EDUCATION AT CAMERA READY

The fine line between finishing powder and setting powder is frustratingly blurry. 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, worry no more! We’re breaking down the differences between the two so you can feel more comfortable and educated before making a purchase. We’ve even linked to a few of the best setting and finishing powders that are perfect for any makeup bag or kit. Happy powder shopping, beauties!   What is Setting Powder? Designed to “set” or hold foundation in place, setting powders prevent base makeup from rubbing off and reduce shine for a long-lasting, flawless complexion. There are different types of setting powders that you can pick from depending on your needs, as well as options between translucent powder or slightly tinted to match your skin tone. Types of Setting Powders: Loose powder Pressed powder Translucent powder Tinted powder 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 – they’re messy! But they do 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 - hello, mid-day touchups! For those in search of a more sheer look, apply setting powder in place of foundation for lightweight, natural coverage.  5 Best Setting Powders Our makeup artist community has voted, and these are the five best setting powders, according to them: RCMA - No Color Powder Ben Nye - Neutral Set Danessa Myricks Beauty - Evolution Powder Laura Mercier - Translucent Loose Setting Powder Mehron - UltraFine Setting Powder   RCMA’s No Color Powder: Loved amongst celebrities and makeup artists, this beauty favorite sets foundation without changing the color. The formula delivers a smooth translucent powder veil without adding unwanted texture or creating a "caked on" look. This setting powder keeps shine at bay and disappears completely for an invisible hold.  Ben Nye’s 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 is good for very fair shades. This setting powder controls perspiration for high-energy performers. Danessa Myricks Beauty’s Evolution Powder: This setting powder provides a silky smooth, invisible finish. This light-diffusing, weightless, translucent powder can be used over and under foundation. The product mimics perfect skin with professionally tested, vegan, and cruelty free ingredients. It’s also available in four tinted shades to match fair to deep skin tones. Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder: This cult classic blends seamlessly, setting makeup in place for long lasting results.  It’s also incredibly lightweight and offers a flawless, 16 hour mattifying finish you can count on. Mehron’s UltraFine Setting Powder: Finish off your look with this finely processed, clump-free setting powder with a built-in antiperspirant. Specially designed to retain the smoothness of your makeup, the product comes in a user-friendly, convenient "shaker" container.   How is Finishing Powder Different from Setting Powder? As the name suggests, finishing powders are designed for use after a makeup look is complete. While this product is not recommended for daily use, 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, cakey appearance and also to eliminate white flashback on camera. 3 Most Popular Finishing Powders These top three finishing powders have been vetted by the pros to help you select the best options for all your makeup needs: Ben Nye – Banana Powder Mehron – Celebre Pro HD Loose Mineral Finishing Powder RCMA – Over Powder   Ben Nye’s Banana Powder: This silky-fine, mattifying translucent powder delivers a hint of color without casting a white glare in your photos. Available in four luxurious tints, this finishing powder offers a beautiful shade for every skin tone. Mehron’s Celebré Pro HD Loose Mineral Finishing Powder: This Mehron product is a luxurious matte finishing powder that comes in three versatile shades to perfectly complement every skin tone. Made of transparent French delaminated talc, it 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. RCMA’s 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 and perfect 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.  Now that we’re all squared up with the differences between setting powders and finishing powders, you’re ready to get to work creating flawless makeup looks and setting and finishing them like a pro. Which finishing and setting powders do you think are the best? Let us know in the comments below, and be sure to tag us on Instagram in your completed looks.   About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by a professional makeup artist. With over 20 years serving the pro community, Camera Ready Cosmetics prioritizes quality and value with the artist in mind.  Our team of experts understands what makeup essentials an artist needs.  

"When I started my career as a makeup artist, Joe Blasco’s cosmetics line was a mainstay in most artists’ kits. Joe was well-known for his prestigious makeup schools, revolutionary formulations, and decades of Hollywood clout," recants Mary Erickson, founder of Camera Ready Cosmetics and professional makeup artist.  "I deemed his Ultrabase Foundation (and still do) to be one of the very best cream foundations on the market." Even today, the biggest names in film and television use this iconic product, including Kim Kardashian and Angelina Jolie. Enjoy our guide on how to apply cream foundation, which will have you applying like a pro. Why I love Joe Blasco’s Ultrabase Foundation This creamy, weatherproof, ultra-lightweight foundation is packed with pigment to effortlessly conceal stubborn hyperpigmentation, blemishes, and uneven skin tones without caking or looking heavy. A little goes a long way and will last throughout the day with just a slight dusting of translucent setting powder. The superior coverage of this product is unparalleled. With over 38 shades to choose from, it’s impossible not to find the perfect shade of makeup cream for your skin tone. How To Apply Cream Foundation The natural, clean, barely-there makeup look is today’s hottest trend. Most people believe you need a liquid foundation to achieve this “no makeup” look. That’s a myth. Cream foundations can provide excellent coverage from light to full. Read on to learn about the best way to apply cream foundations. How to Apply Cream Foundation for Light Coverage (To Even Skin Tone): Generously apply moisturizer. (Your face should be very moist before you apply the cream foundation.) Apply dots of Ultrabase Foundation cream on the face - one on each cheek, the forehead, and chin. Blend the cream foundation with a Kabuki brush in circular motions to achieve a beautiful, sheer glow. For areas needing more coverage, pat cream foundation into the skin with your fingertips. For areas that need less coverage, blend lightly with the Kabuki brush. Set a cream formula foundation with translucent setting powder for a matte look. Not a fan of the matte finish? Skip the powder. Ultrabase Cream Foundation does not have to be powdered because of its pigment-packed formula. How to Put on Foundation for Extra-Sheer Coverage: Put a dime-sized amount of moisturizer in the palm of your hand. Using a stainless steel makeup spatula and palette set, mix half of the moisturizer with a small amount of Ultrabase Cream Foundation. Apply the creamy formula with your fingers, a sponge, or brush.  How to Apply Cream Foundation for Full Coverage (To Conceal Imperfections): Apply moisturizer to your face and allow it to absorb into the skin for several minutes. Once your face is dry, apply Ultrabase Cream Foundation with a sponge or foundation brush. Blend well! __________________________________________________________________________ 3 Best Kabuki Brushes for Blending Cream Foundation   Sigma: 3DHD Kabuki, $25 Bdellium Tools: Slanted Kabuki #954, $20 Bdellium Tools: Precision Kabuki #957GT, $23 __________________________________________________________________________ PRO TIP #1: Blend the foundation onto your neck as far down as possible. Also, lightly apply leftover product from the brush onto your ears to ensure all exposed skin matches your face. Don’t forget the sides of your neck, the collarbone and chest, and the tops of your shoulders if they are visible.  PRO TIP #2: Before applying powder, lightly blot your face with a flat folded tissue to remove any excess sheen. This “blotting” helps to set and stabilize your foundation before applying a setting powder. Blotting also prevents powder from looking blotchy and creates a smooth, flawless complexion. PRO TIP #3: Never apply powder heavily. Only apply enough to produce a beautiful matte finish. If you can see the powder, you have applied too much. Lightly brush it off.  For extra sheer coverage:  Put a dime-sized amount of moisturizer in the palm of your hand. Using a stainless steel makeup spatula and palette set, mix half of the moisturizer with a small amount of Ultrabase Foundation. Apply with your fingers, a sponge or brush. For full coverage (to conceal imperfections): Apply moisturizer on your face, and allow it to absorb into the skin for several minutes. Once your face is dry, apply Ultrabase Foundation with a sponge or foundation brush. Blend well! How To Choose Your Joe Blasco Ultrabase Foundation Shade Find the color category of your skin tone at the top of the chart below. On the color match guide, you’ll see foundation cream color names listed below each color category. Every foundation color shown in the box will work well on your skin tone. When there are 3-4 cream foundation colors to choose from, they are all in the same “value” (lightest to darkest). All of the options listed in that category will work on your skin tone. It’s just a matter of experimentation and preference. If you're unsure, you may purchase samples.   After trying our suggestions for the bests way to apply cream foundation, tag us in your Joe Blasco Ultrabase Foundation looks on Instagram and Facebook. For more questions on how to apply cream foundation or recommended products, comment below or email to connect with a Customer Experience Specialist. 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-grade products without the typical makeup store attitude. Today, our team of beauty industry veterans works together to curate the best quality products on the market. We partner with brands who respect the industry and formulate products for true working artists. You won’t find CRC in high-end malls, and we don't wear matching brush belts. If you want to play with products for a few hours and buy nothing, that's okay...come in and play! Our store is your playground.

