Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label beauty. Show all posts

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

How I Achieve a Golden Glow



Hey Lovelies! I am bringing you guys my very special golden glow summer routine. YAY! These last few months I have been obsessed with looking like I just came out of a golden pool (LOL) and with trial and error, I have found my perfect products to achieve a golden glow. The only product that isn't shown is the Laura Mercier Bronze Radiance primer, but I will add a picture at the bottom. The arrows in the picture rspresent the order of how I use each product starting with skin care. I take skin care very serious and I love using mask as often as I can ( of course not everyday). Once or twice a week  I will switch my mask up but to acheieve a radiant natural glow I love this REN Radiance Renewal mask! amazing stuff, I tell you go to your local sephora and grab a sample before purchasing so you can be amazed.

After the mask , I apply MAC Cosmetics Strobe cream which is a luminizing moiustirzer that has a pearl finish once applied. I then mix my MAC Lustre drops in golden with my foundation ( Nars Sheer Matte in Cadiz) and apply with my beauty blender. After applying my  NARS Creamy Radiance concealor in Biscuit, I then set with my MSF Natural in Medium-dark and lightly cntour with MACS Blunt, MACS Worldlywealth (Moody Blooms Collection Blush) or my Too Faced Sun bunny. I highlight with MAC MSF in Gold Deposit( obsessed with) and set with either my Cauldalie Beauty Elixir or MACS Fix +( both give dewy, healthy glow finishes)
How I Achieve a Golden glow



   
Laura Mercier radiance bronze primer
MAC Worldly wealth
Too Faced Sun bunny bronzer




My Favorite Way to Remove my Make-up




Ole Henriksen botanics skin care / Eye care

How I remove my make-up
So I know we all have those nights where we are so tired we can barely stand up to go wash our make-up off. Now I'm not saying don't cleanse your face after a long, sticky summer day but if you are just so pooped I would rather you grab a wipe and fall into bed. My favorite wipes are the Ole Henriksen wipes( the Orange in my favorite). The wipes not only remove make-up but are very beneficial to the skin, especially the blue pack which have are double-sided providing a ribbed, exfoliating feeling and a smooth feeling on the opposite side which also helps with acne and break outs. The Purple pack is if you have super sensitive skin, they are so gentle yet definitely will get the work done. Lastly, The Orange pack, which is infused with vitamin D and help with evening skin tone and assisting with a healthy glow which I recommend to EVERYBODY! I love Ole Henriksen he's a great guy with amazing products. I also added the Make Up Forever Sensieyes which is a a great eye make-up remover for those stubborn waterproof liners.

My five favorite peels& exfoliates

My five favorite peels& exfoliates



GlamGlow paraben free skin care / Peter Thomas Roth face mask / Kate Somerville face care / Peter Thomas Roth beauty product, $65 / MAC Cosmetics beauty product, $38


Decided to share with you all a few of my favorite peels and exfoliates. I love exfoliating and all five of these peels/masks/exfoliates aid with brightening dull skin. They also aid with break-outs and removing dead skin which is so important. The Glam Glow is my recent favorite( it just came out) I applied it on one of my friends and the difference one use made on he skin was unbelievable. Will  post before and after pictures soon

My top 5 summer beauty must haves

My top 5 summer beauty must haves

With a month and a half last of summer, Its never too late to grab summer beauty essentials, All of these products are great for the summer because they either mattify, are waterproof, or aren't too heavy that you feel like a clown.

1. If you aren't into wearing lip glosses or lipsticks in the summer for whatever reason, then these lip balms are for you. It is so many colors that you can have a new look every day of the week. They are moisturizing protecting and smell so good. They are pigmented for them to be lip balms and some even have SPF.

2. Let me tell you all that I LIVE FOR THIS PRODUCT! when I first received it, I thought it was too dark which turned me off but the key to this product is that it lightens as it starts to sit and blends amazing when using certain brushes or a beauty blender. This product is mattifying AND Hydrates the skin, it provides an amazing coverage, has SPF AND is recommended for people with acne (works just as good if you don't have acne). The gel formula works with any skin type and it is reasonably priced.( sold at Sephora)

3. Brows are ALWAYS in and don't let your eyebrows melt off with powders or pencils. I recommend the Anastasia dip brow because it is a pomade( easy to apply) and waterproof.

