Beauty is not in the face; beauty is a light in the heart. ~Kahlil Gibran

Scroll down for your weekly beauty trick, and stop spending so much booty on your beauty!

Makeup stores have you confused?  Too many brands and products to choose from?  Which lip gloss is ultra shiny but not ultra sticky? How will you know which self tanner turns you golden and not orange? What mascara lengthens and curls ? What’s the best top coat for preventing chipping nail polish?  Before you go, know!!

Send me all your requests for the perfect red lipstick, or how to create that fabulous smokey (but not too smokey) eye, with details of your complexion and coloring and I will make my suggestions and recommendations custom tailored to  Y-O-U!

I am Beth Rachel and I welcome you to Beauty+Your Booty.  I’m a makeup artist, dog mom to Jake and Senge, devoted friend and family gal, animal lover, fashionista, vegetarian, yogi and savvy shopper (to name a few.)  I’m a native New Yorker, with a penchant for everything living- I long to be on a farm, rehabilitating abused animals, growing my own vegetarian fare, surrounded by flowers, and answering your beauty concerns on my little Macbook.  My wish is to set forth the standard for what the best beauty products are, not for me, (me; defined as a market demographic designed by a series of case studies created by some marketing research team hired by a Fortune 500 company to ‘bring the best beauty products to you’), but more uniquely for you, the real you reading this, as well as your friends, family, clients, to save you patience, time and MONEY $$$.  Sound good? Keep readin’… 

With 15 years of professional cosmetics experience and a lifetime of experimenting with makeup, I come well equipped to handle all your beauty concerns, and feel a duty to share my quirky love& hate relationship with make-up!  I am beauty “alternative”, meaning I only use products free of synthetic ingredients (parabens, synthetic fragrance, sulfates etc.), but my recommendations do not come with limitations to what I use,  however where applicable, I will always offer the “alternative” product for those of you interested in a beauty alternative lifestyle.  For a frequently updated list of cosmetic products which do not test on animals, please check out: MakeupWithoutCruelty.php

So, how does this all work? All you have to do is ask me, and *Snap just like that, I will humbly suggest which eye cream can make you look 10 years younger or which eye cream can make you look 20 years younger (I’m that good); researching your needs and concerns until I find a solution for you.

If I can help to specifically make you feel good about your outer beauty,  your inner beauty most certainly will shine through, even brighter!

Trick #9: Get Glowing: A powerful organic anti-aging punch for your skin- superpacked with antioxidants, fatty acids and essential oils you need and want (all this for under $7!)

Get glowing smooth skin like Halle Berry's with the help of Theraneem Products (http://www.organixsouth.com)

So many products, so little time -sigh…  Beauty junkies: do you really want to spend it on your skincare? Wouldn’t you rather not have to spend oodles of cash on skincare and put your hard earned cash in the bank, save for a vacay to Tahiti (who even goes to Tahiti? I just think Tahiti sounds like such a cool place!), save for a vacay to The Bahamas, get some new clothes, buy some new Fall makeup colors, save for that kitchen remodel, pay your rent (tee hee)…I think you get the picture- great skincare does not have to cost a fortune, although well invested bucks into some phenomenal skincare products (I pretended to sneeze: Caudalie Premier Cru Eye Cream is ridiculous for puffy, tired, eyes with dark circles and fine lines, my friend Lizzie got me hooked- I need more, love this stuff!) is recommended.  I give you a delicious product which will get your skin glowing in no time, brought to you by a company called Organix South, Theraneem Facial Cleansing Bar (don’t eat it, but it smells like Rose Geranium and Clary Sage which is heavenly!)  Winner of Best Of Beauty Awards 2009 & 2010!!

The soap bar is making a comeback

Dr. Perricone The Cleansing Treatment Bar, Sabon Herbal and Botanical Soaps, Erno Laszlo The Sea Mud Cleansing Bar

Last year, the Doctor of Youth, Dr. Perricone launched The Cleansing Treatment Bar ($38)- great product- which uses key ingredient Glycolic Acid, Olive Oil Polyphenols and DMAE (his patented anti-aging technology.)  Dead Sea based company Sabon uses a base of delicate herbs and botanicals in their multi-colored, beautiful looking, incredible smelling treatment soaps with a variety of freshly cut soaps for various skin types.  No stranger to the fountain of youth following, since 1927 Erno Laszlo uses concentrated Dead Sea minerals in their Sea Mud Cleansing Bar ($40), a deep-cleansing, highly refined bar with natural sea mud
to deep-clean pores, balance and hydrate cells.

Neem 

Theraneem Facial Cleansing Bar ($6.95)

About 4 score and… did I get ya?  About 4 years ago, I was shopping at Whole Foods in the Whole Body section and came across a bar of soap, Theraneem Facial Cleansing Bar ($6.95) (http://www.organixsouth.com) which was a cool color (I am aesthetically attracted to greens and blues, I can’t help it), read what the print on the box had to say, saw it was all natural and “multipurpose” and for the price of $6.95 thought “I’m down to try this”, sure beats spending $35 on a facial cleanser at my favorite store with the black and white stripes.  Now it may not be the fanciest looking soap, and it may not be packaged all snazzy with the whistles and bells, but this baby is the real deal! I’m not normally a soap bar type of gal but figured I’d buy an anti-gunk forming soap tray and try this moss green slab of interestingness out.  4 years later and I am still using it, not every day but as often as I like, I use the Theraneem Facial Cleansing Bar as a replacement on certain days to my pricier cleansers, as it is effective and helps my other products last longer as I can switch off between usage of a liquid cleanser etc…and, my man likes it too! This bar of beauty which thoroughly cleans my skin, also minimizes redness and soothes irritation (I get hives and this is a a great anti-inflammatory remedy), shrinks my pores, and leaves my skin a glowing smooth complexion.  (Just avoid washing your eye area with it as it can casue a stingy feeling, if this happens rinse the eye area with a lot of cold water.)  

*****************************************************************

I do have many clients and friends who ask on a daily basis, “Beth what is a good product to wash my face with?”  I normally recommend a pump cleanser because this is what most people are used to using, however with anti-aging concerns on the rise and most people wanting to purchase all natural effective, inexpensive skincare, lately I have been sharing this beauty secret of mine and am hearing rave reviews upon successful results with use of Neem soaps. Clients with rosacea, melasma or hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin), eczema, dryness, oiliness, or just general sensitivity are truly pleased with how healing Neem is, and even more pleased by the price tag!

