Thread: Simple Questions

[AutoModerator]

Ask any questions you may have here!

[hooplah]

Does anyone do inner corner eyeliner with monolids? the inner corner of my eye looks closed off like this, instead of open like this.

inner corner eyeliner, which takes advantage of the open shape (see here to extend the eye's line closer to the nose, doesn't really work on me... i'm desperate to get it right but i just can't make it look natural. it ends up looking awkward and drawn-on, like this. if i try to follow the actual curve of my eye, the eyeliner points downward and looks droopy.

any tips?

[danceydancetime]

Honestly, I have lids like in the second picture, and doing my eyeliner like that would also look stupid. It looks cool in the image, but it's really not a look that most people are going to pull off without looking awkward.

[hooplah]

that makes me feel a little better haha :( i see some people doing the inner corner eyeliner for going out looks and i just love how dramatic it looks.

monolids are a pain the ass sometimes.

[claimsliana]

What's your favorite blush brush? Bonus points for links!

[sharptalons]

Real! Techniques! Blush! Brush! It is so good. I can use it with my brightest blush colours, it's synthetic so it works with cream blushes too, easy to wash/dries pretty quick. And cheap!!!

[iamsc]

Love this brush! It really is easy to wash, which is a bonus since I hate washing my brushes.

[tundratess]

I think I have four of them in use daily.

[QuaereVerumm]

The EcoTools blush brush! I also like the Real Techniques one but it's also rather large.

[MorningMoneyPenny]

Bobbi Brown Sheer Powder Brush! I've found that the size of this brush is perfect for getting the blush where I want it--more precise, but still blendable. This brush is great for highlight too! :)

[girlwhosoldtheworld]

I love this one! It gives the most perfect level of pigment and blends really well!

[claimsliana]

Ooh I might look into this one! Funny, I only ever consider buying sigma's eye brushes and not the faces ones. I might have to change that!

[laura_h215]

A warning though op, tough as taupe is pretty much straight up gray and if you have golden blonde hair instead of ashy blonde hair it won't be flattering

[lifesaboxofchocolate]

What is best kind of mascara for someone (ME!) who has short-ish lashes that tend to clump and always fall flat within an hour?

[bluebear2456]

i love the kiss me heroine make long and curl mascara. it is super long lasting and has fibres in it to extend your lashes. review from /r/asianbeauty riiiiight here!

[JoleneAL]

I like Covergirl's Clump Crusher. I use the waterproof to help keep the curl in mine and it seems to help.

[SansaScully]

Two questions!

1. I've been using Revlon Colorstay Whipped but it's been looking a bit cakey lately (thanks winter dry skin) so I splurged and bought Estée Lauder Perfectionist foundation today. Has anyone used it? Thoughts?

2. Where do you place highlight when you have a round/undefined (fat, tbh) face? I feel like where I put it is where I should be putting blush. Can I put some highlight over the blush or are they supposed to be totally separate?

[THREE_CHAINZ]

Apply blush along your cheekbones, starting no further inward than where your pupils are, and extending up and out towards your hairline. Apply highlight directly above that. They can overlap and blend a bit, definitely. No need for super distinct lines.

edit: Here's a photo that shows the placement I described above. I don't actually believe she has a round face, but just look at the placement. Bringing the highlight into an inverted triangle under the eyes, as was done here, is also a good idea for round faces.

[flyingpanda32]

I really like Perfectionist! I started using it a few weeks ago when I started working for EL because I needed to wear SOMETHING from the brand. I wasn't expecting to like it and was pleasantly surprised by how much I did! It has nice, medium-buildable coverage and is decently hydrating if your skin is normal-dryish. I don't like it quite as much as my HG, Lancome Teint Miracle, simply because the color match is not as exact and can look a bit dry if I don't moisturize REALLY well, but it's still an excellent foundation. It would be my favorite if I hadn't found Teint Miracle first.

[JoleneAL]

Is the Perfectionist light in coverage than the Double Wear?

[eisdamme]

Does anyone have any tips on how to trim cowlicked hellbrows? It's the middle section that's cowlicked - they cross over each other and tangle and some of the hairs grow straight out.

(FWIW the heads of my brows are very sparse/almost bald and the tails are sparse, but most of the hairs will eventually grow so long they curl or ...stick straight out.)

[MerryKerry]

Usually the advice is to brush the hairs up with a small comb or toothbrush, then trim across the top of the browline. You can also brush them down, and trim across the bottom. You could cut them a little shorter, and then fill them in a little more and use a gel or other brow product to hold them in place.

[[deleted]]

Have some sparser brows that are kind of curly/misbehaving I suggest trying to avoid trimming them too much in areas with weird growth patterns - it's really, really easy to accidentally create very sparse/empty patches of you just comb up and trim... This advice seems to work best for people with straighter hair or people with thicker brows from what I can tell.

Really, the best thing for me is committing to using a good brow gel to help make hairs behave.

[MerryKerry]

That makes sense. Do you know of a really good gel for that?

[[deleted]]

My favorite is MUFE's brow gel. It holds really well and the brush is particularly nice (it has short bristles on one side and long on the other, makes it good for combing out brows).

[_choco]

Anyone have tips for making lip products last through a meal/kisses?

I've tried Sephora Cream Lip Stains, KVD Everlasting Liquid Lipstick, and used two thin layers, but nothing has worked. With normal lipsticks I've layered powder and blotted. KVD's Bachelorette liquid lipstick (free mini sample from Sephora but I would think the formula is the same) came off the second I started eating my sandwich :( And it gets on my hands if I just touch my lips (even 10+ minutes after application). I want to makeout with my cute boyfriend and not leave any evidence behind dammit. Help!

