Beauty Leftovers: Making The Transition

This fall promises to bring ‘Fall’ back in a big way, especially with its fashions. So, why should beauty be any different? Fall fashions are using some of our summer pieces and adding layers over them. For example, peep toe shoes worn alone in the summer will now be worn with matching tights. Also, bow-neck blouses will be worn with dressy plaid or tweed slacks with glossy leather belts. As far as makeup goes, some makeup can be ‘recycled’ from the summer and used in the fall. Makeup looks will transition from being a warm bronzy look of the summer to a warm natural look in the fall. Basically, some of the trends from the Spring/Summer of this year will remain popular in the fall season.
The trends forecasted for the fall of this year are earth tones. Now, just because certain colors are forecasted, it doesn’t mean that you have to wear them. We encourage women to continue doing what they have started doing lately, and that’s being themselves. Women are starting to do and wear what makes them comfortable. Continue to do that. If you like to do the popular things, then follow the trends. Here we go…… Trends forecasted for fall 2008 are as follows:
Eyes:
Earth tone eye shadows such as brown, green, gray (not bright shades, but natural shades of these colors).
Lips:
Your lips should be kept very natural with shades of brown, pink, pinky-browns, and peach.
Blush:
Our advice for blush - Use it!!!! During the fall, most people are coming back to their natural skin tone, so the bronzed look of summer no longer applies. You will need some color in the skin to bring balance to your makeup look.
When using blush, use natural tones for your specific skin type.
Some suggestions of colors from Illusions Cosmetics (www.illusionsbeauty.com) are:
Eyes – Bronze, Olive Gold, and Brass Eye dust. Spanish moss, Celebrity, Coconut, and Charcoal Gray eye shadows
Lips – Dream girls Luster Lip gloss, Sequin and Brownie Luster Lipstick, Mocha Ice and Brown Shimmer Lipstick
Blush – Ginger, Hibiscus, and Pink Ice
All color suggestions are for different skin tones. Please visit the website at www.illusionsbeauty.com to select colors specifically for you. If you need assistance, please email info@illusionsbeauty.com. We would be more than happy to assist in your color selections. Until next time, Be Beautiful and Blessed!!

Beauty Tip Of The Week

Most women wonder how to enhance their eyes and some assume that you enhance your eyes with tons of black eyeliner. Enhancing the eyes are simple.

TIP: Try a pair of eyelashes. They are simple and easy to use. Sometimes choosing the wrong pair for the wrong occassion can be a bad thing. For everyday wear, choose a pair of lashes that are natural in length.

Ask Illusions

Q. When I wear my makeup (foundation), by mid day it appears to have faded away. How can I make my makeup (foundation) stay on longer throughout the day? - Minister Twanda Prielou, Balto., MD

A. My first suggestion would be that if you have oily skin, make sure your skin care products are for oily skin and not adding extra moisture to your face. You could try using anti-shine serum or gel to mattify any oily spots on the face. Also, adding a foundation primer to your makeup routine would help your problem of disappearing foundation. A foundation primer will increase the wear and longevity of your foundation. It also helps with filling in any fines lines (thats always a good thing). Last but not least, always set your foundation with a powder. This helps to keep that foundation base in place. I hope this helps. Send us an email and let us know. If you have any more questions or need any skin care or makeup advice, please feel free to email us at info@illusionsbeauty.com with 'Ask Illusions' as the subject. As always, Be Beautiful and Blessed!
- Denise

Beauty Tip Of The Day

When attending that next big event, remember, less is best when deciding on your makeup look.

TIP: When applying makeup for a special event, keep your makeup to a minimum. Play up your eyes if you wish, but down play everything else. Allow your outfit and hair to be the focus. Your natural beauty will come across loud and clear.

* Take a look at my friend and actress Kaira Akita (formerly Kaira Whitehead) at the premiere of her new movie 'Tyler Perry's The Family That Preys'. She worked the red carpet to perfection: Hair, makeup, and her wardrobe was FABULOUS!!!

Beauty Tip Of The Week

As the seasons change, so should your skin care products., especially your moisturizer. Cooler weather will require you to use products that will give your skin more moisturizer.
Tip: As Fall approaches, consider changing your moisturizer.
Suggestion: Kiehl's Ultra Facial Moisturizer (with or without sunscreen).