So, what is Neem?

The Neem tree found in India

Neem has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic treatments, and applications have been validated in more than 100 studies in universities and research centers around the world.  Neem is a tree native to Southeast Asia and is renowned for its therapeutic benefits externally for the skin and internally as a dietary supplement (Neem oil contains extraordinarily high levels of antioxidants, which help protect the skin from free radicals caused by over-exposure to sun, environmental toxins and other damaging elements.) Especially formulated for sensitive and troubled skin, the new bar is gentle enough for delicate facial cleansing, yet provides cellular rejuvenation and help for “hard to manage” skin types; packed with fatty acids making it a great anti inflamattory, quickly soothing  for sensitive, itchy and red skin. The soaps contain a minimum of 90% organic oils, are 100% natural and cruelty-free.  

Sustainability wow-factor: Organix-South’s soaps are packaged in boxes made from recycled cardboard and printed with vegetable-based, environmentally friendly ink.

NEEM products available, including Neem Leaf capsules and extracts, oral care, shampoo, conditioner, nail treatment, facial mask, bar soap, skin care, pet products and more.

Products are available at health food stores, pharmacies, yoga studios and other fine outlets.

Theraneem pet products available too! Try some yoga with your dog

Check out these Neem success stories, my fave link on the site: http://organixsouth.com/info/index.php/theraneem/success-stories/

Q: Do you know what time it is? 

A:”Pictures @ the Bottom” Time

Left photo: On those days I use Theraneem Facial Cleansing Soap I look like Christy T. Right photo: On those days I don't use Theraneem Facial Cleansing Bar I look like Zach G

Questions, why message me of course!

Trick #8: Nail Trend 2011-Tripworthy nail polish, you don’t have to go to Sweden for it – but you may need to call Denver for it…

Jaw dropping gorgeous!! Makeup Store Sweden Hologram Nail Polish in color "Britta" (http://www.makeupstore.se/)

Many of us have great childhood memories of special people in our lives who made our childhood extra special, and fun, having impacted our growth as individuals- helping bring our creativity and passions to light by just being a presence in our lives.  For some of us these people were caregivers, parents, grandparents, friends.  I love the memories of my grandparents- spoiling my brother, sister and myself with candy when our parents said no, letting us stay up late when they babysat for us, giving us $10 just because, and really just spending time together feeling loved and being adored was the best!  My Grandpa was my hero, and one of the coolest things he did for me was to to help me kick my nail biting habit, really he did!  (I used to bite my nails so short and chew on my cuticles throughout most of my childhood into my pre-teen years, that I just could not even bare to look at my hands, they were so awful looking that sometimes I didn’t even want to take my hands out of my pockets- how many of us had the same embarrassing problem?)  So, one day Grandpa sat me down and gently said, “Bethie, you’re a beautiful little girl, don’t you want to have nice nails so you can wear nail polish and like looking at your hands?” I said, yes of course, to him, and then I was presented with a bottle of *Bitter Apple nail stuff (which tasted like a$$)- I painted this nasty s*** on my nails everyday for a few weeks, and it actually worked! I never ever wanted to bite my nails again after I saw how nice they could look- My obscene nail polish obsession began.

*(I tried finding the Bitter Apple polish online but it seems I can only find the spray, which can be safely used on your fingers, (or you can try Barielle No Bite Pro Growth [$15] Dibutyl-Phthalate Free, TolueneFree and Formaldehyde Free: http://www.barielle.com/Specialty_Nail_Care-No_Bite_Pro_Growth.html.)

Intro to nail polish obsession…

Makeup Store Sweden

In a little town outside Denver there is a little gem of a store called Makeup Store (http://www.makeupstore.se/) Phone#: 303 708 0086.  (Their products are only available in the U.S. here at this store!) Makeup Store is a Sweden based company that stocks a high quality diverse beauty line where you can find anything ranging from a lipstick, to a tinted moisturizer, fragrance, or nail polish (and all the in betweens.)  The products are cruelty free, high quality, fun to use, and fair market priced.   The aim of creator Mika Liias was to create “a world of colours” within his makeup line, his vision sparked a unique concept that had not yet been seen in the market.

**********************************************************************

From Clockwise: MINX Nails ($55), O.P.I. Shatter ($9.50+ cost of regular nail polish), Makeup Store Hologram Britta ($8-$15), Art Graphics ($20+), Moon Manicure ($20-$30)

Nails truly have become a fashion accessory: Beyonce debuted MINX Nails last year, a patented flexible metallic film that shrink-wraps to natural, gel, and acrylic nails using heat which lasts 4-8 days. This year O.P.I. introduced their O.P.I. Shatter collection, a top coat which creates a cracked leopard pattern when applied over dried nail lacquer. Some other nail trends: Art Graphics: nail polish pattern-play via a skilled nail art technician, Moon Manicures: see photo, and my most favorite… WHAT YOU MUST HAVE: HOLOGRAM Nail Polish from Makeup Store! (and it’s the most cost effective!!)

Oh you guys are in for a treat, this stuff is off the heezy…

Makeup Store Hologram Nail Polish ($14) $8 ONE DAY ONLY in September 40% OFF SALE- Call to reserve yours today! Phone#: 303 708 0086

Makeup Store Hologram Nail Polish (http://www.makeupstore.se/iden/products/nails/holographic) come in 4 eye catching, positively unique, jaw dropping, gorgeous holographic shades: Siw (blue), Madeleine (nude), Greta (silver), Britt (pink) and Alma (platinum). The polishes are best described as different attributions of color (“worlds of color”), glittery, 3-dimensional, matte and sparkling with a shiny finish (no topcoat needed, nor recommended.)  However, it is imperative that you use the Makeup Store Aqua Fix base coat underneath the nail polish, as this anchors the color and adds more holographic pop.
Muchion Hughes of Makeup Store, Denver describes this stunning nail polish as, “little discoballs with tons of color.”  

What’s so great about these polishes other than their gorgeous-ness is that they are not only fast drying, but they are also loooong lasting. Wanna hear the even better part?..Well, notice how I haven’t mentioned price yet?…The Nail Polishes retail at $14, but for one day in September they will be 40% off!!- bringing the cost to $8 a bottle! Oh yeahh, Beauty+Your Booty is savin’ you booty one day at a time?

