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IMAN Cosmetics Pressed Powder

Makeup - Fontana Beauty Expert - April 1, 2015

If you’ve been on the hunt for a great pressed powder foundation for African American women, search no more black ladies! IMAN’s Pressed Powder matches your skin tone, removes shine and provides full even coverage for your black skin.

ft_4dd9c7c7fe7d7f3be6d9a5924c50aa02Hello Classy Black Ladies! I am very pleased to provide you with this review of IMAN’s Luxury Pressed Powder.

I have been searching high and low for a pressed powder foundation that will not only match my skin tone but also *not* make me look like I just stepped out of Michael Jackson’s thriller video shoot! I like my dark skin tone with its golden undertone and I want it to look that way whether I have foundation on or not.

It seems that I visit the beauty section of my local pharmacy every month looking for a new pressed powder. I’ve tried powder foundations by L’Oreal, Maybelleine and all the major brands, but they do not match my skin tone and do not provide even coverage.

I’ve also tried liquid foundations, like Maybelleine’s Dream Liquid Mousse (my last brand) but they just made my face look greasy and uneven.

About a month ago I was sorting through my foundation options in the beauty section of my pharmacy yet again, and picked up a new powder press foundation by one of the majors. I sighed, knowing that it would probably not work out, as I walked toward the register.

Then, like a beacon of light, I happened to look back toward the beauty section and saw a display for IMAN cosmetics. I’d never seen her beauty products in Fontana before.

I went over and picked up her Pressed Powder in Earth Dark. I went home and immediately tried….. the results??

WOW! I was truly amazed. The color didn’t seem like it would match my skin tone when I looked at it in the case, but when I put it on my face it blended perfectly. The pressed powder provided full coverage over my skin and didn’t make me look like a Black Zombie! Yay! It looked like my own natural skin tone.

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Iman BB Creme Tutorial

Makeup - Fontana Beauty Expert - March 18, 2015

Iman BB Creme Tutorlal

NEW! IMAN Skin Tone Evener BB Crème SPF 15….skin care and color combined to even, protect, tone and compliment YOUR skin tones like no other BB Cream ever has!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOszrKVOfXI

Evens with Skin Tone Evener Complex enriched with Acai, Licorice & Grape Seed
Protects with SPF 15 & antioxidants
Hydrates with Kokum, Almond, Aloe and Vitamins A, E & C
Paraben-Free
Compliments your skin tone with a hint of color in 5 perfect-match shades

IMAN Skin Tone Evener BB Crème SPF 15 not recommended for acne prone skin.

Buy it in store or at Fontanapharmacy.com

 

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Introducing IMAN Beauty Creme

Hair - Fontana Beauty Expert - March 18, 2015

Most beauty bloggers I know love make up. They spend ours in Fontana and plan shopping trips to just to get the best deals. I like make up, it’s fun to wear but it’s not on the top of my shopping list and I purchase it accordingly. And no, this isn’t coming from a place of “Oh, I’m a natural beauty so I don’t really need make up”.

Like many women I know, I just stick to the basics of some foundation, mascara and lip color. I can have my face done in 10 minutes or less. Concealer confuses me, and I find contouring to be false advertising. So, again, I’m not a beauty blogger, or an expert; you can take what I say with a grain of salt but as I walked into Fontana the other day and saw that they now stocked Iman BB Creme a girl got a little excited.

Let’s start off with what a BB cream is. A BB cream is a beauty balm (sometimes blemish balm is used interchangeably) promoted as an all in one cosmetic product. Think of a moisturizer, primer, foundation and sunblock in a single tube. Many bb creams also boast skin perfecting properties such as clearing up blemishes and evening skin tones. They gained popularity in Asia, and have recently taken the Jamaica by storm. But the problem with the beauty industry (as well as the entertainment industry, and basically every industry) is that since their target customers are white women, us ladies of color would have a hard time reaping it’s talked about benefits. Which is why when Iman Cosmetics created their own BB creams specifically for darker shades, it was highly anticipated and talked about.

Recently launched, Iman Cosmetics Skin Tone Evener BB Creme SPF 15 comes in six shades, from light tan to deep brown. It’s free of Paraben, a preservative used in many cosmetics to extend it’s shelf life, but some experts believe there is a link to breast cancer & fertility issues with this compound. It also contains fruit and plant extracts and is packed with vitamin E. Now that you have an idea of what it does and doesn’t contain,

I suggest you visit Fontanato get a better feel on which is right for you.  In store, the display has a variety of models that you can compare your skin tone to for a perfect match. I selected Clay Medium Deep as my color. Fotana’s cosmetics experts are there  to make it easier, the package itself has a little opening that shows you what the color looks like.

