How To Get Smokey Eyes

Smokey eyes have been a big style for quite awhile and there's no sign this particular trend is dying. Here we show you step-by-step instructions on how to get the perfect smokey eye.

The key to the perfect smokey eye is proper blending. You want to make sure colors are blended together flawlessly. Also, it's important to pair light base colors with rich dark colors. Nice mixes include: Soft gold base with deep purple on top, champagne base with bright blue and peach base with green hue. 

 

Difficulty: Average 

Time Required: 10 minutes

Here's How:

1. Prep the lid. The key to keeping eyeshadow from melting into your eyelid crease as the day goes on is to kept eyelids oil-free. To do this start with an eyeshadow base (also called "primer"). Simply swipe the primer across the eye and let it dry before you continue to the next step. Some great primers for a smokey eye include MAC's 'paint' and Urban Decay's 'Primer Potion' 

2. Apply eyeliner. If you're going for a typical black, brown or gray smoky eye, apply liner in one of those colors above the upper lash line, drawing line thicker in the middle of eye. If you're opting for a jewel-toned eye (violet makes a gorgeous smokey eye), line eyes with a purple, blue or deep green liner.
   
   For more intricate directions on lining for a smoky eye see How to apply eyeliner. Also see my list of the best eyeliners. I include several that work great for the smokey eye.

3. Blend in color on bottom lashes For color on the bottom (a key smokey eye look) you'll want to use a eyeliner pencil because they're easiest to smudge. Once the line is drawn, run your finger over it to smudge the line. You can also apply a bit of shadow to get full smudge effect.

4. Apply light base color Again, the key to a smokey eye is pairing a lighter base with the darker hue. I prefer a nice cream shade for my base. Sweep a light, shimmery shadow over the lids to your browbone. I love Stila's whipped eye shadows. The moist "mousse" consistency seems to stay on forever. My favorite colors are taupe and pearl.

5. Blend in darker color, but keep dark color below the crease. Now that you have the base and eyeliner on, it's time to get the smokey effect. You need a darker eyeshadow shade. Using an eyeshadow brush blend in color starting at your lash line, blending up. Make sure to blend color into the lash line so the eye liner disappears. Stop deep color at crease. The key here is to blend, blend, blend.

6. Doublecheck your work Make sure eyes match and blend color with a Q-tip if need be.

7. Finish with several coats of mascara. You'll want to apply a few coats of mascara so lashes are thick and dark. If you don't have naturally long, curled lashes, curl them with a lash curler first. See my list of best mascaras if you don't have one you love.

Tips:

1. Remember to keep lips nude. When applying strong makeup (like smokey eyes or red lips) put the focus on either eyes or lips, never both. (Think Angelina Jolie: She either plays up her huge eyes or her huge lips, never both. If she did, she'd look like a clown).

2. For a bit of fun, try a blue or purple mascara. It will make blue eyes "pop."

3. Liner doesn't have to come in pencil form. Makeup experts know eyeshadows make some of the best eyeliners. To do this take an eyeliner brush (available at Sephora, MAC or any dept store), wet it, then dab wet brush into the dark shadow. This allows for a deep, precise line. You can also use the dark shadows without wetting brush first. Either way, eyeliner is necessary for smoky eye.

4. This season go jewel-toned (blue is great for you blue-eyed girls) and keep your eyes smoky but stay away from dark browns and black. Instead, go for a deep purple, a gold-brown or any of the many vibrant colors in this year.

What You Need:

• Eye primer (you don't need it, but it's great for keeping shadow in place)
• 2 Shadows: One light, one darker
• Eyeliner
• Makeup brushes
• Mascara

Shaving Tips for Men

Whether you use an electric or traditional razor, these shaving tips and advice for men will help you get the closest shave possible with the least amount of discomfort.

If you're one of those guys who look sexy with a one day beard growth, plan ahead and shave the day before a special occasion -- preferably not a business meeting! To find out how quick it grows, do some testing. Write down when you shave and the growth results several hours later to find out what suits you best.

If your beard is graying and you're not happy with it, there are many do-it-yourself products available specifically to color beards, moustaches and sideburns.