Major cities are shutting down. Weddings and large events are cancelled. Businesses and corporations are adopting work-from-home policies. The worldwide outbreak of the Coronavirus has a majority of our population “self-quarantined,” meaning people are voluntarily avoiding crowds and staying home. But as a self-employed makeup artist, there is no such thing as working from home. And if you are still working, it’s impossible to distance yourself from a client. The job of a pro makeup artist requires you to stand in very close proximity to clients for long periods of time. Should you be doing this kind of work right now? Unfortunately, these circumstances are out of your control. Clients will inevitably choose to cancel events, weddings and productions. As an independent contractor, how do you offset the reality of cancelled engagements and no income? How The Coronavirus Outbreak Affects You Camera Ready Cosmetics founder and professional makeup artist, Mary Erickson, believes there are precautions and formalities all makeup artists should be following during these unprecedented times. “If a bride postpones her wedding because of the Coronavirus, I would allow a date change without penalty,” Mary said. “If I couldn’t accommodate the client’s new wedding date, I would refund her in full.” In these extreme circumstances, every makeup artist will have to make their own decisions about what is “the right thing to do.” In the wedding example, it’s important to remember the couple is also losing a lot of money. In most cases, they will need to order updated invitations, make changes (if possible) with every vendor - the wedding venue, bakery, florist, clergy, etc. “My suggestion is to exercise compassion and be flexible,” Mary said. What about the commercial client who has shut down a campaign shoot? This is temporary. Don’t panic. In 90 days, most shoots will be back on. “Almost everyone is losing money right now, and we’re all stressed over the uncertainty of where this situation is headed,” Mary said. “In reality these are postponements, not cancellations.” It’s also important to note this will not last forever, but your business reputation will. Remember to be flexible, accommodating and kind to each of your clients. They’ll remember the way you handled yourself professionally during these uncertain times. What to do with all this time spent at home? Prepare yourself to be very busy a month from now. Everything that has been canceled or postponed in the last few weeks will be back on. Mary suggests using this time for updating and creating new marketing materials and to spruce up your professional website. You can also use this time to organize your home office and/or continue your makeup artistry education by watching tutorials to master a new technique. But most importantly, use this time to sanitize your makeup kit. In general, sanitation practices should not be something you’re just starting now; you should always follow the basic rules of sanitization with every client. Keep in mind that with many viruses, people are contagious before they show symptoms. The only safe way to work, now and always, is to assume everyone has a contagious virus. A Few Top Sanitation Practices NEVER put lashes on a client if they have been worn by another person. You cannot sanitize eyelashes. Never double dip. Always use disposable sponges and mascara wands. Sanitize everything with 70% Isopropyl Alcohol. If you have EVER double dipped into a product, throw it away now to play it safe. Use disposable brushes if you can’t properly sanitize between clients. Carry hand sanitizer in your kit. Wash your hands with soap and water between clients. This is more effective than using hand sanitizer only. Never use lipstick from the tube on clients. Scrape a bit with your spatula onto a palette and use a brush or disposable lip brushes. For more in-depth cleaning tips, give these articles a read: Basic Rules of Sanitation for Every Makeup Artist Makeup Artist Sanitation Parian Spirit A powerful brush cleaner that doubles as a hand sanitizer. Mix with citrus oil for scent! Buy Now - $7 Cinema Secrets A makeup sanitizing spray that kills germs and bacteria on powders and creams. Buy Now - $9 Rebels & Outlaws A quick-dry, spray-on brush sanitizer for cleaning brushes between clients. Buy Now - $15 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. Mary Erickson Founder of Camera Ready Cosmetics & Professional Makeup Artist

Laura Mercier, pioneer of the “Flawless Face”, is a world-renowned makeup artist and creator of the eponymous cosmetics brand that has won countless awards and become a mainstay in makeup artists’ kits worldwide. Laura is the innovative force behind the beauty industry’s most iconic products, French aesthetic and artistry techniques. Founded in 1996, Laura’s vision was to encourage artists and consumers alike to embrace the beauty of individuality and adopt the four-part technique that made her famous. Prime for an ideal canvas, even out skin tone with foundation, camouflage with concealer, and set for perfection. Easy as 1, 2, 3 … 4! Keep reading for a detailed step-by-step of how Laura’s technique works. Step 1: PRIME Just as an artist primes a canvas, set the stage for smooth makeup application with a skin-nourishing primer. Look for ingredients that lock in moisture, without being overly greasy or oil-inducing. For oily skin types, look for formulations that control oil buildup. Allow the primer to set in place before applying the rest of your makeup look. Remember: this step does not exclude the eyes! Create an even base by applying a soothing eye primer like Laura’s Eye Basics Primer. This unique, versatile cream primes eyelids to provide the perfect canvas for any eye look. Wear under powder eye shadow to create a uniform base, help prevent creasing, extend color wear and enhance the intensity of eye shadow on the lids. Or wear alone to camouflage imperfections for a classic nude eye. Eye Basics Primer6 Shades -- $28 Get a flawless, no-makeup makeup look. Shades for all skin tones. Step 2: COVER Instead of using foundation as a means to cover the skin, train your brain to apply it as a skin enhancer. Even full-coverage formulas should be used only to even out discoloration. Your goal in applying foundation should be a natural finish that feels and looks like a second skin. Flawless Lumière RadiancePerfecting Foundation23 Shades -- $48 Flawless coverage, any way you like it. Shades for all skin tones. Flawless Fusion Ultra Longwear Foundation17 Shades -- $48 Step 3: CONCEAL For Laura, concealer is key. (And when Laura speaks, we listen!) Camouflage darkness, tone down redness, and conceal blemishes or other imperfections with a formula that is packed with powerful, lightweight coverage. The beauty of concealer is that you can easily build coverage as needed without overdoing it. Secret Camouflage8 Shades -- $35 Expertly conceal discoloration, blemishes & more! Secret Concealer11 Shades -- $27 Step 4: SET IN PLACE Once you’ve completed your flawless base, lock everything in place before finishing off the eyes and lips with whatever technique or style you desire! Choose a transparent setting powder that will add dimension and eliminate any flashback. Translucent Loose$39 Invisible Loose$39 Translucent Pressed$39 Bonus Tip If you’re looking for super light coverage, opt for a tinted moisturizer in place of foundation. The multi-tasking blend of skincare and makeup blurs imperfections with just a sheer tint of coverage and delivers a hydrated, no-makeup finish. For oily skin types, choose an oil-free formula or prep the skin with a mattifying primer. Tinted Moisturizer20 Shades -- $47 BEFORE & AFTER Learn More Shop these Laura Mercier flawless face essentials and more online and in-store at Camera Ready Cosmetics. Discounts apply for pro artist members. Which Laura Mercier products are your favorite? Let us know in the comments below! 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. Mallory Hatten Beauty Editor / Camera Ready Cosmetics

The Camera Ready team is flooded year round with requests to try new products, up-and-coming brands, and "miracle-working" cult favorites. While we have a blast testing each and every product, the challenge of juggling the hundreds of products that enter our doors can become a little overwhelming.  That's why we have an extra spring in our step come Fall, once Allure releases their Best of Beauty awards. Over a period of several months, the Allure team distributes thousands of beauty products to five-person testing teams around the world and tracks their results. They even take it a step further by  consulting shade-swatching panels, contacting cosmetic chemists, estheticians, makeup artists, beauty professionals and more to discover the products they can't live without. Once their research is complete, Allure announces the winners of their coveted red stamp of approval. And this year, Camera Ready has a record-breaking 12 products featured on the list across all categories - from hair and skincare to makeup and beauty tools. We're excited, honored and rushing to the Camera Ready showroom to add all of these star products to our personal beauty collections! Keep reading for a list of the game-changing, Allure-approved products you need, right now! Best of ... HAIR, BODY and SKINCARE Oribe Gold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil, $38 This luxuriously light oil absorbs instantly to restore hair to its prime. Infused with a rich blend of jasmine, edelweiss flower, lychee, sandalwood, cassis, bergamot, and argan extracts, each protective drop penetrates the hair to deeply condition, strengthen and smooth — imparting intense nourishment and incredible shine. Works wonders on dry, damaged and color-treated hair.  St. Tropez Self Tan Purity Bronzing Water Face Mist, $30 Achieve a natural-looking golden tan that lasts for days, with just one application. This tropically scented formula is infused with 100% natural tanning agents to deliver an ultra-lightweight, vegan clear mist that doesn't need to be rinsed off. Apply regularly under or over make-up. OribeGold Lust Nourishing Hair Oil$38 St. TropezSelf Tan Purity Face Mist$30 St. Tropez Self Tan Dark Bronzing Mousse, $44 For your deepest, darkest tan yet, this lightweight mousse tailors to your individual skin tone and gives a longest-lasting tan with just one application.  The streak-free formula is easy to apply with a beautiful, mood-boosting fragrance. And the best part? It dries quickly with no transfer. For best results, apply using the St. Tropez Applicator Mitt. In long sweeping motions, start at the ankles and work your way up. For your back, turn the mitt back to front and apply in the same way. Ensure all areas are covered before lightly gliding any excess tan from the mitt over your hands and feet.  