The only catch- these polishes will not be available until they arrive from Sweden in store (when they will be on sale for that one day at 40% off)- we don’t know what day exactly the polishes will arrive, so feel free to call Makeup Store and ask for Muchion (Mu-Shon)- mention you heard about the Hologram Nail Polish on Beauty+Your Booty, and she will pre-reserve whatever colors you would like and call you upon arrival (sale date.)

However, if you do decide to take a trip to Sweden, there are tons of Makeup Store locations there for you to shop in, and I’d definitely recommend taking a yoga class at this great yoga center, Kundalini Yoga Stockholm: http://www.kundaliniyogastockholm.com/Kundaliniyogastockholm.com/Kundalini_Yoga_Stockholm_Sthlm_Om.html

Ah yes, you know what time it is…

“Pictures @ the Bottom” Time

And I thought getting the names/logos of where I bank, food shop, favorite lingerie store, facebook url painted on my nails was unique...I wonder if she gets to supersize for free? Why, yes, of course I have a swan, bonsai tree and herb garden on my nails...WHY wouldn't I?!

Questions,  why  message me of course!

Trick #7: Super duty sustainable beauty- “With life as short as a half taken breath, don’t plant anything but love.”

Organic Beauty Magazine features House actress Olivia Wilde

Holy mother trucker, I was having a relaxing day at the pool yesterday with my neighbor when suddenly we both feel something, and she asks me, “Did you feel that?” I’m like “What, the fact that my lounge chair is shaking and the entire pool deck is swaying from side to side? …yea Deb, omg I do feel that!” Feeling the shockwaves in New York of a 5.8 earthquake some 3 states away in Virginia (the epicenter of the quake), I’m feeling pretty reflective and even more grateful for life: the life I live, the lives I am part of, the lives that I touch and those lives that touch me on a daily minute to minute basis.  This post, less jocular in tone than past posts, focuses on a topic of super importance as I feel sometimes we could all use a little reminder of just how precious life is…

ॐ: a mantra consisting of the sound \ˈōm\ and used in contemplation of ultimate reality

With limited precious natural resources (like water- yup), the planet we love and call our home, Earth, needs to be protected, sheltered, and nurtured, including all life forms: plant, animal and human; our ecosystem has never been this distraught and yes, just YOUR awareness & support can truly make a difference in the future of all our lives and future life on Earth- get involved some how and you know for mind, body and soul do some yoga-wink!

I’ve decided to highlight some very necessary & desirable beauty products which are sustainable, but first:

What do I mean when I say “sustainable beauty?”  Think high performance beauty products with minimum negative environmental impact (i.e. NO animal testing on both finished product and ingredient supplier levels, recycled packaging with minimal plastic components, products which refrain from using water as the first ingredient.)

An interesting fact: Your skin can absorb 60% of what you put on it!!

I am referring to being environmentally conscious of what you buy and use for the bettering of the planet (vague terms for preventing further deterioration of the planet, and improving you, your family’s [of course including your pets] and your friend’s mental, emotional and physical health through products you use.)  Interesting reading from the Federal Trade Commission Green Guide: http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/microsites/energy/about_guides.shtml and highlights a great article targeting the prevention of misleading environmental claims from reaching the consumer: http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2010/10/greenguide.shtm.

Just because these products I am referring to aren’t cut from Runway Couture, certainly doesn’t mean they’re not some of the coolest and finest  (in fact many of them are made of the finest ingredients being that there are no nasty fillers, preservatives, synthetic fragrances and dyes, so less of a chance of allergies and adverse reactions.)

Now let’s have some fun with this booty saving/environmentally saving trick!

There are quite a few that I love, and quite a few that I don’t, and quite a few I haven’t tried yet.  (Do you have a recommendation for us??)  With so many worth mentioning, I will list what I find to be the most versatile, carrying my unique endorsement which have been tested, tried and true by yours truly and my network of clients, family, friends and Jake & Senge, which carry rave “I cannot live without this s***” reviews.

Top 10 sustainable sidekick staples for your beauty repertoire:

1. 100% pure  (http://www.100percentpure.com/)

100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Lipgloss in Sheer Cherry ($13)

100% Vegetarian, 100% Natural, 100% Gluten free.  This company is redonkulous “A true beauty breakthrough, the first and only cosmetics company colored from antioxidant rich fruits and vegetable pigments.”  My posh and totally amazing friend Beckielou, introduced me to 100% Pure one Sunday in London a few years ago while we were having brunch outside of Harrods, and I nearly died when I learned that this gorgeous Fruit Pigmented Lipgloss in “Sheer Cherry” ($13), the perfect amount of berry pinkish red for day or night with a bit of lipliner worked into it, was 100% natural made with Vitamin E from organic rice bran, and the color came from fruit and vegetable pigments.  Packed with antioxidants, drenching your lips in moisture it softens and smoothes fine lines. I dig all of 100% Pure’s products but specifically the lip glosses are what I recommend as a sustainable sidekick staple. (Remember Crystal Water’s 100% Pure Love- that was such a good Bat Mitzvah song, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zQX2q6WCrbE, if you’re interested.) 

(Did I make you laugh yet, or smile at least with that song? If not, keep reading…)

 2. Dr. Bronners All in one Magical Soaps (http://www.drbronner.com/index.html)

Dr. Bronners Classic Liquid All in One Soap "Almond" ($16)

 Dr Bronners Magical Soaps announces that all classic liquid and bar soaps are certified USDA National Organic and certified Fair Trade (this is the same program that certifies organic food!) I am obsessed with the Classic Liquid Soaps. I use the Classic Liquid All in One 32oz in the Almond (flavor) ($16- lasts me close t0 4 months every time I buy!) Smells so good, loaded with coconut, olive, jojoba and tons of essential oils, really cleans and doesn’t leave that filmy feeling on your skin, but rather a clean toned finish! ( I swear the almond smells so good I could eat it-actually I probably could being that it’s organic and fair trade.)  FYI, “All in One” meaning you can use it as body wash, shampoo, and to shave- For your whole family, including pets!

