Why It's Worth Having Your Brows Professionally Shaped

Your brows frame your eyes and can change the look of your face. Throughout the years, styles have come and gone...and come back again. There are different methods of shaping your brows, such as tweezing, waxing and threading. Here are 5 great reasons to trust a professional for your most enhancing look. 

1) The proper brow shape can make you look younger or more refreshed. Your brows can, in a sense, have an expression. The idea is to have a positive expression, not surprised, angry or mean.

2) Have you ever heard the saying, "brows are like sisters, not twins." This means that they are not exactly alike, brows are not naturally completely symmetrical. A pro can see these subtle differences and make your brows appear more symmetrical. 

3) It is important to understand that the best brow shape is not the same for everyone. Your face shape, bone structure and individual features are all factors in creating your best shape. 

4) The proper brow shape can give you a more finished look. I always say, "Take care of your skin and your brows, they do not wash off at the end of the day." Even without makeup, great brows can enhance your look. 

5) Something I always tell my clients is how difficult it is to shape your own brows. It's really quite simple why. In order to see the hairs you want to remove, you must look closely in the mirror, most likely a magnifying mirror. By doing this, you ultimately lose perspective of both brows. This is how you end up with either over-tweezed or more asymmetrical brows, or even worse both. 

Before you trust just anyone with your brows, do some research. Read reviews, look for photos of the stylists' work online and ask for referrals (from people with good brows, of course!) 

New Year's Eve Makeup Ideas

The last party night of the year is quickly approaching. Deciding what to wear and how to pull your look together is probably one of your biggest tasks for this special night. Let's be honest, we not only want to spend the last night of the year with those that are most important to us, but we want to feel good and look amazing! 

Here are a few ideas to have fun with your makeup, this is the night for glitter, glow and glam!

1) Go for glitter on your eyes. You can try using a cream shadow first, then press a glitter eyeshadow over it. I recommend you look for a fine glitter versus a more chunky texture. 

2) Try a dramatic winged liner. Or even better yet, a dramatic winged liner...with glitter or metallic liquid liner. 

3) Metallic smokey eye makeup can be coordinated to your overall look. If you're wearing all black, it's a great way to add some color. Or go a bit bolder and more creative, use a complimentary color to what you are wearing. My go-to is the complimentary color to your eye color, making your eyes pop.

4) Wear false lashes. Depending on your overall look, you can choose a style that naturally enhances your lashes or try something more playful and dramatic. 

5) Try a bold lip color. I always think of pinks and reds as more party appropriate. But why not try a deep stain or burgundy for something more vampy or if it's your style, a bold orange. 

6) Go ahead and apply a more defined contour and glowing highlight. Now is the best time for this bone structure enhancing style.

Cheers to a Happy and Healthy New Year!! 

10 Foods for a Wedding Day Glow

As a bridal makeup artist, my goal is to enhance each of my bride's natural beauty and joyful glow on her wedding day. Of course there are many tricks and techniques with makeup and day-of skin prep that I am able to use for a glowing complexion. There are also many skin care tips I share along the way to prepare for skin that is in it's best condition. In addition, there are several healthy practices to enhance this beautiful, bridal glow. Here is my pick of top 10 foods to eat for a healthy, wedding day glow...

1) TOMATOES

Tomatoes help boost collagen, are rich in Vitamin A, C and K as well as lycopene, a powerful anti-oxidant. 

2) GREEN TEA

Green Tea is loaded with polyphenols, powerful anti-oxidants. Drinking green tea regularly is also known to help reverse sun damage. Be sure not to limit consumption, it also contains caffeine which can ultimately dehydrate your skin. 

3) BERRIES

Berries are rich in vitamin C and anti-oxidants. Anthrocyanin, an anti-oxidant that helps fight damage from free radicals and ellagic acid, which helps protect from sun damage and promotes collagen and elasticity are both present in berries. They also contain essential fatty acids which improve skin's hydration and reduce inflammation. 

4) AVOCADOS

Avocados are a great source of carotenoids which improve density, thickness, tone and overall general appearance. They also contain vitamins C and E and oleic acid which helps keep skin soft and hydrated. 

5) CARROTS

Carrots have vitamin C which helps plumpness and firmness of the skin. They are rich in beta-carotene which is converted to vitamin A and helps with blemishes, pigmentation and oiliness.   

