling too tight and dry, so our experts recommend opting for a gentler, creamier formula. These gentle cleansers will still remove impurities, excess oil, and makeup, while still reintroducing hydration and leaving the skin soft and supple! Fall/Winter Skincare Mistake #3: Mistaking dry, rough texture for dead skin cells versus moisture loss and an impacted skin barrier The first thing that comes to mind when you feel uneven texture on your skin is to slough off the "dead skin", especially with more abrasive exfoliants. However, this rougher & flaky texture can be due to the lower humidity, increased water loss, and windburn. If over-exfoliation occurs, the skin can become rougher and more sensitized, essentially doing the opposite of what we would want! When you have those dry, pesky patches, AHA's are best to stick to versus BHA's or physical exfoliation, as AHA's are water-soluble and tend to have humectant properties (yay extra hydration!) However, make sure you don't overdo it. If you're not seeing an improvement after one use, visit a local esthetician or dermatologist so they may properly diagnose and treat your skin. Fall/Winter Skincare Mistake #4: Reserving SPF for the warmer months We know this is a tip we'll bring up in every skincare blog, but it's important to remember UV rays are around ALL year round and can still permeate through the cloudiest of weather. While you may be seeing less direct sun rays due to a lower sun angle during the winter, ice and snow act as little shiny mirrors that will reflect those unwanted rays toward your skin making it more important than ever to cover any exposed skin with a sun protectant. While the various types of UV rays can impact the skin, it's the UVA rays that accelerate premature aging and lead to unwanted hyperpigmentation and loss of elasticity. Preventing damage is much easier (and less expensive) than trying to "fix" the dark spots and potential for skin cancer later. PRO Tip: When it comes to how much SPF to use, a good rule of thumb is to use one ounce for your entire body. For your face, some professionals have used the "finger length" method. Open your hand with your palm facing up, and draw a stripe of SPF the entire length of your middle finger and pointer finger, and that will give you the minimum amount you should use for your face! If you're wearing an outfit that exposes your neck and decolletage, draw a third stripe of SPF down your ring finger and use that amount for the exposed skin. Fall/Winter Skincare Mistake #5: Not taking advantage of peels and other skincare services If we're being honest, many of us have likely skipped a few sunscreen applications here or there, and we may be starting to see some hyperpigmentation or fine lines peeking through. The fall and winter months are the perfect time to combat those skincare woes with professional chemical peels and services. Let us explain why! A professional chemical peel is designed to remove the top layers of your skin to allow it to grow back smoother. This can help slow the formation of fine lines and sunspots, but it's important to avoid direct sunlight after each treatment. With less direct sunlight exposure, it can be an ideal time to get a chemical peel, but as always, never skip sun protection, especially on freshly treated skin. PRO Tip: Make sure you work with a professional to schedule peels and treatments based on your own skin's needs and your lifestyle. Remember, achieving the perfect skincare and treatment plan is like a marathon, not a sprint! It's also important to remember that peels are not for everyone, so be sure to contact your local professional. Feeling Inspired? We hope this blog has helped clear up some of the skincare questions and myths you may have heard! If you have any additional questions, our Beauty Expers are here to help, so click here to send them an email. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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.

We are still GLOWING from the Instagram LIVE we held with two of our I Am Camera Ready PROS: Danessa Myricks and @Paintedbyspencer! If you missed it, don't worry! You can always watch the LIVE on our Instagram feed or keep reading the blog to get a quick recap of all the amazing tips, tricks, and advice they shared with us. In this blog, Danessa Myricks & Paintedbyspencer will be sharing: What being Camera Ready means to them Some of the perks of "professional makeup" A Demo of the Danessa Myricks Beauty Lightwork Volume IV Transcendence Palette What Being Camera Ready Means to Danessa Myricks & Paintedbyspencer This summer, we have shared our top tips to get your skin, makeup, and hair Camera Ready. To us, being Camera Ready is all about the steps and routine you follow to feel ready to face the day and express yourself. There are no defined rules that say you have to follow the same routine that others do. Being Camera Ready is a unique state of mind that each person achieves in their own way! To Danessa Myricks, being Camera Ready is all about showing up confident no matter what. She admits it took a lot for her to grow into herself and find her own confidence and that sometimes, it can change on a daily basis. However, finding that confidence - even if it means makeup or no makeup, that’s being Camera Ready. For Paintedbyspencer, he knows being Camera Ready can vary day to day. Some days, it is just gaining confidence through just a good skincare routine. Other times, it’s his favorite cologne. Of course, some days, it is about having a full face of great makeup! His pro tip? REST! The key to feeling Camera Ready is just being fully rested because it allows you to be your best self! What Are Some of the Perks of Professional Makeup Simply put, professional-grade makeup is makeup that is formulated specifically for professional makeup artists to achieve a certain finish or look. That can range from the makeup used for special effects in movies, on set of a photo shoot, for brides, and beyond. Oftentimes, but not always, these professional-grade products have higher pigmentation, unique finishes, or impressive wear times, so it's no surprise when a professional product goes viral on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube! That doesn't mean that it's better than traditional makeup! It's just created with a different purpose and goal in mind. Another perk of professional-grade makeup is that it's often formulated so that it can be mixed with other products or textures to create all new shades, textures, and finishes. That's where Danessa Myricks Beauty comes in! Before she was creating beautiful innovative products that you'll see makeup lovers and makeup artists around the world using today, she was (and still is) in the heart of the Makeup Artist Industry both applying makeup to models and photographing them! However, after lugging around a huge kit and realizing she wanted more multipurpose products that allowed her to create the looks she was trying to achieve, she made it her mission to create those products! That’s one of the many reasons her products are beloved by artists and makeup lovers alike. She created products that she wished she could have at her fingertips to create any look imaginable. Her goal is to create products that work on any and every model she works with. It should perform in ever scenario, for every skin tone, skin type, and age! That's where the Balm Contour, Yummy Skin Collection (including Allure Best of Beauty Award-winning Blurring Balm Powder, Infinite Chrome Flakes, ColorFix, Twin Flames, and the Lightwork Palettes came from- to give Danessa the finishes, the creative shades, and the dimension she wanted for all of her models! The Danessa Myricks Beauty Lightwork Volume IV Transcendence Palette Demo Now it's time for the fun part - the demo of Danessa's newest innovation: Lightwork Volume IV Transcendence Palette! Watch the video below, and prepare to be inspired! Are You Ready to Get Camera Ready? We're here to help YOU get Camera Ready in whatever way makes YOU feel confident and ready to take on the day! Go ahead and explore the products our I Am Camera Ready Pros use to get Camera Ready, or view our entire library of I Am Camera Ready tips and tricks from great hair care blogs and tutorials to the skincare pros use to help their clients get Camera Ready! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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.

So you just got the Danessa Myricks Beauty Lightwork Volume IV Transcendence Palette (perhaps you're considering it or another water-activated makeup product)- congratulations! You're in for a magical world of textures, finishes, colors, and multichromes! If you're new to using water-activated makeup, welcome to the beautiful world of unique textures and finishes! This pro-favorite product is great to create clean, crisp, highly pigmented eyeliner looks for graphic liner eyes, a pop of color, and more.   It may be a little daunting, at first, but once you've mastered the technique to use water-activated makeup, you'll be hooked. In this blog, we'll share three easy steps and a tutorial video to use the Aqua Chromes! How to use the Danessa myricks beauty lightwork iv transcendence palette aqua chrome water-activated shades in three easy steps: STEP 1: Add a couple of drops of water to activate the makeup STEP 2: Swirl your brush to mix the pigment with the water STEP 3: Use a liner brush or other tool to apply The tools you'll want to have handy to use the Danessa myricks beauty lightwork iv transcendence palette: The Lightwork IV Palette A small amount of water (either in a small dish or dropper) A thin liner brush A paper towel or other towel to wipe your brush How to use water-activated Danessa Myricks Lightwork IV Transcendence Aqua Chromes STEP 1: Apply a few drops of water to activate the makeup In this step, it's important to only use a little bit of water. Start with three drops. This will allow you to achieve maximum pigmentation. If you accidentally apply too much water, you can swiftly dab off a little with a paper towel or simply allow the water to sit on top of the makeup for a minute or two before you start to mix it. This will ensure the water softens even more of the makeup instead of only activating the top layer, resulting in a diluted mixture. How to use water-activated Danessa Myricks Lightwork IV Transcendence Aqua Chromes STEP 2: Mix until you reach a paste-like consistency Our favorite way to use water-activated makeup is for eyeliner or graphic eyeliner, so we often turn to a very thin eyeliner brush when using our Aqua Chromes from the Danessa Myricks Lightwork IV palette. Taking your brush, lightly swirl and swipe it in the water you've dropped onto the Aqua Chrome shade. At first, you'll see the magical shimmer floating in the makeup, but it won't take long before the shimmer has almost "melted" into the water creating a beautiful multichrome liquid. Keep stirring! You're so close to being ready to use it! You're looking for a thicker almost paste-like consistency, and it should stay on your brush easily and look a little thicker once it's ready. If it has become chunky or gloopy looking, add a tiny drop of water and try again. PRO Tip: Keep a small dish of water nearby and lightly dip your brush into it to pick up the desired amount of water to work into your Aqua Chrome. This will give you optimal control while mixing and can come in handy as you work with the product, as it will start to dry up again as you're using it. How to use water-activated Danessa Myricks Lightwork IV Transcendence Aqua Chromes STEP 3: Start playing with the makeup! Now that your Aqua Chrome is the perfect consistency, it's time to start playing! Of course, since it's a wet formula, if you're lining your eyes, try not to blink too hard or open/close your eye until the liner has dried. Your body heat will help the liner dry pretty quickly. Once dry, the Aqua Chrome will give you a dazzling long-lasting multichrome look! To remove, simply use your favorite cleanser or makeup remover. It will be easy to remove since it's water-activated! PRO Tip to use the Aqua Chromes from Lightwork IV: We recommend practicing on your hand or arm until you get used to how much of the Aqua Chrome liquid to place on your brush and to see how thick you like the consistency! Wiping your brush onto a paper towel in between lining sessions will also help you create clean, crisp lines. Watch the Video Tutorial from the Danessa Myricks Beauty Team showing how to use the Lightwork IV Transcendence Palette Aqua Chromes! If you need more help learning how to use your new palette and water-activated makeup, our Beauty Advisors are here to help! Click here to contact them! Are You Ready to Get Camera Ready? We're here to help YOU get Camera Ready in whatever way makes YOU feel confident and ready to take on the day! Go ahead and explore the products our I Am Camera Ready Pros use to get Camera Ready, or view our I Am Camera Reach Schedule of Events to learn more & to view our full schedule of events, giveaways, & more! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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.