Kiehl's Since 1851 Creme de Corps Nourishing Dry Body Oil, $34 Indulge your skin with the most luxurious, nourishing moisture treatment you've ever experienced. With a delicate aroma of vanilla and almond, this lightweight dry oil leaves skin velvety smooth to the touch with a soft, supple texture. We're obsessed! St. TropezSelf Tan Dark Bronzing Mousse$44 Kiehl'sCreme de Corps Nourishing Body Oil$34 Best of .... MAKEUP Kevyn Aucoin Glass Glow Face, $32 Meet the bridge between highlighting and skincare. This universal, lightweight formula creates youthful-looking, well-hydrated skin with a glassy finish. The multi-purpose gel can be used on the face and body and leaves skin clearer, more radiant and seemingly transparent. Use alone for a fresh look, or add it to your existing routine for an added glass effect. Make Up For Ever Artist Color Eyeshadows, $17 These cult favorite PRO makeup eyeshadows deliver immediate, long-lasting color payoff that lasts up to 12 hours. Designed with unique fabrication technology, the texture offers high blendability and a truly custom shade range. Express yourself with 5 different finishes, including: Matte, Metallic, Diamond, Satin and Iridescent. Kevyn AucoinGlass Glow Face$32 Make Up For EverArtist Color Eye Shadows$17 BECCA Ultimate Love Lipstick in shade Maroon, $24 While the entire Ultimate Lipstick Love collection is critically acclaimed for its ultra-creamy, silky satin, 8-hour-long wear, the shade Maroon is a clear standout and receives the Allure stamp of approval. This cool deep plum shade is the perfect color to carry you through the chilly Fall and Winter seasons. Plus, it's infused with hyaluronic acid, avocado oil and olive oil to hydrate and smooth the appearance of lips.  Stila Heaven's Hue Highlighter, $32 Bouncy to the touch, these radiance-enhancing highlighters melt into skin for a barely-there feel. Ultra-fine, light diffusing particles deliver a soft, natural-looking glow. Blend onto the cheeks, eyes and body with a sponge, synthetic brush or fingers. Best on bare skin or over foundation. Available in three stunning shades: Kitten: Stila's iconic shimmering, nude-pink brightens and illuminates. Transcendence: an opalescent pink for a bolder, ethereal glow. Bronze: creates a radiant, sun-kissed glow. BECCAUltimate Love Lipstick in Maroon$24 StilaHeaven's Hue Highlighter$32 Best of ... BEAUTY TOOLS Sigma Beauty F64 Soft Blend Concealer Brush, $22 Specially designed with Sigma's exclusive Sigmax synthetic filament, this brush applies cream, powder and liquid concealers with a smooth, streak-free finish and doesn't absorb product into the bristles. Created in height, shape and density to meet every shape of the face. Beautyblender The Original Makeup Sponge, $20 Access hard-to-reach areas with stunning ease. The suede texture is sensual to the touch and features unique curves that fit the contours of your face, leaving make up dazzling and undetectable. Ideal for applying foundation, powder, BB + CC cream, cream blush, and powder. For best results, wet the sponge before applying makeup. SigmaF64 Soft Blend Concealer Brush$22 BeautyblenderThe Original Makeup Sponge$20 Real Techniques Setting Brush, $8 This 100% cruelty-free micro setting brush is the key to completing any look, allowing a perfectly controlled dusting of product. Ideal for setting powders or highlighting powders/creams. Plus, it's a steal at only $8. Tweezerman Classic Slant Tweezer, $23 Famous for its precision, the Slant Tweezer is consistently acclaimed as setting the standard for excellence and quality. With perfectly aligned, hand-finished tips that grab the hair every time, these stainless steel tweezers have been the choice of make-up artists, celebrities and beauty professionals for over 30 years. Real TechniquesSetting Brush$8 TweezermanClassic Slant Tweezer$23 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.  Mallory Hatten  Beauty Editor / Camera Ready Cosmetics

Special effects makeup isn’t reserved only for the Halloween lovers. Although, it’s this time of year that really gets us excited about the creative, endless possibilities in the world of SFX makeup. Whether you’re curious to know what the professionals are using, building your own SFX makeup kit, or simply have no idea what any of the special effects talk is all about, take a peek at our best SFX makeup products for Halloween.   10 Best SFX Makeup Products for Halloween: These bestsellers consistently make the list year after year, and for good reason – they’re best in class for their respective product categories. Add a few (or all) to your SFX makeup kit or at-home makeup collection, and be sure to tag us in your Halloween makeup creations on Instagram and Facebook!  Skin Illustrator On Set FX Palette Graftobian Stipple Sponge Ben Nye Magicake Aqua Paint Pros-Aide “Original” Adhesive Mehron Rigid Collodion Kryolan Professional Make-Up Eye Blood Ben Nye Clown White Ben Nye Fresh Scab Bdellium Tools SFX Brushes 1. Read all the way through to see our #1 bestselling SFX Halloween makeup product! 10: Skin Illustrator On Set FX Palette, $60.50 This compact, pocket-sized palette contains 10 of the most popular Halloween SFX makeup colors from Skin Illustrator’s line of pigments. Designed to mimic just about any injury or illness imaginable, this palette simulates burns, cuts, scrapes, scabs, bruises, and more. Each color must be activated with 99% alcohol or activator. Spray or dab the solvent onto the desired color, swirl for 30 seconds, and apply with a brush, sponge, or mascara wand.  Purchase Skin Illustrator On Set FX Palette 9: Graftobian Stipple Sponge, starting at $1 Meet one of the best SFX makeup tools there ever was! Graftobian’s classic stipple sponge is used for a variety of SFX makeup looks, like the five o’clock shadow and broken blood vessels. The charcoal-colored web matrix sponge allows for uneven, splotchy makeup application that’s so common in Halloween makeup creations, like demons, old-age, monsters, and more. Also available in a pack of 12 for cost savings. Purchase Graftobian Stipple Sponge 8: Ben Nye Magicake Aqua Paint, $8 These water-activated pigments by Ben Nye are smudge-proof and transfer-resistant once dry. Incredible for face or body art of any kind, especially Halloween SFX makeup looks, Magicake delivers intense color that will not fade. The opaque formula is not waterproof, so you must use a water-resistant setting spray to ensure long-lasting wear in conditions near water, humidity, or moisture. Purchase Ben Nye Magicake 7: Pros-Aide "Original" Adhesive, $18.20 If you’re looking for a non-irritating, heavy-duty adhesive for prosthetic application or other Halloween makeup needs, Pros-Aide stands out as one of our best SFX makeup staples. This water-based formula is often used for medical prosthetic applications, as well as by makeup artists for adhering appliances and other makeup components to the skin. It is safe to use on sensitive areas and boasts water-resistant, non-toxic properties. Purchase Pros-Aide “Original” Adhesive 6: Mehron Rigid Collodion (Scarring Liquid), $7.95 Develop realistic scar makeup effects with ease. Mehron’s clear solution wrinkles the skin as it dries to quickly develop a scarred look. Build dimension and deepen scars by building thin layers until you’ve reached the desired scar makeup effect. Because this product is so easy to use, it’s recommended for both seasoned artists and those new to SFX makeup. To remove the scar makeup, simply peel off. Purchase Mehron Rigid Collodion Shop SFX Makeup Bestsellers Pros-Aide"Original" Adhesive$18.20 MehronRigid Collodion$7.95 KryolanEye Blood$26.50 Shop All SFX Makeup 5: Kryolan Eye Blood, $26.50 Cry tears of *fake* blood! This gel-like formula delivers life-like bloody eyes and tears without impairing vision or irritating the eye. This Halloween SFX makeup is safe for use on sensitive eyes and for those who wear contact lenses. Discard product one month after first opening. Purchase Kryolan Professional Make-Up Eye Blood 4: Ben Nye Clown White, starting at $6 The preferred choice by artists worldwide, Clown White boasts an ultra-creamy texture and brilliant white finish for any drag, cosplay, or Halloween SFX makeup needs. The formula goes on smooth and opaque, so you don’t need a ton of product to achieve the desired look. For best results, apply a setting powder on top of the product to eliminate transfer and lock makeup in place. Purchase Ben Nye Clown White Makeup 3: Ben Nye Fresh Scab, starting at $10 Create natural-looking scabbed over wounds with ease! Fresh Scab by Ben Nye maintains a jelly-like consistency for realistic blood clotting effects. The naturally tinted, corn-syrup-based formula is peppermint flavored and safe to use in and around the mouth. This fake blood easily washes out of most fabrics and surfaces. Purchase Ben Nye Fresh Scab 2: Bdellium Tools SFX Brushes, starting at $10 These high-quality, eco-friendly SFX makeup brushes by Bdellium Tools were specifically manufactured to withstand strong dyes, solvents, and brush-cleaning solutions. Each brush is fabricated with sustainable bamboo handles and vegan synthetic bristles shaped in a variety of styles for flawless, reality-defying Halloween makeup looks. Purchase Bdellium Tools SFX Brushes 1: Ben Nye Nose & Scar Wax, starting at $7 Coming in at #1, our best SFX makeup can help you manipulate the appearance of real skin distortions – broken nose, witch’s chin, bullet holes, and more. The moldable yet firm scar makeup wax comes in three flesh-tone shades with a translucent finish. For best SFX makeup results, apply on top of a thin film of spirit gum adhesive and seal in place with a durable liquid latex. Purchase Ben Nye Nose & Scar Wax Which of these best SFX makeup products are you loving for Halloween makeup looks? Comment below with your favorites.  Need something specific to create your Halloween makeup looks? Shop Camera Ready’s extensive collection of the best SFX makeup brands. Don’t see the SFX makeup you’re looking for? Contact our Customer Experience Team for a comparable alternative or to see if we can order the exact product you need. 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-grade products without the typical makeup store attitude. Today, our team of beauty industry veterans works together to curate the best quality products on the market. We partner with brands who respect the industry and formulate products for true working artists. You won’t find CRC in high-end malls, and we don't wear matching brush belts. If you want to play with products for a few hours and buy nothing, that's okay ... come in and play! Our store is your playground. 

