BeautyMinerals.com - Behind The Website

What is all the talk about Resveratrol?

2010-06-18T13:05:00.005-05:00

What is all the talk about Resveratrol? It is one of the most sought after anti-aging ingredients on the market today, and there is a good reason for this. Resveratrol has some very desirable and potent anti-oxidant properties. The media, including talk shows with physicians educating the public, like The Doctors and even Dr. Oz, have promoted Resveratrol as one of the major players in anti-aging skincare health today.

As the popularity of Resveratrol increases, so do all of the uses for this amazing ingredient, ranging from supplements to anti-aging potions, and now skincare!

Antioxidants are essential to any anti-aging skin care regime, due to the fact that they may help prevent free radical damage to the skin. You might be asking yourself, what are Free Radicals? They are atoms with at least one unpaired electron. They are very unstable and reactive, seeking to bond with other molecules which then weakens and damages the new molecule. The free radicals can cause many things to happen such as damaging skin cells that then multiply and slow down cellular growth when added to skin products. This is where Antioxidants come in to save the day! They offer a super-boost of protection to the cells and the body, encouraging the skin to function as it should.

In studies, Resveratrol, a biological extract that may come from plants, fruits, or the red wine-making process, has been shown to be a much more potent anti-oxidant than the familiar Vitamins C and E. In addition, it supports the health of blood vessels, which are crucial to fueling tissues with nutrients and oxygen and carrying wastes away. Resveratrol has even been shown in studies to extend the life of the cell when applied topically, by delaying cell senescence.

Many Aestheticians will recommend regular use of antioxidants to promote a healthy and radiant skin. So many brands available to us on the market may claim very high amounts of antioxidants, but in reality have less than may be clinically recommended. Do your homework and become knowledgeable about ingredients and their uses. Look for products that do not use any parabens or less desirable fillers. A concentrated form of Resveratrol in the formulation added to a great moisturizer or other facial products is sure to provide you with a cutting edge product that will give you beautiful and lasting results.

Tips For Beauty Pageants

2010-01-21T10:59:00.001-06:00

So you love Beauty Pageants? Well, here are few tips and pointers for getting your face ready for that big day. And, introducing a product that was made just for you ~~~ Pageant Magic™!

If you are reading this, you probably already know a lot about pageants! Hopefully though, you will find some information that you haven’t heard before, or just a tip that could make that one little difference. Though some pageants dictate what makeup to wear, for the benefit of this article, we are going to pretend that you are on your own for this one!

Start getting ready weeks in advance by getting plenty of exercise and eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables. If you are dieting to lose those last few pounds, be sure not to completely restrict healthy oils and fats, because your skin will dry out before you know it and it will show. And just as importantly, drink plenty of water. Water flushes toxins from your system and makes your skin glow. Healthy skin is very visible, especially to judges who are looking at every little thing, so think about getting not just your body ready for the pageant, but your skin as well.

On Pageant Day, start preparing your face early in the day. Start with a good skin exfoliator to remove dead skin cells. Green Tea Vita A Enzyme is a skin exfoliator that uses an enzyme plus Vitamin A. It is gentle enough for even sensitive skin, and you can see instant results ~~~ smoother, firmer, softer, skin.

If you have very dry skin, start putting on a good moisturizer at least 15 minutes before putting on your makeup. This will give you time to put on a couple of layers of moisturizer if you have really dry skin, and be able to let each layer dry in between applications. V intage´ Rich Wine Cream is a rich moisturizer that is great for dry skin. Put a layer on, wait until it completely dries and then repeat if your skin is exceptionally dry. Wait at least 10 minutes after applying the last layer of moisturizer before you start putting on your makeup. If you have oily skin, you want to use a lighter moisturizer and only apply once before putting on makeup. Even though your skin is dry, it is still very important to use a moisturizer for a makeup base so that your makeup stays put. Vintage´ Wine Hydrate Gel is a whipped cream gel that is an extremely light textured moisturizer in a water based formula that supplies excellent hydration, yet won't make your skin oily.