Earlier this year, we had the pleasure of hosting world-renowned hair stylist and brand owner Frederic Fekkai at our showroom in Dallas, and he generously took the time to share some of his best advice for you, our artist, stylist, and beauty-loving community! Keep reading the blog or scroll all the way to the bottom to watch the interview! In his interview, frederic fekkai shared tips and insights into: His own brand and the future of his hair care line How to find inspiration as a stylist How to stay motivated as an artist or stylist How to set yourself apart from other makeup artists or hair stylists Why it's important for makeup artists and hair stylists to work with teams Why it's important for makeup artists and hair stylists to perform a great consultation with their client His own journey and what he did to achieve success as a budding stylist How to Find Inspiration and to Stay Motivated as a Makeup Artist or Hair Stylist Q: how can a makeup artist or hair stylist stay motivated throughout their career? Fekkai: "You don't want to do anything if you don't believe in it," said Fekkai. "To stay passionate, you need a reason. From the minute when I wake up in the morning to anything I do; exercise, go into the office, we need a reason... When we approach a problem, whenever we create a hairstyle. Whatever we do, it has to have a reason."   Makeup and Hair Style Trends Q: What would you say to a stylist or makeup artist that is always wanting to follow the trends?? FEKKAI: "I don't believe in trends for trends... Trends are great when you create them. What does a trend even mean? It's not about following Kim Kardashian, Kylie Jenner, Jennifer Aniston, or anybody. That is not a trend. A trend is when you find an amazing style that really suits everyone - a person, a friend. You find a style that is right for them. That's a trend because it cannot be easily duplicated. That's a trend because it cannot be easily replicated. It's a novel item. Then people want that look because it's so desirable!" Getting Inspired by Other Artists and Hair Stylists Q: Why is it so important to work with teams? FEKKAI: "I get motivated when I work with my team at the salon. It's a great environment - like a lab- we test out products, it's like a focus group! We get feedback not only from the customer but also from the stylists. It's interactive." Education and Inspiration for Makeup Artists & Hair Stylists Q: Where would you recommend starting if you're thinking about becoming a hair stylist, a makeup artist, or just want to rebrand yourself? FEKKAI: "Today, more than ever, you have access to incredible content and information. Whether it's a tutorial on YouTube, or on Reels, beyond that, you can also look at the street, movies, books, and magazines to get inspired. Once you have a library of content, ideas, styles, and tools, you can perform and bring up that wow factor to your customer!" Why It's Important for Makeup Artists and Hair Stylists to Perform a Great Consultation Q: how do you approach consultations with your clients?  FEKKAI: "If you are a pioneer, an innovator, somebody who brings something outside of the box and not just following what every other trend does, you trigger incredible creativity... What makes a great stylist is not just a great cut or color. It's a consultation. We look at each other in the eyes. Somebody will assess your look, your beauty, your lifestyle, and then they'll make their best recommendation - something that is tailored for you and unique!" Fekkai's Tips for Career Success for Artists and Hair Stylists Q: What would you like to say to the aspiring artists and stylists in our community?  FEKKAI: "It's so important to be accessible, to be hungry, to always want. One of the biggest keys to success in my career was when other stylists weren't willing to do a job, I would say YES. I did more jobs which meant I met more people - photographers. models, actors, actresses, and normal people by just saying yes. So, say yes as much as you can, and be curious. Stay curious all the time! " The Full Interview with Frederic Fekkai Watch the interview with frederic fekkai Prefer to watch vidoes instead of read? View the interview above or on our YouTube Channel for extra tips not included above! Feeling Inspired? We hope you were inspired by Frederic Fekkai's journey and the tips he shared! Explore his products, or email our Beauty Experts to learn more about how to incorporate Fekkai into your routine! Are You Ready to Get Camera Ready? We're here to help YOU get Camera Ready in whatever way makes YOU feel confident and ready to take on the day! Go ahead and explore the products our I Am Camera Ready Pros use to get Camera Ready, or view our I Am Camera Reach Schedule of Events to learn more & to view our full schedule of events, giveaways, & more! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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. 

We all strive to take the best care of our hair daily, but can always benefit from a little extra something to keep our locks luscious. That's where Fekkai comes in. His naturally derived, vegan, cruelty free, and packed with great ingredients hair care products will improve these qualities for your tresses: texture, shine, and movement. Stylists for Fekkai know that the secret to perfecting this trio is how well the hair is taken care of, starting in your shower. Follow these three techniques to help you achieve Camera Ready, off-duty model hair every day! 1. Use a Scalp Scrub to Remove Impurities and Build-up We all have some scalp build-up, especially if you are a fan of adding hair styling products. Scalp build-up can also occur if you like to stretch the time between hair washes or live in a larger city. Build-up doesn't only dull hair but it can also irritate your scalp and prevent you from achieving your hair goals. If you have ever had a dry, flaky scalp it can be more than embarrassing, it can cause lasting damage to your hair. Fekkai Apple Cider Detox Scrub's formula is full of eco-certified ingredients like ginger extract and edelweiss flower extract. Ginger Extract stimulates the scalp to promote strong, healthy hair growth while delivering essential nutrients to the scalp. In a salon test, 78% of Fekkai Apple Cider Detox Scrub users report that their scalp felt excellent after using the scalp scrub. When your hair starts to feel weighed down, it's the ideal time to reach for an exfoliating scrub or pre-shampoo to treat your scalp and extract impurities. Fekkai Apple Cider Detox Scrub is perfect for all hair types, especially those with sensitive scalps because it uses mild Rice Exfoliant Extract to pull residue from products, like dry shampoo and pollution out. It's as simple as working a dollop of the scrub into your scalp and letting it sit for 1-2 minutes before shampooing. Consider adding Fekkai Apple Cider Detox Scrub to your shower routine once a week, or biweekly if you have a sensitive scalp. 2. Use a Mask to Smooth Hair If you have thicker or color-treated hair, we recommend Fekkai Technician Color Treatment Powerful Flash Mask. This powerful, color-protecting treatment mask serves up added vibrancy and hydration, and delivers enviable slip and shine with no lingering residue. It will keep your color-treated hair fresh and prevent fading thanks to Mirabelle Plum Seed Oil and Plant-derived extracts and solar protection polymers, and like all Fekkai products, the packaging is 100% recyclable. To make the most of this mask, apply evenly from roots to ends after shampooing, leave in for 1-2 minutes, and then rinse! If you’ve got curls, try the Shea Butter Intense Mask. This creamy, intensely moisturizing, sulfate-free mask conditions and softens for healthier, softer curls. A blend of natural Shea Butter (Karite) and Monoi Oil delivers potent nourishment and moisture, smoothes strands, eliminates frizz and tangles, and helps reduce split ends and frizz while amplifying your hair’s natural radiance. How to use the Shea Butter Intense Mask like a PRO:1. After shampooing, apply a generous amount from roots to ends.2. Leave on for 3 - 5 minutes, then rinse with water. 3. For those with tighter curls, use after conditioning. 4. Use as a leave-in treatment before sun/ swimming pool exposure. 5. Use as a leave-in treatment before gym/ exercise. 6. Use as an overnight mask, deeply nourishing the hair over time. 3. Add a Hair Oil to Nourish Dry Ends Oils are a must-have if you want smooth and sleek hair. Hair oils can almost do it all, in addition to adding shine, they nourish your scalp and hydrate your hair. They incorporate fatty acids to help to restore essential lipids that are often lost with frequent heat usage, chemical treatments, and pollution. Frédéric Fekkai and Fekkai’s in-house chemist worked closely to formulate an innovative Shea Butter Intense Oil for your hair, face, and body. It incorporates natural Shea and Monoi Oil smooth hair and fights frizz in a lightweight and nongreasy formula while Jojoba Esters locks in moisture to leave hair shiny. Apply Shea Butter Intense Oil on your skin for a slight sheen from head to toe. Feeling Inspired? In summary, the three steps to achieving your best hair day include: 1. Incorporating a Scalp Scrub to Remove Impurities, 2. Use a Flash Mask to Repair Stressed Hair, 3. Achieve Smoother, Shinier, and Healthier Hair with a Hair Oil. Incorporate these tricks into your hair care routine as needed to feel like a supermodel whenever you step out of the house. Don't forget to share your looks with us at Camera Ready Cosmetics on Instagram.  Are you ready to revamp your hair care journey? Explore all Fekkai’s clean hair care products that are formulated to restore, repair, and to protect your hair. Need help creating the perfect hair routine for your hair type? Our team of Beauty Advisors is here to help. Click here to send them a message! EXPLORE TREATMENTS EXPLORE STYLING EXPLORE FEKKAI About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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. 