Shaving with an Electric Razor

Electric shavers are still men's #1 choice for the quickest and easiest shave, but they're harsher on your skin than traditional razors. You will see better results if you use an electric razor on a dry face and pull your skin as tight as possible.

If you're prone to blemishes, stick with an electric razor. Shaving with a blade will increase your irritation and will make you more prone to break-outs.

Do not shave over a sink full of water! You know electricity and water are a dangerous combination, but if you dropped your razor in the water, you may reach in to grab it by reflex.

Maintain and oil your electric razor according to the instructions. This will keep it in top shape and help you avoid any wear and tear on your face.

Traditional and Disposable Razors

Men favor traditional razors in the hot summer months as they appear to be more effective. The best razors now come with pivotal heads that simplifies the shaving process around curves and will probably produce less nicks. Remember to keep your blades sharp to reduce irritation.

Before you shave with a traditional razor, take a shower or apply a warm washcloth to your face to soften your beard. Apply shaving cream to your face when it's still wet.

Pull your skin tight and shave with the grain of your hair growth. Throughout the process, dip your razor in hot water to rinse and when you're finished.

Moisturize your face with a soothing lotion specifically designed for after shaving. Read the ingredients before you make a purchase. Some aftershave lotions still contain alcohol, will sting your face and result in a drying affect.

How To Look Good in Pictures

How to Be Photogenic & Look Good in Pictures

It's no surprise that those who don't like to have their pictures taken are the same people who feel they are not photogenic. Most of us can remember a time when we saw a picture of our self and wished we had looked better.

It's usually an important event, such as a wedding, birthday, reunion or public appearance when we can't avoid the camera. However you look at it, you're going to have your picture taken -- so it's best not to put up a fuss.

Yes, it is possible to make friends with the camera. Photographers, fashion designers, make-up artists and models all know the tricks of the trade. Everyone doesn't have that luxury, so we've got some handy tips to help you manipulate the outcome.

Put your Best Face Forward

Practicing good hygiene is not only good for your photos, it's good for your self-confidence. Show up with clean hair and flawless make-up. To reduce facial shine, try Lancôme Photogenic Foundation (oil-free formula) for great coverage and a matte finish.

Never try new makeup for the first time on the day of a photo shoot, unless a professional is hired to apply it. For indoor pictures, you may need to apply your eye shadow, blush and lipstick a little heavier than what you're accustomed to. Take them along in your handbag for quick touch-ups.

If you're teeth are getting a little bland, have your dentist whiten them up -- or plan ahead and use a home teeth-whitening kit for a dazzling smile. Keep in mind that orange and coral lipsticks have a tendency to make your teeth look yellow. If this is an issue, stick with pink, plumb or rose shades.

It's all in the Pose

Most people have a "good side" and a "bad side." If you haven't noticed this, you're lucky. However, by taking a close look at yourself in the mirror, you will probably discover that one side looks better. Maybe it's a scar on your face or the way your hair falls. When you learn which side looks better, you can angle yourself so that your best side is prominent. If you're posing for a casual group photo, be the first up there so you can choose your spot.

Accentuate your best features and pose your body in such a way to hide your flaws. You may feel silly, but you can practice posing in a full-length mirror. Rest assured, you're not the only one who has taken this approach.

Practice good posture. Sit and stand up straight. Present yourself with pride and it will be evident in the pictures. How you perceive yourself is how others will perceive you.

Lighting

Photographers know how important lighting is. If you're still reluctant, ask for a soft filter to flatter your facial features and tell him or her which angle you prefer. You hired them and it's their business to make you happy -- but always be open to suggestions. They know that the more pleased you are with your photos, the more you'll buy.

If you're having your pictures taken outdoors, avoid direct sunlight and don't squint. Unless it's a scheduled event such as a wedding, don't hesitate to reschedule an outdoor photo shoot if the weather isn't favorable. Rain, clouds and wind can ruin your chances before you've even begun.

Relaxation

The more poise you have, the more likely you are to look natural and show your best smile. The most attractive pictures are a result of someone who is comfortable around the camera and knows exactly what they want. This can be learned.