Start your makeup with a concealer to cover any blemishes or dark circles under your eyes. Use a good mineral concealer that is one shade lighter than your foundation, and apply with a sponge or fingertips.

Now, for your foundation. As you already know, there are many foundations on the market. For healthy skin that will stay healthier, I recommend staying with a mineral foundation whether you choose liquid, loose, or pressed minerals. There are actually dangerous additives in some over-the-counter foundations. Mineral makeup is just better for your skin. If you use liquid makeup, Mineràle Liquid Lift Foundation is a beautiful mineral makeup that lifts, tightens, and firms your face as it gives you great coverage. If you prefer loose mineral makeup, try Mineràle's loose minerals in either the shaker jar or the automatic dispensing brush ~~~ with seven colors from which to choose, you should be able to get just about a perfect match. If you prefer pressed minerals (as I do!), try Mineràle's Pressed Mineral Makeup, with six beautiful colors from which to choose. With the help of ample lighting, apply your foundation evenly, but don't cake it on. With mineral makeup, you will have less likelihood of streaking or caking, but look at your face from every light angle to make sure you aren't smudged. Be sure to include your ears if they are exposed, and any part of your neck and chest that is exposed.

And now for your secret weapon – Pageant Magic™! After you have applied your regular makeup, apply two or three tiny drops of Pageant Magic™ to the delicate skin underneath your eyes, right across the top of your cheeks, and pat in well with fingers. Less is more....it only takes a tiny bit to be perfect! While Pageant Magic™ works instantly, after it warms up with the skin, it becomes magical! It is amazing how your skin will glow under the pageant lights.

Next comes brow powder. Use a powdered brow powder instead of pencil to look more natural and less harsh. Mineràle Brow Powder is pressed mineral makeup color for brows in a soft matte taupe shade that works for all hair color. Use a good angled brush to apply.

Choose eyeshadow colors that blend with your skin and don’t clash with your dress. Don’t use dark colors for Pageant Night! Mineràle has pressed and loose eye shadows in tons of colors! There are 12 matte colors and 9 shimmer colors in pressed, and 6 mattes, 18 shimmers, and 4 pearls in loose, so you shouldn’t have any trouble trying to match whatever color you are wearing. Pick a light color for the area right under your eyebrows and a medium color from there down to your lashes. Use a darker color to line your eyes right above the tops of your lashes, and on your lower lid. Use a good eyeliner brush for good control. Again, don’t go too dark ~~~ you are trying to look as natural as possible. Now, add your mascara and your eyes are all done!

Blush is your next step and the rule of thumb is to use a shade that is the color of your cheeks right after you exercise. Again, use a good mineral blush for a more natural look. Unless you have a good tan already, use a light bronzer on your forehead, nose and chin, where the sun usually leaves you sun-kissed. Be sure everything is smooth and even.

When you go out on that stage, you have to show those pearly whites! The judges want to see your smile, and as a result your personality will show through. Lip gloss can make the difference in not only the way your lips shine, but how beautiful your teeth look. After you have lined your lips, apply your lip gloss. Be sure to use a color that is as dark or darker than your liner. Try Mineràle's Lip Gloss. It actually gives your lips a lasting, non-sticky color that you would normally get from your regular lipstick, plus a great glossy shine.

Now you are ready to WOW those judges! Try to look the judges right in the eyes ~~~ they want to see your confidence. Hold your head up high like that crown is already there!

Now, good luck and Knock “Em Dead!”

Taking Care of All Skin Types

2010-01-13T10:05:00.009-06:00

As you know, there are all types of skin. With so many products on the market and so many different ideas on the subject, sometimes knowing what to do for your skin might just seem overwhelming. Mineral Cosmetics do tend to do better on all skin types, since there are no harsh chemicals added that can irritate even sensitive skin. Here is some advice that may help you decide which skin type you are, and how to take care of it.