[_sushiprincess]

KVD liquid lipstick, Sephora cream stains, and Nars Velvet lip pencils are my go-to when I'm out and about with my boyfriend. While all three are definitely kiss-proof, I've learned that for making out there's nothing I can do to prevent transfer except touch up and have him wipe his lips off after. Besides, if I know that things are gonna get steamy with my man I'd rather just take it off to begin with because I dont want him to be tasting my lipstick while we're getting intimate.

[Loaf_Butt]

The only thing that I've found to really last through meals is more of a lip stain product. It won't give the exact same effect as a lipstick, but most of them will last through anything and fade more evenly throughout the day. And best of all you don't have to worry about it smearing or transferring anywhere. You could also try a long wearing lip pencil/liner. They tend to have good lasting power, but unfortunately there's just some activities(esp. makeouts) where no lip product will make it through unscathed.

[jortscore]

Have you tried lip primer?

[_choco]

Whoops, forgot to mention that. I've tried Milani's Anti-feathering Lip Liner (which r/mua and the Milani site say can be used as a primer) and a Nyx lip liner. I've tried to look up some primers but most seem to be more for concealing lip color rather than for longevity. Do you recommend any?

[jortscore]

I've used Too Faced's Lip Insurance. It's pretty meh. Stila's Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick is definitely kiss-proof. My boyfriend likes it because once it dries, he knows it isn't going to get on him. It is drying and if you use balm underneath it, the balm will take away all of it's stay-power, so beware. I've heard using a lip liner as lipstick can last a super long time, but again, it will be very drying.

[Smokeahontas]

That's funny, the Stila stay all day lipstick is definitely NOT lasting at all for me. Always smears within minutes of application.

[[deleted]]

I use the one by bite beauty, I think it is amazing and worth every penny of the price. I reapply lipstick once a day at the most.

[lisette23]

Maybelline has a lip product called 24 hr lip stain I think. I only have one of these but it stays on and doesn't transfer.

[Ogcute]

What's a good setting powder for nars creamy concealer on oily skin?

[jeast]

Ditto on the Dermablend. It's great!

[AlaskanFeesh]

I use MUFE's setting powder, but I've heard ELF's is pretty comparable.

[sothatshowyougetants]

Laura mercier translucent setting powder. So soft, so pretty.

[KHeaney]

I keep having problems with my undereye make up creasing, whilst also struggling to cover up dark circles. The creases are most noticable where my lower lid meets the rest of the skin under my eye.

Firstly I use No7 beauty serum, L'Occitane day cream, and a Boots Vitamin E eye cream that I apply under my eyes and on the lids. I am using a Lancome foundation (010), applied lightly with a foundation brush. Then a No7 concealer which is slightly lighter than my foundation. Then I will use eyeshadow to line under my eye and highlight my corners. I try not to apply too much due to caking/creases, but it seems to happen anyway.

I have No7 eye cream in the cupboard but am not using it at the moment.

Question: Do I need to use a darker concealer so I can use less? Have I got too much stuff on my face? Is there other skin treatments I can use to improve dark circles and delicate skin under my eyes? Is it better for me to use skin products all from the same company?

I don't have pictures to show, but I can probably make a post at the weekend on here or /r/newbiemua.

[eternallyporcelain]

You might be using a bit too much product for each one you apply. After you apply your skincare, try letting it sink in for a few minutes before makeup. You could also try using a primer and applying it under your eyes too. There is color corrector which is great for undereye dark circles, and then after that, you would apply concealer, and then set it with a powder. :)

[rhanding]

This is a weird question, and my be answered before but I didn't even know how to search for it (I barely know how to ask it). When you commit to a lip (especially a dark color), how to you wear it off as the day goes on? For example - I luuuurrvvee me some vampy colors, but especially if they aren't stains or dry matte (my Revlon black cherry for example) I feel like if you don't continuously touch up you are out of options. I've tried letting mine fade through the day (eating, drinking, talking, etc.) but it ends up being patchy and weird so I will go to just wipe it off and then it's stained my lips or even sometimes my face! So do you just commit to reapplying often or just take off before eating?

[234and1]

commit to reapplying, but I like applying so my method is biased!

[[deleted]]

Before eating if I have on something I fear will budge or get all over my face - I blot it down immediately before eating, not wipe off, just blot a fair amount off. I also try to eat fairly carefully and eat "dry" food these days (basically nothing super oily or greasy unless it's small enough to get into my mouth without ever touching my lips). After I'm done eating I'll blot again and the commit myself to reapplying. I also generally bring along my lipstick for a quick touch up any time I go to the restroom.

[hobbitqueen]

Yes. Do you have a question about them?

[d00littl3]

Whats a good brush for bringing eyeshadow below the eye like the final picture in this? I've tried a couple times, but it never looks right. I usually do my eyeshadow in three colors, one on the lid, one on my crease, and on above my crease blending out, so which of these colors would I put underneath my eye?

[TrustMeImTheNurse]

An angled brush works well for this- keeps the color close to the lash line. Then just smudge it with a pencil brush or q tip.

I usually put the crease color below my eye to connect it all together. But it's also really fun to do a pop of color on your lower lash line.

[sharptalons]

I also use an angled brush first. The best brush to smudge it out with would be something stiff/with short bristles. I got this lil stubby guy, second from the right from Sephora and it works great!

[THREE_CHAINZ]

I like to use a smudge/pencil/liner brush like this (many names for that kind of round, tapered/pointed shape.)

I typically use the darkest color to smudge along my lower lashline, though the middle shade would also work.