How To Look Years Younger

Tips to Look Years Younger

Unfortunately, there's no Fountain of Youth. Until it's found we have to rely on simple methods to achieve a more youthful appearance.  Don't let your skin, hair and clothing betray your age! There are several ways you can to look and feel younger if you give them a try.

By testing some skin care routines and finding out what works best with your type and complexion you can discover what you should and shouldn't be doing to reduce your pores, even out your tone and look younger. Start with the basics, skin care and make-up.

Maintain Your Skin

You already know that you should be using sunscreen and following a skin care regimen, but do you do it? Learn from other's mistakes. Applying sunscreen and avoiding the sun's strong UV rays are preventive measures that many women don't think of until it's too late. Start today by using a foundation with SPF and you've begun preventing fine lines and wrinkles that you will fret over in just a few short years.

You should determine your skin type and find a moisturizer for the daytime and nighttime hours. It's confusing with all of the products available but don't be reluctant to try a few. Alpha-hydroxy creams can be very effective in reducing fine lines and are easily found over-the-counter.

Neutrogena Anti-Wrinkle Cream is fabulous for a quick moisturizer after washing your face and light enough to wear under your make-up. Some creams can actually reverse lesser signs of aging but what works well for some will not always work on everyone. Test until you've found something that you're satisfied with.

Makeup Tricks

The methods you used for applying your makeup will need to change as you get older. What worked years ago will no longer be attractive if it accentuates skin problems that accumulate as years pass.

To even out your skin tone, apply foundation lightly so it doesn't settle into lines and wrinkles, making them more prominent. You can avoid using loose powder but if you insist, brush it on lightly. Remember to blend it into your neck so you don't appear to have a "mask" on.

Frost eye-shadows can enhance wrinkles, so use sparingly. This doesn't mean you're stuck with boring matte colors, many brands have addressed this problem with gorgeous shimmer shadows that don't have a tendency to fall into the same creases that you're trying to hide.

Eat Healthy

Our bodies don't need the high-calorie foods we ate in our youth. Metabolism slows down as years pass, so it's time to eat healthy and keep indulgences to a minimum.

Your skin, hair and nails will not only look healthier, you'll feel healthier as well. In the process you'll probably shed some unwanted pounds and be able to wear clothes you couldn't imagine wearing before.

Hairstyles

Today's society isn't near as uptight. Thanks to fine actresses and models, we're not stuck in a cliché of how we should look at any age. Long or short, you can color your hair and wear it in whatever style you like. Trendy hairstyles can look good on just about anyone as long as it flatters their face. Since hair tends to get darker with age, add some highlights to frame your face.

Updos, ponytails and French braids are youthful styles to try, but they may show some gray hair you'd rather not reveal. To remedy this you can wear these styles after a fresh new application of hair color, use instant color, or learn to live with it. It may not be as noticeable as you think.

Fashion Secrets

You don't have to be a fashion diva to look younger. You can use today's fashion trends to your advantage. It's surprising how many clothing styles can actually flatter the figure of an older woman. Low rise jeans are not only comfortable, they can reduce the appearance of belly bulges. Jeans and shirts in stretchy fabrics such as Lycra give you some slack where you need it the most. If you buy the correct sizes, you can look 10 lbs. lighter.

The latest trends in shoes and accessories are not off-limits to a woman over 30. Shoes that look formidable are actually comfortable if you just try them on. Use jewelry to your advantage and draw the eye away from problem areas. Selective chunky jewelry can make you look more "hip."

There's a fine line between trying too hard and really looking younger. It's up to you to find that line, don't cross it, and you'll fool even the most intuitive people.

Beauty Secrets, Tips and Tricks

Truer words were never spoken. Beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder. There is a special uniqueness and individuality that sets us apart from the rest. Besides the obvious beauty that we all hold within ourselves, women have found many secrets that can improve their finer features and solve nagging problems.

So what beauty secrets are there that can still be considered "secret?" Apparently, they're no longer secrets if they're out there for the general public to read. However, there are many tips and tricks that Hollywood stars would prefer to be kept exclusive. After all, why would they want to share these with their competition?