It's no secret all of us here at Camera Ready Cosmetics are thrilled to offer you clean, sustainable, and salon-performance hair care products from Fekkai, but we wanted to take it one step further to educate you as to why we love the products and share more about the brand! We sat down with Frederic Fekkai himself to explain more about the brand, the carefully chosen ingredients that provide high-performance for pros and beauty lovers alike, and to share his top five picks for professionals to add to their routine. About the Brand CRC: Tell us more about your journey - from being a professional hairstylist to deciding to create your own brand! FREDERIC FEKKAI: As a professional hairstylist, I know first-hand the importance of having the right products that consistently deliver high performance. I formulated my first product, Technician Color Care Shampoo, after being behind the bowl and watching hair color being washed down the drain. I thought, this is crazy that there is nothing that can remove the dye without stripping the color. This is how I entered the laboratory as a formulator. Other collections then followed, Brilliant Gloss and Full Blown Volume, to provide solutions to hair concerns and enhance the natural beauty of each woman’s hair. The FEKKAI brand created the luxury hair category and was sold to P&G in 2008. In 2018, I purchased my brand back and started over, now as a clean haircare entrepreneur. Today, each product has been formulated to make the stylists life easier and showcase their craft while incorporating clean ingredients and cutting edge science. Technician Color Care today, provides even more color fade protection and vibrancy boost while creating a rich, foaming lather with a sulfate free formula powered by Keraguard™ and Mirabelle Plum Seed oil. Clean Stylers Straight Balm is a revolutionary blowout balm that also bonds, seals split ends and reduces dry time by 30% with Phytenso™, a botanical relaxer. Plus, it has 450 degree heat protection and 24-hr frizz control. I formulate with the concerns of all hair types and styling needs in mind. All of the new products in development are what I call a triple threat- they deliver superior performance in 3 different categories. About the Ingredients CRC: Now, more than ever, clients are paying attention to the ingredients in their products. Tell us more about the ingredients you choose to formulate with and their benefits. FREDERIC FEKKAI: All of our formulas exceed the clean beauty standards today and as far as 2024. Many of the key ingredients in our plant powered formulas have long histories in ayurvedic and natural science for their extraordinary reparative and/or nourishing benefits. We also use Eco certified and sustainably harvested natural ingredients whenever possible. Our French cold pressed Olive Oil is rich in squalene, Vitamin E, and antioxidants. Shea Butter and Apple Cider Vinegar are ingredients that I experienced growing up in France and integrated into my formulations due to their high levels of efficacy, nourishment, and visible benefits. Camargue Rice Proteins and Edelweiss Extracts are infused into all our formulas to defend against damage, pollution and oxidative stress. Once we identify the key botanical extracts, we then look to cutting edge clean science to take the formulations to the next level of performance. Instead of sulfates, we use a plant based coconut surfactant called Iselux that produces a rich thick lather without any stripping. Instead of heavy silicones (cyclic) that dull and build up on hair, we elect to use vegan silicone alternatives such as olive oil esters and jojoba or PEG-12 dimethicone. Phytenso™, is an excellent natural alternative to chemical relaxers, Keraguard™ is powered by Sunflower Extract and is a potent shield to keep color vibrant and prevent fading. Zeolite TM comes from volcanic ash and not only absorbs excess sebum but also neutralizes odor. Defenscalp TM is a plant based active that regulates the ecosystem of the scalp and controls sebum production. Phytessence™ is a plant based complex that defends hair follicles from oxidative stress, premature aging and slowdown in growth. These are just a few examples in our existing lineup- much more to come!   Top 5 Fekkai Products for Pros From superior ingredients to formulas created by award-winning Fekkai himself, it's easy to see why we're excited to offer his products to you! However, we wanted to give you a quick and easy way to see why we know you'll love his clean, sustainable, and scientifically-based lineup. Fekkai's Top 5 Product Picks for Professionals Full Blown Volume Texturizer Spray- Instantly refreshes the hair with oil and odor absorbing Zeolite, while building volume and adding texture. Spray through the layers of the hair, from roots to end, to build invisible cushions of texture. Great as final touch to bouncy blowout, as a curl helper as the copolymers in it help fine hair retain styling or as an up-do helper to add more texture and grip to the hair. Root Lift- contrary to what many people believe, hair actually grows flat, laying down. Root Lift is a must have to boost the hair at the roots. What makes Root Lift so different from other root lifting products is that it is non-sticky, invisible, humidity resistant and doubles the volume at the root while also being non-irritating and having an active in it called Defenscalp™ that controls sebum production and preserves the ecosystem of the scalp. As more and more women and men are experiencing thinning hair, Root Lift will visibly change their look in 1 use while also repairing thin/ fine strands with vegan bonding proteins. Heat protection up to 450 degrees. Straight Balm- The cleanest and most versatile blowout balm on the market. Cuts down dry time by 30% and easily creates Liquid Hair look with high shine and 24-hour Frizz-Control. 450 degree heat protection, bonds with vegan proteins, straightens with Phytenso™ ( a natural relaxer) and seals split ends with Glycerin. Panthenol (Vit B5) & Biotin strengthen and moisturize the hair. Apply to damp hair pre-blowout, pressing hair through the palms to ensure even application. Stylists can use a small dab to instantly smooth and eliminate fly aways/static. In a pinch, can be scrunched into curls to banish frizz and add healthy shine. Shea Butter Oil- quench dry hair, revive color and soften unruly hair. Instantly eliminates static and adds shine. Also can be used to hydrate dry skin. Ultra clean formula plays well with others and can be used as a moisture booster. 10% pure Shea Butter, sustainably sourced from Africa, blended with Monoi Flower Oil for rich hydration and nourishment. Brilliant Gloss Multi-tasker- weightless finishing crème adds 4x shine and gloss. Can be used to define curls, banish frizz, as a blowout or finishing balm. Perfect for piecing and defining bangs. Add a pea size amount, starting at the ends and work upwards. Perfect addition to high ponytails or braids for weightless control and smoothing.   Top 5 Reasons to Try Fekkai From superior scientifically-based ingredients to formulas created by award-winning Fekkai himself, it's easy to see why we're excited to offer his products to you! However, we wanted to give you a quick and easy way to see why we know you'll love his clean, sustainable, and scientifically-based lineup. Our Top 5 Reasons You Will Love Fekkai Hair Care Products High Performance Salon Grade- Made by a Professional Stylist for Stylists   Clean, Vegan, and Sustainable Formulas Hybrid Products with multiple benefits Stress Tested by Professionals Cutting Edge, real science-based solutions for hair concerns Feeling Inspired? We hope you've enjoyed learning more about Fekkai products straight from the master hairstylist himself, and if you need more help or a personalized recommendation, we are here to help. Click here to contact a Beauty Advisor! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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. 