DRY SKIN: If you have dry skin, especially in the winter months when the cold is already hard on your skin, you have to take special care to make sure you are doing all that you possibly can to baby your face. If you wash your face and it feels tight, or if you have flaking, you most likely have dry skin and you need plan your daily regimen to include skin care products that are good for dry skin and keep your skin hydrated. Although older people do tend to have dryer skin, especially women during and after menopause, age is not always a factor and younger skin can be dry as well. The most important thing is to keep your skin moisturized at all times so that your makeup stays on and your skin looks soft and supple. A good moisturizer can make the difference in how your skin looks and how well your foundation stays on your face during the day. During winter months, you should use a heavier moisturizer, such as Vintage´ Rich Wine Cream. It contains Resveratrol from red wine extract, which supports blood vessel function and keeps tissue enriched with oxygen and nutrients to keep the cold, dry air from further drying out your skin. In summer months, you can use a lighter moisturizer, such as Green Tea Balm, which is a velvety cream that is rich in aloe and green tea and adds moisture and protection to face, lips, and eyes and made especially for dry, dehydrated, and environmentally damaged skin.

OILY SKIN: Oily skin is usually a shiny, dull color, and tends to be thicker than dry or combination skin. Often it will have coarse pores, blemishes, and it is more prone to blackheads and acne than other skin types. There are many causes of oily skin, some of which include diet, hormone levels, heredity, pregnancy, and the type of makeup you are using. Hot weather and humidity tends to cause oily skin to get worse. Though it is more common in teenagers (have you ever met a teenager who didn’t complain of oily skin?), it can happen at any age. But, oily skin is not all bad! It tends to guard more against wrinkles because the skin stays more naturally moisturized even during swimming or exercise when moisturizers can come off.

Cleansing oily skin is very important. You may want to invest in a good cleaning system like the Nutra Sonic® Cleansing Brush that will give you the cleanest skin you have ever experienced. It will not only improve your skin tone and texture, it will also make your skin care products more effective due to improved absorption. If you don't use a cleansing brush, you should always use plenty of very warm to hot water and a pure soap with no additives so that pores are cleaned out and don’t get clogged. Avoid using harsh soaps or cleansers. Though your skin needs to stay very clean, do avoid over washing as too much can stimulate your skin and cause it to produce more oil. Purity Cleanser is a mild, gel-based, foamy cleanser that is a 4-in-1 treatment cleanser: removes makeup, deep cleanses, tones and tightens skin, and mildly exfoliates the surface of the skin. It contains light alpha and beta hydroxy acids for gentle exfoliation and skin conditioning without irritation. If your skin is extremely oily, limit or forgo your moisturizer entirely. After the age of 30 or so, you do need to use a good moisturizer on the skin around your eyes and mouth, as well as on the throat. Oily skin does very well with mineral makeup foundation, as it is naturally oil-absorbing. Try Mineràle Mineral Makeup for a natural, healthy look.

COMBINATION SKIN: Combination skin is exactly like it sounds – a combination of dry and oily skin. The oily part of combination skin is usually in the “T-Zone”, which is the area across your forehead and down your nose and chin. People with combination skin tend to have oilier skin in the summer, and normal to dry skin in the summer months.

For this type of skin, you should use a mild cleanser on your entire face at least twice a day. Use a good moisturizer on the dry areas, but avoid getting it on the oily areas. Mineral makeup is great for combination skin, as it uses the natural oils where your skin is oily, and uses your moisturizer where you apply it on the dry areas.

Makeup, make up, makeup blog, mineral makeup, eye shadow, mascara, kabuki, skin care, eye makeup, primer, beauty, minerals, applying makeup, colors

2010-01-10T19:19:00.010-06:00

Which Mineral Foundation to Use?

Who would have thought 30 years ago that there would be so many different ways to wear foundation makeup today? I remember sneaking into my mother’s makeup bag just to look at her bottle of liquid foundation...I know that I am not alone in that experience, we all played make up and dress up as little girls! Maybe that is when my passion for color cosmetics began! About 1989, I decided to go to school and become a “professional makeup artist.” Little did I know that I was about to open a door to the incredible world of Beauty!