The best beauty secrets are those that make you say "wow, this really helps." Others may help you find an easier method of applying makeup or hair color. What's really fun, are those secrets that celebrities let slip out, whether by accident or a true desire to help other women. Here are a variety of free secrets that have been let out of the bag.

Skin and Makeup

Charlize Theron does a switcharoo with her eye shadow. Instead of applying the darker color on her eyelids and the lighter color above, she applies the lighter color on her lid and the darker shade above. This enhances her beautiful blue eyes and adds to her youthful appearance.

Thick foundation and powder makeup falls into pores, fine lines, and wrinkles. Too look younger, use a moisturizer as a base, before your foundation. Apply makeup with a light hand and quality brushes.
The tan ain't always natural. Celebrities often go to salons and have their tans airbrushed on, not only to darken their skin, but to cover up blemishes and flaws.

US Weekly reports that "Desperate Housewives" star Nicollette Sheridan goes to L.A.'s Jim Wayne Salon for monthly Super Performance Facial Treatments to help treat her dry and sensitive skin.

Botox is no secret to celebs, but just take a look at some of their faces when they're trying to express themselves. If natural lines don't appear in their forehead and around the eyes, they've probably been Botoxed. Scarier yet, are those reported Botox parties before awards events.

Tyra Banks revealed during one of her shows that drugstore brand makeup works just as well as those pricey bands found in department stores. Hence, it's not always the brand which you choose that's important, it's the technique in which you apply it.

Crisco can be used to remove makeup and moisturize extremely dry areas on your face and body.


Hair
To look younger, celebrities avoid too short or too long hair. Shoulder length, layered hair is versatile and ideal for more youthful styles.
Don't add hair color to freshly washed hair. Natural oils help protect the scalp and make the hair shaft absorb color more efficiently.

Baby shampoo is gentle. So gentle that is helps preserve hair color and treatments such as perms and straighteners.

Professional stylists know that by setting their blow dryer on a low, cool setting and using a diffuser makes hair less frizzy and easier to achieve the desirable hairstyle.

Body and Shape

A model's best kept secret is using duct tape around her waist and stomach to trim off extra pounds. Beauty pageant contestants have also done this.

How do celebrities get those white, picture-perfect teeth? If they're not born with them (most aren't,) porcelain veneers are bonded to their teeth to cover up imperfections such as chips, misalignments, and discoloration.

Dentists don't want you to know that you can whiten your teeth at home with a simple solution of peroxide and baking soda.

Hair Care

Prologue


Before stepping into the shower, comb your hair lightly with a wide-toothed comb to untangle knots. This aligns the strands and prevents your getting out of the shower with a lot of knots. Begin at the ends and slowly work your way up. Never try to rip through tangles from top to bottom. You'll end up with a clump of hair on your comb that could have been avoided if only you'd had some patience!
 
Water


The temperature of the water you use while washing your hair should ideally not be warmer than  room temperature. In fact, the best thing would be to use the lowest temperature you can bear. Too cold for you? Well, hair is not sensitive, so you could at least bend over and give the lower part of your hair a final rinse with cold water.
 
Why cold water?


Because cold water helps the hair scales lie down flat, making them stronger. On the other hand warm water opens the hair scales not only causing more frizz but also making the hair shaft weaker and more vulnerable. In addition, the scalp secretes certain oils that are good for the hair. These oils get dissolved in warm water, causing further dryness. Cold water does not dissolve the natural oils. So make the healthy-hair choice and go in for cold water! Brrrrr
 
Shampooing your hair


Start washing your hair at the scalp, because that's where grease accumulates. Gently massage the shampoo into your hair with your fingertips. It is a good idea to dilute the shampoo in a little water in a mug and then massage it on your scalp. This way the shampoo is even gentler on the hair.


- While applying shampoo to your locks, leave them hanging down instead of piling them on top of your head as though you're posing for a shampoo commercial. Piling up your hair only leads to more tangles. Let it hang naturally so the lather works its way from the root to the ends.