3. Aveda (www.aveda.com/) 

Aveda Rosemary Mint Conditioner 8.5oz ($10.50)

Everything Aveda.  In 1989 Aveda was the first company to endorse and sign the CERES Principles (Coalition for Environmentally Responsible Economies)- which encourages higher corporate standards of corporate environmental performance and disclosure.  Just click on this link to see how sustainability and Aveda go hand-in-hand: http://www.aveda.com/aboutaveda/history.tmpl  I especially love the Rosemary Mint Conditioner 8.5oz ($10.50- hey, not bad!),  adds amazing shine, weightless, prevents tangles and static: the perfect daily conditioner from normal to oily (like me), and the cooling/revitalizing sensation is sensationally cool, just the right amount.

LOVE this next one…

4. Karma Organic (http://www.karmaorganicspa.com/)

Karma Organic Nail Polish in Sugar Coat Me ($9.99)

I had the pleasure of meeting Nausil (creator of Karma Organic) a lovely man with a great big heart and love for our planer and all things living, at a Henri Bendel trunk show 2 years ago where I picked up so many of these nail polishes as though they were dark chocolate peanut M&M’s (addictive and just so many of them), and have been an advocate of this nail polish and brand (available at Whole Foods and fine salons and spas.) “Karma Organic Spa is dedicated to creating an eco-friendly environment with organic products as a healthy alternative for your beauty needs.”  All nailpolishes are organic and non-toxic.  The nail polish removers (awesome- I use the lavendar one) are also free of toluene, formaldehyde, & phthalate (DBP) in addition to the polishes.  Link to nail care: http://store.karmaorganicspa.com/nail-polish.html  I wear Sugar Coat Me,Venom, Two Dozen Roses and Bride To Be regularly ($9.99 each.)

5. Kiss My Face (http://www.kissmyface.com/content/choosing_natural )

Kiss My Face Whitening Toothpaste ($6)

Kiss My Face mission: “A core element of our mission is having a 360 degree view of how our products…and everything that it takes to get them to you…affect our planet. We use sustainable, plant based ingredients that are gentle to people and the planet. We strive to use the highest level of post consumer, recycled content in every bottle, box, display or brochure that brings our message or our product to you. Our goal is to walk gently and respectfully with the earth.”- DOPE! (http://onlineslangdictionary.com/meaning-of/dope), I’m sold! I highly, implicitly, with zero hesitation recommend anyone who’s looking for a fantastic whitening toothpaste to buy a couple of tubes of this little slice of heaven: Kiss My Face Whitening Toothpaste ($6), it really is a great tasting natural, whitening gel which helps prevent plaque and tartar build-up, made with Olive Leaf Extract, Iceland Moss, Peppermint Oil and Xylitol and Organic Aloe Vera (free from Fluoride and SLS and without artificial sweeteners, colors or preservatives.)  FYI, I have used Crest White Strips, Custom dentist bleach trays, Go Smile- they’re all fantastic and deliver great results but I’m just not a fan of the tooth sensitivity and all those chemicals.  Try this toothpaste for a few months, I’m tellin’ ya, it’s somethin’ else!

A few more great sustainable sidekick staple brands:

6. Alba (http://www.albabotanica.com/) 

Alba Botanica Original Body Lotion ($16)

Original Body Lotion (unscented) 32oz ($16 and lasts me 6 months.)  I use this everyday, and even though it’s unscented, I get compliments on the scent- weird, maybe it’s me, well we know it’s definitely not Maybelline! A rich body lotion absorbs quickly so it feels light enough to use all day, every day, great for massage too!

7. REN Skincare (http://www.renskincare.com/)

REN Active 7 Radiant Eye Gel ($45)

All things REN! Love the Active 7 Radiant Eye Gel ($45 should last you 3-4 months- just go easy on the pump because a lot comes out and you only need like, half a pump for both eyes, so pump gently to avoid wasting precious booty)- instantly DEPUFFS like no other, if you are puffy and you don’t buy this, you are a fool.  No really, it is such a great product and I highly recommend trying it ($45- should last you 3-4 months)

8. Dr Hauska (http://www.drhauschka.com/)

Dr. Hauska Lip Care Stick ($14)

Love the Lip Care Stick ($14)and the entire SPF line-which is unavailable in The U.S. for some undisclosed FDA reason- but if you travel to Europe or have family there…oh yeah you know what to do and please buy some more for me too!)

9. La Vanilla (http://www.lavanila.com/)

La Vanilla The Healthy Deodorant Pure Vanilla ($18)

The Healthy Deodorant in Pure Vanilla ($18.) I could eat this, it smells SO good.  I sweat… a lot… like a man… like worse than a man, and I’m just not into anti-perspirants for obvious health reasons, plus sweating is healthy it’s your body’s way of excreting toxins (girl, you know it’s true! Now you’re going to have Milli Vanilli in your head all day long, ooh ooh oo-ooh I want you.)

I pair this with (and I don’t sweat that much with this powerful duo, and I smell great, all day- I think, I mean no one says anything at least…)

10. Aubrey Organics (www.aubrey-organics.com/)

Aubrey Organics E Plus High C Deodorant ($7)

E Plus High C Deodorant ($7)- I just roll this bad boy on and then put the La Vanilla on top, and I love it!

Oh, I think you know what time it is…

“Pictures @ the Bottom” time (…you’ll only ‘get this’  if you read up to product #9)

Oh my... look, it's Milli Vanilli! I wonder if they used sustainable hair care back in 1989, when Aveda signed The CERES Principles

Questions, why message me of course!