From urbanexpressive.com

 

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WEDNESDAY WELLNESS: TREAT OILY SKIN NATURALLY

Bath and Body, Bright Ideas - Fontana Beauty Expert - February 19, 2015

Oily skin is a pain! I have suffered with oily skin for as long as I can remember, despite having clear skin. Yes, I know they say people with oily skin age slower. However, no one wants to deal with their face looking like a disco ball by lunch time.

Oily skin can be a result of a number of problems be it genetics, hormonal, seasonal or poor use of skincare products.  Now, there are a couple skin care myths I must dispel for your own good before we talk about at home remedies.  The first being- washing your face a million times with a harsh cleanser.  This will over dry your skin and have the adverse effect where your skin will actually produce more oil.  I would recommend a gentle oil free face wash.

The second would be not moisturizing. This is a no go.  Oily skin does not mean you don’t need a moisturizer, you do.  Just choose one that is oil free, simple.

Now that we covered those myths let’s move on to at home fixes for oily skin. My go to cure is at home face masks.  I’ve recommended a few of my favs in a previous post.

homes_remedies_oily_skin5

My go to mask to target my oily t-zone is an egg yolk mask.  I just use one egg yolk mixed with corn starch and honey.  I usually go in with my homemade toner which consists of ¼ cup of raw apple cider vinegar, ¼ of distilled water and a few drops of tea tree oil.  I then follow up with an oil free moisturizer.  Another important step is to exfoliate the skin.  This helps to unclog your pores which help to eliminate excessive oil production on the face.

Also be reminded that your diet is also important to the condition of your skin.  Therefore, your need to drink more water, avoid oily food and exercise…

Lovelies, let me know how these tricks and tips work for you…

Until next time…Stay gorgeous…

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Friday: Fun Trends

Bright Ideas, Hair, Makeup - Fontana Beauty Expert - February 6, 2015

OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERAFun Trends: Pastel Hair for Spring

A new season is upon us and I’m sure most of us will be making some changes.  I’ve decided to ditch my dark locks and go for something lighter.  Spring is the perfect time to experiment with your hair because the weather is not too hot or too cold.  It’s the perfect time to start over.

One trend I’ve noticed dominating the beauty scene is the pastel ombre and I love it. Mind you, I don’t think I’m brave enough, but, it’s a great way to push the envelope and have a bit of fun. The good thing is that you can opt for a lighter or darker pastel shade with highlights or ombre, to your liking. The most popular is the Kylie Jenner green pastel hair colour. I have to say I am tempted to try. Hey, if you don’t want to colour your hair, you can always opt for extensions. Either way, have fun with it.

Now, before you decide to colour your hair please ensure you consult a professional to assist with colour selection and advice on how to use the product.

Fontana carries a wide range of hair products in store and online to include L’Oreal, Dark and Lovely, Nice n’ Easy and Garnier…go check them out.

Okay my lovelies, colour your Spring with lighter shades and have fun with it…until next time, stay gorgeous

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WEDNESDAY WELLNESS: Get rid of dry dull hair

Bright Ideas, Hair - Fontana Beauty Expert - February 5, 2015

Get rid of dry dull hair…

Nobody wants to have dry dull hair, it’s not cute.  I coloured my hair recently and I noticed that two days after washing my hair, it would appear so dull and dry.  I consulted my hair dresser and did a little research of my own and concluded that my hair was lacking moisture, and need lots of it.  Being the frugalista that I am, I tried to find affordable ways that worked to address my dull dry hair.  Some products I found in my kitchen, others I found at the beauty hub, Fontana.

Based on my research, I decided to make a couple hair masks. I knew I needed to add some protein to at least one of my treatment mask.  The first mask I made I used an egg, an avocado, mayonnaise and some olive oil. I applied the mask to my hair, used a steam cap to cover it and left it on for about 30 minutes.   My hair was so soft and shiny after.

Hair mask 1

The second mask I made was the real deal.  I used Jamaican castor oil and coconut oil, melted Shea butter and honey; left the mask on for about an hour each time. Listen, this little concoction worked miracles. I used this mask once per week for four weeks and my hair has never been better.  My hair has transformed into a shiny, bouncy goldie locks and I’ve never been happier.  The castor oil adds so much body while the coconut oil and Shea butter gives my hair the shine and lustre it needed.

Lovelies, I strongly recommend you try some of your own at home remedies and share in the comments section. I mean who doesn’t want gorgeous hair without breaking the bank?

Until next time, stay gorgeous…

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Monday Tips and Tutorial:The key to achieving the perfect matte lip

Bright Ideas, Hair, Makeup - Fontana Beauty Expert - February 3, 2015

A matte lip is a go to for me. I’m not a huge fan of glossy lips simply because my face is already an oil slick.  However, a matte lip can be tricky sometimes.  For me, achieving that even application is dependent on how moisturized and smooth your lips are.