Ask Illusions

"Ask Illusions"
This is a section in the Illusions Newsletter that we would like to start including in our blog. Now that the new name for the blog is 'Beauty Talk With Illusions', we would like to use the blog to not only give beauty tips and review great products, but also to answer some of your questions. To submit your questions and or thoughts, please email info@illusionsbeauty.com.

Beauty Tip Of The Week

Tip: Apply makeup only where you need it.
We are often asked questions about how and where to apply certain cosmetic products. If you have great skin and feel the need to cover under eye circles, then just apply concealer under your eyes and don't apply anything else. You don't have to follow the rules (makeup) if they don't apply!!!

Be Beautiful and Blessed!!
Denise & Janice

Beauty Tip Of The Day

For even, flawless, and young looking skin, "Work at it"!!! Good skin is not going to appear overnight if we don't work at trying to have nice skin. My first suggestion for having 'good' skin is to know your skin type. Once you know your skin type, then you are able to choose facial products that are appropriate for your skin. Some examples of skin types are listed below:

Normal - has a sufficient supply of oil and moisture. Normally free of blemishes.

Dry - lacking in oil and/or moisture. Characterized by dry patches and/or flakiness.

Oily - skin has an overabundance of oil. May or may not have blemishes. Characterized by enlarged pores.

Combination - may have dry and oily areas. An example: Oily t-zone and dry patches in the cheek area.

Beauty Tip Of The Week

"Eyebrow Threading"- Most people are used to shaving,waxing, and tweezing any unwanted hair. The idea of 'threading' hair to remove it is fairly new to some people. I was first introduced to eyebrow threading back in 1998 when I attended Aesthetics school. The first time my brows were threaded, I didn't really like it because it pinched a little. After a few more times, I was used to it.

Threading is a proven age-old form of facial hair removal practiced in India, the Middle East and China. The procedure uses a 100% cotton thread which is twisted and pulled along the skin surface of unwanted hair, lifting hair directly from the follicle. As the facial hair is removed, only a slight pinch is felt.
Threading is a natural alternative to shaving (the use of any type of razor), waxing, laser, tweezing, and depilatories when ridding yourself of facial hair. Any skin rashes and or irritations are avoided when threading. Eyebrow threading has become so popular now that there are 'threading' salons popping up in a few cities across the country. The average cost of a threading service is $15. If you are not aware of where this service is offered in your area, you can try 'Epicare', a threading device that works with a two step process: bend and roll.

Beauty Tip Of The Week

For the appearance of whiter, brighter teeth, apply a dab of Red lipstick to the middle of the inside of your bottom lip. I received this tip a few years ago from Actress/Singer, Nona Gaye (daughter of the late Marvin Gaye). It worked for her. Try it and let me know what you think.

Beauty Tip Of The Week

'Beauty' has NO rules, and neither does makeup. Define 'beauty' for yourself.

Beauty Tip Of The Week

Blend, Blend, and Blend again!!!!! When in doubt, BLEND (smooth out)! As a makeup artist, have you ever applied someone's makeup and it didnt 'turn out' the way you intended? What do you do in that situation? My suggestion is to not fret and take a few minutes to get yourself together. When you have calmed down, start blending. Blending helps to tone down all of the bright shades that you didnt really want to apply. Blending also makes your application appear flawless. All makeup can be blended with a brush or sponge. Try it on your next aplication and let me know what you think.

Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine 2008

The Stars came out for this years Sparkle, Shimmer, & Shine event held at an exclusive private estate in the Hancock Park section of Los Angeles, CA. This years event was hosted by actress Lauren London and co-sponsored along, with Illusions Cosmetics, by Soft-Sheen Carson and Vaseline. Other sponsors included Baileys, and W.P. Miller events. Over 300 guests were pampered with massages, manicures, hair treatments by Soft-Sheen, eyelash extensions and mini makeovers by the Illusions Cosmetics team of makeup artists. Fabulous gift bags were given out to guests and filled with wonderful surprises from Illusions Cosmetics, Vaseline, Soft-Sheen Carson, Janelle Ford Handbags, Foot Petals, Hidden Beach Records, Ceci Cela, Alcone Beauty, Scentsational Soaps, and Trim Water. Guests enjoyed the music played by DJ Shy, feasted on food from Mmm Mmm Catering, drinks from Baileys & Nuvo, and photos by Richard DuCree of RAD Studios. A great time was had by all. We are looking forward to next year's event. Please see the links below for more photos of this year's event.