6) LEAFY GREENS

Leafy Greens such as kale and swiss chard are high in beta-carotene, helping to repair and renew skin for a healthy glow. Arugula also contains sulfur which supports collagen production. Spinach is also high in folate which helps with DNA repair. Leafy greens are also rich in vitamins A and C.

7) EGGS 

Eggs help to soften, firm and hydrate your skin. They help to protect skin from UV damage with lutein and zeaxanthin. Eggs have amino acids that help in generation of new cells. 

8) ALMONDS

Almonds help to hydrate and soften the skin. They are high in vitamin E which helps prevent cell damage as well as damage from the sun. 

9) CITRUS FRUITS

Citrus Fruits help with sun spots, uneven skin tone and enhancing a radiant glow while rejuvenating your skin from within. These fruits are high in vitamin C and contain vitamin B6, folate, potassium, lycopene, niacin, magnesium, thiamin and phytonutrients. 

 10) PEPPERS

Peppers are high in vitamins A, C and K. They help with blood circulation and fighting blemishes as well as fighting oxidative stress. 

These 10 foods are just a starting point for a healthy glow for all of us, not just a bride. It is incredible what a healthy, clean and well-balanced diet can do for our overall health and well-being. Have fun and be creative with your food, it's truly one of life's simple pleasures.

The Natural Makeup Look for Your Wedding Day

Are you a bride-to-be who wears very little makeup or just loves the no-makeup makeup look? That doesn't mean you can't enjoy the benefits of having your makeup professionally done. Have you ever heard that it's a lot of work creating this no-makeup look? It's true! Let me explain...

First, your skin prep is critical to the wear and look of your makeup. Skin that is in it's best condition will look even more flawless with makeup. In addition, you'll find that it will wear better for much longer throughout the day. Refrain from picking at blemishes. I know it's so tempting, but makeup will not adhere properly to broken or peeling skin. Keep your skin hydrated and balanced, this will also help the wear of your makeup. It will also prevent dehydration lines. 

Photo Credit: Duca Studio

Be sure to have your brows shaped earlier in the week along with getting rid of any unwanted facial hair. Having a smooth complexion truly does make a difference in your makeup look. Of course, having brows shaped to enhance your eyes and face shape makes a difference even when you're makeup-free. Ideally, you will only need a subtle enhancing with products to perfect your brows and hold them in place throughout the day.

Photo Credit: Unique Concepts Studio

Choosing the appropriate complexion products and shades is critical to this look. The idea is to perfect your coloring and enhance your bone structure. This is especially important with professional photography. You want to look naturally flawless in person as well as in your photos.

Photo Credit: Kelly Giarrocco 

Your eye makeup should be subtle and bring out your eye color. It should enhance the shape of your eyes. Choosing the right colors and textures can also make a huge difference. Don't forget to define your eyes with eyeliner and false lashes. Again, these two things have a big impact on your look in your photos. 

Choose a lip color that mimics a natural lip shade. Don't be afraid to line your lips, this will not only enhance their shape but will help prevent any lipstick bleeding. 

Don't forgot to set your makeup with a setting powder and setting spray!

A professional makeup artist will know how to provide this look, ensuring not only that you feel your absolute best but that your look will photograph beautifully and stay in place through the tears and laughs throughout your Big Day. 

Airbrush Makeup for Your Wedding Day

You have probably heard both good and bad experiences about airbrush makeup. Maybe you really aren't even sure what it is exactly or why you may want it for your wedding day makeup. So here's a simple breakdown...

Airbrush makeup is applied with an airbrush gun and a compressor and is essentially a super fine mist of makeup. 

One of the advantages of airbrush makeup is the lightweight feeling on the skin. When done correctly, airbrush makeup creates a flawless yet natural looking complexion. It can be especially helpful in covering blemishes and areas needing extra coverage. It photographs beautifully as well. 

Airbrush makeup is available in formulas that are long-wearing, water-proof, transfer-resistant and smudge-proof...perfect for your wedding day.  

For your wedding day, you may also choose to have body makeup or tattoo coverage. Airbrush is a great choice for either services. 

Please do keep in mind that just like traditional makeup, airbrush makeup is available in many formulas and finishes. Also just the same as with traditional makeup, your overall experience with airbrush makeup is subject to the expertise of your makeup artist.