4.If you like to wear eye make-up in the summer, but worry about it creasing...have no fear, Smashbox 24 hour Eye primer is here to save the day

5. I have been loving Dior mascaras and just about all of them are waterproof which works perfectly in the summer



Friday, March 28, 2014

Flawless foundation routine

Flawless foundation routine



Hey hey!
 So I know it's been awhile but I'm bringing you guys my new favorite foundation review . Lately I have been wearing the Nars Sheer Glow foundation in Cadiz which I love!!!!!! Idk what took me so long to try it out but I'm glad I finally did. It is so light weight but provides a great coverage, the shade matches me perfectly and gives me a nice natural finish. I apply it with a beauty blender or a airbrush pro brush from Sephora( I like the beauty blender better). I spray the BB with MACs. Fix+ spray which provides my foundation with a dewy healthy look. Of course I still use the nars radiance concealer in biscuit( old time fav.) and I still use the MAC Mineralize Skin Finish Natural in medium dark. If you have normal skin , I definitely recommend you try this foundation( if you're looking for a medium coverage foundation). 

I used MACs stereo rose as a highlight and MACs sensual sparks lipstick/cork lip liner and Marc Jacobs sweet escape gloss.

Monday, January 13, 2014

My Everyday "Natural Glow" Make-up




Lately, I have been addicting to achieving a "natural glowy look" on an everyday bases and I finally found the perfect routine. I wish that I had a camera to record this video, I really want to start making clear videos for you guys but until then, I hope pictures will do... anyways I finally found the perfect products to achieve a natural glow in the winter.

First, after cleansing  and moisurizing my face with the Boscia Tsubaki beauty products  I apply Smashbox Photofinish primer all over, then in my "highlighting" areas( Under eyes, bridge of nose and between eyebrows) I apply the Laura Mercier Radiance primer( use as little as possible).
Once, I apply my primer(s) I then fill in my eyebrows with the Anastasia Brow Wiz in Brunette and clean them(conceal) with the Nars Radiance concealer in Caramel.
Then, I line my eyes with the Marc Jacobs "Highliner" in Blacquer followed by apply the Kat Von D tattoo liner on my top lashes and apply my mascara (which ranges). I then pop a champagne colored eye shadow in my tear ducts and pull the shadow to the middle of my under eye to brighten my eyes.
After my eyes area finished, I apply my Nars radiance concealer in the same spots I applied the Laura Mercier primer and apply my YSL Touche Eclat Beige 70 foundation or Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation in Golden and blend with my beauty blender.
Once blended, I dab my MAC Studio Fix concealer( pot) in NC42 under my eye, just to brighten it up a little more.
Lastly, I set my makeup with the MAC Skinfinish in Medium Dark and apply my bronzer which ranges between MAC Blunt and Too Faced Chocolate Solei, followed by either Nars Orgasm blush or the most recent Rihanna for MAC blush.

I tend to do nude lips on my chill days, but adding a pop of color is always a fun way to add some flair.
In the pic, I have on MAC Sensual Sparks and Marc Jacobs Sweet Escapes lip lauqer
I promise you guys, I will soon get a legit camera and have videos ready for you all because you deserve to WATCH and not READ!.

kisses,
Raven
IG: Cosmomars



Sunday, January 12, 2014

2014 Skincare Routine!

U2d Skincare




Hey Dolls! Happy belated New Year!!!!! One of my resolutions this year was to develop a Skincare routine and stick to it and so far, so good. As I get older, my skin gets better so I completely want to keep it like this. The better the skin, "the better the makeup" is the saying and it's 100% true.

In the morning, I use the Boscia Tsubaki Gel-Cleanser which is a gel-oil like cleaner that leaves skin very hydrated .
Next, I use the Tsubaki Beauty Oil and apply a little to my palms  and pat gently in my face.
One moisturizer,I then apply my foundation primer 
and make-up.

At night, I remove all my make up with the
Ole Henrikson truth to go wipes which smells like oranges  are amazing and brightens dull skin.,
Then, I use the Boscia Tsubaki Cleanser and Beauty
soil. 

Twice a week I use the Boscia Tsubaki Hydrating 
Mask  which is a nighttime/overnight mask thst hydrates the skin .

Twice a week ,I also exfoliate with 
Kate Somerville "Exfolikate" which is 
AMAZING. You leave it on your skin for two minutes then exfoliate, leaving you skin super smooth.

Sunday, December 15, 2013

My favorite bronzers

My favorite bronzers



/ Nars cosmetic, $42 

My favorite bronzers of 2013. 