About that time, before the TV frenzy of infomercials on Mineral Makeup, I found a small company in the spa industry that had a makeup they were calling “ground rock.” I must admit, I had to agree with them, because it was so drying on my face I couldn’t wait to get it off! But, the marketer in me knew that there was something to this product -- it would be different than we were used to – so, I BELIEVED….

Today in 2009, we have come a long way in Mineral Makeup. What started as just a foundation of powder form of minerals has grown into a whole color cosmetic category. You can find mineral lipsticks, mineral mascara, mineral eye shadows, mineral liquid liners, mineral eye pencils and lip pencils, and mineral primers for creating the perfect pallet for your makeup!

The first generation of mineral foundation was the loose mineral, made famous by Bare Minerals ~~~ small jars that you take a Kabuki brush, swirl, and tap, tap, tap then apply…..As a makeup artist, I found this not to be the best choice for me, but I used it because I wanted to be current with the times.

The second generation of mineral foundation was pressed minerals. Now we are talking livable -- the beauty of mineral makeup with much more convenience! Easy and convenient for the busy career woman, and still using the Kabuki brush for application. I found several companies out there that had created beautiful mineral foundations, but they were still a bit drying on the skin. Several of the companies added a mist, or spritz, to their mineral makeup regime, and “BINGO” a marriage made in Heaven…pressed minerals and a hydrating mist! This brought us closer to the look of regular liquid foundations.

The third generation of mineral foundation is liquid mineral foundation. They say everything makes a complete cycle and comes back again! But this time, THIS IS NOT YOUR MOTHER’S MAKEUP! Some companies have tried to make a liquid mineral makeup only to find it was not easy…some looked beautiful in the bottle, but didn’t look the same on the face!! After a few years now, I have found my favorite liquid mineral foundation…it is called Mineràle. Not only is it a foundation, but the creator made it into a skin care treatment foundation by adding peptides! So, when I am using it on my clients, not only are they having the beautiful coverage of a liquid, they are getting a skin care treatment as well, and, in today’s busy schedules, ladies are looking for multiple benefits with one product! I add the other mineral makeup products for a complete and healthy look. Last step is the mist ….this will help set your makeup all day and you can revive it throughout the day.

I hope this helps a bit when trying to decide what the difference is in loose, pressed, and liquid minerals. To me, it is all about preference ~~~ experiment with them all. Some of you will enjoy the sheerness of loose mineral cosmetics, some the on-the-go convenience of pressed mineral makeup, and some will choose the picture perfect application of the liquid minerals. The important thing to remember is that not all mineral cosmetics are created equal!

Victoria Crosby

Master Aesthetician/Makeup Artist

Thursday, December 3, 2009

All About Eyeshadows

There is no question that your eyes are the focal point of your face. When you meet someone for the first time, the first thing they are going to do is look at your eyes. Eye makeup application techniques and color choices are so very important to make that great first impression. You also want to co-ordinate your eyeshadow colors with the color of your clothing.

I prefer mineral eyeshadows, because I tend to have sensitive eyes. With mineral cosmetics, the likelihood of having an allergic reaction, or just watery eyes, is lessened somewhat because the products are made from natural products. Powder eyeshadows come in both pressed and loose, with many colors to choose from. They accentuate the eyes and can be blended with a variety of brushes and can be applied very lightly for a more subtle look, or darker for a dramatic or bolder look. Although I use mostly use mattes, if I am really decking out, I might use a pearl finish for a little shine, or a shimmer if I am really feeling spunky! Cream shadows are just not for me. They are not easy to apply, and they tend to collect in the creases of the eyelid and leave lines not long after application. They just don’t seem to last nearly as long as pressed or loose mineral eyeshadows, and I just want to make up my eyes and not have to worry about them for the rest of the day.

Since I use a pressed mineral foundation makeup, I put it on before my eye makeup. I swirl my Kabuki around in the makeup compact and apply the foundation not only on my face, but also on my eyelids to form a base. You can also do this with liquid mineral makeup, just make sure to let it dry completely before you put on your eyeshadow colors. It really helps keep the eye makeup in place longer.