Our secret is out... After months of color swatching and testing, we’re excited to announce the official launch of Viseart’s exclusive Camera Ready Cosmetics 12-Color Pro ArtistPalette! Introducing 12 perfectly saturated shades, inspired by the hardworking nature of pro makeup artists worldwide. Each highly-micronized pigment is created with Viseart’s signature butter formulation and designed for smooth, even application. This exclusive palette features classic hues with cool undertones, and a range of complementary matte and shimmer shades in soft pinks, rich purples, and everyday neutrals. Colors were personally hand-selected by industry veteran and CRC founder Mary Erickson. Learn more about our limited edition Viseart exclusive and the brilliant, creative purpose behind its design. Behind The Design, Created by Pro MUA Mary Erickson What makes this palette stand out from others on the market? Mary: The quality of this palette is unparalleled and perfect for a makeup artist. The colors are personally chosen for an artist’s kit, by an artist. The CRC x Viseart palette is designed for every single shade to be useful, no matter the look you’re creating. No colors go to waste in this palette! Explain your vision behind the color combinations you chose for this palette. Mary: I was looking for colors that would normally be used in my kit for commercial and bridal work - colors that work on the everyday woman and models. I didn’t include any wasted space on a color that would get ignored or used seldomly. What makes Viseart’s eyeshadow formula a popular choice for pro makeup artists? Mary: The formula is smooth and spreadable, like butter. You won’t see any fallout like many shadows on the market. The high pigment gives you a great color pay off – a little goes a long way! More About Mary: Beauty Visionary & Founder of Camera Ready Cosmetics Life as a Southern California makeup artist during the 1990s was no walk in the park. Artists struggled to find the makeup products they needed. Most pro makeup stores at the time had poor websites, bad customer service, and a lack of respect for customers. Mary Erickson was enjoying a thriving career in the fashion and commercial beauty space – a dream that was 20+ years in the making. Her success included a roster of jobs with every major television network, numerous national magazine spreads, and transformations of the Hollywood elite. Yet, the need for a better makeup shopping experience was always in the back of her mind. So Mary did what any super-woman would do – rolled up her sleeves and got to work building Camera Ready Cosmetics. “I never set out to have a big supply store or popular website,” Mary said. “My goal at the time was to carry a few popular pro products for artists outside of Los Angeles and New York City.” What started as a small side hustle in Mary’s tiny living room, has quickly grown into a shopping experience loved by hundreds-of-thousands of customers from around the world. Camera Ready Cosmetics exists today as the world’s largest online professional makeup store. “My #1 piece of advice for anyone working towards a career in beauty: always be willing to learn, and stay open to change,” Mary said. “You must adapt quickly to ever-changing circumstances in a fast-paced industry.” Shop the exclusive CRC X Viseart Eyeshadow Palette online and in-store at Camera Ready Cosmetics. Discounts apply for pro artist members. 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. Mallory Hatten Beauty Editor / Camera Ready Cosmetics

As pro artists and wearers of makeup, we’re in daily contact with makeup brushes. The team at Camera Ready is frequently asked to identify the “golden rule” of how often, what method, and with what tools we wash and dry our makeup brushes.  For starters, there doesn’t seem to be one steadfast rule everyone follows. So we’ve narrowed down a simple, 3-step brush cleaning routine that takes minimal time and effort for maximum results – better makeup application, longer lasting brushes, and a more sanitary makeup kit. The Importance of Proper Brush Care Every swipe of a brush across the face leaves product (and possibly bacteria) on top of the skin. The longer you wait to clean your brushes, the more buildup of bacteria you allow, which leads to breakouts, irritation, and – in extreme cases – infection.  The vast array of brush soaps and cleansing tools on the market today leaves little excuse not to practice routine brush maintenance. As a general rule of thumb, every two weeks is the very least you should clean a personal brush collection. Once a week is ideal.  For use on clients, we suggest cleaning makeup brushes after each job, or at least once a week.  Crazy Merman Brush Soap"Guava Fig" Sigma BeautySigMagic Brushampoo Cinema SecretsPro Brush Cleaner Kit How To Wash Makeup Brushes In 3 Easy Steps   Protect your investment in makeup brushes with this simple, super-fast cleansing routine that will prolong the lifespan of your bristles: Step 1: Wet the makeup brush, and apply a sanitizing brush soap. For sensitive skin, choose a natural brush soap with skin-nourishing, organic or vegan ingredients. Step 2: Swirl your brush in circular motions on a cleansing mat until a foamy lather forms. Add more soap, as needed. Keep swirling until the soap is rinsed out completely and water runs clear. Step 3: Gently squeeze the brush with your hands to remove excess water, and hang brushes bristle-side down from a drying tower* for 6-8 hours or until fully dry. *If you don’t have access to a drying tower, use a hair-tie or rubber band to fasten brushes to a rack or bar to dry. Shop our collection of high-quality, pro-artist-approved brush cleaners, cleansing tools, and makeup brushes – online and in-store. Discounts apply for pro artist members. Which brush cleaning products and tools do you love? Comment below!      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 professional makeup artists, we know there are countless, often unpublicized, non-makeup products that support our work. Without these holy grail kit staples we couldn’t do our jobs. Well, we probably could…but it would be an added, unnecessary level of challenge. Since no two kits are alike, we asked YOU which non-makeup beauty essentials you relied on for flawless, effortless makeup application. From breath mints and phone chargers to fragrance sprays and can't-live-without tools, discover the non-makeup beauty essentials found inside every pro artist kit. BECCA Backlight Priming Filter Image: BECCA Cosmetics Scott Barnes Body Bling Image: Scott Barnes Embryolisse Miracle Cream  Image: Embryolisse SKIN PREP & SET Erica Ages, Georgia Makeup Artist “The BECCA Backlight Priming Filter is a staple in my kit because I can use it with a wide range of skin tones. It is great on skin by itself, but you can also use it under, mixed with, or on top of foundation to give a soft skin-like glow.” Gia McCloud, Dallas Makeup Artist “I have been using Ben Nye Final Seal for years on my clients, especially in the hot and humid summer weather. A few sprays will leave my applications locked in all day. This matte finishing spray also provides an awesome waterproof coat on eyeshadow looks, too!” Doris Torres-Collins, Florida Makeup Artist “Scott Barnes has been a staple in my pro kit for years, with his original launch years ago. Body Bling is my go-to when I work with models and fashion shows. Scott Barnes has been a friend, a mentor, and an inspiration, so it's great to have products I can use that are professional grade and red carpet ready!” Ana Sanchez-Burdette, Dallas Makeup Artist “Aside from actually training with Maurice Stein (the creator of Cinema Secrets), I love how smooth Cinema Secrets Primer makes foundation and/or correctors glide on. My applications are seamless and blend well. No “pooling” into the pores. It’s great for HD work.” Ruth M., Canadian Makeup Artist “I keep Danessa Myricks Beauty Oil in my kit because it makes everyone look like they have a flawless, glowing complexion, regardless of age or skin type. It absorbs and hydrates skin without an oily feel. It also mixes with foundation and moisturizer perfectly, particularly the Vision Cream Cover. The glow is natural, never overdone.” Samantha Navarro, Maryland Makeup Artist “Embryolisse Lait Crème is an absolute kit essential! Absorbs quickly, but provides a glowing, moisturized finish to the skin. Great for nearly all skin types and textures!” Kristen Bell & Dax Shepard wearing Skyn Iceland Hydro Cool Eye Gels Image: Skyn Iceland Mehron Barrier Spray Image: Mehron Cosmetics Patchology Sheet Masks Image: Patchology Katelynn Stuckey, Southern California Makeup Artist “Mehron Barrier Spray never leaves my kit because it not only creates a water proof/sweat proof barrier, but also is such a versatile product. I sometimes will mix with pigment to create a budge proof look. Weather it’s bridal makeup or special effects, it’s a must have!” Laura Cotterill, United Kingdom Makeup Artist “Sheet masks are my go-to product for hydration in my makeup kit. I love using masks that contain vitamin C for the ultimate skin drink to boost energy and hydration. Masks help hydrate before makeup application, and teamed with eye sheets, everything just looks flawless!” Keisha Kerr, Canadian Makeup Artist “Skyn Iceland’s cooling eye patches [are a must-have], and they double as shadow shields.” Heather Hawkins, North Carolina Makeup Artist “Sunscreen is ALWAYS a staple in my kit. It not only gives protection to keep all the bad UVs away, but it also can act as a primer, a moisturizer and give a youthful glow - depending on the sunscreen. I love multi-purpose products! Saves space & weight when carrying a mobile salon!” Conture Hair Remover Image: Conture Paw Palette In Action Image: Dani Rivera MUA Temptu Air PRO Image: Temptu TOOLS TO INVEST IN Candice Ennis, Virginia Makeup Artist “Color theory is a necessary fundamental for any make-up artist. It’s an essential technique when understood, but can be a challenge to master. I always keep a color wheel in my kit for custom undertone foundation mixing and creative body art color designs.” Gayla Gastler, Chicago Makeup Artist “[I always have] a small battery-operated facial trimmer to remove facial fuzz.” Naomi Blakeslee, California Makeup Artist "I use BeautyBlenders for a few reasons: 1) A damp beauty blender gives me a flawless dewy finish. 2) They make it easier to reach awkward areas that many brushes can’t reach, like around the nose and around the eyes. 3) Many people believe BeautyBlenders are for application only, however, they work just as good for removing makeup!" Kirsty Smit-Wingfield, Virginia Makeup Artist “I love the Paw Palettes! They are so unique, keep my kit looking neat and my products clean.” Amber Preston, Ohio Makeup Artist “I’m OBSESSED with the Temptu Airbrush Compressor for so many reasons: 1) It’s lightweight & compact, saving room in my kit. 2) It’s cordless! You won’t always have an outlet in the space you’re working. 