http://blackgirlsrule.us/main/janice-denise-tunnell.html#more-121

http://www.prphotos.com/store/category.cgi?category=search&query=^events.sql&q2=2nd%20Annual%20Illusions%20Cosmetics%20%22Sparkle%2C%20Shimmer%20%26%20Shine%22%20%2D%20Arrivals

http://www.mahoganycity.com/2nd-annual-illusions-cosmetics-sss-party/

http://clutchmagonline.com/newsgossipinfo/illusions-cosmetics-presents-sparkle-shimmer-shine/

http://www.monstersandcritics.com/people/features/article_1413074.php/In_photos_2nd_Annual_Illusions_Cosmetics_Sparkle_Shimmer_&_Shine_-_Arrivals

http://www.starpulse.com/events/4954/0/1/2nd+Annual+Illusions+Cosmetics+

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GPghbBtCY78 is a MUST see!!

Beauty Tip Of The Week

BEAUTY.....the kind that God loves.....inner beauty. "Inner beauty is the awareness of self-love". - Shayla Stevens. Spend more time developing the characteristics of inner beauty and less time making your outward appearance beautiful.
Be Blessed!
-Denise

Beauty Tip Of The Week

To brighten your eyes, use a gold color eyeshadow in the inner corner of your eyes.
Be Blessed!
-Denise

Beauty Tip Of The Week

Well moisturized skin is a healthy looking skin.

"How do I get rid of my stretch marks?"

"How do I get rid of my stretch marks?" This question is asked by women time and time again. 'Stretch marks' as they are commonly known are striae gravidarum. They are characterized by their reddish, brownish, silvery color. They are due to stretching of the skin due to weight loss or weight gain, especially during pregnancy. Stretch marks occur when the the elastin and collagen under the skin's surface is torn. These unsightly marks are normally seen on the thighs, hips, and stomach. There are 2 ways of reducing stretch marks:
1) A topical reducer (creams containing peptides and/or retinoids)
Both peptides and retinoids reduce the appearance of stretch marks. They stimulate collagen production in the epidermal layers (outer layers) of the skin which restores the elasticity of the skin causing it to appear smoother.
2) Fraxel laser - A more aggressive treatment for stretch marks. Fraxel laser fades new marks as well as older ones. The laser penetrates the outer most layer to stimulate collagen and elastin production deep within the skin. It works to change the color and texture of the marks. The laser procedures requires two to three treatments to achieve best results. The procedure starts at approximately $ 1,200.00 per treatment. For those of us who may not be willing to pay $1,200 per treatment , I suggest Carol's Daughter 'Scar Butter'. Retails for $10. www.carolsdaughter.com

Beauty Tip Of The Week

The best way to get rid of those ugly stretch marks is to attack them right away. Most topical treatments are not very effective on stretch marks that are more than a year old.
* Look out for our blog on stretch marks.

Beauty Tip Of The Week

When choosing a cosmetics line for Women of Color, choose a line that has a wide range of both yellow based and red based foundations.

Beauty Tip Of The Week

For healthy glowing skin, drink plenty (6 -8 glasses) of good clean water and very little caffeine. Water detoxes your skin of toxins and other impurities which may show up on the skin (face and body).
Be Beautiful and Blessed!!
Illusions Cosmetics

Beauty Tip of The Day

Water plays a major role in the health of our skin. For radiant skin, we must drink lots of water to stay hydrated and to have soft, supple skin.

Beauty Tip Of the Day

Here is a makeup artist trick for oily(and sometimes sweaty skin): Apply Milk of Magnesia to the face before aplying makeup. The skin will feel a slight tightening effect. It sounds weird, but it works well on oily skin.
Be Blessed!
-Denise

Beauty Tip Of The Day

There is beauty in everything, but not everyone sees it.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Don't forget the neck! When we cleanse and moisturize our faces, we often forget about our necks. The neck is an extension of the face. Make sure to include it when cleansing, toning, exfoliating and moisturizing.