- Try not to churn your hair too much. Work the shampoo gently so the strands don't get untangled and result in unbearable knots. If you have long hair, apply shampoo to your scalp, divide it into sections, and massage each section gently with the shampoo from roots to ends.
 
Go gentle while rinsing

- The best way to wash out shampoo is to keep combing it with your wide toothed comb while rinsing it out under the shower. This helps in the de-tangling process and also helps the shampoo to rinse out better. While you rinse your hair, do not rub it harshly. Hair is at its most fragile state when it's being rinsed. The correct way is to just simply let water run down your hair.

- Remember, it's best to rinse hair under running water. Dunking it in a tub is not so effective as residue may still remain. You have to make sure you've rinsed out all the shampoo. Once you are fairly certain it's all gone, stay under the flow of water for another half minute or so, to be doubly sure. Wrap your hair in a soft,absorbent towel - and voila! You're done!

Facial Care Routine

1. CLEANSING
Women who wear makeup - see Uma Thurman - should carry out a routine of cleansing, toning and moisturing turn back the clock each evening, as well as washing the face in the morning. 5 Minute Makeover Cleansing will remove old make-up and the grime and grease that have been accumulated during the day.

• Remove mascara Lashes Unlimited with a cotton bud dipped in eye-dipped in eye-cleansing lotion. To make the job easier keep your hair off your face.
• Remove the eyeshadow - Artistic Palletes - by gently wiping it off with a pad of clean cotton wool moistened with eye-cleansing lotion.
• Pour a little face cleansing cream into the palm of one hand and dab it generously over the nose, chin, forehead and cheeks --- using two fingers of the other hand.
• Massage the cream into the skin, starting under the throat, using a gentle upward motion.
• Continue massaging the cream up to the forehead, using the fingertips.
• Gently massage the cream from the eyes to the nose.
• Massage cream back over the chin, which is particularly prone to blackheads. Use the index finger.
• Remove the cream from the face with tissue pads in each hand. Start under the chin and work over the cheeks and on to the forehead

2. TONING
Toners remove all traces of dirt, make-up or cleanser that remain after cleansing.

• Immediately after cleansing apply toner to the forehead and cheeks on a pad of corron wool
• Apply the toner to the crevices around the nose.
• Apply the toner to the crevices around the chin.

3. MOISTURIZING
Without moisture, the skin will not remain smooth and supple. The face is exposed to the drying effect of the weather, so moisturisers -- which form a film over the skin -- contain and augment the natural moisture.

• Using the tips ofthe fingers, dot moisturising cream lightly all over the face.
• Press the fingers of both hands into the centre of the forehead and work the cream slowly outwards. Pat the cream gentlyaround the eyes.
• Work the cream around the jawline, chin and mouth with the middle fingers of both hands.
• Massage the cream over the throat with alternating hands, using upward strokes from collar-bone to chin.

Kissable Lips

How to Make Your Lips Appear Plumper

For many women, their lips are a source of disappointment. With all of the ads in magazines and on TV using models that have full, sexy lips -- those of us with thin lips feel that we have somehow got shortchanged. Not anymore!

Easy Tips for Fuller Lips

Here are some simple tips & tricks to make your lips appear fuller with cosmetics. Check out our tips below to fool the eye and you'll soon have lips that look luscious, plump and kissable.

Keep Your Lips Conditioned

Prevent dry, cracked lips with lip balm. Use lip balm with SPF when you are out in the daylight hours and before you go to bed at night to keep them in tip-top shape.

Prepare Your Base

For best results, start by applying foundation on your lips when you are putting on your make up. Set it with translucent loose or pressed powder. This will make a good base.

Make Your Lips Larger

Outline your lips with a lip liner that is closest to the color of your lips. Use the liner just beyond your lip line, increasing the size a little. Add some balance, shape and curves to the upper and lower lip if desired.

Fill Them In

Fill in your lips with a metallic lipstick (try Maybelline's Wet Shine) using a brush, including the area you extended with the lip liner.

Use Lip Gloss

Add a finishing touch with lip gloss. The gloss will add depth and give the appearance of plumper, fatter lips. Take it along in your purse for quick touch-ups.