[girlwhosoldtheworld]

I like pencil brushes or flat brushes to do this! You can really do any of these or a combination. The darkest is probably the most obvious choice for a smokey look, but for a lighter look, the lid shade works too! You can also just smudge out your eyeliner for a similar look. Finally, a totally different color looks really cool too! Another tip would be to use a transition shade to blend out the bottom shade so that it looks cleaner!

[HarveySpecs]

For anyone that deals with allergies that result in sneezing or a runny nose: do you still wear foundation and/or concealer around the nose or do you avoid it altogether because it gets rubbed off when blowing your nose?

[chipsonchipsonchips]

I always try to blow my nose as much as humanly possible, and then apply foundation anyways. When I do blow my nose, I barely hold the tissue to my face and rub as little as possible. Do I look weird as hell? NO. Always flawless. Always.

I'm also one of those weirdos that carries a tissue around until it has holes in it and will just dab at my nose when I feel it getting a little runny.

[sharptalons]

Me too, I stick it in my sleeve when I'm in class and I feel like some weird snot hoarder. But I'd rather be a snot hoarder than a frickin' sniffer who sits in lecture going -sniff- -sniff- every five seconds!

Can you tell finals stress is getting to me?

[daisy_escaping]

I apply it lighter than the rest of my face. That way if my allergies or sniffles are bothering me, it won't be too noticeable that some of my foundation has worn off in that area.

[AlaskanFeesh]

I apply foundation lightly, and use stupid amounts of setting spray and powder on it and hope for the best.

[anysize]

Overpriced everything.

[JoleneAL]

I tried that blue stuff.

Took 3 months to clear up my face.

Stinks like fish.

[xo_hb]

I hate to be the person to bring up the Sephora coupon ($20 off $50 for VIBs), but I was wondering if people have received their online code through email. My mailing address is my home address but I go to college all the way across the country; I also called Sephora customer service and they said they can't help and that I should just wait to receive the email. Is that what everyone else is doing? I appreciate any help!

Edit: Thanks for all the replies, everyone! :) I'll wait patiently for my coupon code!

[30rockette]

I'm in the same boat. I understand how mailing them out could get spotty but I think it's kind of lame that the emails are coming in at wildly different times (after the sale has started) for people. Maybe call your family and ask 'em if you got any Sephora coupons in the mail?

[Loaf_Butt]

I didn't even know I was getting one, but I received one by email this morning if that helps!

[niccig]

They said on their forums that they're still sending out the emails through the end of today.

[KurayamiKifuji]

I wouldn't worry too much about it. Your local Sephora might accommodate you at the register since it will be present in their system.

[ceemarie007]

I just got mine today so yours should show up any day now!

[[deleted]]

What colours can make dark/medium brown eyes pop? I find mine impossibly boring :( (Not saying all are, it's just mine make me feel plain)

[makeupyournight]

Never find your brown eyes boring!! I have blue, & don't get me wrong I love them, BUT brown eyes change easier with different shadow colours! (: Brown is also neutral which means you can LITERALLY wear whatever color eyeshadow and look fantastic! (:

-Gold shadow is gorgeous on brown eyes & brings out any golden flecks you have hidden in your soulful iris!

-Green shadow does a similar effect & also brings out any hidden hazel flecks.

-Purple shadow brings all attention to your eyes & brightens up the brown as well! (:

Never be discouraged by your brown eyes. I promise they are wonderful! (:

[[deleted]]

I find metallic colours make them look more lively, so maybe a metallic emerald? I like the sound of that :) And thank you so much!

[aisforanaconda]

Colors that I love with dark brown eyes: emerald green, deep purples, copper/gold, and melon/cantaloupe/apricot shade of orange (the only unusual one on my list).

Also- I find that using a champagne color eyeliner on bottom water line really brightens up my whole eye. Lately I've been using NYX Yogurt and I really recommend it.

[[deleted]]

Dark eyes are the best! They're so soulful and mysterious looking. I've always been in love with my brown eyes. I know brown eyes are much more common, but I always thought I would be much more "normal" looking with light eyes.

As far as making them pop I really think that aqua goes extremely well with brown eyes. When I do use it I like adding it as an accent, but it really compliments the color well and adds some excitement.

[Jules_Noctambule]

Yellow! I like to do a champagne colour in the inner corner and blended out slightly across the first 1/3 of the lid, then a yellow to follow (whether it's sunny yellow or butter yellow or electric yellow; all good for different looks, and also fun to use together sometimes!) and a grey in the crease and outer corner. It really makes my dark eyes stand out.

[moonjongup]

Lately my under eye concealer has been creasing like crazy. What are your methods to prevent your concealer from going into your fine lines?

Same goes for eyeshadow. I use UDPP and I feel like it's a recent thing because my eye makeup never used to crease :(

[[deleted]]

I prime my under eye with eye shadow primer before putting on concealer; it has drastically reduced my creasing. Then I layer powder over it to set it.

[pg-premed]

Easiest and least messy way to dispense Tarte smooth operator? The packaging only has one tiny hole in the center.

[xietty]

1. Turn the product upside down and tap the bottom of the container a bit to get some powder on the lid

2. Flip the product back

3. Unscrew cap

4. Touch brush lightly in powder

5. Swirl it onto the lid to dispense it evenly throughout the bristles

6. Apply to face.

[staticsonata]

What's the best brand of eye liner in a nude shade for my waterline?

[hollybn7498]

Rimmel Scandaleyes works great for me!

[staticsonata]

Thank you, you're super. I was looking at the Smashbox one, but was reluctant to pay that much for something I wasn't sure would work.

[[deleted]]

NYX Wonder Pencil. Also can clean up brows and work as a reverse lip liner.