3) Long battery life! It’s quiet, but mighty spraying capabilities include three different speed settings. It truly is the best compressor I’ve ever tried, and I’ve gone through many in my career.” Julie Fischer, Philadelphia Makeup Artist “Vueset has become invaluable in my kit. They help condense my products, and I can easily see what I have with their space-saving, transparent design. Since starting to use Vueset cases, I feel I work more quickly and efficiently on the job. I use them for necessities such as lipsticks, false eyelashes, prep products, disposables and more!” The Smithfolio Brush Case Image: Smith Cosmetics The Makeup Light In Action Image: Hanna Claire Linder MUA Tuscany Pro Makeup Chair Image: Tuscany Pro Chairs EQUIPMENT ESSENTIALS Estrella Lopez, Miami Makeup Artist “[I prefer using a] brushfolio to keep my brushes organized and easily accessible.” Glynnis Garcia, Nashville Makeup Artist “The Makeup Light is the only light anyone needs for makeup. I weigh 95 lbs. Do you really seeing me lugging a hair kit, a makeup kit, AND a ring light?! Heck no. I can attach it on a mirror, curtains, the tripod, on a chair, anywhere! TML all the way.” Dana Hall, New York Makeup Artist “Many times I would go on location, and there wasn’t a chair high enough. I would have to bend over, squat, or put myself in very awkward positions to work on a client's face. Now, no matter where I go for a makeup job, my Tuscany Pro Makeup Chair comes with me. The attached strap allows me to carry it on my shoulder, and off I go!” Jessi Pagel, Texas Makeup Artist “The Zuca Sport Artist Rolling Kit is my absolute favorite for multiple reasons:  1) I can alternate from each job to have exactly what I need when I need it.  2) The organizational options are endless! 3) It travels with ease and is so portable! For celebrity makeup/hair jobs, I like the Zuca Artist Backpack. It has the ability to serve as a hair kit alone.  An additional bonus is that it fits right on top of the rolling Zuca or you can wear it as a backpack.” Jilladair Carlson, Missouri Makeup Artist “Everybody is going through something. Getting your makeup done whether for a film, commercial or wedding can be stressful for clients, which can make my job more difficult. When someone sits in my chair, they get a "Soul" package to soothe their soul.  My Soul Kits include: 1) Hershey Kisses (Who doesn't need a kiss?) 2) Lifesaver Mints (We all feel better with fresh breath.) 3) A tea bag  4) An instant latte packet 5) A protein bar 6) An empty paper cup (They can drop all of their woes.) It never fails to put a smile on my client’s face, which helps them relax so we can both enjoy the ride.” Crazy Merman Brush Soap  Image: Crazy Merman Sigma Beauty Eye Primers  Image: Sigma Beauty Inglot Duraline Image: Inglot Cosmetics MISCELLANEOUS MUST-HAVES Pam Jean, Kentucky Makeup Artist Aromatherapy: “As a makeup artist I began using essential oils to help me when working. They provide a sense of calm and focus that is crucial to provide my clients with an energetic, balanced, yet calm experience. Take your bride from frazzled to dazzled with a travel diffuser, roller baller, neck wrap for the therapeutic benefits to elevate their bridal beauty experience.” Camera Ready Cosmetics Brush Cleaner: Crazy Merman's handmade brush soaps begin with a cruelty-free, vegan base of natural ingredients and essential oils. Their fusion of coconut and olive oil removes makeup from natural and synthetic brushes, leaving them luxuriously soft, clean and conditioned. Because of their lack of harsh chemicals, Crazy Merman soaps are also perfect for cleaning beauty sponges and other tools. Eloise Reed, United Kingdom Makeup Artist A Diary: “[Helps me] know exactly when and where my next client will be, and I can easily see where I have free time to book new clients.” Cameron Carson, Virginia Makeup Artist Duraline by Inglot: “A must-have for mixing into eyeshadows! Duraline helps with smudging liner on clients with hooded lids who have trouble with excessive creasing. Delivers no-crease, all-day wear!” Glynn Renee Bryant, New York Makeup Artist Phone Charger: “I’ve been on jobs where no one has a phone charger, so I carry an industrial size USB charging box for up to six phones at a time. I also carry an all-natural bug repellent. Some makeup trailers I’ve worked in have mosquitos. Basically, I try to be a walking CVS.” Camera Ready Cosmetics Eyeshadow Primer: The Smashbox Photo Finish 24-hr Shadow Primer keeps shadow in place, not all over your face for 24 hours. It’s a fade-proof, sheer, colorless formula that intensifies color and finish to ensure your eye looks survive workouts, nights out and big days. Felicia Yvette, Maryland Makeup Artist Magnifying Glass: “Sam Fine or Lottie Tomlinson (one of them!) taught me to keep a magnifying glass [in my kit] so I can always see those tiny little details, especially for beauty work.” Tracy Saunders, Seattle Makeup Artist Nail Polish: “Always carry nail polish. I’m surprised at how many clients’ nails look terrible!” Janet Richardson, International Makeup Artist Spatulas: “I must have my Graftobian Spatula! I use it for so many things, especially to scrape foundation to prevent cross contamination.” Philip B. Jet Set Hairspray Image: Philip B. Botanicals Winky Lux Matcha Blotting PaperImage: Sigma Beauty Bioderma Micellar Water Image: Bioderma USA ADDITIONAL KIT FAVORITES See more of the most mentioned kit essentials every artist uses: 99% Rubbing Alcohol Baby Wipes Bandaids Basic Hair Styling Tools Battery-powered Fan Blotting Paper Bobby Pins Body Lotion Brow Blade Business Cards Cotton Pads Cough Drops Deodorant Disposable Tools Double-sided Tape Dr. PAWPAW Balm Dry Shampoo Empty Palettes Exfoliating Serum Eye Depuffer Eye Drops Extension Cord Facial Hair Trimmer Facial Roller First Aid Kit Gum or Mints Hair Clips Hairspray Hand Sanitizer Hand Towels Handheld Mirror Heated Eyelash Curler Individual Lashes Lash Glue Lash Scissors Lint Roller Lip Applicators Lip Balm Makeup Remover Wipes Makeup Sanitizer Mascara Disposables Micellar Water Nail File Palette Knives Palette Paper Paper Towels Protein Power Bars Q-tips Razor Rose Water Safety Pins Sewing Kit Sharpeners (small & large) Sponges Straws Sugar Lip Scrub Tampons Tissues Tylenol Tweezers BONUS PRO TIP Francia Cohen, Special Effects Makeup Artist “Always have a clean kit!! Clean brushes. Clean makeup. Clean tools. Clean hands. Clean everything!” Which non-makeup beauty favorites do you keep stocked in your kit? Comment below!  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 first shipment of Kiehl’s products arrived at Camera Ready, our hallways became a magical celebration of high fives and joyous cheer. Kiehl’s world-renowned skincare staples and award-winning formulas are worth getting excited about. If you don’t understand why, allow us to explain. The mecca of all wellness brands got its start in 1851 as a dedicated apothecary for the citizens of New York City. Decades later, pharmacist John Kiehl and his apprentice, Irving Morse, transitioned the business into a full-service pharmacy, stocking teas, herbs and the first-ever Kiehl’s brand products. Kiehl’s went on to implement many “firsts” for the wellness industry: the first to offer a robust “try before you buy” sampling program, the first to list ingredients on its product labels, the first to supply the U.S. government with a special aloe cream for radiation burns, and so much more. Many of today’s bestselling products were first created in the 1960s. More than 103 Kiehl’s products have been inducted into the permanent collection of the Division of Medicine and Science at the Smithsonian National Museum. Pro makeup artists love Kiehl’s for its award-winning, natural formulations and the nourishing benefits they provide. Keep reading for a collection of Kiehl’s cult favorite found inside makeup artist kits worldwide. Pro Artist Cult Favorites Calendula Deep Cleansing Foaming Face Wash, $30 Gently clean away dirt and oil for a fresh, revitalized face. Infused with Calendula, this creamy gel formula activates with water to create a dense foam that doesn’t dry out or strip the skin. The healing properties of Calendula date back to the 12 th century – a popular ingredient in Chinese medicine. Pineapple Papaya Facial Scrub, $28 Rejuvenate dull skin with natural exfoliants like Luffa Cylindrica Fruit and Apricot Seed Powder for a smoother, softer face. Dab a small amount of scrub onto clean, damp skin and gently massage in upward circular motions. Rinse clean with water. Great for all skin types! Facial Fuel Energizing Moisture Treatment, $28 Awaken fatigued and dull skin with Kiehl’s facial moisturizer for men. Formulated with Chestnut Extract, Soy, Vitamin C and Vitamin E to revitalize and energize skin for a healthy, youthful appearance. Instant Renewal Concentrate Mask, $32 Hydrate like never before with Amazonian Oil infused sheet masks. This two-piece hydrogel mask comfortably fits all face shapes. Innovatively formed with biocellulose to replenish skin and reinforce its natural protective barrier. Treat yourself to a radiant glow and refined, smooth skin texture. Calendula & Aloe Soothing Hydration Mask, $45 Reduce signs of stress with the hydrating, soothing benefits of Calendula and Aloe Vera. This lightweight gel mask bursts into a cooling sensation that leaves you feeling refreshed. Formulated with handpicked Calendula flower petals (a known skin-calming ingredient), you’ll experience a healthier looking complexion over time. Calendula Herbal Extract Alcohol-Free Toner, $35 Gently cleanse and refresh skin with this bestselling toner made for every skin type. This cult-classic formula features hand-picked Calendula flower petals and Great Burdock Root Extract to soothe and improve skin over time. Ultra Facial Toner, $16 A best-selling formula since the 1960s, this gentle alcohol-free facial toner works to tone, soothe and hydrate tired skin. Squalene, Apricot Kernel Oil, Avocado Oil and Vitamin E help balance pH levels without stripping skin of natural oils. Prepare skin for moisture and refine texture with this miracle-working formula. Ultra Facial Cream, $30 With its unique lightweight texture, this bestselling facial cream provides 24-hour hydration for soft, smooth, healthier-looking skin. Formulated with Glacial Glycoprotein and olive-derived Squalane, this non-greasy moisturizer instantly leaves skin 2.3X more hydrated, even in your driest areas. Ultra Facial Moisturizer, $29.50 Kiehl’s original Ultra Facial Moisturizer was first offered in the early 1970s. Since then, loyal patrons have relied on this classic moisturizer’s superb hydration benefits. This iconic formula inspired the entire Ultra Facial Collection, including the best-selling Ultra Facial Cream. Creme de Corps, $18 Cocoa Butter and Beta-Carotene moisturize dry skin for a soft, elegant feel. The non-greasy formula is perfect for all skin types, particularly dry skin. Gently massage after a bath or shower, allowing it to absorb for several minutes before dressing. Midnight Recovery Concentrate, $49 This top-rated nighttime facial oil is formulated with distilled botanicals (Lavender Essential Oil, Evening Primrose Oil and Squalane) to replenish skin, reduce fine lines, refine texture and restore a youthful appearance. Wake to visibly radiant skin after just one use. Super Multi-Corrective Eye-Opening Serum, $48 Visibly lift, firm and smooth the eye area with the ultimate anti-aging serum for eyes. The potent formula visibly reduces the appearance of crow’s feet, dark circles and under-eye wrinkles. Apply by itself or with an eye cream. Clinically-tested to help restore a youthful shape to the eyes after just four days of use. Creamy Eye Treatment w/ Avocado, $30 Nourish the under eye area with the creamy, hydrating benefits of Avocado Oil and Shea Butter. This gentle, uniquely-concentrated formulated does not migrate into eyes and is safe for all skin types. Treat your eyes day or night to a quick burst of hydration. Clearly Corrective Dark Spot Solution, $52 Minimize the appearance of dark spots caused by age and sun exposure with this highly-efficacious corrector. Peony Extract, White Birch Extract and Activated C work to brighten the skin for increased radiance and clarity. Lip Balm #1, $9.50 Nourish and soothe dry lips with this Kiehl’s classic since the 1960s! Apply liberally day and night. Formulated with Squalane, Aloe Vera, and Vitamin E. Available in cranberry, mint, pear or mango scents, as well as the original unscented formula. Facial Fuel No Shine Lip Balm, $9 This popular, no-shine formula provides all the lip-nourishing benefits of the original Lip Balm, with a matte finish. Refuel and smooth your lips on the go with Shea Butter and Squalene. Shop these Kiehl’s favorites and more online and in-store at Camera Ready Cosmetics. Discounts apply for pro artist members. Which Kiehl’s products are your favorite? Don’t see a particular product available at CRC? Let us know in the comments below! 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. Mallory Hatten Beauty Editor / Camera Ready Cosmetics