Extra Kissable Lips

For a poufy pout, apply a glob of petroleum jelly onto lips and gently rub in with a soft toothbrush. Follow up with lip balm.

Covering Flaws With Make Up

How to Cover Flaws with Makeup

Since nobody is perfect, we all have what we consider either minor or major flaws we'd rather not have. Surgery is not your only option to achieve the look you want. Makeup is indeed the best and cheapest way to camouflage imperfections and cover flaws.

 

Redness, Blotchiness, Spots

Foundation is the cure-all for evening out skin tone and hiding pimples. For extra smooth skin, start with clean, dry skin. Apply a light moisturizer such as Neutrogena anti-wrinkle cream which soaks up and dries quickly.

Apply a cream formula foundation evenly with a wet sponge. Yes, you can use your fingers, as long as they're clean. This often helps the makeup look more natural. Blend in thoroughly. If needed, you can apply a second layer of foundation after the first dries. Set with loose translucent powder. If you use concealer for extra coverage on dark spots and blemishes, apply this after foundation, but before the powder.

Scars, Port Wine Stains, Birthmarks, Rosacea

Sometimes foundation doesn't cover the flaw completely. There are many products on the market designed specifically to cover up scars and port wine birthmarks. Dermablend™ is a favorite and is not limited to your face. Whichever brand you choose, a waterproof formula is ideal, not only for a rainy day, but for hot and humid weather.

The trick is to choose the shade that is closest to your skin tone. If your skin is darker in the summer months, you may need to have a darker shade on hand. Don't be reluctant to blend as this can be the best way to find the perfect shade.

Wide Nose

To make your nose look thinner, use dark, matte blush or bronzing powder on the sides to recede the areas. Adding white eye shadow will bring out the center further. To widen your nose, reverse the process.

Wide or round, Full Face

If you want to thin down and elongate a wide or round face, again utilize your dark blush or bronzing powder to shade the sides of your face and jaw line. Matte colors look more natural and play down fine lines and wrinkles.

To create the illusion of higher cheekbones, use a facial powder four shades darker then your natural skin tone and apply it just under the bone.

How to Make a Good First Impression

First impressions matter... a lot. So, you've painstakingly put on your makeup, dressed in your best clothes, and added some expensive jewelry and accessories. You should knock 'em out, right? Not necessarily...
There's more to a good first impression than meets the eye. Unfortunately, humans are quick to judge. You can completely blow it if you don't consider everything, including who you're meeting and how they will perceive you in the environment where the introductions will take place.
If the first impression is bad, you won't always have a second chance. So how do you put your best foot forward and impress others with your good looks, grace and charm? There are several ways to show that you're not only approachable, but quite charismatic.

Appearance

Let's face it, your appearance is the first thing people are going to notice about you. The importance is unmistakable. You have just seconds to grab that person's attention and show off your finer points.

Dress appropriately for the occasion and the weather.  If you're headed to a business meeting or job interview, keep your attire professional and simple. On the other hand, a party or night out on the town may call for something fun and just a little flirty. If you're not certain how to dress, err on the side of caution and be conservative.

Keep your makeup fresh and natural-looking. People need to see the "real" you and if there's a hint of deception, you'll strike out. Choose a hairstyle that compliments your clothing and flatters your face. A style that's neat and low-maintenance usually does the trick.

Body Language

Good posture is very important, so stand up straight and be confident. To be sociable, open up and smile. Make eye contact and show interest in your new acquaintance. A short but firm handshake is always welcome and crucial in business settings.

Tension and nervousness emerge in several ways, such as facial expressions and gestures. There's nothing more disconcerting than meeting someone who obviously doesn't want to be there -- that is not the first impression you want to make. Keep your hands off of your hips and don't cross them. Relax, don't fidget, and be yourself.

Content and Conversation

Believe it or not, what you say and how you say it are not nearly as important as appearance and body language, but don't discount it. Carry on an intelligent conversation and show interest in what the other person has to say. If you make them feel well-received and worthy, chances are, that will be reciprocated.

Don't sweat it. To make the best first impression, prepare yourself and focus on good things. Be optimistic, enjoy yourself and have fun. Isn't that what life's all about?