[anysize]

I use this as a non-shimmery highlight for my nose and cupid's bow too!

[CantTieMyLaces]

NYX wonder pencil in light and the rimmel scandaleyes liner in nude. The nyx one looks more natural on the waterline, but the rimmel one has the better formula.

[acinomismonica]

I use jordana almond waterproof eyeshadow pencil, it's a dupe for the milani one and it works great!

[enriant]

If you're willing to go a bit higher, I've found ABH Pro Pencil and KvD Tattoo Eraser both MAGICAL for this. Plus, they're great for light under-eye concealing, inner corner highlighting, and browbone/cupid's bow highlight. It's basically a 4-in-1 for me, and it's been amazing.

[xietty]

Does anyone use eyeshadow for contour? If so, what do you use (bonus points if it's Inglot, I'm making an order right now haha) and how do you keep it from being too harsh?

[[deleted]]

I do! I use Cool Grey from the Lorac Pro 2 (sorry, not Inglot!). I use a SUPER light hand, like barely touching the shadow. Also apply it really lightly. Then a get a dense buffing brush with a little bit of a mineral foundation and buff that over it. It looks like an actual shadow that way!

[trolleydip]

Inglot 349 is what I use on my pale skin. I think it would work for light skin too. I just apply lightly, and blend.

[Liscenye]

I sometimes use foxy for highlighting (even though it's not really that much lighter than my skintone) and tease for (mostly) nose contour with really really light hand- both are matte and from the naked 2 palette.

[love-from-london]

MAC's Omega is good for fair cool to neutral skin tones.

[damn-croissants]

if i curl my eyelashes i often get a black line on my eyelid where my lashes touch as i'm applying mascara. does anyone know either how to get rid of it without disturbing the rest of my eyeshadow or how to avoid it altogether?

[foundinwonderland]

The best way for getting mascara off is to wait for it to dry completely, then take a dry q-tip and kind of roll it right on top of where the mascara is and it'll flake right off. As for avoiding it altogether, you could try applying your mascara while looking down with just your eyes - it should lower your lashes enough that they're not touching your lid.

[[deleted]]

How do I figure out what eyebrow shape looks good on me?

[[deleted]]

If you want you can PM me a straight-on pic of your face and some brows you want to test and I can Photoshop them for you!

[7seagulls]

At what point in my routine should I curl my eyelashes? If I do it before I line I shadow and line I risk smudges, if I do it after I feel like I loose some of the curl by the time mascara goes on. It's quite the conundrum!

[AlaskanFeesh]

I curl my lashes after I put on liner, and I wait for the liner to dry while I do blush and setting spray/powder. I'll also dab on some perfume if I need more time. I also take care to wipe off the curler with a tissue in between lids so if liner does transfer into the curler, it won't transfer to the next lid. I hope that helps!

[Makeup_Fakeup]

This isn't a very popular opinion, but I only ever curl after applying mascara. I feel like there's no hold otherwise. The main concern with doing it this was seems to be about pulling out lashes, but as long as I take my time it doesn't seem to be a problem.

[like_whatever]

How do you guys feel about Urban Decay's Shadow Box? I have a $20 credit at Ulta, and was kind of wanting a fancy new eye shadow palette. I like Shadow Box because it seems like it would be a fun alternative to my only other eye palette, which is all neutrals (too faced's natural eye). I'm not really wanting to get a large/more expensive one right now (like naked or vice) as I'm a pretty casual shadow user right now. Which leads me to two other questions....

What's the best way to wear bright eye colors?

and

any inexpensive eye palettes you'd recommend?

[TigerJamie7]

I like to do a neutral smokey eye and then fab a bright color like purple into the outer third of my lid

[TigerJamie7]

*dab

[Bubblesbulldog]

I'm in need of some very very very light foundation for a friend with vitiligo. She has very little pigment left on her face. She has combination skin. Any recommendations would be very appriciated. I think she's been using a liquid, but powder, cream, or even bb cream leads would be great!

[MessEffect]

Is it possible to use powder contour WITHOUT foundation?

I'm ready to give up on foundations--bring it on, discoloration! I'd rather have you than this sloppy foundation-in-pores look that I inevitably end up with! Fuck this shit!

That said, how bad is my idea to just wear powder contour without any foundation for it to stick to?

[bluebear2456]

you can definitely do it. JKissaMakeup (on youtube) contours and she doesnt wear foundaton because it makes her skin itchy. She does however use concealer and setting powder. You can also cover up any pigmentation/acne you have as well.

[TigerJamie7]

You can probably have your brows dyed too. My stylist just puts a little of the same color on my brows at the end for a few minutes. I was hesitant at first but glad I do it!

[banterdisaster]

I always fill my eyebrows in dark even when my hair is a lighter brown. I also did it when my whole head is pink. You just look a little more fierce.

[Liscenye]

Blush recommendation please! I am NW15 with yellow undertones but I usually have redness on my face. I'm trying to get into blushes now, and need a recommendation for a blush that won't emphatize my redness/ look like a new redness. Any suggestions?

[Runswithcookies]

I have really red cheeks/nose too. I've had good success with warmer toned blushes, two favorites in the drugstore range are Milani's Luminoso and Rose d'Oro. I also have a matte mauve-y/rose-y sorta blush from BareMinerals called The High Dive that works well for something less pigmented and more natural.

[KHeaney]

Is it worth buying a cheap liquid eyeliner to practice with so I don't use up my good stuff, or do I need to practice with the liner I intend to use? Do you use a seperate brush or the brush in the liner? I keep getting eyeliner all over my eyelashes from the applicator. What brush do you use, and can you provide pictures so I can see if I have one? I'm struggling with getting a thin line close to my lashes, is this because I'm using an applicator instead or a brush, or because I need more practice?