‘Best of Beauty’ at Camera Ready: Pro Artist Favorites Featured In Allure Allure's Makeup Editor, Sable Young, said it best. "A great look starts from the ground up." When we heard Allure ’s 2018 Best of Beauty Awards focused on holy grail staples for a flawless complexion, we grabbed our notepads and tuned in to see which CRC products made the list. We're happy to report CRC represents in all categories - from skincare and makeup to hair and body. As a leading industry publication for over two decades, we appreciate Allure's team for putting in the work to test and rank our beloved beauty brands. Keep reading for a compilation of CRC’s bestselling products with an official Allure stamp of approval! SKINCARE Patchology  FlashPatch: Rejuvenating Eye Gels (5 Pack),  $15   Patchology eye gels feature caffeine and hydrolyzed collagen to combat puffiness, fatigue and dryness for a well-slept appearance. Proven to be more effective than topical creams or serums, the patch technology accelerates the delivery of essential ingredients while the hydrogels stay put -- so you get cooling, smoothing, refreshing benefits where you need them most.                                   MAKEUP BECCA  Hydra-Mist Set & Refresh Powder,  $38 Formulated with 50% water and glycerin, Hydra-Mist Powder creates a mist-like sensation on the skin for a smooth finish and barely-there feel. The ultra-fine, light-reflecting formula blurs fine lines and imperfections. Reapply as needed to keep makeup looking fresh all day. Make Up For Ever  Artist Color Eye Shadow,  $17 The Make Up For Ever Artist Color collection features highly blendable pigments with intense color payoff that lasts up to 12 hours. Select your favorite individual shades to create a custom palette all your own. Choose from five shade ranges in matte, satin, iridescent, metallic and diamond finishes.                       Stila  Glitter & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow,  $24 Glitter & Glow sparkle eye shadow combines the perfect mix of pearl and glitter for lustrous, shimmering eye looks. The lightweight, water-infused formula glides on effortlessly, then dries down smooth, to lock in maximum sparkle with minimal fallout. Available in 16 color varieties, including metallic duo chrome shades. Smashbox  Always On Liquid Liner,  $22 This ergonomic liquid eyeliner pen gives you total control and ultimate precision. Easily line and define with Smashbox’s high-pigment, waterproof formula that lasts up to 24 hours. The sharp-point marker eliminates skipping, tugging, flaking and smudging for perfectly lined eyes that won’t fade. NYX  Worth The Hype Mascara,  $8 This volumizing and lengthening mascara creates darker, fuller, gorgeous lashes that last all day. Brush, build and lengthen even the tiniest inner corner lashes with the tapered brush tip. The buildable formula is easy to apply and comfortable to wear, making this a perfect staple for any artist or makeup lover.          HAIR & BODY Living Proof  Perfect Hair Day Body Builder,  $29   Create instant, buildable body with this customizable hairspray – turn the nozzle left for more body or right for less. Great for most hair types, Perfect Hair Day delivers airiness, movement and light hold for any hair style creations. Not recommended for coily hair types. St. Tropez One-Minute Gradual Tan Pre-Shower Mousse,  $20 The world’s first one-minute, pre-shower tanning mousse! Discover a more convenient way to achieve sun kissed skin. Apply directly to dry skin using an applicator mitt , and shower off after just one minute for a subtle, golden glow (leave on longer for deeper color). Reapply daily.   TOOLS Real Techniques  Miracle Complexion Sponge,  $5.99 Create a flawless appearance with Real Technique’s 3-in-1 miracle sponge, designed to blend, smooth and enhance all areas of the face! Blend foundation with the rounded sides. Cover blemishes and imperfections with the precision tip. Contour around the eyes and nose with the flat edge.   Sigma  #F03 High Cheekbone Highlighter Brush,  $20 Hit the high points with this fluffy but firm Sigmax® fiber brush! Apply cream, powder or liquid highlighter without absorbing product into the bristles. Specially designed in height, shape and density to deliver a smooth finish for every face shape. Beautyblender  Original Pink,  $20 The original pink Beautyblender is ideal for applying foundation, cream blush, loose powder and BB + CC creams. Apply in hard-to-reach areas with stunning ease. The suede texture is sensual to the touch and its unique curves fit the contours of your face, leaving makeup dazzling and undetectable.                                                                                Tweezerman  Slant Tweezer Classic,  $23 Famous for its precision, the Slant Tweezer is consistently acclaimed as setting the standard for excellence and quality. With perfectly aligned hand-finished tips that grab the hair every time, the stainless steel Slant has been the No. 1 choice for make-up artists, celebrities and beauty professionals for over 30 years.   Easily shop all CRC’s Allure winners here . Which CRC award-winning products are your favorite? Love an Allure Beauty Award winner that’s not available at CRC? Let us know in the comments below!   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. Looking for a product we don’t sell? That’s because we have something better. Just ask! Mallory Hatten Beauty Editor / Camera Ready Cosmetics 

Makeup artists ask us all the time which foundations we recommend, especially when it comes to choosing a pre-filled palette. Investing hard-earned cash into a product you’ve never tried is scary, and we totally understand. So instead of taking our word for it, we surveyed our trusted community of Pro Makeup Artists to determine which holy grail foundation sets they always have in their kits. We received tons of feedback from artists of all experience levels and backgrounds, but there were five foundation sets that consistently came up again and again. Uncover our customers’ favorites and consider adding one (or all) of these top-rated products to your professional makeup kit! Maqpro 6-Color Fard Creme Palette With color packed to the punch, the Maqpro Fard Creme Palette affords you the luxury of having twice the color for a fraction of the price. The ultimate space-saver for your makeup kit, the compact palette comes in eight shade range variations with six creamy foundation shades in each. The highly-pigmented, long-lasting formula is easy to blend for a perfect color match. Camera Ready customer Aysheh S. says, “I have used this product for about six years. It works great on people of all skin tones, especially those who have oily skin (once you set with powder.) It wears well in all environments.” RCMA VK Palette This professional, highly-pigmented and blendable cream-based formula has no perfumes, mineral oils or lanolin, making it an ideal choice for photography, film and anywhere else HD quality is needed. With a finish that feels light enough for everyday wear, the RCMA VK Palette is a favorite for those who seek a versatile all-in-one foundation set that lasts all day without feeling heavy on the client’s face.  Once you’ve run out of a color, you can purchase Pro Palette Replaceable Godets to customize your palette for life. Considered a top choice by professionals worldwide, the VK Palette is a staple in many artist kits. Camera Ready customer Alexandra B. says, “I absolutely love the RCMA VK Palette. I first bought this for my freelance kit, and now I use it on all my clients (and even myself!) It's my go-to foundation for a natural finish look .” Cinema Secrets 5-IN-1 Pro Palette Available in six universal shade ranges, these industry-coveted, silicone-based foundation palettes provide expert-level customization to match any skin tone with effortless ease. You can also use the 5-IN-1 PRO Palettes to color correct, contour and highlight. The sheer-to-full coverage leaves a natural matte finish, and the water-resistant, long-wearing formula is suitable for even the most sensitive skin.  Camera Ready customer Melanie B. says, “As a pro, I've been using Cinema Secrets from the time I began building my kit. These give great coverage while still looking like skin!”  Graftobian Hi-Def Super Palette The High-Def Glamour Crème Super Palettes are artist-friendly and convenient for travel. Available in three different shade range options, each of these 18-shade palettes include a combination of top-selling Graftobian crème foundations that are easily blendable and perfect for all skin types. Achieve full coverage with a finished look that still appears natural. The gorgeous, creamy foundations are super easy to work with and make the skin look like velvet. It’s a great product for any new makeup artist to add to their collection and continues to be a bestselling option for veteran Pros worldwide. Camera Ready customer Carmen A. says, “I love this palette because it has so many different shades that work for almost every skin tone. The coverage is amazing and it completely hides any skin imperfections so it's definitely worth the price. I use it on myself and my clients. It lasts all day, and a little goes a long way!” Ben Nye HD Matte Palette Bring out the best in any skin tone with Ben Nye's Essential HD Matte Foundation Palette! Twelve shades deliver just the right amount of coverage, packaged neatly in a portable tin casing. At just $60, you’ll get HD quality without the HD price. (Plus, you can purchase refills of each color for just $8!)  Each shade is a versatile blend of high pigmentation and natural-looking color that leaves the skin with a flawless, smooth texture. This palette is ideal for combination to oily skin types.  Camera Ready customer Lats A. says, “I have really oily skin and have tried everything. This makeup palette is a must for MUAs! Your clients will love you.” Shop The Foundation Palettes Try one of these artist-selected foundation palettes for yourself! All products mentioned in this article are linked down below. 1) Maqpro Fard Creme Palette  2) RCMA VK Palette 3) Cinema Secrets Ultimate 5-IN-1 PRO Palette 4) Graftobian HiDef Glamour Creme Super Palette 5) Ben Nye Essential HD Matte Palette Visit our blog for more articles like this one. Interested in contributing content to our website? Email your topic suggestions for consideration. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by pro makeup artist Mary Erickson. An industry veteran for more than 30 years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for on our site, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!