Fw: Beauty Tip Of The Day

For those sensitive skin people who want to keep their hands clean, but want to apply their foundation without using their fingers, try using non-latex sponges/wedges. Non-latex sponges are safe for those who may be allergic to latex. They also allow for makeup to blend more evenly than latex sponges. Some specific beauty supplies that sell non-latex sponges are NIGEL'S BEAUTY EMPORIUM (818) 760-3902 and FREND'S BEAUTY SUPPLY (818) 769-3834 , both located in North Hollywood.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

If you ever thought you wanted a tatoo, but not the commitment of really having one, try a temporary tattoo - tattoo transfer, airbrush tattoo, or a glitter tattoo. If you are in Atlanta and would like to have a themed birthday party, bridal party, or just try a tattoo, you can email Denise at tunnelldenise@gmail.com for rates and more info.

Be Blessed!
-Denise

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Before applying makeup to oily skin, apply a mattifying skin product. Check out www.illusionsbeauty.com for our Anti-Shine Serum.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

"Be Beautiful and Blessed"! This is the standard 'sign off' of Illusions Cosmetics whenever we email, leave a voice mail, etc. Webster's II New College Dictionary defines the word 'BE' as "to exist in actuality: have reality or life". For example, " I think, therefore I am". So remember, if you think you are 'beautiful & blessed', you ARE 'Beautiful & Blessed'!! Enjoy your week!

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Apply your blush before applying your foundation. It makes the skin look pretty and fresh with a healthy glow to the cheeks.

Beauty Tip of The Day

To give your lips a more precise look without using lip liner, try applying foundation around your lips.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Do I conceal first and then apply foundation or do I apply my foundation first? This question is still being argued today. You should always do what is comfortable for you and whatever gives you the best look. One advantage to applying foundation first is it prevents the 'cakey and dry' look that concealer can give when it is applied before foundation. Concealers have a much thicker and sometimes creamier texture. When foundation is applied under the eyes and all over the face and blended well, it can have a smooth appearance. Don't forget that sometimes we can get all of the coverage that we need with just foundation. So, the next time you apply your makeup, try applying the foundation first and then apply concealer if it is still needed.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Organic or Natural?  Don't always believe the hype.  Many products claim to be organic, but only really have a few organic ingredients in them.  Organic products may still have harmful elements such as parabens.  Depending on your skin, some 'natural' ingredients may be harmful to your skin as well.  Determine your skin type and research the ingredients that are right for your skin type.  Choose products that work for you and not because they claim to be 'organic' or have 'natural' ingredients.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

As you prepare to go out and about to your different barbecues, and other social outings, don't forget to use sunscreen protection. Have a wonderful Memorial Day!!!

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Be prepared to adjust your foundation shade during the summer, as your skin may get darker.

Beauty Tip of The Day

When applying eyeshadow, to ensure smooth blending, apply a light application of powder.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Pamper yourself from time to time. Treat yourself to a facial. According to Vivica Fox on 5/15/08, she loved O-Aesthetics in Vinings, GA (suburb of Atlanta). The contact info is as follows: 1675 Cumberland Parkway #407. Phone 770.863.9543. Nadine was the Aesthetician that took care of Ms. Fox.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Stay out of the sun!!! For a natural and gradual tan, try Jergens 'Natural Glow' Daily Moisturizer. It comes in three formulas - fair, medium, and medium-tan. Check out www.jergens.com

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Love YOURSELF!!!!! Try to make it an habit!

Beauty Tip Of The Day

When applying makeup, remember, 'less is more'! Don't over powder the face. Don't apply too much color to the eyes or cheeks without blending. Have a great weekend!

Beauty Tip Of The Day

For that all over dewy skin look this summer, try using creme based products (blushes, eye shadows,etc) as well as shimmers.