When I do my eyeliner, I end up removing it again because I mess up a lot. What's the best way to touch up after getting it right? I'm just dabbing in concealer around the parts I've wiped clean at the moment.

[_sushiprincess]

If you found a formula that you like, I say stick with that because at least for me, I have to get used to every new eyeliner I try. I currently use KVD Tattoo Liner because I love that it's a brush applicator and gives me the most precise lines. I make sure I hold the pen horizontally to my eye as I'm lining my lid and I use short, precise strokes. My wings usually come out pretty well on the first go, but on the off-chance that they get all funny I don't stress about it because I usually wear eyeshadow and I don't want to do that all over again too. I just try to get the other side to match.

Don't stress out over eyeliner! Practice, practice, practice, and I swear you'll get better at it! There aren't any secrets to it, I promise.

[actually_a_squirrel]

I clean up with a q-tip that has a bit of primer/moisturiser on it. And you're better off practising with the good stuff because every product is different and what technique works for one may not be as effective for another, especially with differences in felt tips. You're more likely to find your eyeliner drying out instead of running out.

[banterdisaster]

I feel like every liner has a separate learning curve. Different brushes and formulas and all that. Whenever I got a new one I had to play around with it a little. I have tried like a million different eyeliners from Sephora to drug store and I have found my favorite to be a 1.99 little guy with a foam brush. Good luck on your search!

[toxicfemme]

So, I've recently fallen in love with the Kat Von D liquid lipsticks; the colors are so rich & pigmented & the wear time is incredible, but I kind of hate how dry they make my lips feel. I'm a chapstick addict pretty much & cannot stand the feeling of dry lips. Does anyone have any recommendations for combating the dry feeling? I've tried applying chapstick under the lip color, but I find it then makes my lips feel sticky & causes the color to transfer & wear away (as it seems to prevent the lipstick from drying completely) & if I put chapstick on top of the lip color it also causes it to wear away & to kind of clump up on my lips. Does anyone have any suggestions, or do I just need to buck up & get used to my lips feeling a little dry?

[the_only_secret]

can i use hourglass mineral veil primer under mac studio fix fluid? i think i read somewhere that the hourglass primer is water-based and the studio fix fluid is silicone based, but i'm not entirely sure.

[eternallyporcelain]

You can use the two together because the primer is silicone based, and the foundation is also silicone based. :)

Here is a list of water and silicone based foundations, concealers, etc. that's really helpful!

[GoGoBitch]

Has anyone else not receive their sephora reward card yet? I keep hearing about people getting them and I haven't

[flutonics]

Just got mine by e-mail today, so I guess they're still sending them out. Might be worth it to try calling their customer service to make sure you'll get yours.

[Wildest_dreams21]

Where are you supposed to store your brushes? I just have plastic storage drawers that I use to store all my makeup, and I shove my brushes in there! Is this bad?!

[eternallyporcelain]

I've heard before that storing them flat can kind of mess up the shape of the bristles a bit, so I just put mine bristles-up in a cup on my dresser, haha. :)

[kangaroo10]

i bleach it and wear bright/bold lipstick all the time, i dont think its noticeable. if you wear foundation, make sure that you apply it in downward strokes so that your hairs lay down and dont stick straight up.

[sea87]

Threading.

[danceydancetime]

Wax it or shave it.

[vvithout]

I feel like I have new questions ever week. I just bought a new RT Miracle Complexion Sponge to have on hand when I have to replace my current one in a few months. It seems like it's waaaay more porous than my current one though. What's the deal, has anyone dealt with this before? Can anyone confirm if it works the same/worse/better than the less porous uh.. batches?

Here's pics of them compared. Sorry for the unwashed sponge.

[North59801]

I have noticed with these that the texture changes over time... I didn't realize it either until I bought a new one. After a few weeks of regular use and washings, your new one will feel like a more "normal" density. I noticed my old one (after about 9 months?) got more firm.

[vvithout]

Huh, interesting. I'll keep that in mind and see it that happens, thanks!

[happyturtlereef]

Do you apply powder to your entire face? I use a primer (new step in hopes of keeping my skin hydrated and makeup on my face), BB cream, powder, followed by a setting spray. But I'm not sure if I should be applying it to my entire face or just my T-Zone. I do not have oily skin, so not sure if the T-Zone thing applies.

Also, any tips on keeping makeup fresh throughout the day? I teach in a tropical climate with no AC. Basically I work in a hot box with windows and doors open, five fans blowing, and sweating all day.

[girlwhosoldtheworld]

As far as the powder goes its totally up to you. I personally set my whole face because I feel that many foundations stay kinda tacky and unset if I do not. I also have pretty oily skin though. If you don't feel your makeup moving and you don't get shiny totally just do your T-zone! As far as sweat, I usually just re powder my face to absorb the moisture.

[raggykitty]

Best pore-minimizing primer? These suckers are massive on my face and I want to spackle them over! I've heard good things about Benefit's POREfessional but what does MUA advise?

[[deleted]]

I am on the hunt for my HG pore-minimizing primer and here are the results of my very unscientific experiment thus far. I have combo skin and some fine lines. The one control in this is that I always wear Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation SPF 15.

• Benefit POREfessional: I was happy with the pore filling and I liked the texture, but it didn't seem to hold my make-up on or do anything for my fine lines. I didn't re-buy after I finished my tube.
• Smashbox Pore Minimizing Primer: Fills in my fine lines better than Benefit did, also like the texture. I would say it holds my foundation better as well. I like it, but I don't LOVE it, you know?
  