1.Too Faced Chocolate Soleil bronzer
2.Rihanna for MAC Love,Rihanna bronzer
3.Nars Casino
4. MAC Blunt Blush

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Vice 2 palette review

For awhile now I was contemplating on whether to get the Vice 2 palette by Urban Decay so finally, I decided to give in and buy it( plus my discount was bumped up for the holiday season #sephorarocks). This palette is nice, not my favorite but definitely something I do not regret buying. Some colors are more pigmented than others but it's no biggie. All the colors are smooth and it comes with the double-sided brush that I LOVE. The vice 2 won't be here for long do add it to your holiday list and let those beautiful colors take you away.

(In order by palette placement)

Top Holiday Palettes

Top Holiday Palettes



The holiday season is here and if you have been looking
 for the perfect eyeshadow but don't know where 
to start, let this be your guide. I have played with all of these palettes and they're all great so out of six(89 if you include the other naked palettes should be on your wish list.

Holiday Beauty Releases

Get your holiday list ready because the beauty would is playing NO GAMES with these upcoming releases from the highly anticipated Naked 3 by Urban Decay to the RiRi Holiday Collection it's so much to be excited( and to go broke about).

In chronological order:

November 29th, 2013 (12am)
Mac will be releasing their yearly Black Friday lipstick which this year is Haute-core. If you miss it on the 29th, keep calm this lippie is set to release with the Punk Couture collection as well.
Also, releasing Black Friday is the false lashes collection from MAC(my fav. Mac mascara)

After Black Friday, it's rumored that the ever do popular Heroine lippie by MAC will be re-releasing and permanent. According to my sources, they're said Dec 3rd so just stay on the look out. Heroine may be the best purple MAC could ever have( I bought 3 backups, it's legit)

All year, this chick has been on top from recently winning the Icon award at the AMAs to releasing a clothing line, now her own fashion show... Rihanna had to go out with a Bang with her final major MAC collection(aside from her Viva Glam release is January)
This collection is set to release Online December 5th and in store December 12th

In non MAC related news, Urban Decay has revealed the new Naked 3 which has more pink colors compared to the first and second one. You guys know I live for the naked pallets so as soon as it releases in Sephora I'm on it! The exact date has not been released but it currently is online at urbandecay.com but will definitely come out in stores before Christmas.

And lastly, to close out the year the MAC Punk Couture and the Nude collection that I'm über excited about with the neon pigments and dark bold lipsticks. Even the nude collection is legit and these both release on December 26th
All pictures came from Trendmood

Thursday, June 27, 2013

Marc Jacobs Beauty



Get ready because Marc Jacobs is showing off this summer first with his new fragrance Honey, now a beauty line?  Yes you read right and the best part is that the line will ONLY BE SOLD AT SEPHORA( 50 points for us) lol.

The line will consist of 122 products ranging from nail polish to foundation, concealer and bright lipsticks. Marc is serious about his color, so all my bold make up lovers get your wallets ready. 

The line will be released August 9th in ALL Sephora and Marc Jacobs store





Saturday, June 8, 2013

Sephora Presents: Disney's Ariel Collection



  Get excited for this awesome summer collection by Sephora which features everyone's favorite little mermaid Ariel. This collection is Sephora's third release from the Disney's Reigning Princess collection.

 I'm so excited for this collection simply because of the eyeshadow palette. I missed out on the Princess Jasmine collection but I refuse to miss out on this one.

Pics courtesy of Beautezine

"Sephora has created a series of captivating beauty collections inspired by beloved Disney Princess characters entitled Disney Reigning Beauties. Each limited edition seasonal collection focuses on the individual style, personality and story of a specific Disney Princess, bringing her to life in a way that inspires women to create their own princess moments."