Bernadette Thompson Nail Collection

Bernadette Thompson Nail Collection joins Softsheen-Carson and Vaseline as a Presenting Sponsor of Sparkle, Shimmer, & Shine 2008, an annual event of Illusions Cosmetics held in Los Angeles. Bernadette will provide a team of manicurists to provide mini manicures and pedicures for this years event. Also, Bernadette will provide products for the fabulous gift bags. Check out her nail collection at www.bernadettethompson.com

Top 10 Beauty Products/Supplies for Spring/Summer 2008

1. Eye Shadow Base
2. Gel Eyeliners( so popular for Spring/Summer this year) try the Gel eyeliners from Illusions Cosmetics available in 6 shades for $12
3. Baked blush in shades of pink and coral
4. A great set of makeup brushes
5. An Antishine product
6. Eye Brow Wax
7. Sheer Foundations and tints
8. Oil Blotting Pressed Powder
9. Sparkling Eye Pigment in several shades
10. A Beautiful Bronzer

Beauty Tips Of The Day

Subtle ways of warming up the skin:
1) Add a little red to your eyebrow color (brownish red, chestnut,etc)
2) Add a little bright orange to the lower eye line along with a brownish red liner (use eyeshadow to keep it soft)
3) Add a brownish red eyeshadow to the crease of your eye.
4) Warm up cheeks with a combination of a pink (hot pink) and orange (bright orange) cheeks (blend very well).

Beauty Tip Of The Day

For all of those swimmers out there, before going into the pool this summer, be sure to remove all traces of eyeliner and non waterproof mascara.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

If you are experiencing dry patches, this doesn't necessarily mean that your skin is dry. Your skin may be dehydrated. Try exfoliating the skin with a non-abrasive facial scrub twice a week.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

To keep your foundation fresh during the summer, set your foundation with a loose powder to prevent any outburst of shine.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

When testing foundations on your face, natural light is the best light.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Skin is the most important aspect of any makeup look. It should not be covered up by foundation. Instead, foundation should be applied to skin to even the color.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Change your foundation shade if the color of your skin changes.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Never lend out your eye pencils or mascara. This is an easy way of getting eye infections. Remember to sharpen eye pencils often to keep the tips clean.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

24 kt Gold
They firm and lighten complexions and have anti-inflammatory properties. Cleopatra benefitted from 'gold' facials in her day. You can benefit from them too. Gold, being the softest metal, is easily absorbed into the skin and helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles. The next time you are in Miami, stop by Spa V at Miami's Hotel Victor and ask about their 'Gold' facials.

* If anyone has ever received this service or tried any 'gold' facial products, please let us know. We would love to hear all about it.

Beauty Tip of The Day

Remember to apply suncreen or a moisturizer with a spf before applying makeup. Your skin will thank you!

Beauty Trend - Color

The latest beauty trend in color cosmetics is just that....Color!!! More and more cosmetics lines are featuring their products with bright colors like orange, yellow, gold, green, and blue. Our focus today is on the color Blue.

Suggestions of Illusions Products:

1) Sky Blue Eyedust

2) Mysterious Eyedust (dark blue)

3) Black on Blue eye pencil

Suggestions On How To Wear:

1) Sky blue eyedust on the lid

2) Mysterious in the crease

3) Black on Blue eye pencil on the lower eyelid

4) Steel or Black gel eyeliner on upper lid (fine line close to the lashes)

5) Lots of black mascara

Tip:

Wear color wisely!!! Always apply the color in layers so that you are not using too much at one time.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Considering that no one is exempt from skin cancer, it is always safe to wear a lip protectant (lip balm, lip gloss, or lipstick) with an spf. If wearing lip products like lipgloss or lipstick that do not have a sunscreen in them, make sure you are at least wearing a lipbalm with sunscreen.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

"Always remember that true beauty comes from within-from within bottles, jars,compacts, and tubes." - Peters Almanac
* Just a little beauty humor. Have a beautiful day!

Beauty Tip Of The Day

For those who are tired of their straight long lashes and want some curl, try an "Eyelash perm". Eyelash perms are a 30-40 minute procedure that curls the eyelashes. The effect is semi-permanent and lasts approximately 3-4 weeks. The going rate is $80. If you live in NYC or just visiting, stop by the Takamichi Head to Toe Hair Salon for more info.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

The hot trend for the summer season is tangerine, lime, and hot pink for eyes, lips, and/or cheeks.