Trick #6: Long term love affair: drugstore vs. department store makeup TOP 5 BEST LIST

Even a Kardashian can be thrifty, Kourtney shopping for inexpensive drugstore brand hairspray vs. hefty booty competitor

When I was seven or so I began my fascination with makeup and all things cosmetic.  I would jump (literally- up and down) at any chance to go to Genovese, volunteering to go grocery shopping with my Dad- even if it meant 2 hours of boring errand running on Sunday mornings at 8am before we’d get to hit Genovese, just so I could catch a glimpse of the rows and rows of lotions, potions, makeup and hair accessories at my favorite store (yes, it really was… and interestingly drugstores kind of still are.)   Studying and mentally memorizing what I was going to own one day (drawers and trunks full of), and blog about for your reading pleasure and hopefully benefit, one day… Ask my childhood best friend/partner in crime (and best dog groomer), Debbie-she’ll tell you how we used to manipulate our Moms to take us to a shopping center (weekly, like clockwork to pick up some random school supply our teacher instructed us to have), with a drugstore so we could secretly stock up on Lee Press On Nails, Wet ‘n Wild eyeliner and bronzer, ooh and that no name light pink metallic lip gloss (you must remember it if you were born between 1972 and 1980- oh with that heavenly smell like strawberry-watermelon, made of all ingredients toxic I am sure)… These goodies were contraband, simply not allowed by our parents- we were 10 years old and not allowed to wear makeup until we turned 12 (and it would have to be Clinique too- a great brand which has come a very long way, with absolutely no offense to Clinique, however at the time it truly was your Grandma’s makeup, and the makeup her Mom told her to use, that your Grandma told your Mom to use- ancient, blech!)

Try some yoga for a younger, healthier, more radiant disposition

Now a 30 something (where does the time go? no, really, where does it go?), I fully embrace my age, it ain’t nothin but a number anyway- I feel and look better now than I ever did and I believe it shows.  I finally learned that a combination of eating right, using the right products, taking the sun in moderation (do get your Vitamin D fill daily and solar-ly) AND doing yoga, a metaphysical age reverser (daily mention!) make a huge difference in not only a youthful mind but a more youthful body!  If you don’t believe me, then try it, I challenge you my lovelies.

I love makeup, we’ve done everything together and we will be together forever, that I am sure of.  Our love affair began in 1989 and has been going strong for some 22 years.  We’ve had a few minor tiffs, nothing major, maybe some flirtations here and there, meaningless exchanges all surface of course.  I am a Leo, we remain loyal to our lovers, and besides, Fashion, he just never did it for me the way that my Beauty does…

….I’m not crazy I swear.  A little crazy, sure! Passionate- yes very!  So we got a little off focus with what today’s trick deeply involves: booty!  We’re going to say ‘hi, holler, hola, hei, bon jour, shalom’ to some very lucrative staple products (you may need to buy immediately) which can be found at a Genovese-like store (your local well stocked drugstore that is) or at a high-end department store or beauty boutique for bundles more booty than necessary!

So here comes my TOP 5 BEST LIST, buying drugstore makeup vs. department store makeup- are the products just as good, and will they deliver? Well these ones will, I do promise- they did for me and my clients and friends and colleagues!  (I also promise Lee Press On Nails are not on the list, although weren’t they cool when they didn’t end up stuck to the back of your jeans or randomly floating around in your hair?…) And for the record I don’t make promises I can’t keep.

Ready to do this? Read on…

TOP 5 BEST (drugstore vs. department store)

1.The best mascaras:

L'Oreal Voluminous Mascara in Carbon Black ($7.49) vs. Yves Saint Laurent Volume Effet Faux Cils Mascara Black ($30)

L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara in Carbon Black ($7.49) vs.Yves Saint Laurent Volume Effet Faux Cils Mascara Black ($30)

L’Oreal Voluminous Mascara in Carbon Black ($7.49) It’s just as rich and luxurious as it’s department store competitor (and for this price you can by nearly 4 tubes vs. 1 $30 mascara.)  Voluminous in Carbon Black does a bang up job at volumizing, thickening and lengthening the lashes, doesn’t easily smudge or flake (unless it’s time for a new one, replace your mascaras every 4-8 weeks please.)  FYI, there is a brand new version, L’Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes ($8.99) it’s in the gold tube- I have not tried yet but am very curious as it’s on my list to purchase (has anyone any feedback on this product?- please share if so.  I will report my findings TBD.)]

Yves Saint Laurent Volume Effet Faux Cils Mascara Black ($30) It’s a great mascara!  But for a million dollars and a mascara which needs replacing every 4 weeks, that’s nearly a month’s worth of weekly manicures I’d rather have.

2. The best red nail polish:

Essie Nail Polish- Tomboy No More ($8) vs. Lippman Collection- Lady is a Tramp ($16)

Essie Nail Polish- Tomboy No More ($8) vs. Lippman Collection- Lady is a Tramp ($16)                                      

Essie Nail Polish- Tomboy No More ($8) A deep creamy vampy red, easily my favorite red for all seasons.  You cannot go wrong with this color for manicure and pedicure- it works on all skin tones.

Lippman Collection- Lady is a Tramp ($16)   Identical match to the abovementioned Essie shade, but for twice the price.  I use both colors interchangeably, and the high shine finish of both make each a great choice but the distinct difference of price only points me in one direction…

3. The best individual false eyelashes:

Duralash Naturals Individual Lashes Flare Medium Black ($4.95) vs. Makeup Forever Eyelashes- Individual ($15)

Duralash Naturals Individual Lashes Flare Medium Black ($4.95) vs. Makeup Forever Eyelashes- Individual ($15)

Duralash Naturals Individual Lashes Flare Medium Black ($4.95) These lashes are great quality, flexible, the perfect ‘natural’ length to be worn bare or with mascara for a more dramatic look.  These are my staples, as a makeup artist they are my #1 choice for applicastion.  I switch between ‘Medium’s and ‘Long’s when applying for a special occasion for myself or for a client.  Mediums are great for the base of the lash line to fill in and Longs make great extenders for the corners as well as a dramatic flare.

Makeup Forever Eyelashes- Individual ($15) Fantastic quality and beautiful results (I do love MUF, I just can do without the price of these little lashes.)

4. The best foundation:

Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse Foundation ($9.49) vs. Per-fekt Beauty Skin Perfection Gel ($57.50)

Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse Foundation ($9.49) vs. Per-fekt Beauty Skin Perfecting Gel ($57.50)  

Maybelline Dream Matte Mousse Foundation ($9.49)- This cream whipped foundation delivers a smooth, lightweight, flawless, natural, yet buildable coverage with a matte finish (perfect for normal to oily skin, combination skintypes too.)  It’s really dreamy, I love it!  The unique formula literally transforms from a mousse to liquid consistency upon application for delicate blending. FYI, comes in a “Smooth” formula which is ultra hydrating and provides 14 hours of moisture (perfect for dry skin.)