Ariel collection pallet $55 US/ $66 CAD

Part of your world pallet $30 US/ $36 CAD
X-whatcha-nail-callit nail lacquer $24.50 US / $26 CAD
Mermaid song lipgloss set $46 CAD
Set the mood compact $20 US / $26 CAD
Kiss The Girl perfume $58 US/ $77 CAD
Kiss The Girl rollerball $19 USD


Available online July 2013 and in stores August 2013

Friday, May 10, 2013

Oil Be Gone

Stay Matte


Nobody likes a shiny face, especially in the warmer weather months and if your like me then you have oily skin. I dread when it starts to get warm and my face look likes I dipped my face in Popeye's chicken grease.Luckily, after trying many products, I have provided you guys with oily skin's worst enemies. The products are definitely worth trying if your tired of the constant oil that messes up your make-up and you swag.
- Boscia Rose (or Green Tea) Blotting Sheets are AMAZE-BALLS, just pull one out and dab your face and you'll be set, plus you will be nourishing your skin with the antioxidants.
-MAC Fix + has become my fav. setting spray, it's so refreshing and only $21 (one of the cheapest sprays) you would spray this before you apply your foundation ,after, then after you set your foundation with powder.
-Urban Decay De-Slick Mattifying powder is great when setting your foundation, it mattes your skin while adding that finishing touch.
-Clinqiue Stay Matte is similar to the UD, a great matte setting powder that will be a great finish touch, with a light coverage.
-Clinique Stay Matte Foundation is a great oil free foundation
Urban Decay De-Slick setting spray is just as good as the Fix +, use is the same.


Stay Matte by raven-erica-alston featuring urban decay


Top Five Fav. Spring/Summer Scents

Fav, Spring scents


 These smell goods are sure to make you smell your best this upcoming season for any occasion. They're all flirty and floral  and the bottles are just so cute and chic.
-Marc Jacobs Dot
-Marc Jacobs Daisy So Fresh
-Bond's I Love New York
- Christian Dior Miss Cherie Dior
-Viktor & Rolf Flower Bomb



Bond No. 9 rose perfume / Viktor & Rolf rose perfume / Marc Jacobs fragrance / Marc Jacobs fragrance / Christian Dior beauty product, $115

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

How I Got My Job at Sephora

 Greeting Dolls!

    I know it's been awhile, please forgive a Diva for her absence but I just got a new job working at Sephora  and it's Finals week *sighs*.

    This post is just to give any one insight on how the Sephora hiring process goes. Before I got hired and even after, I was always googling "what it's like to work at Sephora" "what to expect when working at Sephora"...etc etc. WELL let make the search easier  for you.

    I applied for my local Sephora about in early March but that was not my first applying. In case you didn't know, you can only apply for a position at Sephora in store only! so looking the part when handing in your application is KEY( that's where I went wrong the first time).

   A few days after I handed my app in, I called and asked to speak to the manager in regards to the status of my application and as soon as she got on the phone she told me she was about to call me and schedule my first interview.

The First Interview:
  The first interview is the group interview. When applying for Sephora, the normal hiring process is three interviews. This interview was a group interview and consisted of me and two other young ladies who were around my age.We, along with our interviewer were sitting in the middle of the mall and asking the basic interview questions... you know past experience, "what would you do if...?" scenarios, and just getting to know us. There was no specific pecking order, just whoever wanted to speak first could( which was me). After the interview, the interviewer explained the process that was to come in the further weeks, which was scheduling a second interview and reference checks.


The Second Interview:
After waiting a week, I got my call for the second interview, oh how excited I was. During the second interview, I was on spring break so I had to travel back to Baltimore from where I am originally from, which was no problem. My interviewer this time was another manager, this one the store director and it was a one-on-one interview at the Starbucks in the mall. She asked similar questions to the first interviewer and regarding past work experience and where do I see myself in the future with Sephora. She then asked about family life, and how I will be able to balance school, family, and work. I answered all questions thoroughly and added jokes to lighten the mood and she loved it. Before, I left the mall after a little shopping, she called me to schedule a third interview.

The Third Interview/Demo:
  My third interview was scheduled a week later with the Director in Charger, she is the head honcho and was sweet but tough at the same time. She asked more in depth questions about availability  my expectations,her expectations, Pay, and more getting to know me questions. After the sit down part of the interview, I then met with a lead from the Skin care World and we had a demo as if I was at the cash wrap ( register) I did amazing with my genuine smile and knowledge on products Sephora sold, she was definitely impressed.

   After my third interview, the DIC told me that she will discuss everything with the other Director,but since she was out of town for the week, I would have to wait two weeks just to here if I officially got the job. After waiting exactly two weeks, I called and the Director told me that I got the job!!!!!! I was uuber excited and now, three weeks later, I just took and passed my Sephora assessment, finished basic training, got measured for uniform and now I'm set to officially start.

So there you have it, that's how I got my job at Sephora. Once my first day on stage( what we call the sales floor) I will keep you all posted.