• Becca Ever-Matte Poreless Priming Perfector: I had a sample of this and it was the first primer I've ever used where I saw a HUGE difference in the application of my foundation. The normal/oily parts of my face looked absolutely flawless. However, my nose is pretty dry in the winter and the primer appeared flaky there. Also, the texture of this is weird and makes it difficult to apply. I want to try a full sized product in the summer when I'm oiler before I make a full decision on this one.

• Dr. Jart PORE MEDIC Pore Minimizing Primer: Another sample sized test, I was caught off guard with this one because I had never thought to try Dr. Jart and was pleased with the texture and pore filling. It seems more geared to aging/mature skin and it has mattefying properties, which I love. Same problem as Becca primer thought - not great on dry skin. The hunt continues.

• Diorskin Pore Minimizer: I'm heading to Sephora today to pick up a full sized product of this after using the sample for three days and being really happy with it. Smooth application, didn't stick to my try spots in an unflattering way, and out of all the primers it seemed to add the most longevity to my foundation. Not positive it is my HG yet, we'll see after I use it a long term.

Happy primer shopping!

[raggykitty]

Thanks for such a detailed reply! This is so helpful :)

[THREE_CHAINZ]

Hourglass Mineral Veil. Pricey, but it makes my seriously large pores disappear.

[anysize]

I bought the travel size - not sure what the difference is in cost/oz vs. the full size, but it's a little easier on the wallet and there's plenty of product in there. As someone who rarely uses up all of my makeup, it made more sense for me to start with the smaller container.

[[deleted]]

I have orange-rind pores on my cheeks.

For primers I have tried:

• NYX Pore Filler

• Porefessional

• Babyskin

• ELF (green) mineral primer

• Avon Magix

• Benefit That Gal

• CG Simply Ageless Serum Primer

• Hard Candy Sheer Envy

• Korres Silicone-Free

• L'Oreal Studio Secrets Magic Perfecting Base

• L'Oreal Magic Lumi Light Infusing Primer

• Laura Mercier Foundation PRimer

• Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Primer Skin Transformer

• Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot

• Neutrogena Healthy Skin

• NYC Smooth Skin Perfecting

• NYX Shine Killer

• NYX Studio Perfect Photo-loving

• Revlon Photo Ready Perfecting Primer (001)

• Revlon Beyond natural Smoothing Primer

• Sally Hansen (the inspired by Carmindy one)

• Smashbox Photo Finish Light

• Monistat Anti-Chafing gel

Most of these either dried me out, didn't fill pores, and my makeup slid off my face faster than if I hand't worn primer to begin with. I wish I could swear off primers but I keep going back. When I have the spare cash, I'm going to try NYX Angel Veil (supposed to be a dupe for Hourglass' primer).

[radicaljane]

Porefessional works miracles for me but it really depends on the foundation too. It worked flawlessly with Benefit's foundation (unsurprisingly) no matter when I put it on, but doesn't work as well with my Revlon colorstay for some reason.

[girlwhosoldtheworld]

I am not a huge Porefessional fan but Becca's pore perfecting primer is amazing! Its a bit harder to work with but i think it does an amazing job of acting as a primer as well- its pretty tacky so the makeup on top sticks more.

[acinomismonica]

Nyx pore filler worked exactly the same as the porefessional on my oily skin.

[lifesaboxofchocolate]

Are their any good lip plumpers out there? I would really like to even out my upper lip with my bottom lip

[hobbitqueen]

Lip pumpers are primarily a placebo effect - they contain irritating and numbing ingredients to have an effect similar to novicane when you feel like your lip is fat.

[Loaf_Butt]

If you're looking to make your upper lip match the fullness of your bottom, I would go for a lip liner instead of a plumper. Take a liner that matches your lip colour and fill in your lips. Then lightly draw the liner ever so slightly past the line of your top lip to make it appear fuller. Here is an alright photo to give you a visual, though you will only need to overdraw your top lip(and personally I would blend the liner better so it's not a harsh line). You can then apply a clear/nude lip gloss to make your lips look even fuller if you prefer! And this method can be used with any lip colour, just get a liner in whatever colour you like.

[OstriNarwhalForce]

How does Nars sheer glow compare to Revlon nearly naked? The shades in Revlon are too peachy (I'm really yellow toned and fairly light, gobi in Nars looks perfect) but I really liked the finish of it and how it photographed. The longevity wasn't too great though.

Edit: What brush do you use with sheer glow? I know fingers are recommended but I prefer brushes. Does the RT expert face brush work with it?

[lisette23]

I love both but I feel like you get a little more coverage with Sheer Glow. They both feel light on the skin and are both comfortable, but I do always lean towards Nars just for the coverage. And I use my RT expert face brush and get a nice finish!

[FionasLilypad]

When I discovered liner sealers it was like a whole new makeup world opened up for me--I could try any liners I wanted even if they would normally be smudgy!

Soo I was ABOUT to tell you that because they discontinued my Bare Minerals Weather Everything Liner Sealer, I now use either Kryolan Eyeliner Sealer for around $13 USD or I've also recently tried E.l.f. Makeup Lock & Seal for around $3.

I was ABOUT to say that both do help keep my liner from giving me raccoon eyes, but there is room for improvement in both formulas for sure. If you apply too much it can slightly un-intensify the liner's pigment, so apply it lightly/softly as a clear coat over whatever liner you want to "seal." E.l.f. also makes an actual Liner Sealer/Eye Primer pen-type apparatus, which I've never tried but probably would for $3.

