My Makeup Journey Journal: The New Me....

[Seeking8Rights]

I am on a journey to learn and understand about makeup or cosmetic art. As a child, I was the little girl who was always at the makeup counter with my godmother; she was the Fashion Fair D-I-V-A. I remember being exposed to mountains of makeup and serial sessions of makeovers from Fashion Fair to Clinique to Revlon to Estee Lauder. I still remember the smell and feeling of that cherry red Fashion Fair lipstick painted on my lips; boy did my mom hate seeing me all made up at the age of three, but nothing and no one could stop my god-mother from imparting fierce passion of art on her one and only god-daughter.

Now, one would think that someone from a heavily exposed makeup environment would naturally grasp all aspect of makeup. I mean by now, I should be a clone of my godmother. However, I am not! I am a makeup retard, like when it comes to makeup; I have a handicap sticker to hang on my nose. I admit I am envious of those MAC professionals; especially the sista's who are so very skilled (I admire them). I have been envious for years, but this year I will put down my flag of envy and join them (well attempt to)! I will learn all aspects of makeup and how to transform my plain jane self into a Makeup D-I-V-A. I am learning this not only for myself, but also for my daughter, my daughter's daughters and from generations to come.

In my fotki (requires PW, located in profile), there is raw picture of me taken around November of 2007.

I'm going to use that photo as a reference when learning about eye shapes, brow techniques, face structure, etc. Makeup Artist experts and the "more experienced" are more than welcome to correct me in my understanding throughout this journal, offer advise or any other feedback.

The materials I will use are primarily MAC materials I purchased online:

2005 MAC Training Manual
MAC Lessons
MAC Effects
Misc. makeup guides (I will cite them during different times).
MAC color and face guides:
Catherine Deneuve (MAC Beauty Icon)
CultureBloom
In Mode
Viva GlamNone MAC References:

Mary Quant Classic Makeup & Beauty
The Beauty of Color by Iman (on order)
Beautiful Brows by Nancy Parker (on order)
Makeup Makeovers by Robert Jones (on order)
Face Forward by Kevyn Aucoin (on order)You Tube Video References:

Scandalousbeauty (fellow LHCF member and you tube favorite)Other You Tuber's I will add as I watch them and become inspired, but so far Scandalousbeauty's videos have been my favorite. I have yet to watch all of them though.



So, with that said.......this is my Makeup Journey Memiors.....:look:

[Seeking8Rights]

Day 1: Monday February 4, 2008

After receiving my MAC manuals, I decided to dive in and begin learning. I also decided to expand my subscription based You Tube tutorials. I scanned through a few tutorials on MAC foundations and I was impressed with You Tuber Scandalousbeauty's tutorial on MAC Foundations.

So, while her (ScanBeauty) videos are loading, I decided begin browsing through MAC's training manual. Of course, I skipped through of the customer relations training and went straight to the Skin Science section.

The skin science is where I learned that I have oily skin with a small factor of acne proness. My pores are visible to my eye (maybe not to anyone elses) and if I don't cleanse my skin twice a day, I get blackheads. So, contrar to my prior belief, I have oily skin. See, I thought I always had dry skin because my eye lids sometimes dry out and form excema. However only on my eye lids is where I have this issue, which as a result are darker IMO than the rest of my face. I wonder if it has anything to do with allergies? They don't get this way often but only during allergy/ hayfever season. Another reason why I may have always felt I had dry facial skin is because I never really exfoliated, thus my face always felt dry. This changed late last year after I had my TCA peel and the results yields oily skin, smaller pore size, less dark spots and a smoother texture. Since the TCA peel, my skin has been very oily and rarely ever dry. It gets really oily when I go on a water spree and drink nothing but water.

Anyways, starting off in the skin science section confirmed that the cleansing products I use and my regimen are right on target.

Now, I took a break and started watching ScandalousBeauty's you tube video named Full Coverage Skin with Glitter. I enjoyed watching this because I learned a couple of things:

1. I'm totally using the wrong makeup tools to apply my makeup. As soon as I seen her using a brush (foundation brush) to apply concealor, I knew I needed to stop using the foundation pad that came with my Estee Lauder cream foundation. I will make sure I get a foundation brush or at least one comes with the set a decide to buy.

2. Prepping the skin with moisturizer is the key to avoiding dry spots on your face. I always get this especially around a pimple if I have one at the time. I also think this has some relation to the rubbing foundation on as opposed to blotting. ScandalousBeauty taught me to blot not rub, as I was rubbing the hell out of my face with that foundation pad! :nono: So, for this purpose also, I need to add something too my emu oil such as the MAC Moisturizer she mentioned, to prevent the dry patches.