You may want to use a damp brush to apply your eyeshadow, though I don’t do this because I feel I have more control of the powder if it is dry and the brush is dry. And do use a brush to apply the shadow rather than a sponge applicator. Once you start using a brush and get the hang of it, you’ll never go back to the sponge. With sweeping strokes, begin at the corner of your eye and apply across just past the end of your brow. Use a darker color as your base color, and apply until you get the right amount of color. Use a slightly lighter to lighter color above the lid just under the brow to highlight. Now, after you are satisfied with the results, take your finger and smooth out the edge right under the end of your eyebrow closest to your temple, with a sweeping motion towards the temple. Without making a defining arrow, blend it out smoothly. Finish off with mascara. Your eyes will look bigger, more dramatic, and professionally made up.

After you have completely finished your makeup (including cheek color), use a good mineral spritz or hydrator to seal it all. You’ll be surprised how much longer your makeup will last when you use a spritz or hydrator to finish it all off. Now you are ready to go out and wow them all!

Judy Barnes

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Lashes, Lashes and More Lashes!

Beautiful eyes are a must in accessories this year! Your eyes are the first impression you give when meeting people. There are many looks to be given with your eyes. Start by always getting plenty of rest – you don’t want the first thing people see to be red, tired looking eyes!

Lashes, Lashes, and more Lashes! You can choose mascara that is lengthening and thickening and it will give you a start. Mineràle makes a great mineral mascara that is lash lengthening and conditioning and uses only pure mineral color for glistening black lashes with no clumping. If your eyes are sensitive or easily infected, your best bet is to stay with a natural mineral product. Be sure to change your mascara every few months. Makeup does get old, and if you are using the same mascara you were six months ago, chances are good that it is probably bacterially infected and needs to be replaced.

Now, for fuller, flirtier lashes you will have to turn to individual false lashes or the full strip false lashes. Then there are lash extensions….I lost a quarter of my lashes from this method! As a makeup artist I have used both in my business, but with technology the way it is, we have a new category for creating beautiful, sexy eyes. If you have heard of Lash/ Brow Enhancers, you might be familiar with the TV ads that are touting longer, fuller and darker lashes that are your own lashes! The absolute “WOW” answer to a girl’s prayers! There are many brands out there ranging from $80.00 to over $100.00. My favorite brand is Nutraluxe Lash MD Beautylash – it helps prevent breakage of lashes and helps protect and repair them from damages due to harsh cosmetics and the environment. The price is very competitive and really works wonders – clinical studies prove that your eyelashes will get longer with continued use! It is not a quick fix, but you can start to see visible results in four to six weeks. You can achieve beautifully enhanced lashes and no more false lashes or extensions and no more pulling out eyelashes!

After you create the perfect pallet for your eyes, be sure to experiment with colors and don't always be locked into the same colors you use everyday! Don’t be boring and stay with the same colors you used in high school! Be bold and daring! (Or soft and subtle…) Blending is the secret to using any color you like. Be sure to line your eyes. I like to use Mineràle Eye Pencils. They are mineral makeup liners that are long lasting and won't irritate your eyes. (Can you tell I am partial to mineral cosmetics?? I just find when I make up my own face, or the face of a client, mineral makeup and natural skin care products are less likely to cause any type of allergic reaction and/or irritation and are just simply better for you because they are natural.)

One of my favorite secrets from working on the set is to use a skin tone eyeshadow (Buff is a good color) and apply it to the hollow area on the inside of your eye close to the nose...usually you can find it quickly due to the darkness there...to brighten that area... for the appearance of 5 to 10 years off your age! I don't like to use a cream concealer in that tiny area because you really want soft coverage there that will come with using a matte mineral eyeshadow. I encourage you to experiment with your eye makeup....conjure up those exotic eyes so that you are ready to bat those long lashes at your special someone!

However you decide to spice up your makeup, just know that your eyes are what will draw people in. So be sure that you take that one last look in the mirror before you leave your house and get ready to take on the world!

Fun Quote: According to Audrey Hepburn ... “For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others.”