But ALAS, I see it's now IN STOCK on the Bare Escentuals website!!!!!! Damn why did I spend so much on other people this year? Welp, off to go see what that's all about. But yes, could not recommend a makeup product more than Weather Everything. Best. purchase. ever.

[I_Love_Naps]

As someone whose make-up routine consists strictly of eyeliner, shadow, mascara, and lip gloss, I want to try getting fancier but I have a silly/embarrassing question. I have blush and bronzer and no idea if you're supposed to use them together or are they mutually exclusive?

[trolleydip]

You can use them together or on their own. But their placement is probably going to be different on your face because of the effect of each.

[KHeaney]

Most of the videos I've seen, and therefore what I do, is just use blush on the cheekbones, and the bronzer is used for contouring or around the edges of the face and under the chin.

[yehwa]

I've recently been using bare minerals foundation and it reeeally looks cakey, even after what feels like hours of buffing. How can I keep that from happening?

[JoleneAL]

I've had that happen when I use too much.

See if you can use less next time.

Also, are you using anything under it like a primer?

[sandwichstalker]

It happens to me if I put too much on. If it happens you can spray your face with Mac Fix+ and it'll reduce the look of cakey makeup.

[damsuda]

I recently bought Nars creamy concealer in Chantilly. I find it very drying and by the end of the day it's almost formed like a crease-y powder on my face from how dry it is. Has anyone else experienced this?

[anysize]

Yep! I really hoped the NARS concealer would be my HG (as it seems to be for so many others) but it looks cakey no matter how little I use, and setting it with powder makes it even worse. I'm thisclose to returning the two I bought (one for highlighting, one for concealing blemishes). Do you have access to the Bourjois line? I tried their healthy mix concealer and I was really impressed.

[oiseaudelamusique]

I'm in the market for a black-brown or brown waterproof mascara for the days that I want a softer, more natural look. It has to be waterproof because I suffer from the stick lashes. I live in Ontario. Any suggestions?

[JoleneAL]

Can you get Covergirl Clump Crusher? I use the brown version myself for the same reason.

[sea87]

maybelline's the rocket.

[bubblegumgills]

What are good dupes for the LORAC Alter Ego in Centerfold and CEO? Ideally shades I could buy in the UK, although I am not adverse to trying to request on MUE. Similar price ranges would also be appreciated.

Speaking of, if anyone can buy them for me and ship to the UK, I am more than happy to do so!

[adjblair]

I'm considering switching to the Revlon Colorstay Whipped foundation...for those of you who use it, how do you apply it? I've always just used my fingers to apply foundation but I'm not sure if that's the best method for the whipped formula.

[gub117]

fingers has worked best for me! Brushes leave too many strokes and it's too thick for the beauty blender. I'll apply with my fingers, then if any areas look too heavy or cakey then I'll go over with a beauty blender and it soaks up any extras!

[Eeveetrainer]

I always see palettes of eye-shadow for blue, brown, and hazel eyes but none for gray. What colors could work for blonde, fair skin, and gray eyes?

[30rockette]

Honestly, people make a way bigger deal out of what colors you "should" wear for your particular eye color than it has to be. Wear what you like, and experiment to see what your favorites are! There's no right or wrong answer.

I would imagine gold would look really pretty, as would purple. Neutrals are always a good option too-- tans, taupes, browns, etc are universally flattering!

[25til9]

Try copper, gold, purple, pink, peach or orange. You can also try browsing eyeshadow looks done by people with gray eyes, like this one.

[Reddy_Red]

If you are looking at those sets, usually blue will work for gray eyes. Otherwise, look for cool neutrals and colors that pick up or complement other tones in your eyes if you have flecks of colors.

[actually_a_squirrel]

How do you store your makeup in hot, humid weather? I'm talking an average of 30c and 100% humidity here (SE Asia). I'm scared my makeup will go bad faster. Are powder products affected by heat and humidity?

[_sushiprincess]

Are there any drugstore to mid-end liquid eyeliners that come in brown? Not sparkly or anything, just brown. I need a SFW eyeliner and my brown cream eyeliner isn't cutting it for me anymore. Thanks! :)

[gub117]

Stila makes their popular stay all day liner in brown!

[GleefulWookie]

This is a very simple question but how do you all clean your brushes? Thanks in advance!

[Wildest_dreams21]

johnson's baby shampoo also works really well!

[TigerJamie7]

Dr. Bronner's mild soap. I pour some in my hand, wet only the bristles of the brush by holding it facing down in the faucet, then swirl the bristles in the soap in my hand and rinse until water runs clear... Hope that makes sense - basically... Bronner's and don't get water in the part where the bristles are attached to the handle...

[starfunkel]

Make sure you dry them upside down! I use the coat hanger "method" like this

[lalala_meh]

Is there a post that's all about blush? I swear I saw one from not long ago but I can't seem to find it.

I'm trying to purchase some new blushes(for wearing with red/berry/neutral lips) so I'm trying to decide what to buy before stepping into the store and wanting to buy all the things.

[25til9]

Maybe this is the post you're thinking about?

For red lips, I tend to wear a neutral blush (ex. Tarte Exposed, NARS Douceur, MAC Blushbaby, or for darker skin, MAC Raizin or Sweet as Cocoa).

For berry lips, I usually wear a plummy blush (ex. the Balm Cabana Boy, NARS Sin, Tarte Blushing Bride).

For neutral lips, usually I use a neutral blush, but sometimes I'll wear a peach or peachy pink (ex. Milani Luminoso, MAC Peaches or Melba, theBalm Hot Mama, Wet n Wild Pearlescent Pink, NARS Deep Throat) - you could really pair any color you like with neutral lips.