3. You can use all three depending on the look you want: Concealor, Foundation and Powder! Blending is the key! See, I only used one or the other! I thought using all three would make me look too maded up with a cakey look. But, after seeing her face once everthing was blended, her face didn't look cakey or appear to have too much foundation on. I am definately going to try this, with the proper tool of course! :yep:

4. Creme blushes help with keeping the dewy look. My observation was that one should use the creme blushes to stay consistent with the dewy/fresh look. So, I assume the powder based blushes should be used for a more matte look.

Needless to day, I enjoyed her tutorial and became a subscriber.

Now, going back to the MAC manual:

In the Makeup Theory section of the book it goes through the aspects of lighting and contouring of the face. This was helpful because I didn't really understand the aspect of contouring, but I know that I wanted to learn how to make my cheeks pop a little and show off some facial definition since my face is full and round. I will reread this section later, but it's nice to know that I can use makeup to accomplish such and not plastic surgery.

The Color Theory section is where most of my questions where answered in terms of applying makeup properly that compliments my features this includes using a color wheel (which I thought only applied to paint artist and web designers) to determine the best foundation, eye pigment, etc. It goes over makeup techniques respective to the type of eye and lips. Also is outlines the purpose of certain makeups like foundation, powders, concealor, eye makeup, etc. What I learned:

1. My eyes are close set. Which means that I have been applying my eye makeup incorrectly according to my eye structure. I need to focus on applying light shadows towards the inner part of my eyelid and blend darker shadows toward the outer part of th eyelid. My eyeliner should be applied to the entire lid but from the center and outward. I was appying eyeliner on the entire lid of the top and bottom, which often made my eyes look too small for my face.

2. My eyebrows are an essential part of my overall look. I don't keep my eyebrows groomed like I should! I should have taken Tyra's offer to go on her show about bushy eyebrows! (Yes, I really did get a call from her staff and I declined because I didn't think my eyebrows were bad enough to seek help), but now reading the MAC book....I need too! I will make a better effort to maintaining them. I did buy an expensive set of tweezers for like $30 dollars and have never used them. :ohwell:

3. I am lining my lips correctly according to the "classic" method.

4. My mascara is being used properly. I have very long eye lashes so I only apply one application because if I attempt to apply another they will get caught with my bottom lashes.

Well, I will end my journal entry here. I think tonight I may try some of the eyeliner lessons I learned and also pluck one brow hair (baby steps :rolleyes:).

[1QTPie]

:)

Based on what you are looking for... add Enkore Makeup and Pursebuzz to your Youtube viewing. They have a lot of great tips related to contouring and highlighting and dewy skin.

Have fun!!!

[Seeking8Rights]

:)

Based on what you are looking for... add Enkore Makeup and Pursebuzz to your Youtube viewing. They have a lot of great tips related to contouring and highlighting and dewy skin.

Have fun!!!

Thank you! :) I have added Enkore and watch one of his videos on MAC brush alternatives, which was good.

I haven't came across Pursebuzz, but I will definately look at their stuff.

[Seeking8Rights]

Well, I decided to buy my makeup brushes today rather than defer the purchase.
I ordered the following:

#136 LARGE POWDER BRUSH
#150 LARGE BODY/POWDER BRUSH
#116 BLUSH BRUSH
#168 ANGLED CONTOUR BLUSH BRUSH
#190 FOUNDATION BRUSH
#187 DUO FIBRE FACE POWDER BRUSH
#224 TAPERED BLENDING BRUSH
#239 EYE SHADING BRUSH
#219 PENCIL BRUSH
#194 CONCEALER BRUSH
#275 MEDIUM ANGLED SHADING BRUSH - EYES/LIPS
#213 FLUFF BRUSH - EYES/LIPS
#209 EYE LINER BRUSH - EYES/LIPS
#266 SMALL ANGLE BRUSH SHADOW/LINER
#316 LIP BRUSH/COVERED BRUSH

[Seeking8Rights]

Today I tweezed the brows and cleaned them up. I actually prefer doing it on my own instead of letting someone else do them. I practiced applying the brow liner adn also the brown definer from MAC. I liked the way they looked, but I think they were a little too thick for my liking. Another thing was they rubbed off or smeared really easy. I don't know what to do about that, so any suggestions would be greatful.

I will try it again and post pictures.

NOW, another thing that is bothering me is trying to figure out which foundation to use. I have the Estee Lauder creme foundation Resilience and I like that, but I want to try a MAC foundation.

I think I am a NW45, however, when looking at the various types of MAC foundations, I noticed that in some like Studio Fix Liquid, I appear to be a NC45 or NC50. With the Studio Tech, I am a NW45 and the same with the Moistureblend line.

So, I think I will order all of them to see which one really works with my skin. Arrrrg, I wish I was closer to Rome or in the states right about now! :drunk:

[Nefertiti0906]

Great post! I'm also delving into the unknown world of foundation/powder/blushes.