The eyes are the window to the soul, so let’s make those beauties stand out! Every client you encounter will have a different eye shape, and it’s important to know the best tips and techniques for enhancing their natural beauty.  “What eye shape do I have?” This is a question we get a lot, so we’ve outlined each of the most common shapes of eyes below with tips on how to effectively accentuate different eye shapes, as well as which products will help you achieve maximum results for each of the different eye shapes. Educate yourself, get inspired, and stock your kit with these eye makeup essentials for a versatile kit anywhere you go.  The Different Eye Shapes:  Deep set eyes Wide set eyes Protruding eyes Close set eyes Upturned eyes Downturned eyes Hooded eyelids Monolids Deep Set Eyes Having deep set eyes simply means the eyeballs are set further back into the skull, creating a more prominent brow bone. Famous faces with this shape of eye include Taylor Swift, Halle Berry, and Renee Zellweger. For deep set eyes makeup, opt for lighter, highlighting colors to brighten the lid and to create the illusion of more eye space. The key with deep set eyes and makeup is to de-emphasize shadows caused by the brow bone. The Make Up For Ever Pro Glow Highlighter comes in a Pearly Rose and Iridescent Gold colors and works well to enhance a natural glow. Wide Set Eyes This shape of eye refers to eyes that are more than one eye-width apart. Famous faces with this feature include Michelle Pfeiffer, Oprah Winfrey, and Jackie O. The goal of enhancing wide set eyes is to make them look closer together. The simplest way to achieve this is by using a dark liner around the entire rim of the eye, as well as the inner corners near the tear ducts. Jillian Dempsey’s Khol Eyeliner leaves a silky-smooth finish that lasts all day. Protruding Eyes Considered one of the more recognizable shapes of eyes, protruding eyes are very round, wide, and appear further out from the skull. Famous faces with this feature include Nicole Richie, Christina Ricci, and Emma Stone. People with this shape of eye can typically pull off any makeup style, but most especially a dark smokey eye with false lashes and bold brows. Dose of Colors’ Smokey Soiree Eyeshadow Palette is the perfect option for a subtly seductive look. The versatile palette includes a mixture of matte and ultra-reflective shimmer shadows. Close Set Eyes Another recognizable type among the different eye shapes, close set refers to eyes that have more space between the temples and outer eye corners than between the actual eyes. Famous faces with this feature include Jennifer Anniston, Kristen Bell, and Miley Cyrus. Opposite of wide set eyes, the goal here is to create the appearance of eyes that are farther apart. Light, reflective shadows applied to the inner corner of the eyes are effective but stay away from darker shades that will make the eyes look smaller.  The RMS Beauty Eye Polish creates a sheer, metallic finish that illuminates the eye and moisturizes all at the same time. Upturned Eyes This is the perfect shape of eye for a seductive cat eye. Upturned eyes are almond-shaped but curve upward towards the outer corners. Famous faces with this feature include Angelina Jolie, Kendall Jenner, and Beyonce.  Upturned eyes are best accentuated with a balance of shimmer and darker, matte hues. Avoid heavy eyeliners and choose appropriate shadow colors for the skin tone and eye color you’re working with for a more natural look. Create the perfect look with the Mehron E.Y.E. and CHEEK Powder Palette. The powder-based shadows are designed for the most extreme HDTV close-up, so you can feel confident it will perform well and last all day long. Downturned Eyes Almond-shaped with the outer corners curved downward, the downturned shape of eye has a rounded upper lip and flat bottom. Famous faces with this feature include Katie Holmes, Anne Hathaway, and Marilyn Monroe. When doing makeup for downset eyes, aim to create an artificial upward lift by accentuating the outer corners. Choose soft, warm shadows and liners that accentuate the eye color to create the appearance of bigger eyes. Rituel De Fille’s Ash and Amber Eye Soot is actually an eyeshadow color product, but we also love it for soft, natural eyeliner. The rich texture is created with pure pigments and oils, so it won’t melt off or fade throughout the day. This eye soot is the perfect product to makeup downset eyes with a sultry lift.   Hooded Eyelids Among the different eye shapes, hooded lids are known for creating the appearance of small, squinty eyes due to a hidden or less visible crease. Famous faces with hooded eyelids feature include Kate Moss, Lucy Liu, and Blake Lively.  Neutral tones will enhance the eyelid and create the appearance of bigger eyes without looking over the top. Highlighting shadow on the inner corner of the eyes and along the brow bone will also make this hooded lids shape of eyes appear more open. An unusual favorite is Illamasqua’s Beyond Liquid Highlighter, which offers a lightweight glow and a dewy finish. Just a light dab to the inner corner of the eyes, and you’ll have a beautifully luminous, fresh-faced look. Monolids A common trait amongst Asian populations, monolids are the shape of eye defined by the upper lid completely overlapping the lower lid, creating the appearance of no eye crease and a softer brow bone. Famous faces with this feature include Sandra Oh, Jamie Chung, and Vera Wang. The goal of applying makeup on this shape of eye is to develop a gradient of color without creating an artificial crease. Choose products that blend very easily to create a look that appears as if each layer is fading into the next. We love Stila’s Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner because it’s easy to blend and manipulate upon initial application, but once it sets, your creation won’t budge. Shop The Best Products for Different Eye Shapes Now you’re ready to master makeup application for any of the different eye shapes! Arm your kit with the products mentioned above so you’ll be ready for any makeup style anywhere you go. 1) Deep Set Eyes: Make Up For Ever Pro Glow Highlighter 2) Wide Set Eyes: Jillian Dempsey’s Khol Eyeliner 3) Protruding Eyes: Dose of Colors’ Smokey Soiree Eyeshadow Palette 4) Close Set Eyes: RMS Beauty Eye Polish 5) Upturned Eyes: Mehron E.Y.E. and CHEEK Powder Palette 6) Downturned Eyes: Rituel De Fille’s Ash and Amber Eye Soot 7) Hooded Eyelids: Illamasqua’s Beyond Liquid Highlighter 8) Monolids: Stila’s Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner   About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by makeup artist Mary Erickson. An industry veteran for more than 30 years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for on our site, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!

  Here at Camera Ready Cosmetics, we have promoted, sold and loved Joe Blasco cosmetics for years. When clients walk through our doors looking for highly pigmented, high-performance makeup for film, television or the stage, the Joe Blasco collection is one of our first go-to recommendations. Known worldwide for his decades-long career as a leading makeup artist in Hollywood, highly sought-after film and television makeup visionary, first ever creator of government-approved makeup education centers, and the inventor of a 45-year-old+ successful cosmetics line, Joe Blasco has made his mark on the world of makeup artistry and education like no one before him. We had the opportunity to sit down with Mr. Blasco and discuss his start in the industry, his passion for teaching, and his secret to making one of the highest-performing makeup lines for film and television. Not into reading? Watch the full video interview here. Camera Ready Cosmetics: What inspired you to pave the way for makeup education? Joe Blasco: I realized that I wanted to teach, more than anything, when I felt that by teaching I was also learning, and the more I taught others the more I was able to experiment. When I was at ABC Television, they would come to me and say, “How do you do that? Why [do your foundations] look the way they do? How are you highlighting and shading the way you do?” And I realized most of the makeup artists didn’t really have as keen an understanding of highlighting and shading as I was taught by Ben Nye, and Kiva Hoffman, and some of the other artists that I studied under. So I thought, “OK. I’m going to take all of my understanding of corrective makeup and I’m going to create a class.” So I started with small classes, and gradually, more and more people wanted the instruction. I got calls - tons and tons of calls. And suddenly I went from just being this journeyman makeup artist at ABC also to having these big classes at night. So I thought, “Wait a minute. This is really interesting. This is going somewhere.” CRC: What were some of the industry challenges you faced early on? JB: [After my classes started gaining popularity, ABC] came to me and said, “Conflict of interest! You’re teaching, and we can’t allow you to advertise that you’re a makeup artist [while] working for ABC.” So I said, “OK, well, I’m out.” So I left ABC, and I went completely into being an independent makeup artist and to teaching. There were very few women in the industry. There just weren’t any, they weren’t makeup artists. The makeup artists were all men. When I opened my doors to students who wanted to be makeup artists, gradually more and more women came to the forefront. I’m proud to have been able to be a catalyst for allowing women into the profession…and gays…and various races. [They] were not, originally back then - 40 years ago - permitted into [the industry]. It was primarily a white man’s job. Not anymore. CRC: What has been the most rewarding moment as a makeup instructor? JB: My proudest moment as a makeup instructor had to be when I saw Matthew Mungle receive an Academy Award. He was my first graduate to receive an Academy Award. Since then Bill Corso has also received an Academy Award. I’m proud to have been influential in their success. But there have been many, you know. Every time I look at the credits roll by and see someone’s name that I know that I taught, it’s a good feeling - a real feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment. CRC: When did you realize you wanted to create your own makeup line? JB: I loved being involved in monster makeup and horror makeup in the very early portion of my career. What I did was simply to be as creative as I could possibly be, follow the script that I was given, come up with whatever the writer envisioned and the director wanted. After working in the industry for quite a few years, I saw that the products we were using - and they were excellent products, Max Factor, Ben Nye, RCMA - I would do a lot of mixing. And I thought, “Wouldn’t it be nice not to do all that mixing?” So that’s when I came up with our base tone related neutralizers. CRC: How and where did you learn to create makeup? JB: I learned how to make makeup in two different places - one was at the Max Factor company, and the other was the Ben Nye company. I learned more from Ben Nye than from anyone. However, I was always wanted to change things. If you use an oil that will break the makeup down after the body temperature starts to rise then your makeup isn’t really going to serve a professional purpose. It’s going to require more work. It’s going to slow production time down. So I thought, “What can I do to make makeup better?” CRC: What’s the difference between Joe Blasco products and other high-performance brands? JB: The amount of pigment that we put into the product is a puzzlement to other cosmetics