Product Junkie Diva Review of Illusions Cosmetics

Friday, April 25, 2008Confessions of a Product Junkie Diva Confession-- I never wear eye shadow. I know, I know some of you are clutching your pearls or gasping at this very moment, but this is the truth, my truth. One reason why I have never worn eye shadow is because I thought it would make me look like a clown. It looks lovely on other people but I just never thought it would look good on me. This feeling was validated the day I attended a makeup party. When I was younger I went to a makeup party and I sat there as the consultant raved about my eyes and how good the eye shadow looked on me. I was excited and couldn't wait to look in the mirror. Before even seeing myself I just knew I wanted to go out that evening to show off my face, then I looked into the mirror. Upon looking at my face I was convinced of two things 1) the makeup consultant was either visually impaired or mentally insane and 2) I would never wear eye shadow again.
Janice Tunnell, celebrity makeup artist, and co-owner of Illusions Cosmetics (the other co owner is Janice's twin sister Denise Tunnell) has made me eat my words. Wednesday evening I wore eye shadow and I didn't just like it, I loved it. The shades fit me perfectly and why wouldn't they, Illusions Cosmetics is a product line specifically designed for women of color. The line can complement very light skin tones as well as darker complexions and everyone in between. I put on the shadow and my face was glowing, in that moment I understood why so many women love eye shadow and now I have found one that works for me. I should also mention that my anti makeup sister, a women who refuses to wear tinted lip gloss, saw the eye shadow and said I think I would like to wear that. Yes that is how stunning the shades are, that it was able to single handedly almost convert my sister.Pictured on the left you have Dolce Vita a brownish eye dust and Delight on the right which is a sandy brown. The eye dust was so soft I had to ask Janice if any natural ingredients were included and it turns out that many of their products include vitamin e., chamomille and other natural ingredients.
Illusions cosmetics also produces a line of lip glosses affectionately named after popular movies such as Brown Sugar, Mahogany, Dreamgirls, and Sparkle (a personal favorite) just to name a few. I tried Dreamgirl which is very close in color to the MAC Viva Glam V. The lip gloss is super light yet very shiny and it only cost $10.00. The aforementioned eye shadow which is referred to as eye dust on their website is priced at $12.00. Items can be purchased through their website http://www.illusionsbeauty.com/ or through two stores that currently sell their products.After communicating with Janice recently she informed me that new products will hit the website soon and they are revamping their site so you may want to call for more information if you are interested in the product (all information is available through their site)So now that I have had the best introduction to eye shadow please give me the low down on the eye shadows that you love.

Addt'l Presenting Sponsors for SS&S '08:Vaseline

We are proud to announce that Vaseline will be joining Softsheen-Carson as a Presenting Sponsor of Sparkle, Shimmer, & Shine 2008, an Annual event of Illusions Cosmetics. Vaseline will be presenting their line of Coco Butter products and will fill the gift bags with the Coco Butter Vitalizing Gel Body Oil. www.vaseline.com

Beauty Tip Of The Day

To combat 'blackheads', cleanse oily skin very well by using a cleanser for your skin type as well as a non-abrasive facial scrub. A facial brush or shaving brush may be helpful in this process.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

If your teeth are discolored, don't wear a pale colored lipstick. Your teeth will appear dirtier and yellowy.

Official Presenting Sponsor of SS&S '08:Softsheen-Carson

We are proud to announce that Softsheen-Carson is the Official Presenting Sponsor of our Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine event held in Los Angeles. Softsheen-Carson will fill the gift bags with their new Weave Care products. This years event is hosted by R&B singer Kelis at the House of Petals in West Hollywood.

Illusions Cosmetics Spring/Summer 2008 Campaign

Beauty Tip of The Day

Blush should be used sparingly. Your blush color should compliment your lip color.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

When filling in eyebrows, use a shade (pencil, shadow, wax,etc) one shade lighter than eyebrow hairs to keep brow soft.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

To maintain a natural appearance, always make sure foundation and other makeup is blended very well.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Wrap ice cubes in a thin cloth and rub lightly all over the face and the neck. Not only does this help in reducing the puffiness around the eys and face, but it also closes your pores.