Per-fekt Beauty Skin Perfecting Gel ($57.50)- I <3 Per-fekt, so I am going to tell you this product is truly amazing.  Although a hefty pricetag, the proof’s in the pudding, you get not only a foundation product, but a preventative & anti-aging treatment, a primer, pore minimizer, color corrector, shine absorbing, hydrating product all in one.  The tube will last 4-6 months, so if you feel like splurging somewhere, this is where I’d do it.  While I can say the textures of these 2 are similar, the results and technology are totally different.  Remember I <3 Per-fekt!

5. The best bronzing highlighter:

Wet n Wild Twist Up Blush Stick in Brazin Babe Bronze (Discontinued price $3.99) vs. NARS The Multiple in South Beach ($39)

Wet n Wild Twist Up Blush Stick in Brazin Babe Bronze (Discontinued price $3.99) vs. NARS The Multiple in South Beach ($39)

Wet n Wild Twist Up Blush Stick in Brazin Babe Bronze (Discontinued price $3.99)- You can find this product on the web if you look it up.  It is nearly identical in color and texture to it’s pricier big sister.  If you can find it, grab it- at that price it’s highway robbery!                                                                                                  

NARS The Multiple in South Beach ($39) Huge fan of the coppery bronze silky highlighter/bronzing stick. Works well on all skintones ranging from fair to deep. Gives a dewey glow leaving a flawless satiny feeling finish.

And now it’s that time…

“Pictures @ the bottom” time:

I hope you've enjoyed this post... as this has been me on the left for the past 3 hours (I should not have had that pear martini Melania!), and this is who I'm going to be in right about 5 minutes xoxo

Trick #5: The ultimate O(mg)- You’ve never experienced one like this before!

It's that good (Hourglass Film Noir Lash Lacquer $28)

Pure ecstasy – feelings of warmth and excitement swelter within me – my breath increasing – I’m so excited – I think I might scream out of sheer delight: “Oh, oh, oh my G-d that’s so good, that’s amazing, don’t stop, please don’t stop Hourglass Cosmetics, don’t ever stop making Film Noir Lash Lacquer, my lashes look so f****** good, amazing, truly, and so did everyone’s lashes who I used this product on today!” Wait…what-did-you-think I was talking about guys?… Ew, really?!… This is a beauty blog not a booty blog (oh I’m such a ham, I couldn’t help myself.)

*****************************************************************

Never in the history of affordable life altering makeup has anything like this ever happened to the beauty industry.  Behold, there is a magical product I present (less dramatically than the aforementioned elusive overture), without further ado I give to you, Hourglass Film Noir Lash Lacquer ($28, currently available exclusively to Sephora.) Hourglass is PETA approved!!

Best described as a conditioning “top coat” for eyelashes made with Vitamin E, Lash Lacquer is formulated for application on top of your mascara and works best paired with a lengthening mascara, not to say that you can’t use it with a volumizing mascara- that’s what I did today, I used 1 coat of Laura Mercier’s Full Blown Volume Mascara (vs. my normal 3 coats of it, no joke), and well the results were you know, lashgasmic!!  It kicks up the drama without the clumpy mess multiple coats of mascara can cause, and features a really cool thin brush applicator and “latex like formula that fans lashes out to sensational proportions.” (There is no latex in it.)

The ultimate mascara companion for any lash lover, diva of drama, or a makeup conservative going for a day to evening look… Feel free to apply Lash Lacquer to bare lashes and get truly blackest black defined eyelashes with a super glossy patent leather looking shine.  Really a plus for a makeup minimalist looking to take her mascara to the next level or in the market for something new.

What you won’t find in Hourglass Film Noir Lash Lacquer: Parabens, Sulfates, Synthetic Fragrances, Synthetic Dyes, Phthalates- thank goodness!

I doubt any of us are born with it, so maybe it's Maybelline or maybe it's Hourglass? I really just love Christy T. so much (don't you?), and I got my daily yoga shout out in: do yoga

And now some tips for application

1. Before applying, make sure there’s just enough product lightly coating the applicator, wiping any excess product onto the inside top edge of the tube.

2. Using the brush paint the lacquer onto the top lashes (from underneath as you would apply a mascara) in short quick swipes, you can also just apply to the tips of your lashes too, and you can also apply to lower lashes (not my choice as I feel mascara products on the lower lashes cause shadows which can create a dark circle illusion under the eye.)

3. You may layer with a 2nd coat, but I would do this before the 1st coat dries.

4. For a natural look just apply to the outer corners.

See this great little video Sephora was kind enough to create explaining product usage and details (it is of my personal opinion, as this whole blog is, that the very made up product presenter is a bit conservative in her approach to her eyelash dressing, ironically considering how much makeup she’s wearing, I definitely would have used more mascara under the Lash Lacquer for a more dramatic result and gone lighter on all the rest of her makeup, I’m just being honest, especially for film makeup.)

And the moment we’ve all been waiting for…

“Pictures @ the Bottom” time

Yes, Megan Fox! Ultra patent leather black lashes. Tammy Faye, I have no words, except that I'm sure you were a very nice woman.

Questions, why message me of course!

Trick #4: Giving your makeup a workout- will it work out when you work out?

Christy Turlington, Supermodel and Yogi, sitting beautifully in Padmasana, the posture the Buddha sat in during meditation.

So this morning I taught my first Kundalini Yoga class, and being that it was my first class, I was a bit nervous, didn’t sleep too great, and rushing around a little more than I usually do in the morning (seriously, I was only on facebook for like 40 minutes, checked one of four of my favorite online daily horoscopes, and I didn’t even have time to take Jake and Senge out for their abbreviated morning walk- Mommy’s so sorry boys.) Well, I completely blanked on my makeup routine! How is that possible, right?! I mean I was going to teach yoga- does one really need to wear makeup to class, to work out, to teach? Hell to the yeah!!! (Minimal makeup, of course. . .) So, I know many of you have limited time allowances for a makeup ritual. For me, with a 9am class and the clock approaching 8:40am feeling and looking sleep deprived, naked faced and my self esteem affecting my self confidence to teach this class successfully; a little bit of effective long lasting makeup with only a little time to spare for application pretty much takes precedence over anything right about now- know the feeling? As I frantically ripped the zipper open of the little familiar treasure chest I use fifty thousand times a day (i.e. makeup bag) , I grabbed 3 little goodies (staples): my eyelash curler, cheek/lip tint, multi-functioning tinted moisturizer/foundation/concealer, apply and instant gratification, I look and feel so much better, and even find the time to throw some mascara and a dab of lip gloss on…quick,easy and effective with minimal fuss is the key here! FYI, you most likely own these products already, or similar products, so there may be no need to purchase anything new, unless you’re in the market for a change or you’re in a market (as in a place to shop, wink wink!) and feel the need to splurge, go for it! So, what’s in Beth’s beauty bag already? …keep reading and see below…

Before we begin, some famous people in their favorite makeup workout wardrobes. A good guide to what I feel works for the gym and what does not. Cameron has got it going on with just the right amount of color on her cheeks, a bit of mascara and an even looking complexion without the heaviness.  Kimmie on the other hand, not digging the unevenness in her skin, sallow complexion, and colorless lips – she does get points for having her brows looking fantasticly groomed though!