companies. They’ll try this, and they’ll say “how do you get all this pigment into the product.” And that’s the secret. The secret is to put the pigment in with the waxes and with the oils in a conventional manner, and then process it - very much like you’d process fine chocolate - so that it removes the excess vehicle, the excess oils and waxes, leaving behind a higher percentage of pigment. And how we do that, I can’t discuss. CRC: What is your favorite product from the Joe Blasco collection? JB: All of the Ultrabases are amazing. You can put it on with a dry sponge. You can put it on with a wet sea sponge. There are no other professional makeups, that are oil-based makeups, that will go on as successfully as mine with a wet sea sponge. Mine goes on because there’s so much pigment, and we’ve all that vehicle. When you put it on, it goes on very evenly and it covers. I think most popular are the neutralizers and then the Dermaceals and Ultamattes™. Oh, here we go we’re just going to name everything, aren’t we? [Laughs] The Ultamattes™ are extremely, highly-pigmented makeups, and I’ll tell you how I came about this. Ben Nye had a product that I helped him make, and it was the beard stipple product. It was a dark, dark black makeup that we put a lot of pigment into. I looked at it and thought “wow, there’s a lot of pigment in this,” unlike any of the other products in the line. And I started using it for eyeliner. Years later when I made my own line, I thought back and remembered that and I thought “let me make a line that has a tremendous amount of pigment.” But not just black. I made them in taupe, and brown, and warm brown, and then lighter colors that would be the same as the neutralizers. The highlighting colors became the Dermaceals, and the darker colors - the browns and the taupes and the blacks - became the Ultamattes™. So that concept split off into two different categories. The Ultamattes™ for eye makeup, and the Dermaceals for corrective makeup and concealing. So it’s all a matter of working with a product that has more pigment. That’s the secret. CRC: What is next for Joe Blasco cosmetics? JB: I just turned 71, and I’m really looking forward to continuing to work and to teach and to inspired other - inspiring young people to go into the profession in a manner that is sophisticated and well represents them as artists and also serves the profession well. CRC: What advice would you give to anyone interested in getting into the industry or following in your footsteps? JB: I don’t know that anyone really needs to follow in anyone’s footsteps. I think that what one needs to do is to create their own footstep template and to keep making that template grow and to do makeup artistry as they envision it - to be creative, to create their own style and to learn as much as they can from as many people as possible, but never try to copy any other people. You can emulate, you can be inspired by, but to copy is not being artistic. Be inspired, and create your own style. Have passion, and by all means, practice, practice, practice, practice. The more you practice, the better you’re going to be, and that’s the secret. Meet Rudy Blasco Following our interview, Joe introduced us to his dearest friend - and Joe Blasco cosmetics mascot - Rudy, an adorable pup that accompanies Joe on his many travels.  Watch the full video interview here, and comment below with your favorite Joe Blasco product. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for at Camera Ready Cosmetics, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!

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

Written by: Mary Erickson, CRC Founder and Professional MUA   Mary Erickson is NOT a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). Please contact a CPA before making any tax decisions or for detailed questions regarding filing taxes. The information below is not intended as a guide for filing your taxes. ___________________________________________________ When it comes to filing taxes as a makeup artist, I hear the following statements from my freelance friends all the time: “I’ve never been audited. I don't make enough money to be noticed.”  “I’m a small fry. The IRS doesn’t care about me.” And, most common: “I keep all of my receipts so I’m good.” All three of those statements are false. If you've never been audited, congratulations. You managed to get lucky. Did you know working as a freelancer or making lower income is one reason you may be audited? The IRS doesn’t exclusively audit the wealthy. With the COVID-19 pandemic taking a toll on our economy and personal finances, the federal government has extended the tax filing deadline to July 15 without putting you at risk of interest or penalties. The typical tax deadline is April 15, so take a moment to celebrate and breathe a sigh of relief.  If you owe money to the IRS, this extension gives you until the July 15 deadline to make a payment. So even if you file today, you won't say goodbye to that money until whichever scheduled date you choose up to July 15. This extension automatically applies to all taxpayers; there is nothing special you need to do. File as you normally would. ___________________________________________________ NOTE: This extension only applies to federal income taxes. State income tax varies by state. While most states have matched the federal government's tax deadline of July 15, others have created their own guidelines. Visit your state or local government website to learn more about alternative state tax filing guidelines that may apply to you. ___________________________________________________ How To File Taxes As A Freelance Makeup Artist Maybe you've never filed taxes as a freelance makeup artist, or maybe you have but never seem to quite understand what you're doing. Follow my list of DO's and DON'TS to protect yourself from an IRS audit and ensure you're getting the maximum return or minimum amount owed.  DON’T lie to the IRS! This is the #1 most important thing you’ll read all day. Real cases go like this: You’re a freelance makeup artist, but you only dabble in it while living with your friend/roommate. You claim $20,000 in income for the year from various freelance jobs because that’s what appears on your 1099 forms. You claim $15,000 in expenses with gas, office supplies, phone, etc. So you will owe taxes on only $5,000 in income for the year. Now enter the IRS. Your rent is $600 per month. Your car payment is $200 a month. Your expenses (not including food, utilities, etc.) are $800 a month. Are you ready for this question from the IRS:  “How did you pay rent and car payments on $5,000 for the year?” This is not the time to make up falsehoods about loans family gave you or money you found in the garage. That won’t work. The IRS employs intelligent people who have seen and heard everything. When it comes to tax dodging, you are not smarter than the IRS. Maybe you can tell them you made it babysitting? That would mean you failed to report income to the IRS, which would be a crime in the USA. If you like your own bed, and steel bars don’t appeal to you, do not lie to the IRS.   DO keep a mileage log and gas receipts. (The real receipts, not just a bank statement.) In the event of an audit, this will make your case a much stronger one. Mileage is something they almost always look at in an audit, so don’t fudge this. It’s not worth the few dollars you may save. Document every address you go to, if claiming it as travel. There are numerous free apps for this that can help you. DON’T say to yourself “I’ll worry about an audit if/when the time comes.” That time will probably come one day, and you need to be prepared. Self-employed individuals are a target and for good reason. It’s easier to lie about pay and expenses when you’re self-employed.  DO hire a CPA to handle your taxes. I know this is expensive, but the few hundred dollars you will spend every year can save you thousands of dollars in an audit and a lot of valuable time. The fines for an error, even a small one, will pay the CPA fees for years. You can use Quicken and TurboTax or other tax software, which is cheaper, but research every expense you’re taking. Don't assume anything. DON'T take cash from anyone and assume there isn’t a paper trail. An audit of your client who paid in cash for your services can lead to you as the source of his/her expenses. Also, a bank deposit of cash can lead to questions as to where you got the cash. I know it’s none of their business, but sometimes they make it their business.  DO claim dinner out with clients as an expense. Put the name of the client on the receipt. If you are wining and dining for business, you should get the write-off. If you’re questioned about it, you may be asked for that client’s information. DON'T write-off makeup you buy for your personal use. Keep receipts so you can show the IRS that you do buy makeup for yourself, and you don’t write it off. DO write-off every penny of makeup that you purchase for your kit. It’s all a tax write-off. Makeup for your kit is a legitimate business expense for an artist. DON'T try to write-off clothing, jewelry, hair stylists, plastic surgery or Botox. I know you must look good as a makeup artist, but the IRS won’t buy these expenses. I know, it sucks.  DO write-off your home office, but only if there is NOTHING else that you do in that room. There are two options for filing home office deductions. 1) Simplified Option This option allows a standard deduction of $5 per square foot of home used exclusively for business. If using this formula, you may not calculate more than 300 square feet of space, and the maximum deduction is capped at $1,500. To learn more, read the IRS rules here. 2) Regular Method This option requires you to calculate the actual expenses of your home office. These expenses may include mortgage interest, insurance, utilities, repairs and depreciation. Deductions for a home office are based on the percentage of your home devoted to business use. So, if you use a whole room or part of a room for conducting business, you need to figure out the percentage of your home devoted to your business activities. Your room can’t double as a guest room and an office. Take the measurements of the room, and calculate its percentage of your home's total square footage. This will be necessary to write-off utilities and rent for that space. Example: If your 10x10 office is 100 sq. ft. and your home is 1000 sq. ft., you can write-off 10% of your rent and utilities. DON'T use your personal account for business. Your business should be a separate bank account. All expenses should go through that account, and all income should be placed into that account. DO start doing this now if you have not been doing this in the past. The sooner you start doing the appropriate things the better off you will be when you are audited. DON'T decide not to file taxes. This is a huge mistake! If you don’t file, the IRS will calculate what you owe. In my best Liam Neeson voice: “They will find you, and you will pay.” The first time you get a job that requires your social security number, they will send a notice to your employer demanding a wage garnishment for past due taxes. I have seen this happen with 3 of my past makeup assistants who failed to claim the income I paid them. They will hunt you down forever, and the amount you owe will grow with fines. Think about 5 or 10 years down the line when you go to buy a house. They pull up your SSN only to find a tax lien for past due taxes. A few thousand in past due taxes can turn into $20,000 with penalties and fines very quickly. Please make sure to pass along these tips to a makeup artist you know.