I already wear eye makeup and lipstick so this isn't entirely new for me. I've been using Prescriptive custom blend foundation, Prescriptive concealer, and MAC's mineralized powder this week. So far so good :)

I just need to learn how to change up the colors for my eye and lip game. I usually stick to neutrals but I'm trying to get out of that.

[Seeking8Rights]

Great post! I'm also delving into the unknown world of foundation/powder/blushes.

I already wear eye makeup and lipstick so this isn't entirely new for me. I've been using Prescriptive custom blend foundation, Prescriptive concealer, and MAC's mineralized powder this week. So far so good :)

I just need to learn how to change up the colors for my eye and lip game. I usually stick to neutrals but I'm trying to get out of that.

When I was in the states I used to use prescriptives, however, I didn't get the custom blend, so now I'm having to resort back to MAC since I can't remember my prescriptives color. I do think that getting the prescriptives custom blend is the best way to go.

I was looking at the mineralized powder from MAC. How do you like it? Does it give off a shimmer?

[Seeking8Rights]

Okay so, I was reading my material and learned the following:

Concealer can be used alone with a good powder. Depending on where the powder it applied, it can actually work the same as foundation.

Foundations:

1. Creme foundation should be used if you want more coverage, as out of all the foundations it gives the most coverage. Will create a milky complexion.

2. Iridescent stick/liquid foundation provides a light or a glow complexion. Good for creating a dewy look.

3. Liquid foundations provides medium coverage with moisturization.

4. Sheer foundations provides the lightest coverage.

5. Matte foundation should be applied minimally if using concealer and powder as too much matte foundation will result in a lifeless look.

Powders:

1. Translucent powders/loose: gives a light textured look. Adding powder under the eyes, to the bridge of the nose and a little under the lip can create a highlighting look to those areas. (I think this is what Beyonce trys to do, but she does in excess, IMO)

2. Pressed powder: provides a opaque coverage and can be used alone or with foundation.

3. Iridescent powder: gives a shimmery look and is good for oily skin people.

4. Bronzing powder: used to give a sun toned look. Should be used lightly.

Tips:

1. If the foundation is too oily, you can add astringent to the foundation and it will cut down the oilyness, but it will also make the foundation a little sheer.

2. A little foundation to the eyelid, along with a little powder and the eye makeup will glide on, last longer and blend better.

MAC Foundations and Power Purposes:

MAC Blot Powder:
Blot powder is more oil absorbent than the traditional MAC loose or pressed powder. It contains Mica instead of Talc. Will reduce shine on face without adding color or texture. Benefits is that it sets foundation without adding extra layers or color.

MAC Bronsing Powder:
Has Mica and Silica in it. Mica reflects light and adds a sheen. Silica absorbs oil. This powder also has an emollient type ingredient called Isostearyl Palmintate. Also has an anti-caking agent to insure a smooth and even application. Gives a sun-kissed look and enhances your skin tone.

Studio Finish Face Powder:
Has Mica in it to act as an oil absorber. Contains Talc to give a smooth finished matte finish. Sets foundation. Controls shine will allowing skin to breath. Less reflective of of the powders.

Full Coverage Foundation:
Emollient based. Good for covering scars, blemishes or discolorations. Water resistent and can be used on face body (wow, didn't know that). What's really cool about this foundation is that is an an antioxident ingredients AND it has sunscreen and sun block properties. This foundation is the highest coverage of all foundations and there is no need to layer when you use this foundation -- no concealer needed. Blends very well when moisturizer is applied before using this foundation. Gives a smooth flawless finish. Last for hours and doesn't need any retouching. This foundation is consistent under any lighting situation, so you could go to a club and then take a picture and your face complexion will remain the same (I think this is the where the Studio Fix powder lacks). Can be thinned down or built up.

Hyper Real FX (liquid)
Water based up does contain some emollients. Provides a glow to the skin. Medium coverage. Contains a skin softener and also a moisture attracting ingredient (probably best for dry skinned people). The silica provides the optical (FX) blurring illusion. Gives a pearlescent finish and will give a healthy glowing look. Helps to act as a mini contouring and bring out natural dimensions of the face. Can combat the tired look.

**I'll stop here and add more later. I think I would benefit from the emollient based foundations since they seem to last longer, however, the down side to that is my skin my breakout because the emollient based foundations may be less absorbent, unlike the water based liquid foundations. Might also be the reason why the water based foundations provide a medium to light coverage and the emollient based foundations provide full coverage (without being thinned down).

So far, what I reading about MAC indicates that their products are almost like the Aveda but a makeup version in terms of containing good properties for the skin.

[Glib Gurl]

*subscribing*

That is too funny about your godmother . . . I too love me some makeup and I'm just really starting to get into it and integrating it into my everyday, professional life . . . .

[Caramela]

:morepics: Let us see the fruits of your labor...