Cameron - YAY! Kim - NAY!

To prep for your makeup workout wardrobe, see below:

Cleanse...moisturize...prime...perfect!

1. Maintain a balanced complexion- don’t engage in over cleansing which can cause irritation and imbalance, before working out, lightly cleanse and lightly moisturize (if oily or combination skin, skip the T-zone area.)

2. Primers (optional)- primers form moisture barriers which allow your makeup to last longer, and your skin shine-free longer. Feel free to use a primer pre-makeup application. An oil-free and oil-absorbing yet nourishing and non-drying primer would be my choice (Smashbox Photo Finish Primer Light- the travel size is $17 or Laura Mercier Oil Free Foundation Primer $30)

3. The right base (tinted moisturizer, foundation, etc)- I recommend one really great multitasking product for all skin types, Per-fekt Beauty’s Skin Perfecting Gel ($57.50.) In fact, I am going to stop right there and make this my # 1 and only recommendation today for I repeat all skin types, which is sweat proof, water resistent, pore minimizing, anti aging, preventative, color correcting, skin smoothing primer, foundation, concealer all in one. Applied easily with your fingertips, it is self setting and 100% buildable, add a little concealer for added coverage if needed. Why, it’s simply perfect!

Now, you’re ready to…

Put on some color girlfriend- In 3 Easy Steps

1.  Curl those lashes, and if there’s time: mascara the tips of your eyelashes (no need to use waterproof- the devil-unless you’re going swimming)

2. Pat on some multitasking high performance foundation product, such as my pick, Per-fekt Beauty’s Skin Perfection Gel.

3. Apply a smidge of multi-purpose cheek/lip color to cheeks and lips- I like to pat the color into my lips with my index finger, and just a bit gloss on those lips (not too much as if your hair is layered and gets wispy like mine, you don’t want to be eating shellacked hair as you exercise.)

Remember depending on your skin type, your makeup can last for a shorter or longer period of time.

In Beth’s workout beauty bag: shu uemura eyelash curler (http://www.shuuemura-usa.com/_us/_en/best-sellers/index.aspx), Jelly Pong Pong cheek/lip stain (http://www.jellypongpong.com/), Per-fekt Beauty Skin Perfection Gel multi tasking foundation (https://www.perfektbeauty.com/) I suggest you carry like products and see the results for yourself!

“Pictures @ the bottom” time

And for my dear friend Brooke who loves ‘pictures at the bottom’, enjoy gf, this one’s for you!

Oh girlz, I'd probably want to recommend saving the red lipstick for everywhere but the gym...

Questions, why message me of course!

Trick #3: The ‘highlighter’ done right: achieve that young sheen without the shine

Hayden Panettiere highlighted to perfection!

So, today I was at Sephora (one of my most favorite stores, shhhh don’t tell anyone, if you know me that’s the biggest joke in the world being that when I’m not doing my research at Sephora, you’ll most likely find me shopping at Sephora, all Sephora’s in the tri-state area that is.) Ugh, so anyway, I was thinking about how my skin looks blah today and I really need to start using my Clarisonic more to scrub off dead skin cells and make way for fresher, glowier (apply poetic license, thank you) younger looking skin, because, well, my summer skin is looking rather dull lately and I don’t like it one bit at all (do you feel me?) Yes, this post is about highlighters, selecting the right one for you and the best way to achieve the results you want, and not about Beth’s skin at the current moment, but since most of my clients, colleagues and peers seem to be speaking of the same issues with their skin lately, we need to cover a couple of topics before we head down Highlighter Lane, so Trick #3 carries more bang for your daily buck today, my dears.  Bear with me now, take a sip of green tea, or your favorite caffeinated beverage, (to be chased with at least 1.5L of water- stay hydrated, I care about you!) keep alert and learn the way to a more beautifully highlighted you…

1st line of biz:  Create a Smooth Canvas- exfoliate/scrub your skin gently.  Think about it, makeup will glide on the skin more evenly and look more natural once impurities are swept away.  I love my Clarisonic (made by the people who make the Ultrasonic toothbrush.)  Mine is the pink Mia (great for travel and I’ve had it for a year), you needn’t use a granulated scrub with the Clarisonic, any cleanser will do and you can use it daily, although I’d stick to 2-3 X a week.  Or simply a nice gentle scrub, I prefer microbeads not rough cut granules which can create micro tears in your skin, ouch!  Try all natural REN’s Micro Polish Cleanser ($30) or Burt’s Bees Deep Pore Scrub Peach and Willowbark ($7.99)-this scrub uses finely ground peach stone, so don’t scrub hard.) Next moisturize your skin- this is so important, do I even need to stress the important of moisturizing? Okay, I will, find a moisturizer suited to your needs, I can help you with that, just ask and we will find you one.  Are you oily in your t-zone like me, but have some surface dryness on your cheeks- try REN Hydra-Calm Global Protection Day Cream ($55), a little goes a long way. Or Juice Beauty Oil-Free Moisturizer ($28.)  Are you sensitive, very dry, prone to breakouts?- just ask for a recommendation.