If you're a beauty lover and have spent time watching makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts on TikTok, you likely saw plenty of demonstrations showing people using pink-toned powders to brighten their faces. In particular, Ben Nye Pretty Pink Powder received a few features thanks to the great value from the price to the larger amount of powder you receive compared to other trending brands. If you watched the videos, you know exactly what we're talking about, and the results are incredible, right? This technique is one that professional makeup artists have been using for years, so we asked professional makeup artist and educator Terri Tomlison to break down why this pastel-hued powder works! How Does Ben Nye Pretty Pink Powder "Brighten" the Complexion Makeup artists know that every product in their kit has to serve a purpose. In fact, if it's not high-performance, they won't have it in their beauty arsenal because it can be a workout carrying around their kits to different venues for events, photoshoots, and on set. Using tones like this pale pink are based on color theory. A tool many makeup artists use is the Terri Tomlinson Flesh Tone Color Wheel, and when you look at it, you can see that the shade pink is opposite the yellow/green section of the wheel. This means it can neutralize greenish or yellow tones in the skin, and the white base (since pink is a white mixed with red) means it will lighten and brighten. Yellow, olive, and greenish-toned skin can look flat on camera. However, the pale pink makes the complexion look livelier and brighter! Ben Nye Pretty Pink Powder is a pro favorite because it's lightweight, finely milled, and it creates a natural to a slightly satin finish that smooths over fine lines and imperfections. Where Should You Apply a Pink Powder to Brighten Your Complexion, and Which Skin Tones Will It Work Best For? Using a pink powder can create a rosy glow, and it can be absolutely beautiful depending on the look you are going for! For more mature skin or those with a lighter complexion, applying it as a finishing powder can create a healthy rosy glow and make their complexions appear healthier. This technique can work for almost all skin tones, but pink powder works best to neutralize and soften features for those with a warmer undertone. The pink will slightly counteract the warmer tones (since it's not completely opposite on the color wheel, it won't neutralize it altogether), and this creates a healthy soft effect. However, since it has a lighter, paler base, and is quite sheer, the pale pink powder can still create a brightening effect across different complexions. The Best Places to Apply a Pink Powder In a C-shape around the orbital bone to brighten and create a lifting effect to enhance the eyes Around the perimeter of the face and down across the jawline to make the face appear fuller Adding a very light dusting as a finishing powder to add a slight rosy glow What Powder Should You Use to Bake and Set the Under Eye Area? Applying the principles of color theory, you can start to see why the pink powder won't necessarily help hide dark circles under the eyes. For many people, dark circles include blue and purple tones. Since pink is a shade of red, it would actually mix with the blue or purple tones to create another shade of purple. Since the pale pink is lighter, it can create a highlighting effect, but to truly conceal a dark circle, you want to find a color that will counteract the blue and purple. To neutralize them, look at the colors opposite blue and purple on the Terri Tomlinson Flesh Tone Color Wheel. It isn't pink. In fact, you will see orange across from blue, and yellow is across from purple. That means those tones are best for neutralizing dark circles! Now you can see why makeup artists often carry a palette that has primary tones like blue, yellow, and red adjusters so they can custom mix a shade that works best for their clients.   If you want a powder to brighten the under eye area, it's best to find a shade that is similar to your skin tone but lighter. For those with a warmer skin tone, that shade is a light yellow. A popular powder for this is Ben Nye Banana Powder (odds are you've heard about this one before, too)! This pale yellow powder has the same finely milled, lightweight qualities of Pretty Pink, so it's a pro favorite to create the brightened under eye effect. If the Banana Powder is not giving you enough brightness, there is even a paler shade, Banana Light, intended to suit lighter complexions bettter or to work for those wanting an extra brightening effect! Feeling Inspired? A special thanks to PRO Makeup Artist Terri Tomlinson for helping to explain Pink Powders are such a powerful tool for makeup artists and makeup lovers. Are you ready to experience the brightening effects of pink powder? Click here to explore and view other products that have been popular on social media, or explore other professional makeup artist favorites. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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. 

Considered one of the top choices of professionals everywhere, RCMA VK Foundation (also known as RCMA Cream Foundation) is a staple in many artists' kit. A professional, highly pigmented, blendable cream base that is formulated without perfume, mineral oil, or lanolin, RCMA VK Foundation is ideal for photography, film, and anywhere else that a high-definition quality is needed with a finish that feels light enough for everyday wear. With over 70 shades to choose from, it has a perfect color match for nearly everyone with plenty of adjusters to custom create any shade you may need. However, the RCMA Cream Foundation comes with a bit of a learning curve for new users, especially when it comes to adapting the formula for different coverages and finishes. Professional makeup artists have loved RCMA for decades because of the capability to manipulate the foundation’s formula to fit their client's needs. Let's talk about how to use this foundation to its full potential. Prep the Skin Of course, the key to any makeup look is a well-prepped canvas. Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre - 24-Hour Miracle Cream works for all skin types and is our number one recommendation to prep the skin when using RCMA foundation. There are no special techniques needed for prep; simply apply a pea-sized amount of moisturizer or other hydrating base product to the skin before applying foundation. If your client has texture or suffers from acne, using peel pads such as the Peter Thomas Roth Peptide 21 Amino Acid Exfoliating Peel Pads or Indie Lee Gentle Daily Peel will help remove dead skin without irritating sensitive skin. Both are formulated for all skin types and will give you a more even base, help prevent pilling, and clinging to dry patches. If the skin is dehydrated, sheet masks like Patchology FlashMasque Hydrate are great to incorporate into the skin prep routine as well. They work in just five minutes and use lactic acid, moisturizing coconut, and soy milk to speedily dissolve dead cells and infuse extra hydration for smooth, bright skin. Sold out Sold out Sold out Sold out How to Mix Products and Control Coverage Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre and the new formula for sensitive skin Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre Sensitive aren't just great for before applying foundation, they can also be mixed with the foundation itself during application in order to achieve a natural, medium coverage skin-like finish. In terms of what not to do, we recommend that you avoid silicone primers that have too much of a slip. The foundation can tend to slip, slide, and not melt into the skin properly when using a silicone primer versus a moisturizing or illuminating primer. Not all foundations are created equal. The RCMA VK Foundation is quite different from most cream foundations because it's a solid cream in the container or palette. Because of this, you never want to dip your brush directly into the container before applying. Instead, use a spatula to scrape out a small portion of product onto a steel palette or use a hand palette like the Danessa Myricks Hand Single Use Hand Palette. With the single use hand palette, your body heat will gently warm up and emulsify the foundation making it easier to apply. Sold out Sold out Sold out Sold out Using RCMA Foundation on Different Skin Types For fuller coverage, you can apply the foundation directly to freshly prepped skin with fingertips or a dense, flat brush. We recommend bouncing a wet Beautyblender or sponge after application for seamless coverage. Set where needed with one of RCMA's powders, as they are formulated to work better together. If your client has dry skin, mature skin, or prefers light coverage, mix in one drop of the RCMA Thinner with the foundation to transform the consistency into a sheer liquid. After mixing on a stainless steel palette, take a buffing brush or stippling brush to apply the foundation to prepped skin. This will result in a beautiful luminous satin finish. If some areas need more coverage, tap foundation onto those areas with your finger for greater pigment deposit. Sold out Sold out Sold out Sold out See it in Action Watch our tutorial featuring Beauty Advisor and Professional Makeup Artist Calvin Brockington using RCMA VK Foundation and some of the tips we shared above Sold out Sold out Sold out Sold out Ready to try RCMA Cream Foundation? If you’re a working artist looking for the most efficient way to carry around a wide range of shades, the RCMA VK Cream Foundation Palette is a great choice. It offers 18 shades of the RCMA foundation in one convenient palette, allowing you to contour and conceal clients of all skin tones. For a more compact palette, try one of the 5 Part Series Foundations. Want to customize the perfect palette? Try our Palette Builder and select individual shades! If you have any questions, our Beauty Advisors are here to help. Drop them a line at beautyadvisor@crcmakeup.com, or come visit us in our Dallas showroom! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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. 

As we head deeper into the season, we will go back to having longer and warmer days, which means more sun exposure, increased perspiration, and all sorts of environmental factors than can cause your skin to react differently than it did during winter. Of course, we recommend sunscreen year-round, but in this blog, we wanted to give you extra tips to switch up your skincare routine to help you adjust your regimen for beautiful skin no matter what Mother Nature has in store! In this blog, we’ll be going over our top 5 skincare tips for spring: Avoid over-exfoliation Keep oiliness at bay with a new cleansing routine Incorporate BHAs Find a moisturizer that meets your skin’s changing needs Stay hydrated Tip #1: Avoid Over-Exfoliation As chemical peel season also comes to a close, it’s important to be careful with what you are exfoliating with. Many exfoliating treatments containing high amounts of Glycolic Acid, and Retinol can sometimes be harsh and weaken the skin’s barrier so it may not be best to use those when the sun is stronger. Using gentler but still effective acids, such as Azelaic, Lactic, and Mandelic Acids may be a better choice. Also, refrain from receiving too many deeper skin treatments such as microneedling, laser, and peels once the weather becomes warmer. Work with your dermatologist to fine tune your treatment schedule to ensure you're not over-doing it. How to tell if you've over-exfoliated... and how to heal your skin If you're experiencing extra sensitivity, redness, irritation, burning, or even see small pustules forming, odds are you may have over-exfoliated. As always, speak to your dermatologist who already knows your skin's personal needs and the ingredients you respond the best to, but a few universal steps anyone can take include: Use a gentle cleanser like Avene Tolerance Extremely Gentle Cleanser, or Ren Clean Skincare Evercalm Gentle Cleansing Milk Avoid scrubs and the use of retinols until your skin has healed Use a healing moisturizer that is created to restore your skin's barrier like Bioderam Cicabio Cream or Kiehl's Dermatologist Solutions Centella Cica Cream Tip #2: Learn How to Control Seasonal Oiliness Humidity increases as the temperature does, which can cause increased oil production. Incorporating an oil cleanser as your first step is key to removing excess oil, makeup residue, sunscreens, and pollutants. When oil-cleansing, apply to dry skin and dry hands, massage gently while focusing on areas with congestion & excess oil production. Follow up with wet hands and massage again; this will emulsify the oil cleanser and turn it into more of a milky consistency. Rinse and follow up with your regular cleanser. When cleansing, make sure you are taking your time and cleanse for a whole minute with each cleanser ("60 second rule"). This allows the ingredients to really penetrate your skin and helps dissolve excess sebum. This may sound scary for people who tend to be on the oilier side, however, oil attracts oil, and using this “pre-cleanse” step is basically like sweeping before you mop! A few great options are Ren Clean Skincare No. 1 Purity Cleansing Balm, Kiehl's Midnight Recovery Botanical Cleansing Oil, and Milk + Honey Cleansing Balm. Turn Down the Heat to Protect Your Hair During the Spring and Summer Tip #3: Incorporate BHAs Into Your Skincare Routine to Exfoliate That being said, BHAs (beta-hydroxy acids), such as Salicylic Acid, will be ideal for the warmer weather. They are oil-soluble, and in addition to effectively exfoliating dead skin cells, they also help decrease an excessive amounts of sebum. Senna Exfoliating Cleanser, which contains Salicylic & Lactic Acid, is a pro favorite! Tip #4: Don't Forget to Moisturize! Moisturizing is also necessary year-round! People with oily skin sometimes assume they don't need extra moisturizer during the warmer months, but that is not the ideal mentality to have. Often times, oily is actually dehydrated skin that is over-producing oils to compensate for the hydration it is not receiving. You may skip your nightly application of facial oils this time of year, but using serums and moisturizers with water-loving ingredients, such as Hyaluronic Acid, is ideal! You may opt for lighter weight, gel-based moisturizers versus rich, creamy ones that you would typically be using in the colder season. Embryolisse Emulsion Hydra-Mat works great for this, as it absorbs excess oil, and slightly mattifies, without leaving the face feeling tight or void of moisture! It is also a great option for men's grooming, as well. Tip #5: Don't Forget to Stay Hydrated This tip is one we will give no matter the season. During the winter and cooler months, we recommend using a humidifier in the bedroom at night to add extra moisture to the air. You may stop using this method once the weather warms up and humidity returns, but make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body, and in turn your skin, hydrated and happy! In fact, we recommend increasing your water intake if you're more active and spending more time outdoors, as you'll lose moisture as your skin heats up and perspires.   Feeling Inspired? We hope this blog has helped you learn how to change up your skincare routine for the season ahead! Explore our best selling skincare products, and if you need more help or a personalized recommendation, we are here to help. Click here to contact a Beauty Advisor! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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. 