Mischo Beauty Review

Check out the latest review of some of our products from Illusions Cosmetics. Thanks Kitiya!!
http://www.mischobeauty.com/2008/04/mischo-beauty-product-reveiw-illusions.html

Beauty Tip Of The Day

When applying foundation to Women of Color, keep in mind that more than one color of foundation may be needed to match the skin tones.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

When applying foundation dont just apply a color that matches the face, but apply one that matches the neck.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Beauty is NOT how you look, but WHO you are?

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Prolonged sun exposure can irritate the skin and close the pores, thus leading to acne.

Beauty Tip of The Day

To brighten any complexion, try a pop of cream blush on the apples of the cheeks.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

To tame those unruly eyebrows, try using a brow wax after filling in your brows with color.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Get 6 to 8 hours of sleep a night. Its good old fashioned "beauty sleep". To aid in getting to sleep, you can try sipping on your favorite 'night time' tea. Some favorites are: Chamomile (any brand), Celestial Seasonings' Sleepytime tea, Bigelow's Sweet Dreams tea, and Sipping Beauty's Beauty Sleep tea (new favorite - www.sippingbeauty.net).

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Beauty starts and ends with 'foundation'. Focusing on self-image comes and goes with beauty. The only way to achieve that focus is with the right 'foundation' - clean, glowing, beautiful skin. Always start with the best 'foundation' as possible. Do not focus on 'covering up', but enhancing. Be Beautiful and Blessed!!

Beauty Tip Of The Day

To get a heavier and more concentrated application of makeup, choose brushes that have tight bristles.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Fill in your brows to emphasize and enlarge the look of the eye area.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

To prevent potential breakout from dirty makeup brush use, wash your makeup brushes with an antibacterial soap or moisturizing shampoo at least once per week.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

To reduce appearance of dark circles,
1) Decrease your stress levels
2) Get more sleep
3) Increase the Vitamin K in your diet
4) Conceal with makeup

Beauty Tip Of The Day

The best time to apply eyeliner is after you have defined your eyes with eyeshadow and before applying mascara.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

5 Makeup must haves for any makeup bag:
1)moisturizer with spf
2)lip balm
3)mascara
4)pressed powder
5)lip gloss

Beauty Tip Of The Day

To help fill in sparse eyelashes that Asian women tend to have, use a mascara with lengthening fibers in it.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

To create a nude shade of lip gloss, apply concealer to the lip and add a clear lip gloss on top of it.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

All skin needs to be exfoliated (regardless of skin type).

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Your smile is your best feature!

Beauty Tip Of The Day

To bring out the depth of brown eyes, create a smoky effect using vibrant colors like purple.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Beauty starts on the inside. When you feel good about yourself and you are living 'right', it shows all over!!

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Highlighting the center of the lip gives the lip a fuller appearance.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

To protect your skin from harmful environmental elements, choose skin care products with Vitamin C or Green Tea extract.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

To prevent ruining your entire makeup job and making a complete mess when using dark and shimmery eyeshadows, do your eyes before applying makeup to the rest of your face. This will allow you to clean up any falling shadow particles before putting on your foundation.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

To get a smooth skin look when applying makeup, always use an eyecream and a moisturizer before applying foundation.

Beauty Tip Of The Day

Always start the day with prayer. Continue the day with a smile. Imagine how beautiful you would be.

Illusions Cosmetics at the Bronner Brothers Hair Show

Illusions Cosmetics was featured this past weekend as celebrity makeup artist at the Sophisticates Black Hair Magazine booth at the Bronner Brothers Hair Show in Atlanta. We met and spoke to many ladies of all ages and backgrounds. We talked to them about their skin and their makeup needs. Within the four hour time frame that we were at the booth, we did approximately 25 makeovers on ladies ranging from 12 years old to 80 years old. Check out some of the photos.

"When Was The Last Time You Cleaned Your Makeup Brushes?"