2nd line of biz: Decide what makeup you’re going to wear as your base.  Are we wearing a tinted moisturizer today, nothing, or a foundation (is it a powder foundation, liquid, cream?)  This is important, as most highlighters I recommend are in the cream or liquid form, they work best sans (without) powder underneath them to avoid ‘build up.’  If you are wearing a liquid or cream base makeup, great news, all highlighters (powder or liquid/cream will work beautifully atop your pre-highlighted skin even lightly setting with a translucent powder- I adore Cover FX Setting FX Translucent Setting Powder $32.)   Alternatively, if you are a powder devotee and are married to products like MAC Studio Tech Powder or Lancome Dual Finish Versatile Makeup, then I’m going to say a powder highlighter is your best (and only) option unless you own or plan on purchasing the Temptu Airbrush System and will use a highlighter cartridge (oh, wink wink, I hope some of my colleagues out there caught that one- oh no I di-int! Whitney formerly of Manhasset are you reading this?) Moving on…

3rd line of biz: Picking a highlighter.  So based on your choice of base (pun always intended) remember Beth’s mantra: powder highlighters work best on powder foundations and liquid/cream highlighters work best on liquid and cream foundations.  Here are some of my faves:

Paula Dorf Loose Powder No Color Glimmer $30

Givenchy Mister Bright $33 (I use # 71)

NARS The Multiple in Luxor or Copacabana $39

Benefit highbeam $24

Anastasia Highlighting Creme Duo Aspen or St. Tropez $26

Josie Maran Argan Illuminizer $28

Last line of biz: Apply.  When you apply a highlighter (a product with ‘shimmer’), you want to make sure you apply it starting on the apples of the cheeks and outward ONLY, to avoid a ‘greasy’ or oily look. To do this, smile and just like that, the area that pops up is where you want to place the highlighter, dabbing it with finger tips for a liquid/cream, and of course using a brush for powders.  As a rule of thumb to be sure you get perfect placement, actually take your thumb and place it directly next to your nostril, resting on the cheek, use this as a ‘restricted zone’, meaning no highlighter should come in contact with that one thumbprint region from the nose.  Now let’s highlight: the best way I like to describe the action of highlighting with the product would be to create a crescent moon ‘C’ like shape with the highlighter from apple of the cheek (atop the cheekbone creating that crescent shape ‘C’) up to the top of the eyebrow bone blending in a semi-circular motion. Avoid getting too close to the hair line so as to not create an oily or sweaty look.  You can sweep a little blush on top for added color or depth, love that Anastasia Highlighting Creme Duo (and it’s great for sensitive skin also!)

*To aid in that “perfect placement” deciphering, see the following YES, she should! and Oh, NO, she shouldn’t! photos below.  One photo is clean, the skin looking smooth and glowy, and in the other photo the skin looks a bit messy and greasy- you can tell Jennifer’s makeup artist did not abide by the One thumbprint rule.  Maybe Jennifer needs to spend booty for her beauty with another makeup artist next time, tee hee!  (Please don’t get me me wrong I absolutely adore Jenny from the block, we are birthday twins, different years of course, it’s just the placement of this highlighter makes her cheeks look like waxed apples and if I hadn’t remembered this was at The Oscars one year I would have thought she might have just completed the NYC Marathon, and now I am hungry for a macintosh apple, I’m not kidding! Moral of the story here, seriously, practice with your highlighter and you will just love the results!

Questions: Why, message me of course!

Trick #2: The importance of eyebrows; Eyes are the window to the soul

Kim Kardashian gets her brows shaped by Anastasia

There are so many of us that don’t quite realize the importance of eyebrows.  Eyebrows bring attention to your eyes: ‘the windows to the soul’, and truly frame the face.  They can certainly transform your look- from natural, to sophisticated, to dramatic.  Eyebrows are a quick and easy way to give yourself a new look.  Let’s talk natural for a minute, you needn’t necessarily paint on your brows with a heavy and involved process, I am simply suggesting 3 key products (you probably already own 1 or 2 of them already) which will get the job done, and change the way you see yourself (ah, yes, pun intended!)

Recipe list for creating flawless looking eyebrows:  

1. An eyebrow pencil or eye brow powder

2. A highlighter (cream or stick)

3. Eyebrow gel (clear mascara works too!) *I do recommend a tinted brow gel if you are very fair haired, need to cover grey or white hairs in the brow area- never tweeze these! -although the tinted brow gels from Anastasia make a great root touch-up too), or if your hair is highlighted and you don’t want to use dye on your eyebrows.  See video for a quick and easy DIY eyebrow tutorial:

Anastasia Beauty Express Kit ($39.50)

I use the Anastasia Beverly Hills Beauty Express Kit ($39.50), it has everything you need, including the stencil (which really makes a great guide- anyone can use these, they are fantastic!) and is so conveniently portable, you can carry it anywhere.  The included quick yet uber-informative video from the eyebrow shaping authority, Anastasia Soare herself, focuses on the Beauty Express Kit. (Clearly it was very cold in that room from the looks of that model, next trick: The importance of the bra, tee hee!…her eyebrows did come out great though, didn’t they?! Gorgeous!)

Questions: Why, message me of course!

Trick #1: “The tuck” or “the tight line” – your instant eye lift; for thicker looking eyelashes without tons of mascara; the uneyeliner eyeliner.

How to tuck your eyeliner in between your lashes

I tuck daily (and so does my good griend ‘Lamykess’- holler gf!) as I do not like to wear a lot of eye makeup but find this really gives me an ‘I slept for 8 hours and my eyes are sparkling look.’  You will need to practice, do not get discouraged- when I first learned to do this 16 years ago, I nearly poked my out (j/k- it’s worth the practice I promise, and pretty soon you’ll be telling everyone about it!)

1. Using a flat eyeliner brush with a water resistant cake eye-liner (I like black for everyone and I repeat only works with a water resistent eye-liner), wet the brush and saturate with cake liner (the consistency should be creamy, not runny)

2. Using your non-dominant hand to lift the upper lid of the eye you will start with (if you are a righty, use the left hand to lift the eyelid and use your right hand to apply.)

3. Start at one end of the eye, and place entire tip of brush at the roots of the lash line (between the eyelashes, not on the membrane of the eye) We are simply “connecting the dots” between the eyelashes so we don’t see any spaces between lashes.

4. Touch and wiggle from corner to corner of lashline.

For a more dramatic effect, do this twice, for a less dramatic look, use brown.

Recommended cake eyeliners: Laura Mercier cake eyeliner in Black Ebony, Nvey Eco Organic Cake Eye Liner in Black.

Questions: Why, message me of course!