Wedding Day Makeup for Your Bridal Party

Wedding day makeup with your bridal party is so much fun! Your big day has finally arrived and you get to spend time with your best girls doing what girls love to do...hair, makeup and get dressed up! 

Typically what I find is that during our trial, brides say that they don't care and the other ladies can do whatever they want. As a professional makeup artist, I suggest something a bit different. The ladies are all going to be in many photos with you and standing along side of you during the ceremony. I think it goes without saying that the bride should have her own look and style. My suggestion is that the other ladies have a harmonious look together as well as with you. Each individual bridesmaid can still have colors and styles that best suit her features and coloring as well as personal style. However, when you're all together you look like you belong together!

Why You Need a Color-Depositing Shampoo and Conditioner

Let's be honest, most of us have some kind of color treatment done to our hair. But even if you do not, this still applies to you! Here's why...

Your hair color is effected by many factors, hard water, salt water, chlorine from swimming pools, heat styling, the sun... All of these cause fading, brassiness, dullness and even tinting your hair green (chlorine!) 

There are two ways to go about choosing the appropriate color-depositing products. Are you looking to add color or balance / correct color.

Adding color, for example, would be ideal for a redhead. Red haircolor fades the fastest. Using red-depositing products adds vibrancy and depth back to your hair. 

Color balancing or correcting is most common. Remember when you'd see grandmothers with lavender hair? Well grandma was on to something. As her hair was turning white or grey, it was also beginning to yellow. Using a purple shampoo or conditioner can cancel the yellow and brighten not only white and grey hair but also blonde. (If you overuse, this could lead to that lavender tint...maybe you like that?) Maybe you've had beautiful ombre or balayage color. Well if your ends are now brassy or orange, try a blue color-depositing shampoo and conditioner. This will cancel the orange and you'll regain those honey or beige ends again.

Why You Should Book A Private Makeup Lesson

JKo Beauty offers both private one-on-one lessons and group lessons.

There are advantages to both settings and both can be very informative and a lot of fun. Here's what to expect...

One-on-one lessons are just that and everything is customized just for you. We discuss in advance what you want to focus on and the session is dedicated to that focus. At your lesson, we will go over the brushes and makeup you already own. Often times I find that ladies simply do not know how to use what they already own. Or maybe you're just missing one brush or product to create the look you want. We will discuss what products and tools you should purchase and discard. You will have the opportunity to watch me apply to one side. While you apply the other side, I am able to give you pointers for easy application. Again, this lesson is completely customized to your areas of focus. Learn what is best for your features and personal style!

Group lessons are available for up to 6 participants. These can be so much fun! We can discuss in advance what the lesson should be focused on. Maybe you want something fun for your daughter and her friends. Maybe this is a girls night party and we make it all about current trends, tips for application and what to buy. It's completely up to you! 

All lessons are tailored to your specific concerns and desired look. Appointments start at 90 minute sessions and can be extended in 30 minute increments. My goal for your lesson is for you to feel more confident with your products, tools and application. No need to waste more time and money on products that just are not right for you! 

Why You Should Hire a Professional Makeup Artist for Your Wedding Day

There are a multitude of advantages when you choose a high end professional makeup artist. Below you will learn 5 top examples why you should hire a professional for your Wedding Day.

1. Someone you can absolutely count on for your big day. I often hear stories of the artist cancelling last minute on the bride. This does not happen with true professionals. In the very rare event of an emergency or unforeseen extreme circumstance, a professional will have a network of other artists to refer you to. 

2. Hygiene and Sanitation. A well-educated professional understands proper procedure and precautions of both. This factor is not something to compromise. Please do not underestimate the seriousness of this. 

3. Your makeup artist should understand lighting and how it effects your makeup. An experienced professional will prevent the unfortunate disappointment of makeup that looks harsh at your venue or mismatching your makeup causing a faux pas such as orange looking foundation. 

4. A well-trained understanding for what is appropriate in bridal makeup. Yes, it is important to look amazing in your photos but it is equally important to look your best while spending the entire day face-to-face with your family and friends. A highly skilled makeup artist understands how to provide you with a look that will photograph beautifully while still looking fresh and complimentary in person. 

5. Last but most definitely not least, a high end professional has a thoroughly stocked kit for all skin types, skin tonesand ethnicities. It is equally important to have a comprehensive understanding of how to provide the best service using proper shade selections and application.