Victoria Crosby

Master Aesthetician/ Makeup Artist

Monday, November 23, 2009

WHY USE A MAKEUP PRIMER?

Using a makeup primer allows your makeup to last much longer. The main purpose of a primer is to prepare your skin for makeup application, and to create a smooth, protective base for longer, natural looking makeup. Our Mineràle Lift and Lock Primer actually lifts the appearance of the face as well as lock on your makeup for hours, and can even be worn alone for reducing pores and fine facial lines. Makeup primer will smooth the surface of your skin, cover skin flaws, even out skin tone, nourish your skin, and give you a protective treatment base for your makeup.

Sunday, November 15, 2009

MORE TIPS ON MOISTURIZERS

Here are some tips for applying moisturizer. All skin types need moisture no matter what your skin condition is. Moisturizers protect your skin from the elements: cold, wind, sun, heat, environmental elements, etc. A good moisturizer is the key to makeup going on smooth, making it easier to blend and allowing it to last much longer. It softens and nourishes your skin, so it is a very important step in your daily routine. Before applying your moisturizer, use a mild cleanser, using circular motions to gently exfoliate. Some people use a toner afterward, but I believe that to be a personal preference. Toners close pores, most by using alcohol, but tend to dry out skin so, unless your skin is really oily, I suggest leaving off the toner. Be sure to wash all of the cleanser off your hands and face, so none lingers along with the moisturizer. Now, take your moisturizer and apply it generously to your face and neck. Let it soak in at least 4 or 5 minutes before applying your foundation. If you follow these steps, you will have makeup that will last longer and your skin will stay soft and supple. Judy

Monday, November 2, 2009

From Judy / Getting Your Skin Ready for Winter

I have a seasonal tip that I'd like to share. Winter is getting closer and closer and if you are like most people your skin is already feeling the effects of the cold, dry air. It's important to start preparing your skin now for the colder, drier months ahead. During the summer months, you may be able to get by with a light moisturizer, but in winter your skin will be begging for more. If you start using a heavier moisturizer just at night in October or November, your skin will condition itself to get ready for the drier weather so that you can apply it as a base to your daily morning makeup routine, as well as at night, when the really cold, dry air sets in. Your skin will ease into winter and be soft and supple through the cold weather.
Judy

Friday, October 30, 2009

Blog

The blog looks good Chris and the feed seems to be working great. In addition, the new Goodies page is uploaded and looks much better than the previous design (I did manage to squeeze the creative side a little). Also, you will notice that more products are on sale. Next is to get the first monthly newsletter ready for sending next week.
Later,
Ron

Our blog system is up and running!

Have you ever wanted to know those little behind the scene secrets from successful web companies? We think it's important to let everyone in on what goes on behind the scenes. Please do yourself a favor and subscribe to this blog . You will be immersed in our world, behind the website. You will meet all of the many people it takes to make this site what it is. We have a lot of fun, so we just decided to share some of it. Please come back often. We are in the process of setting up a Twitter account as well as a Facebook account. When it is up and running, we will be sure to let you know.

Thanks for your time!

Which Mineral Foundation to Use?

2009-12-08T10:22:00.008-06:00

Victoria Crosby

Master Aesthetician/Makeup Artist

All About Eyeshadows

2009-12-03T09:31:00.006-06:00

Judy Barnes

Lashes, Lashes and More Lashes!

2009-12-02T19:32:00.004-06:00

Fun Quote: According to Audrey Hepburn ... “For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others.”

Victoria Crosby

Master Aesthetician/ Makeup Artist

2009-12-02T17:28:00.001-06:00

Chris - Testing new Ping.FM connection

WHY USE A MAKEUP PRIMER?

2009-11-23T09:44:00.003-06:00

MORE TIPS ON MOISTURIZERS

2009-11-15T18:03:00.003-06:00

From Judy / Getting Your Skin Ready for Winter

2009-11-02T15:46:00.006-06:00

Blog

2009-10-30T13:30:00.004-05:00

Our blog system is up and running!

2009-10-30T00:18:00.005-05:00