[NaijaNaps]

I think it's really cool what you're doing. I would love to learn more about makeup myself...but um how much does all of this cost??

My trips to Sephora usually run well into $200 and I'm not even really buying much :nono:

[cutiebe2]

The materials I will use are primarily MAC materials I purchased online:
2005 MAC Training Manual
MAC Lessons
MAC Effects
Misc. makeup guides (I will cite them during different times).
MAC color and face guides:

Catherine Deneuve (MAC Beauty Icon)
CultureBloom
In Mode
Viva Glam
where did you buy the MAC tutorials???

[Nenah]

Well, I decided to buy my makeup brushes today rather than defer the purchase.
I ordered the following:

#136 LARGE POWDER BRUSH
#150 LARGE BODY/POWDER BRUSH
#116 BLUSH BRUSH
#168 ANGLED CONTOUR BLUSH BRUSH
#190 FOUNDATION BRUSH
#187 DUO FIBRE FACE POWDER BRUSH
#224 TAPERED BLENDING BRUSH
#239 EYE SHADING BRUSH
#219 PENCIL BRUSH
#194 CONCEALER BRUSH
#275 MEDIUM ANGLED SHADING BRUSH - EYES/LIPS
#213 FLUFF BRUSH - EYES/LIPS
#209 EYE LINER BRUSH - EYES/LIPS
#266 SMALL ANGLE BRUSH SHADOW/LINER
#316 LIP BRUSH/COVERED BRUSH


Girl you spent a grip on this alone:look: enjoy your Journey.

[Seeking8Rights]

Girl you spent a grip on this alone:look: enjoy your Journey.


Yeah I know, but I had to have them. :look: Believe me I have been going back and forth with which brushes to buy for the last month. I finally broke down and just ordered them.

[Seeking8Rights]

I think it's really cool what you're doing. I would love to learn more about makeup myself...but um how much does all of this cost??

My trips to Sephora usually run well into $200 and I'm not even really buying much :nono:

Well I can say that so far I'm in the hundreds. But once I get everything I need, I shouldn't have to spend more. I know about Sephora, I have to stay away from that place because I can never leave out the store empty handed.:lachen:

[Seeking8Rights]

:morepics: Let us see the fruits of your labor...

Okay, I will make an effort to post pictures. I first want to get my my brushes, as right now I only have to crappy CG brushes that are not worth the plastic they are made with. So once I get my brushes I will add pics.

I was going to add pictures of my brows but I ended up messing them up. I think. I went tweezer happy. :ohwell: So, I will have to get them shaped correctly, I may go tomorrow and get that done.

[Seeking8Rights]

I didn't get a chance to hit the makeup book today. But, tomorrow I will make a visit to the MAC store in Rome to do a foundation color test, as I have gone back and fourth from having a red undertone to a beige undertone. Before I order anymore stuff I want to make sure I have my color right.

I will report my findings once I get back. I get my brushes next week which is when I will do some makeup damage and post the results, but you guys have to be honest, but not laugh as when it come to makeup I have two left hands. :lachen:

Until then I will just work on the brows, which I learned today that BROWS are a big deal in Italy with the women. Even lady I came across today had banging brows. I had a hat on to cover mine. :ohwell: I wish I could find someone (like a celebrity eyebrow specialist or something) to do my brows once, give me the beyonce treatment (meaning don't fugg up!) and then I will maintain them from there on out! :lachen:

[Tee]

:)

Based on what you are looking for... add Enkore Makeup and Pursebuzz to your Youtube viewing. They have a lot of great tips related to contouring and highlighting and dewy skin.

Have fun!!!

1QTPie has a great youtube page too!! I agree with Enkore and Pursebuzz.:yep:

I wish you wll on your journey. There are so many GREAT youtuber out there than you can learn a lot from! Don't forget about Reslnt1, Devin, and Sunshine beauty. (I know there are more artist here.) The ladies I listed are always willing to help and give great tips/colors.

Also look up CandiecC and ChanelAmor. (Julieg713 and Makeupsquare are good youtubers also.)There are more but I can't think of them off the top of my head without going to the youtube list.

Have fun. *I am :drool: over your brush collection!*

[Seeking8Rights]

1QTPie has a great youtube page too!! I agree with Enkore and Pursebuzz.:yep:

I wish you wll on your journey. There are so many GREAT youtuber out there than you can learn a lot from! Don't forget about Reslnt1, Devin, and Sunshine beauty. (I know there are more artist here.) The ladies I listed are always willing to help and give great tips/colors.

Also look up CandiecC and ChanelAmor. (Julieg713 and Makeupsquare are good youtubers also.)There are more but I can't think of them off the top of my head without going to the youtube list.

Have fun. *I am :drool: over your brush collection!*

Thank you I will add them to my list of resources. :)