The Truth About False Lashes On Your Wedding Day

Should you were false lashes for your wedding day? Absolutely, YES! And so should everyone else in your bridal party. Here's why... 

False lashes photograph beautifully without having a heavy or clumpy look that just wearing more mascara unfortunately may have. They also add immediate glamour to your look. But not to worry, you may choose from a variety of styles to enhance your makeup style. Applied properly, false lashes can easily enhance the shape and size of your eyes. No matter what your natural lashes are like, there is an option that will beautifully enhance your look. Individual lashes or lash clusters are commonly used for a more natural look. Strip lashes are often used for a more dramatic effect. However, there are strip lash options available that can be very natural looking. Don't be surprised...you'll want to wear them for all of your special occasions!

10 Ways to Fake a Good Night's Sleep

How often do you find yourself needing a quick pick-me-up after a restless night? The list of reasons may be long but we can keep the solution short! 

10 Simple Ways to Fake It

1. Have a cup of coffee or tea that contains caffeine. Remember to drink slowly and limit your caffeine throughout the day to avoid feeling even worse later.

2. Eat a healthy breakfast to sustain your energy level. A perfect combination includes lean protein, whole grains and a piece of fruit. 

3. Apply a de-puffing eye cream that contains caffeine. If you are able to refrigerate it for a bit before applying, even better.

4. Eliminate red eyes with eye drops. This is something you do not want to do too often, however, this a trick that immediately brightens your look. 

5. Apply a light beige eyeliner to the waterline of your eyes. It is more natural looking than white but still brightening. 

6. Define your eyes with a charcoal or navy eyeliner. Keep the line thinner, making sure to enhance your lash line. At the outer corner of your eyes, slightly lift and extend outward. This will provide an instant eye lift. 

7. Curl your lashes. Be sure to get close to the base of your lash line for the most lifting effect. 

8. Choose a brightening concealer to hide any discoloration and give a more polished look. 

9. Apply a blush that provides just a pop of color. Be sure to blend thoroughly for a more natural looking flush. 

10. Wear a fragrance that lifts your mood, such as one with lemon, rosemary, cinnamon or peppermint. 

8 Splurge Worthy Beauty Products

"Wow, is it really worth that much money?" How many times do you ask yourself this question about the price of a beauty product? There are many products that once given a try, we experience and understand the difference. There are a variety of reasons we find greater value in these products and believe they are really worth the hefty price...texture, fragrance, wearability, ease of application and most of all, impressive results. 

Here are my top 8 picks...

1) Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation is a lightweight, buildable foundation. This formula gives a "lit from within" healthy glow to your complexion. 

2) Yves Saint Laurent Touche Eclat is an iconic face highlighter. It brightens and smooths the look of your complexion. It can also be used to highlight your bone structure in a natural looking way.

3) Tom Ford Liquid Eyeliner is a dual-ended matte black liquid eyeliner. It stays in place all day and is a dense true black. Both ends resemble a felt tip marker, one side with a longer, fuller applicator and the opposite side with a short, fine-tip applicator. 

4) Guerlain Terracotta Bronzer is available in a variety of shades, all resembling a true suntan or sun-kissed glow. It has moisturizing benefits and is long wearing. 

5) Tata Harper Resurfacing Mask provides an instant glow. This award-winning mask helps minimize the look of your pores and improves overall texture to your skin. 

6) SK-II Facial Treatment Essence is considered a tried-and-true treatment product. It is used prior to other serums and your moisturizer. It helps with many skin concerns, including skin cell renewal and an overall balanced, glowing complexion.  

7) La Prairie Skin Caviar Luxe Sleep Mask is an overnight treatment that increases skin's firmness and elasticity. This luxurious treatment improves the skin's overall texture and appearance. 

8) Oribe Dry Texturizing Spray is a great alternative to dry shampoo. It boosts your hair's volume and creates texture. An added bonus, it smells incredible. 

Wedding Day Skin: How to Get Your Complexion Clear and Glowing

Your wedding day is the most photographed day of your life. These photos are also the ones that seem to always be around and resurface throughout the years. Naturally you want to have your skin in it's best condition. Continue reading for a guideline to follow for your bridal glow.

1) Begin your best practices as soon as possible. Many treatments such as microdermabrasion and peels require multiple sessions spanned over time to get the best results. Topical treatments also take weeks and even months to reveal their best results. 