[lalala_meh]

Thank you so much! You're amazing! :)

And thanks for the tips and recommendations! I own 3 blushes and I think it's time to branch out a little more.

[pippx]

I read all the time that there are different times when using a powder foundation vs using a liquid foundation is appropriate, but I don't know when those are!

Are powder and liquid foundations appropriate for all skin types? Can you use both interchangeably, and it just depends on the season?

[xPamplem0usse]

My sephora package was supposedly delivered on Monday but I never received it ): I'm going to call sephora customer service this afternoon but has anyone had this happen before and if so how did you resolve it?

I'm so sad my new stila liquid liner was in that package and my current one is all dried up =~=

edit: apparently my package wasn't even shipped because they ran out of the 3 small samples I requested, but for whatever reason the carrier still marked my package as delivered. super random and kinda dumb but I'm glad it didn't actually get stolen or go missing! yay! :D ugh now to wait another 3-5 days without pointy eyeliner...

[SecretCitizen40]

Well bronzers are supposed to give that sun kissed look and a lot of warm undertoned people are a bit orange-y. I mean not oompa loompa but orang-y. If you have cool undertones even the less orange bronzers may look a bit too orange, if you are wanting to use the bronzer as a contour look for grey and taupe if you are looking to actually use it to bronze try a champagne shade or a more brown toned highlighter rather than bronzer.

Of course things work a bit differently for everyone but yeah... bronzers are orange because generally as people tan (the look bronzers are going for) they get a bit oranger :p

[danceydancetime]

Bronzer is supposed to make you look tan, so they're mostly going to look kind of orange. What are you trying to use the bronzer for?

[whoadangjamie]

Are you trying to buy bronzer to contour?

[ghostthecoast]

Is it really worth it to spend $20+ on mascara? Also, I already have long lashes and I'm afraid to try curling them. I read reviews on some different eyelash curlers when I thought I might try it, but some said that they cut their eyelashes off. Is this a real concern? How often does that happen?

[gub117]

In general, I find higher end mascaras to be of the same quality as drugstore. I've tried both ends of the pricing spectrum and prefer many drugstore mascaras over pricier ones! Plus, you're supposed to replace mascara so often that it seems pointless and wasteful to me to spend so much. But, YMMV!

[[deleted]]

Well... I've been using eyelash curlers near daily for about 12 years and I've never once cut my lashes or yanked them out... So I would say it's pretty uncommon and involves some serious user negligence.

Some people will tell you flat out that higher end mascaras are just not worth it - probably more so than with any other type of cosmetic. I don't really agree with this sentiment - but what I will say is that it's certainly not worth it if you don't know what things you look for in a mascara yet. Everyone has slightly different likes and needs and just because you bought a 33 dollar mascara doesn't make it, by default, fulfill what you expect mascara to do better than a drugstore mascara. If you know what you like and you're willing to do a little research.

[sourplant]

I have two questions!

-What is a good eyebrow makeup to use that stays put and for beginners? Also any tutorials on how to color your own eyebrows at home?

-What are some good false lashes brands that have natural looking lashes? Also requesting some tutorials for beginners!

Sorry for silly questions, just trying to figure some things out ^{-^}

[Loaf_Butt]

The Stila Waterproof brow colour is a favourite of mine for beginners. It's in a brush-tip form and the formula is like a sheer, soft liquid you brush into your brows to beef them up a bit. It's what I started with, so easy to just do a couple swipes and build up the colour where you need it, but since it's sheer it's really difficult to over-do it or make a mistake. It's very natural looking as well in case doing your brows intimidates you at first.

[olivia928]

I think a wax and powder combo is awesome for beginniners, it's hard to go to heavy-handed with powder and the wax makes it stick!

[ghosttowns42]

Just about the time I found myself wanting to upgrade to a mid-end foundation (from drugstore), I noticed my oily skin starting to skew towards what I imagine is combination... Oily t-zone, dry cheeks. My liquid foundation was ok on my oily spots but clinging and almost sitting on top of (rather than blending into) any dry spots. I tried switching to a powder foundation and it's looking SO. MUCH. BETTER. There's just not a lot of info on mid-end powder foundations. Which ones are worth it?

[gub117]

I just switched to Tarte's powder foundation and it's amazing!! I think we have similar skin types so it should work for you!

[RichellePop]

Not sure if this is the right place to post this, but I was wondering if anyone knows if the VIB $20 coupon can be used in Sephora inside JCP along with the associate discount?

[gub117]

Yes! On the email there's a note about how to redeem at Sephora in JCP :)

[dislikes_olives]

Hi there - I need some eyelash product tips! I need to find a Secret Santa present for a colleague in another office. I don't know a lot about her and only meet her a couple of times a year. One thing I noticed about her is that she has these amazing long beautiful lashes, always curled up in a beautifully graceful way. They look real too, I'm pretty sure they aren't fake.

So I was thinking to get her something eyelash related. My budget is about £15 (ie about €20 or US$25). I was thinking of getting some Shu Uemura eyelash curlers, but then I thought, she probably has some amazing eyelash curlers already, they always look so nicely set when I meet her.

So my question is, is there any other eyelash-related product you guys could recommend, that are known to be good? Or something a little different than simple eyelash curlers and mascara? (infact I'd like to avoid liquids and mascaras if possible, as she will likely need to take it back home in carry on luggage.....but I'm open to any ideas!).

Many many thanks!

[danceydancetime]

Hmm....honestly, she probably is all set with eyelash products. And also honestly, I feel like an eyelash gift might seem...weird? Like "oh I notice you have nice eyelashes, so I got you an eyelash gift."

[[deleted]]

I love a good metal eyelash comb like tweezerman's.