When was the last time you cleaned your makeup brushes? Most people respond to that question by asking the question, "How often should I clean my makeup brushes?" I will answer that question with this question, "How often do you wear makeup?" Thats your answer! Makeup brushes should be cleaned everytime they are used. This prevents you from putting dirty makeup filled brushes onto clean skin, which in turn can cause breakouts (especially if the brushes are used everyday without cleaning them).
Brushes can simply be wiped off quickly with brush cleaner, or they can be shampooed daily. If you are not disciplined to clean your brushes everyday, I suggest cleaning/shampooing them once a week. Baby shampoo, antibacterial handsoap, and/or Illusions Cosmetics' brush cleaner (coming to the Illusions cosmetics "Pro Page" section of the website soon)are a few suggestions of what to use to clean your brushes.

Happy New Year!!!

Happy New Year!!!!! Welcome to the new and revamped Illusions Beauty Report!!!! In 2008, we are committed to bringing you loads of exciting information, beauty tips, demo pictures, and videos. If you have beauty questions on how to apply an eye makeup look, product and color selections, or want to see a particular makeup demonstration, please email us at info@Illusionsbeauty.com. Have a BEAUTIFUL & BLESSED year!!!!!!

"Are you finding everything okay?"

"Are you finding everything okay?" This is the question that you often hear whenever you are walking the aisles of Ulta Cosmetics and Salon and Sephora. "Are you finding everything okay?" Well, ARE you? I often wonder if you are. Women visit these retail establishments everyday searching for the perfect foundations, concealers, shadows, liners, and lipsticks. They often come in thinking that they know exactly what they are looking for, but in actuality they have no clue. Most women depend on the 'so called' experts to give advice on products that some of them really dont know anything about. Most of the sales associates and beauty consultants will push the same products to every customer that walks into the store. Do they all really need it? NO!!! Those products are just the ones that they feel comfortable talking about. The next time you visit an Ulta and Sephora, do your homework beforehand. Know what you are looking for, and actually look up the different brands online. Have an idea of the products that you want and then go into the store and find someone who can properly demonstrate it for you or play with it yourself. Be able to tell the associate what you know about the product, so that they are not just trying to make a sale, but actually educate you on the product. EDUCATE!!! Now, there's a word for you! You should always be willing to buy products from those who are willing to educate you on them. If you understand how a product works and how to apply it, then it's the product that you want to buy. Why? Because you will use it!!! Be Blessed!!!

Fight For A Cure

As a result of the 3 mile "Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk" that took place in Atlanta, GA on October 27th, I thought about continuing to collect donations for the American Cancer Society. But, instead, I decided that in honor of women who may have breast cancer, survived breast cancer, and for those who have lost their lives to breast cancer, Illusions Cosmetics will continue the fight by donating 100% of the proceeds from the sales of 'Seduce lipgel' and 'Soft Rose' eyedust to the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.

Choosing An Eye Makeup Remover

What's the best eye makeup remover? This is a question often asked of makeup artist. I believe choosing the best eye makeup remover depends on the effectiveness of the product. A good eye makeup remover should be gentle, free of soap and able to remove all eye makeup products including waterproof mascara. Its important to remember that a regular makeup remover will not remove all traces of eye makeup so its important that the eye makeup remover be delicate and non-irritating because its being used in the delicate eye area. When using the eye makeup remover, apply a small amount on a cotton pad and gently wipe. Illusions Cosmetics sells a wonderful Oil-Free Eye Makeup remover blended with Aloe and Chamomile. Check it out at www. Illusionsbeauty.com.

Smokey Eyes

I received an email asking how to create a smokey eye. This question has been asked of makeup artist over and over again. First things first, dont be afraid to experiment! Always apply a little color and then build (add to it). The trick to a smokey eye is all in the color of the eyeshadow as well as placement of the color. The shadow can be placed on the eyelid and brought slightly into the crease. Shadow can also be applied on the lower eyelid (under the eye) as liner. Colors that can be used are black, dark blue, charcoal grey,burgundy, brown, etc. Some colors from Illusions Cosmetics that can be used are : Black Magic, Java, Black -N-Blue, Shiraz, Charcoal Grey, Chocalate Kisses, and Graphite. Of course after applying shadow, and mascara, a gel eyeliner from Illusions in Black Out and Black Plum would complete the look.