2) Schedule regular appointments with a professional for treatments, facials and skincare advice. 

3) What better time in your life than now to start laser hair removal. Whether on your face or body, this process takes some time to complete. 

Photo Credit: Georgi Anastasov

4) If breakouts or hyperpigmenation are a problem, consult with a professional. There are many treatments and products that can help clear these issues. 

5) Be diligent about your daily sunscreen and avoiding overexposure in the sun. Remember, if your have blemishes or hyperpigmenation, the sun worsens both conditions. 

6) Eat healthy and drink plenty of water. You may even consider a multi-vitamin to boost your glow. This will also help with your hair and nails too!

Photo Credit: Yannis Malevitis Photography

7) Be sure to use a moisturizer that is appropriate to your skin type. Yes, even oily skin needs to balance moisture and avoid dehydration. 

8) Wedding planning can be stressful and stress can cause breakouts. Find your stress reliever...yoga, running, meditation, whatever works for you. 

9) Don't forget your brows. If you they are not already in their best shape, now is the time. Brow rehab can take time! Seek a professional who specializes in brow shaping for your best look. 

10) For regular skin boosts, try at-home masks. There is a plethora of masks available for any and all skin concerns. 

Dry Shampoo...Should You Be Using It?

I was recently asked these two questions. It made me think about the number of times other women have asked similar questions about dry shampoo. So here is the breakdown and yes, you absolutely should be using it!

Let's start with the fact that dry shampoo has been around for centuries. Dry shampoo absorbs oils and odors from hair. It can be found in the form of loose powder, a liquid that comes from a pump dispenser or an aerosol spray. It's a super easy and quick way to freshen up your hairstyle. Apply it sparingly to the roots of your hair. If you are using a spray formula, spray at least 6 inches away from your roots. Let it sit for a couple of minutes, this allows the dry shampoo to absorb excess oils. Finally, brush through your hair and style. It's really that simple!

There are several good reasons to use dry shampoo. 

1) To avoid over-washing your hair, which drys out your hair and strips your color.

2) It refreshes your hair after the gym or before a night out.

3) It adds volume to your hairstyle.

4) Dry shampoo extends the life of your blowout.

5) It prevents hair damage since you'll be doing less heat styling.

6) Use it to add texture to hairstyling, such as with backcombing your hair.

7) Many formulas have added color and may be used to help conceal roots between color touch-ups. For blondes or platinum hair colors, white or regular dry shampoo will also help blend or soften darker regrowth. 

JKo Beauty's Picks

• Klorane Dry Shampoo with Oat Milk is my Top Pick. Klorane is an award winning brand that offers a variety of formulas to address your different concerns or style preferences.

For additional options, check out these other great picks...

• Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Dry Shampoo

• Batiste Dry Shampoo

• Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo

Remember, dry shampoo is meant to be used sparingly and to refresh your hair and style. You should still regularly wash and condition your hair to maintain it's optimum health.

Happy Hairstyling! 

Drugstore Beauty Favorites

Who doesn't love a good deal?! The next time you are at the drugstore, give yourself a few minutes to browse new trends and classic favorites. Here is a list of some of my favorite tried-and-true drugstore deals...

1) For blotting oil without smudging your makeup look, try Clean and Clear Oil-Absorbing Sheets.

2) I like to replace my mascara around every 6 weeks. For separated, defined lashes my favorite is Cover Girl Lash Blast Mascara. 

3 & 4) Ardell Individual Lashes are an easy way to enhance your natural lashes. While you're there, pick up Duo lash adhesive. 

5) A household must-have is Aquaphor, it can be used for a variety of purposes. 

6) L'Oréal True Match Foundation is a great option for a natural looking foundation available in a global shade range. It has a buildable coverage, radiant finish and is perfect for daily wear.

7) For gentle and easy facial cleansing, try Simple Cleansing Micellar Water. This gentle product cleanses skin, removes makeup and hydrates. 

8) Olay Ultra Moisture Body Wash is softening and hydrating with a subtle scent of shea butter. Don't forget to replace your shower puff about every three weeks. 

These are all products I have purchased and enjoyed many times over. Don't be afraid to spend some time shopping the drugstore shelves for more beauty staples or current makeup trends. 

 Happy Shopping! 

