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Etiquette Past vs. Present: Primping in Public

DearSugar — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 09:00:00 -0800

Many of us take public transportation to and from work, which makes me think you've been witness to women primping on the bus or the train a few times too many. Public grooming has always been a pet peeve of mine, and as it turns out, Emily Post agrees:

"Let your grooming wait. Quickly combing your hair or freshening lipstick won't offend, but peforming your morning grooming routine on public transportation - or, more dangerously, in your car - is something to avoid."

Are you in agreement with us as well, that making yourself presentable should be done behind closed doors?

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The How-To Lounge: Make Your Lipstick Last

DearSugar — Thu, 30 Aug 2007 10:00:00 -0700

According to a recent study, 79% of women wear lipstick, but at any given time, at least half of them are re-touching their color so here are some tips to help make your lipstick last as long as possible.

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Lipstick will adhere to your lips if they are smooth and not chapped so be sure to exfoliate your lips (gently) with a soft toothbrush or washcloth
Just like you put on moisturizer after you wash your face, put on a moisturizing lip balm so your lips don't get dry or chapped
When you put your foundation and powder on your face, add a layer over your lips to even out the color followed by a coat of waxy lip balm (like Chap-Stick)
Lining your lip with a pencil in the same color as your lips will help seal in your color, but your lip liner should never be visible. To ensure a smooth application, hold the end of your liner between your fingers to warm the tip
Although many brands promote long lasting color, if you're going to wear dark lipstick, unfortunately you're going to have to be prepared to re-apply throughout the day or evening
If you're not one to primp in public, opt for a lighter lip color that you don't need a mirror to touch up
If you're more of a lip gloss girl, stick to "lip lacquers," "glazes" and "glosses" which tend to be more opaque and longer lasting

I hope these tips are helpful and as a rule of thumb, if you want to make a statement with bold lips, remember to go easy on the eyes. Less is more when it comes to make up!

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The How-To Lounge: Getting Ready in 5 Minutes

DearSugar — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 10:00:00 -0700

Sometimes, you really only have 5 minutes to get ready, so if you're tight on time, here are some no fail tips on how to look your best with the time you've got!

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If you have the time, wash your face and brush your teeth. Having fresh breath will instantly make you feel clean and quickly re-applying your make up on a fresh canvas makes all the difference in the world
If you don't have time to rinse your face, lip gloss, blush, and mascara will instantaneously make you look revived and feel alive
Perfume and deodorant are your best friends in a jam especially if you don't have time to shower, although over scenting yourself can be the kiss of death, so remember, less is more
It's important for every woman to have a "go to outfit" -- something they don't have to think about, something they know looks good on them, and something that can take you from day to night
If you were wearing flats or flip flops, change into high heels. They will help dress up any outfit and will help you walk with a little more confidence
Switch out your big daytime bag to a smaller, more refined clutch or purse. You don't need all your stuff for a night out on the town - stick to the basics
If your hair is a hot mess, slick it back in a tight bun, or a low ponytail. A headband is a great way to disguise dirty hair and every woman should purchase some dry shampoo - I swear by it!

I hope these tips help when you're crunched for time and if any of you have other no fail tips, please share them in the comments below!

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Is Make up Sex a Good or Bad Idea?

DearSugar — Tue, 01 May 2007 14:45:00 -0700

Breaking up is hard to do even if you know, at the end of the day, that it was the right decision. Missing the constant affection and companionship of a loved one can take quite a bit of time to get used to. While closing off all contact is the best way to move on, it's much easier said than done, leaving some couples holding on to any lingering connection they can grab.

We have all had moments of weakness whether it be calling your ex after one too many glasses of wine or purposely running into him, whatever the scenario, hoping to spend one more night together. So how do you feel about dragging out the inevitable? Do you feel sharing an intimate night with your ex is a good idea or a bad idea? Some women feel a night of break up sex will close that chapter in her life while others are left guilt ridden and confused. What's your take?

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Do Tell: What's in your Make Up Bag?