When the flowers begin to blossom, trees start to sprout new leaves, and the weather warms up, it can only mean one thing: spring has truly sprung, and summer is knocking at the door! But with warmer weather comes humidity, which can take a large toll on not just the look but also the manageability of your hair. The more humid it is, the more likely your hair is to frizz. With these tried-and-true methods, you’ll keep your hair looking great all year long. How Can I Keep My Hair Healthy in the Warmer Months? Spring and summer bring new hair challenges after cold, dry winters, but you can achieve healthy, shiny, soft, and frizz-free hair even during the hottest days with a few simple tweaks to your hair care routine. Battle bad hair days with our top tips, including: Get a haircut/trim Ditch the heat Stock up on frizz-taming products Use weekly hair treatments or hair oils Incorporate a refreshing scrub New Hair, New You  It’s a great idea to kick off the spring season with a fresh haircut to get rid of those dry, dead ends. Split ends can travel up the strand, causing more damage and frizz, so it's key to get a haircut when you start to notice fraying. If you live in a region with high humidity, haircuts with blunt lines can help! How to Style Your Hair When the Weather Heats Up Turn Down the Heat to Protect Your Hair During the Spring and Summer While nobody likes a cold shower, turning the heat down a notch to lukewarm can work wonders for your locks. High temperatures can cause the hair cuticles to raise and open, which makes your hair need more moisture (AKA, avoid steam if you can!) to behave. You can combat open cuticles with a cool-water rinse at the end of your shower. What about hot air from the blow dryer, though? Well, when it comes to using heat for blow-drying and styling, a great trick is using the “cold” feature (that little blue button!) on your blow dryer to create this cuticle-soothing effect for a smooth head of hair. Fight Frizz With Top-Notch Hair Products When it comes to frizzy hair, stocking up on frizz-fighting products is an absolute must as the temperature starts to rise. And we highly recommend using UV protective products in the spring and summer to shield your hair from sun damage. Fun Fact: Your hair can burn just like your skin – you just can’t feel it! To counteract hair burn and frizz, use lightweight creams or serums that create a barrier between your hair shaft and water in the atmosphere. Oribe Impermeable Anti-Humidity Spray not only shields hair from frizz on the steamiest of days (and nights) but also contains UV protection - a true two-for-one! The team at Living Proof knows what a struggle it can be to tame your tresses when the humidity is on the rise, so they developed a patented Healthy Hair Molecule (OFPMA) and the No Frizz System. The system consists of Living Proof No Frizz Shampoo and Conditioner, Living Proof No Frizz Humidity Shield, and Living Proof No Frizz Nourishing Styling Cream. This system not only helps in blocking humidity but also smooths your hair texture leaving those strands polished, frictionless, and moisturized. Treat Your Tresses to Minimize Flyaways and Frizz Using a weekly hair treatment can also assist in combating those pesky flyaways. One of our favorites is the Philip B Rejuvenating Oil, which starts working instantly to make your hair soft and shiny with great bounce. This product’s ultra-light essential oils offer instant results for a beautiful, manageable mane no matter the season. How to Apply A Hair Oil: Hair oils can be used on towel-dried or dry hair to provide extra hydration, shine, and softness. However, one of our favorite ways to use it is prior to cleansing. Apply the hair oil liberally to dry, unwashed hair, starting 2 inches from the roots, and work it in with your fingers down to the ends. Shampoo and condition as normal. Hot tip: To help the moisture sink in quickly, warm your hair with a blow dryer for 1 to 2 minutes. If you prefer to treat yourself to a hair mask, opt for one that is designed to treat damaged hair like the Christophe Robin Regenerating Mask with Rare Prickly Pear Oil. Even if your hair isn't damaged, these nourishing masks can protect against future damage. If you have curly hair, the Oribe Moisture Control Deep Treatment Masque is a great option to provide extra hydration and to protect against photoaging. Use A Scalp Scrub to Whisk Away Buildup and Restore Shine Scalp scrubs have gained popularity during the last few years, but their benefits really shine as the weather warms up! Odds are, you'll be spending more time outdoors, and although you may not actively be sweating, your scalp will produce more sweat and oil in response to the changing climate. A gentle scrub will help slough away those impurities and will stimulate bloodflow to your scalp for healthy hair growth. Additionally, it can get to the root of the problem (literally) when it comes to dull hair that has lost its luster due to buildup. How to Use a Scalp Scrub: Each scalp scrub will come with different instructions based on the formulation, so read the packaging to determine if you should scrub after using shampoo or if you can apply as soon as you enter the shower. For example, the Christophe Robin Cleansing and Purifying Scalp Scrub with Sea Salt is formulated with shampoo in it to provide a proper cleansing and exfoliating session in one easy step! The key to a good exfoliating session is to keep it relatively short (compared to the 5-15 minutes you leave a hair mask in) and to let the exfoliating agents in the scrub itself do the heavy lifting. Apply a generous amount of the scrub as close to your scalp as possible and gently massage using the pads of your fingertips instead of your nails to prevent accidental scratches or damage to your skin. Lightly rub the scrub all over the scalp, allow to sit on your head for a couple of minutes (or as instructed by the packaging, as certain brands incorporate chemical exfoliators), and rinse well.   How Often You Should Use a Scalp Scrub: If you have a healthy scalp without any flakiness, dryness, or irritation, a scalp scrub can be used safely every 5-7 washes or after excessive sweating and product usage. The Philip B Peppermint Avocado Scalp Scrub provides a cooling effect that can be a refreshing way to treat your mane after a warm day in the sun. If you have scalp irritation, it's best to select a scrub that is formulated with chemical exfoliators and smaller exfoliating particles like Oribe Serene Scalp Exfoliating Scrub. It is extra gentle and has flower extracts to calm and hydrate a dry, irritated scalp. Feeling Inspired? We hope this blog has helped provide a few new tips for you to achieve your hair goals this season! If you're ready to refresh your hair routine, explore all of the great hair care products we offer! If you need more help or a personalized recommendation, click here to contact a Beauty Advisor. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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. 