Top 10 Beauty Tips for Spring

Spring has sprung...the days are getting longer and warmer! With a new season comes a change in your beauty routine as well. 

1) Trade in your deeper winter shade of lipstick for a brighter shade. Think blooming flowers and fresh fruit! 

2) Coordinate your lips and cheeks with a blush shade that resembles a flush of healthy color. 

3) Lighten up your complexion with more of a sheer glow. The time has come to switch your contoured look for a radiant glow.

4) Brighten your eyes with this season's trend of colored liner or eyeshadow.

5) Be sure to invest in a sunscreen that can be worn under makeup daily. Choose a formula with broad spectrum protection.

6) Store your heavier moisturizer and use a lightweight lotion instead. 

7) Treat yourself to a pampering pedicure and choose a fun spring shade or even a classic nude polish.

8) Try a more relaxed hairstyle and work with your hair's natural texture.

9) Now that you're spending more time outdoors, don't forget sun protection for your hair.

10) It's now time to store your deeper, heavier fragrance for a more light and fresh scent. 

Happy Spring! 

Why You Should Book A Wedding Makeup Trial

You are planning the biggest day of your life and it is simultaneously so exciting and so stressful! Many ladies are unaware of the importance of having a trial for their wedding day makeup look. Here are a few key reasons why it is so highly recommended by both makeup artists and past brides. 

1) Your beauty team is going to be with you on your most special day. Are you compatible? Do you feel as though you are being listened to? Is your makeup artist offering professional advice or style suggestions? Are their makeup kit, brushes and supplies clean? Are you enjoying yourself? These are some of the questions you should be asking yourself. 

2) This is the opportunity to discover what you want. Maybe you have been looking at so many photos on Pinterest or Instagram and are confused. Maybe you have been looking at photos with an excessive amount of editing and filters. The key is to find a look that suits YOUR natural beauty and personal style. 

3) Your makeup artist will become familiar with your skin and preferences. This gives you an opportunity to receive advice on how to best treat your skin prior to your wedding day. You will also know what touchup products you will need. 

4) You want to be able to try everything in advance for wearability, sensitivity or preference. For instance, false lashes may be something you've never tried, here's a great time to test out style and get used to the initial funny feeling of wearing them. Make sure you give feedback to your makeup artist about your look.  

5) Peace of mind and confidence on your wedding day! No need to worry about how your makeup is going to look or wear throughout the day. 

Don't forget to plan dinner and drinks or a girls night out to further enjoy your special look!   

Packing Getaway Beauty Essentials

How many times have you traveled and packed WAY too much...you know, just in case? I have given this much thought as I am preparing for 11 days on the Amalfi Coast of Italy. Our honeymoon is finally approaching and I have no interest in the complications of overpacking! Here are some tips to keeping your travel beauty case simple and light...

Before leaving, treat yourself to a few professional beauty treatments. Schedule a body waxing and brow shaping appointment 2-5 days prior to your trip. Next up, treat yourself to a manicure and pedicure the day before leaving. Consider your destination and planned wardrobe when choosing your nail shade. Last but not least, schedule a spray tan or apply self tanner for a touch of extra color. If you are traveling to a warmer climate during the winter months, you'll especially be glad you have that extra bit of color. 

Remember, the idea is to minimize and simplify your beauty case.  

Skin Care

Always pack your facial sunscreen, a gentle cleanser, a travel size pack of makeup wipes, moisturizer and lip balm. Check with your regular beauty salesperson, often times there are samples of skin care that you may take instead of your full size products.

Makeup 

Think multi-use here. NARS makes The Multiple sticks in a variety of colors, take one or two for lips, cheeks and eyes. A good tinted moisturizer and a foundation powder compact are must haves. Finish with mascara, eyeliner and your favorite lipstick. The only two brushes you really need to pack are powder and eyeliner brushes.

Hair

Hotels always have hairdryers, but take your flatiron. You can smooth, straighten and curl with it. Bring a few hair ties to pull your hair back when you want. As for product, take a travel size of your favorite styling product, heat protectant, shampoo, conditioner and hairspray. It's easy to find travel sizes available for purchase. I also like to pick up leak-proof containers from The Container Store.

Body

Pack a travel size deodorant, if you want. But seriously, you can pick up deodorant and body sunblock wherever you are traveling to. Hotels typically supply body wash and body lotion. The one thing I think you should not leave without is your favorite perfume. If you don't already have a purse-size spray or refillable atomizer, ask your regular fragrance specialist to give you a few samples for the trip.