DearSugar — Sat, 21 Apr 2007 09:00:00 -0700

Are you a cosmetic junkie? Unfortunately I don't love cosmetics as much as clothing and accessories, but some women can't tear themselves away from the make up counter. Regardless of the size of your make up bag, we all have essentials we don't leave home without. Mine are mascara and eyeliner, so ladies, do tell, what's in your everyday make up bag?

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Do Tell: What's Your Guaranteed Make Up Routine?

DearSugar — Sat, 14 Apr 2007 09:00:00 -0700

It's inevitable that couples will fight, it's just the nature of the beast, but what really matters is how you make up! Couples that fight seem to have their make up routine down pat. Perhaps they fight just so they can make up! So ladies, do tell, what does your boyfriend or husband do or say to guarantee a truce after a knock down, drag out fight?

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10 Toxic Cosmetic Ingredients to Avoid

FitSugar — Thu, 12 Apr 2007 03:00:00 -0700

What you put on your body is just as important as what you put in it. Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and it absorbs everything including toxins. If you are concerned about not eating unhealthy foods like trans fat, then you'll definitely want to know which synthetic ingredients you should watch out for in the products you use.

Methyl, Propyl, Butyl and Ethyl Parabens: Used as a preservative to inhibit microbial growth and extend shelf life. Unfortunately, it can cause allergic reactions and skin rashes. Preliminary research found parabens in human breast cancer tumors.
Diethanolamine (DEA), Triethanolamine (TEA): These are used as foaming agents, but can cause allergic reactions, eye irritation, and dryness of the hair and skin. DEA and TEA are toxic if absorbed into the body over a long period of time, and are associated with cancer in lab animals.
Diazolidinyl Urea, Imidazolidinyl Urea: Often used as preservatives, the American Academy of Dermatology has found these chemicals to be a primary cause of contact dermatitis (irritation caused by foreign substance). Both these chemicals release formaldehyde, which can be toxic.
Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate: This is a cheap, harsh detergent used in many shampoos for its ability to cleanse and foam. Often derived from petroleum, it causes eye irritation, dry scalp, skin rashes and other allergic reactions. Be on the lookout for pseudo-natural products that list this ingredient with the phrase "comes from coconuts" - it's still bad for you.
Petrolatum: Also known as petroleum jelly, this is a mineral oil derivative that can clog your pores. This in turn disrupts your body's natural ability to moisturize its own skin, leading to dryness and chapping. Manufacturers use it because it's really inexpensive.

Want to know what else you should avoid? Then read more

Propylene Glycol: Ideally this is a vegetable glycerin mixed with grain alcohol, both of which are natural, but it's usually made from synthetic chemicals. It has been known to cause hives and eczema. Beware of related chemicals labeled PEG and PPG.
PVP/VA Copolymer: A petroleum-derived chemical that's used in hair styling products and some cosmetics. Considered toxic since if inhaled, it can damage the lungs.
Stearalkonium Chloride: This toxic chemical was designed by the fabric industry for use as a fabric softener. Companies use it in hair conditioners and lotions because it's much cheaper than natural conditioning ingredients such as proteins.
Synthetic Colors: Labeled as FD&C or D&C and followed by a number, these make products look pretty but can be carcinogenic.
Synthetic Fragrances: Labeled simply as "fragrance," there's no way to tell what chemicals are actually in the product. People can get headaches, dizziness, rashes, and respiratory problems from them. People may also experience hyper-pigmentation, which means this chemical may cause brown spots to form on your skin.

Fit's Tips: Before buying beauty products, check the ingredients list. These ingredients can be found in make-up, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, perfumes, baby care products, sunscreens, toothpastes, nail products, and deodorants. If you're looking for a good brand that doesn't contain these nasty ingredients, check out Aubrey Organics.

You Asked: New Job, New Look?