With many so hair styles ranging from romantic, edgy, classic, bohemian, and retro to choose from, it's no wonder selecting the perfect hairstyle for a wedding can be one of the most dizzying decisions for a bride. However, one thing remains true no matter which style you choose; proper hair care can make achieving the bridal hairstyle of your dreams easier for both you and your stylist. That's why we worked with our in-house licensed cosmetologist Jessica Dickison to provide a few tips for brides to ensure their hair is Camera Ready for their big day. Tips for Hair Care 6-12 Months Before the Wedding We know the time between engagement and the actual wedding day can vary greatly from one wedding to another, but if a bride has at least six months before the big day, they can get a jump start on caring for their hair for extra lustrous locks. JESSICA: If possible, try to book your bridal hair appointment at least nine months in advance. This will allow you to schedule your trial with plenty of time to make adjustments to your hair like extra conditioning, coloring, and trimming before the big day. We suggest doing the trial 1-3 months before the wedding so your stylist can let you know what kind of products and treatments you should be using for your exact hair type. It can also be helpful to schedule your dress fitting after your hair and makeup which will allow you the opportunity to see the whole bridal look Where to go for bridal hair inspiration On one hand, looking for inspiration has never been easier thanks to social media sites like Pinterest, Instagram, and now even TikTok showcasing beautiful styles, but use a little bit of caution when saving out images to show your stylist. JESSICA: I know these days everyone runs to Pinterest to plan their big day, but what Pinterest doesn’t tell you is that those models generally have hair extensions, hairpieces, or wigs to achieve the desired look. It's possible that your stylist may be comfortable using extensions on you, too, but double-check with them to see if they think your dream 'do is doable with or without extensions or additional pieces so you may purchase them in advance, if necessary. Color matching them can be a little tricky. What treatments should a bride enjoy or avoid 6-12 months before the wedding? JESSICA: While it may be tempting to change your look up entirely to achieve a certain vision for your wedding, avoid services that can be overly taxing on your tresses. These services can include perms, intense highlighting sessions where you're lifting the color more than three to four shades, or chemical straightening. Your stylist will be able to determine what condition your hair is in and what treatments they feel comfortable performing on you during this time, so definitely work with them to select the proper services for your hair. Tips for Hair Care 2-3 Months Before the Wedding Products to Consider Adding to Your Routine As the wedding date draws closer, the focus shifts from searching for the perfect style to achieving healthy hair that will be in optimal condition. There are a few ingredients you can avoid and consider using to help! JESSICA: Now is the time to treat yourself and your hair to a little extra TLC! The wedding process is in full swing, and a bride can treat themselves with a deep conditioning mask for a few moments of much-needed pampering time. To get your hair as glossy as possible, consider adding a mask to your routine 2-3 months out from the big day. A weekly deep conditioning treatment like Living Proof PhD Night Cap Overnight Perfector is a great option because it is sulfate-free and is formulated to be extra gentle on chemically-treated and colored hair. It also helps the hair to be more manageable which will help your stylist! PRO Tip: Avoid products with sulfates during the months leading up to the wedding. They can strip the hair of moisture, and this can cause colored hair to fade faster and all hair types to look dull.   Tips for Hair Care 1-2 Months Before the Wedding At this stage, the hair routine should consist of very few major changes. A light color refresh service like toning or glossing should be okay, as long as you keep the changes subtle. Ideally, your makeup trial should take place after your last hair coloring session so your bridal makeup artist can select products that compliment your hair color, too!   JESSICA: If you do choose to color your hair during this time frame, it's best to communicate these changes with your bridal makeup and hair team (if the stylist is different than the one you're working with for the big day). Even subtle changes to your hair tone can change which makeup products will complement your overall look. This is also the time to get one last trim to get rid of split and dry ends, to avoid heat styling when possible, and to avoid products that can cause build-up. Since many brides will choose to have their bridal hair trial during the two months out time frame, this is the perfect chance to make those fine-tuning tweaks to ensure everything is perfect for the wedding day. Be sure to ask your stylist for the products they would recommend for your hair type, as they will be able to identify your hair's needs. Hair Care Advice for the Bride for the Big Day Just like that, the week leading up to the wedding day is here! Now is the time to avoid heat styling or using products that cause build-up. JESSICA: Of course, check with your stylist first, but as a general rule of thumb, do not wash your hair on the wedding day! Do that the day before. I actually recommend double-washing and then conditioning to ensure you're removing any extra build-up of oils, product residue, or impurities. Leave the conditioner on a little longer than normal, up to five minutes, and rinse well. Avoid using any post-shower products (a leave-in conditioner is okay) to avoid adding any extra products that will impact how it holds a style on your wedding day. Lightly blow-drying is fine. Washing the day before the wedding will also allow enough natural oil to form to help lock your bridal style in place. My final piece of advice? Take a deep breath, and enjoy every moment! It's the most exciting day of your life, and no matter what, you'll look beautiful! A Summary of the Do's and Don'ts for Bridal Hair Care We covered a lot in this blog, so to make it as easy as possible, we've created a list of the basic things to do and the things to avoid before the big day. The DO’s for Bridal Hair Care: -DO Make sure your haircut aligns with your day-of style -DO book your consultation a minimum of 2 months before your wedding day -DO treatments/hair masks weekly the 2-3 months leading up to the big day -DO make sure to get a trim and color touch up 2 weeks prior to the event -DO use sulfate-free shampoo & conditioner -If you are frequently in the sun, we DO suggest using a leave in with UV protection The DON'TS for Bridal Hair Care: -Don't overly process your hair within one year of your wedding (excessive highlighting, chemical straightening, perms, etc.) -Don't book your consultation too close to your wedding date. Leave wiggle room to try something new or tweak it to perfection -Don't overheat your hair. Use a thermal protection spray when blowing out/flat ironing/curling to minimize damage -Don’t use too much product in your hair during your wedding week to avoid product buildup -Don't wash your hair the morning of your wedding (unless your stylist advises you otherwise) -Don't make any drastic changes. Feeling Inspired? We hope you're feeling confident about your hair's needs after reading our blog. If you need more help or a personalized recommendation, click here to contact a Beauty Advisor, otherwise, enjoy perusing our beautiful selection of hair care products! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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 by @stephaniepowersmakeup, Model @gabriellepaoletti, Photography by @nellhovingphoto, Hair Styling by @amandaleighrush, Bridal Boutique & Styling by @marimibridal, custom veil and accessories by @gianascanellibridal When it comes to wedding makeup, there are plenty of blogs, inspiration photos, and tips for the bride, but what about the makeup artist? While wedding guests often remark on the venue, the dress, and even the food served, they’re also focused on the bridal makeup. That’s why we’re sharing PRO Tips from our Bridal Look Book makeup artist Stephanie Powers. Sit back, relax, and enjoy her tips for aspiring bridal makeup artists! Things to Consider for the Bridal Makeup Trial CRC: For newer makeup artists, what are the important questions that they need to ask brides when brides reach out for bridal makeup trial (e.g. what style do you like, can you send examples of the look you're after, how much makeup do you normally wear, etc)? STEPHANIE: I feel the questions should be saved for the initial trial. If a bride is inquiring your services for their event they most likely saw your work or was referred to you. Keep your inquiry reply simple in order to secure your services. That initial email back to a client/bride is important. I always have a template ready to go. This business is all about communicating in a timely manner. Send pricing, contract and all details you have regarding hiring you, this way there won’t be so many questions and back and forth before the initial trial. Once the bride returns your email you can then discuss the trial date. I like to ask the potential bride, Do you have a desired look you are going for? Theme etc. on the wedding day? I always like to suggest days for the trial such as; Do you have any special days coming up you would your makeup or hair trial on? Such as, events, bridal shower, date night, dress fitting etc. One of my favorite days to do a trail is when the bride can get hair & makeup trial done on the day of a dress fitting. This way they can see everything together and decide if changes need made for the big day. Important Questions to Ask the Bride CRC: What questions do you ask during the trial to ensure you're giving them exactly what they want and providing the best service possible? STEPHANIE: The very first question I ask a bride when they are in my chair, Do you have any allergies to skincare, makeup, latex etc. that you are aware of? Other questions would include, Have you had your makeup professionally done before? What was the likes and dislikes of your last professional experience? Do you have a desired look? What do you not like about makeup? If applying lashes, always ask if they have worn them before and if they have not, walk them through your process on how you apply them. Also as a professional I evaluate their skin type, ask them about their daily skin routine. If they do not take care of their skin, I always suggest them getting on a good skincare routine 3-6months before their wedding. I suggest seeing an aesthetician if it is in their budget. Good skin equals good makeup, and that’s a good reminder to them. CRC: How do you handle feedback if they seem to like the makeup the day of and contact you later asking you to change things up completely? STEPHANIE: One thing I never do is take it offensively. This is what a trial is for, to see if they like the look. If they want another trial they pay for another trail, no discounts. I reassure the bride that these changes that they desire can be attainable on the wedding day. On the day of the trial I always make sure I take photos, not only on my phone and camera but the brides as well. This way we can reference back on what they would like to change. CRC: How long, in your opinion, is a good length for a trial session? How far out from the wedding would you recommend people book this service? STEPHANIE: I think this depends on each individual bride. Unfortunately some brides may live outside of state. Ideally 3-4 months before the big day is a good time frame. CRC: What other tips do you have for makeup artists during this time frame? STEPHANIE: Because most trials happen during bridal season, my best advice would be to setup trial days in your schedule. Book your bridal trials throughout those days. Not only does it help your pocket, it will help scheduling. Remember you are a business with business hours. Skin Prep for the Bride Things to Consider as a Bridal Makeup Artist Since the busiest bridal season kicks off in the spring and runs through early fall, makeup artists are up against a slew of environmental factors, especially if the wedding or reception are outdoors. Humidity, heat, and even excessive sunlight can take a toll on the makeup. While we cannot control the weather, we can prep the skin and select products that work no matter the conditions. CRC: How do you change up skin prep for brides compared to other types of clients for different events? STEPHANIE: I always start by cleaning the face, neck and décolleté. I like to use micellar water with cotton rounds. For my brides, I always have a hydrating mask and or eye patches. By the time of the wedding day, you should have a good understanding of your brides skin and choose the right skin prep for each individual bride. I determine this by texture, large pores, breakouts, hyperpigmentation, etc. Other than starting off with a clean face, skin prep varies due to skin type. CRC: As we all know, a good skincare regimen is important to have a great base for makeup. As makeup artists, we can always work our magic with skin prep, but since you're in touch with brides before their big day, do you give them any skincare advice so their skin is in the best shape possible for the wedding? STEPHANIE: One thing I always tell brides to never do is start any new treatments or products one month before the big day. This should be done at least 3-6 months before the wedding. Also, one week before wedding day is an ideal time to receive your final facial. Avoid any kind of peels or extractions. Oxygen therapy, hydra facials, and hydrating serums will help decrease puffiness and help ensure your skin looks beautiful the week of the wedding. The night before the big day focus on hydration. PRO Tip: Speaking of uncontrollable situations when parts of the wedding or reception are outdoors, there are a few things you can do to help ensure their makeup is picture perfect no matter the lighting. Unless your bride asks for it, consider using products with more of a satin finish versus true shimmer or glitter if the ceremony or reception is outside during daytime hours. Glitter will catch and reflect the light in a scattered way instead of diffusing it. If you're a newer artist and aren't sure how to determine if you've added too much glow during the trial, there is no harm in walking with the bride over to a window or well lit area to show them how luminous the makeup looks to see if they are comfortable with it or would like it to be toned down or dialed up! You can achieve a luminous glow with a radiant primer under the foundation but avoid the urge to go all out with glowy products. The same is true for eyeshadow and highlighter. Unlike in a studio for bridal portraits where the lighting is set and forgiving, the natural sunlight will reflect differently throughout the day causing the bride’s makeup to look different in their wedding photos. To help provide a satin finish to the bridal look, we recommend Skindinavia Bridal Makeup Finishing Spray. Extra Advice for Bridal Makeup Artists CRC: What do you do to elevate the bridal service and experience? STEPHANIE: Remember a bride has a lot on their mind. So the most important thing you can do is help make them a timeline for the hair and makeup, discuss this with the planner or bride ahead of time. Time management is especially important on a wedding morning. I like to arrive a half hour early for setup and I also provide the bride with eye gel patches and or a mask best suited for her skin type, always hydrating though. One piece of advice I like to give artists starting out in the industry is to remember that we, as the glam squad start, off the mood of their special day. Feeling Inspired? We hope this blog has given you a few extra tips you haven't considered as you continue your career as a bridal makeup artist! For more bridal inspo, check out our Bridal Look Book. If you need more help or a personalized recommendation, click here to contact a Beauty Advisor. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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. 