Lastly, don't forget your sunglasses and hat, especially if you're heading somewhere with lots of sunshine.

Bon Voyage!

How to Prep for Your Spray Tan

Whether getting a spray tan or applying self tanner yourself at home, these tips will help prepare you for a longer lasting, more even tan.

Before Your Tan

• For hair removal, shave the day before and wax 48 hours prior to your tan.

• The previous night, apply a body moisturizer all over my maximum hydration.

• Exfoliate to remove any dead skin for a more even color.

• Be sure to have completely clean skin, no perfumes, deodorant, makeup or lotions.

• Apply lip balm to prevent color to lips.

• Schedule your manicure or pedicure before your tanning session.

After Your Tan

• Wear loose fitting, dark clothes.

• Do not get wet or sweaty. Sorry, no swimming or gym time until after you've showered.

• Allow your tan to develop as directed. It is not recommended to exceed the time instructed.

• Use daily moisturizer or a tan extender lotion for a longer lasting tan.

• Avoid harsh soaps and body scrubs.

• After showering, pat dry with your towel.

Happy Safe Tanning!

10 Tips for a Polished Look in 5 Minutes

We all have those days that we want just a few more minutes of our beauty sleep.  Here is a list of 10 tips to look polished in 5 minutes.

1. TINTED MOISTURIZER

Choose a tinted moisturizer with a SPF 30 or higher.  It should match your skin to even out discoloration.  I prefer to use one that also has additional skincare benefits, such as NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer.

2. CONCEALER

This product is a quick pick-me-up.  Apply to any blemishes, lightly around your mouth, the corners of your nose, under your eyes and my favorite spot...under your eyebrows.  Applying here will disguise unwanted regrowth and give a lifted, defined look to your brows.  My go-to concealer is Cle de Peau, an award winning multi-use concealer.

3. GEL EYELINER 

Gel eyeliner is a staple for your makeup collection.  It can be used for so many looks.  For the 5 minute look, naturally, we are not going to try to attempt a winged eyeliner style.  This is the time for using your flat eyeliner brush and simply pushing a touch of the gel liner into your lash line.  Quickly, this gives you definition and the illusion of fuller lashes.  

4. MASCARA 

This is the time to reach for your black, full volume mascara.  A good coat or two on the top lashes is all you need.  Make sure you start from the base of your lashes, wiggle the wand slightly as you continue to apply in an upward motion to the tips of your lashes.  This motion will give you maximum volume and encourage a curl, opening up your eyes.  

5. BROW GEL

Brow gel is perfect for taming overgrown hairs for a more sculpted brow look.  It will hold your brows in place throughout the day easily giving them a more defined look.  If your brow hair does not match your hair or you have very fair brow hair, choose a tinted brow gel.  

6. BRONZER OR HIGHLIGHTER 

I know, I know...why "or"??  Because this is the 5 minute look!  My recommendation is to choose whichever feels right to you.  If you're feeling a bit washed out, go for the bronzer.  If you want a radiant glow, reach for your highlighter.  Keep it simple.  Bronzer applied lightly to your forehead and cheeks.  If your neck tends to be a bit lighter than your face, apply it there as well for a more even look.  If you opt for highlighter, apply to the inner corners of your eyes and on the top edge of your cheekbones, applying in an upward motion towards your hairline.  I love the options of the Hourglass Ambient Lighting Collection. 

7. BLUSH

Think a subtle pop of color.  Apply a small amount to the apples of your cheeks.  For a soft and easy-to-blend blush with a beautiful color range, try Chanel Joues Contraste Powder Blush.  

8. LIPSTICK

Remember this is 5 minutes, lipstick only.  So we can cheat a bit here and go for a fat lipstick pencil.  Choose for a creamy formula with a complimentary pop of color.  

9. DRY SHAMPOO

This product is such a time saver.  Dry shampoo is used to absorb oils in the hair, creating more volume.  

10. EARRINGS

This is a fun tip to complete your look.  Choose a pair of earrings to coordinate with your lip and cheek color or a pair that makes your eye color pop.  

I know it's only a few minutes, but how we feel when we walk out the door sets the tone for our day.  I hope you enjoy these tips and have a wonderful day!