DearSugar — Tue, 06 Mar 2007 06:01:00 -0800

Dear Sugar
I'm three years out of college and I've never had a job that required me to dress up. Not ever having gotten in the habit of wearing makeup, this also means I've never worn any to work. However, I'm being offered a job that will require full business attire, and I feel like it behooves me to develop on a sophisticated presence. I have a young face (people think I am a freshman in college!) and while this will in the long run be an asset, it makes me insecure in this type of situation. I want to go for something subtle, but I have no idea where to start. Help, please! --Clueless Cassie

To see DEARSUGAR's answer read more

Dear Clueless Cassie
Congratulations on the new job. How exciting! You're right, of course, that dressing and looking professional matter. That doesn't mean, Clueless Cassie, you need to dress like a Fortune 500 CEO, but the right clothing and fresh makeup will help with perception and self-confidence.

Decoding work dress codes can be challenging, so I suggest checking out your new environment before breaking the bank on a new wardrobe. There are many stores that have exactly what you need. Anne Taylor, J. Crew and Banana Republic specialize in business-casual attire, with great options for mix-and-match office chic. If you buy a few pairs of pants and skirts in basic colors -- grey, black and khaki -- you can alternate your sweaters and blouses to create a fresh look everyday.

Invest in a good pair of closed-toe shoes, and make sure the heels are manageable. I recommend keeping your toes covered; open-toed shoes in a business environment can be a little iffy.

When it comes to your make-up, less is more. And you don't need to be an expert with so many around! Find a good department store with a great cosmetics section, and tell them what you told me. I superlove all the cosmetics staff at Nordstrom's; they're friendly, knowledgeable, low on pressure and high on service. You can return anything, which is very helpful when that red lipstick looks coral in natural light. Bobby Brown, Clinique, and Prescriptives are known for their natural looks and colors, so hit those counters first. I recommend a tinted moisturizer to even out your skin tone, a good mascara, and some sheer lip gloss. Maybe a very little blush. A few good basics will pull together your look very nicely and easily.

Congratulations again on the new job! Learning curves and new environments can be stressful; remember to get enough sleep, practice good eating habits and try, try, try to keep a regular schedule outside of work. A little routine will help keep you grounded.

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Reader Review of the Day: Make Up For Ever Mat Bronze

BellaSugar — Thu, 12 Mar 2009 14:00:00 -0700

Bronzer can create the perfect sun-kissed look. But it can also look muddy or too obvious if the formulation doesn't work with your skin tone. Reader Treesah recently reviewed Make Up For Ever Mat Bronze ($30), giving it four out of five stars. Here's what she had to say:

This is the best bronzer I have ever purchased. My skin tone is medium to dark tan, depending on the season. I have been on the search for a perfect bronzer all my life. It was hard to find one with enough color, that was the right color, and was not shimmery. The color blends so well onto my face and totally brightens my complexion. [It gets] four stars out of five because of the useless applicator pad that comes with the compact. Really does anyone use these puffs that come with compacts? It's pointless - best used with a full bronzer brush.

Do you love reviewing products? Well, then it's time to head over to our Product Reviews website. In case you haven't heard, we're having an amazing contest right now. For every three quality reviews you submit, you're entered for a chance to win a $500 gift certificate from Benefit Cosmetics.

Make Up For Ever Makes a Lash Splash

BellaSugar — Fri, 22 Feb 2008 11:00:00 -0800

Make Up For Ever has just launched a two-fold campaign called Lash Pimpin'. The first part includes 55 types of reusable, nylon faux lashes. The second part is Flash Color, 24 shades of highly pigmented eye makeup that was previously available to professionals only.

One of the coolest parts about this launch is that Make Up For Ever has joined forces with Sephora to run a contest to see who can send in images of the wackiest, wildest, and most inventive lash looks. The winner gets $1,000 worth of Make Up For Ever goods, a trip to Paris (for two), and a private makeup lesson with Make Up For Ever founder Danny Sans.

I just had to tell you guys about this. Do you think you'll enter? FYI, there are no rules when it comes to using any product you like you create the most badass lash. Good luck!