All images in this blog are styles created by Melissa Dunn, @bridalbabesbymelissa Brides invest countless hours of their time into researching vendors and a glam team for their wedding day and therefore making a great first impression on a bridal client as a vendor will make you stand out from the crowd, every single time. For most brides, finding the perfect hair stylist for their big day can be an intimidating task. However, as beauty professionals, we can make it easier for them to find what they’re looking for! We spoke with Melissa Dunn, an award-winning hair stylist based in Charleston, South Carolina, to gain insight into the everyday life of a bridal hair stylist. Melissa was kind enough to share a bit of her story with us and provide her insider advice for other hair stylists looking to work in the bridal industry. Be sure to read all the way until the very end to enjoy a special step-by-step tutorial for one of her most requested styles! How to Attract Bridal Clients For stylists hoping to attract new clients, you can help brides find you and ultimately gain more bookings! It takes a bit of branding and marketing, but the extra effort will be worth it. You can attract the type of clientele that you want by showcasing your work across different platforms. In today’s world, connecting with others and networking is the quickest and most efficient form of word-of-mouth marketing. CRC: Where did you go for inspiration when you first started your career? MELISSA: Instagram! I began by following every bridal hair account I could find because it helped me gather ideas and draw inspiration for the kind of bridal hairstyling that I wanted to create and become my signature style. PRO Tip: Social media has opened the doors for so many creatives, including hair stylists who showcase their portfolio of work on their social media feeds and build their brand one post and one follower at a time. Consider finding social media groups or pages of like-minded professionals to grow your network and share your ongoing work and services. Research the hashtags other artists use to promote the styles you specialize in and use those in your posts, too. There is no such thing as too much education or networking so take advantage of all of the wonderful resources at your fingertips! CRC: Do you prefer if a bride sends you inspiration pics, a character from a movie/show, etc.? MELISSA: I love inspo pics! I send my brides a direct link to my Instagram gallery so that they can personally review all of my work. In doing so, my bride can see three very important components: my aesthetic, the vibe of my work, and the type of upstyles that are my specialty. Additionally, I ask my brides to send me photos showcasing a similar hair color to their own because oftentimes, the same updo can look completely different on different colors and tones of hair. CRC: How do you structure your trials? MELISSA: I structure my trials as a one-on-one appointment. I allow them to bring one person; however, I prefer to meet with the bride individually so that we can focus together on the exact desired look. Oftentimes, too many on-lookers can provide too many opinions and it ends up confusing the bride. I also provide my brides with a Trial Hair Prep list to follow prior to our appointment. This includes instructing my brides to wash and dry their hair the night before and asking them to wear something white and off-the-shoulder so that when I photograph their hair, they can see it against a white top. I find it helpful for them to see it that way. CRC: How long do your trials typically last? MELISSA: My trials can take 3-4 hours because my bride and I spend that time getting to know each other. We cover everything about the special day, from hair and makeup, to how many services they will need on the wedding day. We also discuss the timeline, what the dress and veil look like, floral, and décor! As I’m working during this time, we discuss all details of the hairstyle. I like for the client to approve of each detail before moving on to the next stage so I constantly show all angles of the hairstyle as I’m creating/working so that they can see the volume, texture, curls, etc. Trials are charged separately from a bridal day-of-the-wedding styling session; they are a separate service as they are time-consuming and costly. Handling Negative Feedback and Sticky Situations During a Bridal Hair Trial Although it's not a fun topic, and your many practice sessions can leave you feeling fully confident that you'll deliver exactly what the bride wants, it's important to remember that you may someday encounter negative feedback from your clients. Remember, this isn't personal, and it is an opportunity for yout o learn and to get better at reading your clients, communicating with them, and feeling more confident in the long run. CRC: How did you handle clients that seemed like they loved their trial only to tell you later they either wanted to make major changes or cancel altogether? MELISSA: The first thing I tell my bride when they sit in my chair is: “This is not about me, this is about you. Don’t be afraid to tell me the truth about how you feel about your hair or afraid to ask for adjustments or make changes to your upstyle. My goal is for you to be happy and excited about your bridal hair.” Communicating this from the very beginning opens up an honest line of communication between us and makes my bride feel comfortable about asking for adjustments. I have learned that doing this also helps keep cancellations at bay. I have had a couple of brides change things on me on the wedding day, and it can be stressful, but I just do my best to prepare myself for anything. If a bride cancels and moves forward with someone else, I have learned that it is totally okay also! I do not beat myself up about it. My work may not have been exactly what she was looking for and I do not take it personally. I just keep it moving!   CRC: What are some of the tricky situations that have learned to navigate through during your career?   MELISSA: There are so many tricky situations! One tricky situation that I often encounter involves timelines and expectations. Because most weddings typically include a handful or more of clients that I have to style, I begin hours in advance to ensure that everyone is ready on time, and oftentimes, this means beginning early in the morning, even if the wedding is not until the second half of the day. I have to be stern and sweet at the same time to explain that every minute counts on the day of the wedding.   Another common situation I experience is when the bride received a haircut prior to the wedding and now the hair is too short. Working with countless brides over the years, I have discovered hair extensions can be a lifesaver. I have learned that when I remain calm and reassuring, it really helps the bride. PRO Tip: Be sure to showcase a variety of hair styles on your website and social media to allow prospective clients to see your range of skills! How to Navigate Last Minute Styling Request During the Bridal Service CRC: How do you handle clients that try to add additional clients to your styling duties the day of that were not part of the original contract? MELISSA: If my timeline permits, I will add additional clients in this type of situation; however, I stress the “if I have time” factor so as to not over-promise or disappoint anybody, especially the bride. And in this case, I do charge an extra add-on fee on top of the service fee. Extra Advice for Bridal Hair Stylists CRC: What do you do to elevate the bridal service and experience? MELISSA: I set myself apart by how I communicate with my brides and how I go above and beyond achieving a desired look for them. I also care for my brides like I do for my family and they know it, too! CRC: If you could go back in time and give yourself some advice as you were starting your career, what would you say? MELISSA: I wish I had known in the beginning that in addition to being the bridal hair expert, you are also your own marketing team, photographer, and social media manager. You respond to all inquiries, manage restocking your kit, and most importantly - furthering your education. It is important to practice your craft as often as possible because things get chaotic and we play so many roles. Other stylists often say to me, “gosh Melissa, I just don’t have time to post on social media, I don’t know how you do it,” and I always respond with, “I don’t have the time either, but I MAKE the time because I want to run a successful bridal hair business!” Ironically enough, I’m in the gym on a bike while answering the questions for this interview! One final and major thing I want other stylists to know: Do not let fear hold you back like I did! I waited way too long to start my business because I thought I would fail or not be good enough. I had to let go and take this risk and it’s been the most amazing journey! A Hair Tutorial by Melissa Dunn How to create a romantic braided bridal bun First, curl the hair with a 1-inch curling iron with all of the curls going in the same direction. Next, take two sections near the partial ridge and twist towards the face. Pinch and pull each section. Take the twisted section and place it just above the nape and pin it into place. Repeat the same step above but on the opposite side. Create three twists and fluff out the sections. Next, take the three sections you twisted and braid them together. Take the fluffy braid and wrap it into a circle to create a fluffy messy bun. Pin the bun in place. Finally, fine-tune the upstyle. Take a step back and look at the updo, Pinch, pull, tug, and pin into place once you reach the desired look! Be sure to visit Melissa on Instagram to view more of her pictorials and video tutorials! About Our Featured Pro, Melissa Dunn Melissa services brides in Charleston, South Carolina, and the surrounding areas and offers a range of makeup and hair styles from military balls, maternity shoots, boudoir, and of course, bridal! Melissa Dunn Hair and Makeup has been awarded Best of Weddings from The Knot for the last three years in a row and describes her work and style as “light and airy.” She has been in the industry for over a decade and studied at Paul Mitchell The School before launching her own business. In addition to being inspired by all things beauty, she loves staying active and spending time with her daughter. In addition to helping her clients feel and look their best, she also offers virtual classes to other stylists that want to learn how to create her signature hair styles. Visit her website, or visit her on social media for more inspiration! Feeling Inspired? We hope reading about Melissa's journey and seeing her work has inspired you and taught you a few things to keep in mind for your next bridal session! For more bridal inspo, check out our Bridal Look Book. If you need more help or a personalized recommendation, click here to contact a Beauty Advisor. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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. 

Unless you’re a professional makeup artist, it can be a little daunting to select the perfect powder. That’s why we worked with our Beauty Advisors to create a blog to explain the differences between the most popular powder types and to share a few tips and tricks to make sure your makeup stays Camera Ready all day long. The Different Types of Powder So many specific ways to use different powders to enhance your makeup, so little time! Chances are you’ve at least used a setting powder before, but what other types of powder are there, and what are the benefits of each? In this blog, we’ll be talking about the following: Loose Powder versus Pressed Powder Under-eye Powder Blurring Powder Setting Powder versus Finishing Powder Loose Powder versus Pressed Powder The Benefits of Loose Powder Loose powder has been a beauty staple for decades, in fact, it’s the most commonly used powder and has been around since the early 1900s. While they originated to keep a flawless matte look, quite a few different spins on the classic loose powder have developed. Loose powder is commonly used to set your makeup and is especially used under the eyes and in tandem with contour under and above the cheekbones. Wherever you’ve applied the powder will look matte, smooth and bright. When applying the loose powder, it helps to have a small powder puff or makeup sponge that you lightly dip in the jar. After applying your concealer you will use your puff or sponge and pack in — or “beat” — the loose powder on those areas you want set, mattified and brightened. Using a dabbing motion rather than wiping it on your face will help maintain the integrity of the makeup underneath! To make sure it’s even, take a medium to large makeup brush and buff in your powder using a circular motion and make sure it’s blended with your foundation, contour and blush. Three of our best selling powders that are available in both a pressed and loose version include RCMA No Color Powder & Premiere Powder, Ben Nye Luxury Powder, and By Terry powders. The Benefits of Pressed Powders We love a good compact pressed powder, as they’re easy to take with you on the road or keep in the purse for a quick fix, and are much more mess-free than a loose powder. Pressed powders are best at removing shine and blotting oil from the skin for midday touchups , which can happen after wearing your makeup for a few hours. These powders are very sheer and are definitely not made for full coverage — they are typically best for quick touch-ups. Most pressed powders come with a sponge or puff in the compact. Either can make it easy to quickly apply all over the face or as needed to reduce shine until your makeup looks fresh again. The Different Types of Powder Blurring Powder What if we told you that you could achieve the “filtered” look in real life with the help of one magical powder? Well, let us introduce you to blurring powder! Blurring powders are super lightweight and are made to “blur” out the skin’s imperfections giving your skin that photoshop effect. They also usually leave the skin looking flawless. These powders come in both loose and pressed forms and are made to spot treat whereas mattifying loose powders are made for all over setting. It is best to use a blurring powder after covering a blemish or mark on the face. Make sure to use a small, dense makeup brush or dry makeup sponge to use to set the powder on the areas you need coverage. A powder like Make Up For Ever Ultra HD Matte Setting Powder is a micro-fine, lightweight power that blurs skin by minimizing the appearance of pores, and sets the makeup with this anti-shine powder. It is perfect for oily and combination skin types. The Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder is a cult favorite for its instant blurring effect without any flashback. To create an instant blurring effect using these powders, we recommend using a velour powder puff to apply. Folding the velour puff in half and using a “press and roll” motion will ensure you do not move the makeup underneath nor apply too much powder. Foundation Powder True to the name, foundation powder is meant to build full coverage like a liquid or cream foundation would. This powder is extremely multifunctional as it can be used for bronzing, contouring and full-coverage foundation. You can also use it on top of your liquid foundation to give it that extra coverage — just make sure to get it true to your shade! Foundation powder usually comes in a pressed formula and is definitely not for matifying or setting like other powders. To apply foundation powder, you will want to use a face sponge or beauty blender to build the powder on depending on the type of coverage you are looking for. Under-Eye Powders Under-eye powders are not only magical but are specifically made to help cover even the deepest, darkest under-eye bags. They usually come in small jars and three different colors to help with discoloration around the eyes. These powders can come in loose or pressed form and are meant to disappear upon application. Green tones help with redness, while peach tones aid dark circles, and yellow tones help cancel out purple discoloration and dullness. After you apply your concealer is when you come in with the under eye powder of your choice. You can use a sponge or an eyeshadow brush to blend. Lightly load your under eye powder and tap it into place under the eyes. Laura Mercier offers an under-eye powders in both a loose powder and pressed powder form. Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder For Under Eyes is a weightless powder to set under-eye concealer, brightens the look of dark circles, and diminishes signs of visible fine lines. The micronized pigments won't settle into fine lines or accentuate shadows. Secret Blurring Powder for Under Eyes is a pressed, transparent, weightless powder to set under-eye concealer and blur the look of fine lines. This powder will also contain micronized pigments that won't settle into fine lines or look cakey around the eye area. This powder will also give a sheer hint of coverage. Both formulas are translucent but come in two shades, designed to work on any skin tone to brighten tired eyes The Difference Between Setting Powder and Finishing Powder The fine line between finishing powder and setting powder is often blurred (see what we did there). The industry now seems to market these products as one and the same, making the actual uses and benefits of each unclear. If you’re feeling confused and unsure of which powder is right for you, we’re here for you.We’re breaking down the differences between the two so you can feel more comfortable and educated before making a purchase. What is Setting Powder Setting powder is exactly what the name says. It is a powder that is designed to “set” or hold foundation and other complexion products in place. They prevent base makeup from rubbing off and reduce shine for a long-lasting, flawless complexion. Available in two common forms – loose and pressed – setting powders can be translucent or slightly tinted to match skin tone. Choosing the best form of setting powder is purely a matter of preference. Pressed powders are semi-solid, easy to use, and great for taking on the go. Loose powders are finer in consistency and don’t transport well because they can be messy, but they offer great lightweight coverage and work well for those prone to oily skin or who prefer wearing liquid foundations.   Setting powder also serves as the perfect weapon against excess oil buildup, so it’s great to have on hand to knock down shine.   For those in search of a more sheer look, apply setting powder in place of foundation for lightweight, natural coverage. If you or your client are prone to getting extra oily throughout the day, you can even mix a small amount of powder into your foundation or apply a thin layer of it before applying foundation. Just make sure you’re properly cleansing, toning, and prepping your skin before using this trick. Popular Setting Powders Here are the top three setting powders, as voted by our Pro Artist community: RCMA No Color Powder : Loved amongst celebrities and makeup artists, this beauty favorite sets foundation without changing the color. The formula delivers a smooth translucent veil without adding unwanted texture or creating a "caked on" look. Disappears for a completely invisible hold and keeps shine at bay. Ben Nye Neutral Set : This colorless powder formula blends with every skin tone without diminishing the complexion’s natural glow. Ben Nye's only non-translucent powder that contains a bright white pigment good for very fair shades. Controls perspiration for high energy performers. For a lightly tinted option, opt for one of Ben Nye’s Luxury Powders including the cult favorite Banana Powder. Danessa Myricks Evolution Powder : Provides a silky smooth, invisible finish. This light-diffusing weightless translucent powder can be used over and under foundation. Mimics perfect skin with professionally tested, vegan and cruelty-free ingredients. Also available in four tinted shades to match fair to deep skin tones. What is Finishing Powder As the name suggests, finishing powders are designed for use after a makeup look is complete. From a makeup artist perspective, this powder isn’t intended for everyday use, but it’s a great option when you’ll be in front of bright lights and cameras. Most commonly sold in loose form, finishing powders blur fine lines, conceal pores and leave a flawless, camera-ready finish. Blend the product well to avoid a dry and cakey appearance. Top 3 Finishing Powders Here are the top three finishing powders, as voted by our Pro Artist community: Mehron Celebré Pro HD Loose Mineral Finishing Powder : A luxurious matte finishing powder that perfectly complements every skin tone. Made of transparent French delaminated talc, keeps your colors bright and true. This ultra-fine powder is made with a multi-mineral complex to promote skin’s vigor and moisturization, keeping skin soft and hydrated. Available in three versatile shades to compliment all skin tones. NYX Studio Finishing Powder : This 100% pure mineral silica finishing powder is perfect for locking your makeup into place. The luminous white powder goes on translucent and works on all skin tones to leave your skin looking radiant and luminous. RCMA Over Powder : This lightweight finishing powder adds a soft sheen effect. These powders are gorgeous when layered over blush or any of the high points of the face, as well as for achieving an ethereal effect all over the body. Dust it onto collarbones, shoulders, cheekbones and the cupid's bow for a subtle light-catching highlight. Feeling Inspired? There truly is a powder for everyone, every need, and any makeup look. It’s important to know what each one is for so you can add to your makeup kit as needed, depending on what kind of coverage you’d like. We hope this blog has helped you decide which powder is best for you, so go ahead and explore all of the great powders we offer! If you need more help or a personalized recommendation, click here to contact a Beauty Advisor. Stay Camera Ready for every occasion by staying up to date with the latest makeup tips, tricks, and trends.   About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. 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 work 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.