One must prepare the lips properly before applying a matte lipstick because this could leave your lips looking a dry crumbling mess.  Don’t panic just yet, we’ve got you. The key to achieving baby soft lips is to exfoliate. I usually mix a little sugar with olive oil or honey and gentle apply to the lips in a circular motion.  You can also use a soft tooth brush or wash cloth in the same way to get rid of the dead skin on your lips.  Also, a recent discovery of mine is the Elf exfoliating stick; it is just like a lipstick.

Here is a tutorial demonstrating how you can achieve baby soft lips for the perfect matte lipstick..

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eajIxcf0ZZA

Perk up those baby soft lips my lovelies… All the products mentioned are available at Fontana Pharmacy, your beauty hub.

Until next time, stay gorgeous…

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WEDNESDAY WELLNESS: It is Never okay to sleep in your makeup

Bright Ideas, Hair, Makeup, Skin Care - Fontana Beauty Expert - January 30, 2015

remove-makeupIt is Never okay to sleep in your makeup

Ever felt so tired after a night out on the town or a long day at work that you don’t even want to remove your makeup? Yes, we’ve all been there; however, we must always ensure that we remove our makeup at all times. This is essential for healthy glowing skin.

I am an advocate for good skin care, it is just too important.  Sleeping in your makeup is a no go.  This will cause all the day’s dirt, oil, bacteria and free radicals to build up under the surface of the skin and cause numerous skin problems.  What I usually do is keep a pack of makeup wipes near my bed side and in my bathroom. That way, after a long night I can easily reach for them to remove the excess makeup from my skin.  I still recommend cleansing the skin properly to avoid clogged pores which could lead to break outs.

I always encourage my clients to invest in some good makeup wipes.  Just one simple step as using a makeup wipe to remove excess makeup is better than not removing your makeup at all.  My all-time favourite is the Neutrogena cleansing towelettes; more recently I’ve been loving the Simple makeup wipes which is also great for sensitive skin.

So my lovelies, if you want beautiful skin you have to take care of your canvas and be vigilant with your skin care….All the products mentioned can be found at your beauty hub…Fontana Pharmacy.

Until next time, stay gorgeous…

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Monday Tips and Tutorial: The perfect Winged Liner

Hair - Fontana Beauty Expert - January 30, 2015

How to achieve the perfect winged liner

“May the ends of your winged liner always be even…” Everyone, at some point, struggle with getting that perfect winged liner.  Even I have this struggle sometimes. Not to worry, today I’ll be sharing some easy tips and tricks to achieve the perfect winged liner.

First, get your tools. You will need an eyeliner brush of your preference; a liner of your choice, whether cream, gel or liquid; scotch tape makeup wedge to use as a guide; makeup remover and q-tips or makeup wipes to sharpen up and perfect the line.

Yes ladies, I know a winged liner can go from 0 to a 100 real quick …but with practice you may just perfect it.

Here is a tutorial demonstrating some quick easy steps of how to get that perfect wing.

Ok my lovelies, now that you have mastered the art of winged liner, you can be totally fly with your makeup….All the tools mentioned can be found at Fontana Pharmacy, your beauty hub.

Until next time, stay gorgeous…

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FRIDAY FUN: Makeup Storage

Makeup - Fontana Beauty Expert - January 26, 2015

Last week we stepped outside of our comfort zone and tried some fun techniques with our makeup.  This week, I want us to tap into our creative side and redecorate our makeup storage.  Let’s have some fun!

I recently moved and wanted to do an overhaul of my makeup storage, however I didn’t want to break the bank.  So, being the Frugalista that I am, I started to do some research and found some tips and tricks I know you lovelies will appreciate.

The first thing I wanted was a perfume stand for my vanity.  I found an old metal tray that was deemed useless and turned it into a masterpiece. How? I was working with a gold, white and silver theme, so I used gold and silver spray paint along with stencils, to create a design, and sprayed the entire tray.

 I also wanted a nice clean storage for my makeup brushes.  I bought three medium sized clear vases and using the same spray paints, I sprayed the base of each free hand to create a frosty effect.  They turned out awesome.  I then added a combination of sands and marbles to hold my brushes in place.

I always seem to lose my single eye shadows and I found an easy way to store them and keep them organized in my makeup drawer. Ice trays; yes, you saw right.  I got clear ice trays and filled them up with my single eye shadows. Now I can keep them organized and not lose them anymore.

And there you have it…I threw in a few Yankee candles and my makeup vanity came alive!

These are just a few quick tips to revamp your makeup space.  All items mentioned are available online or in store at Fontana Pharmacy…

Get creative and organized while having some fun with it my lovelies…until next time…stay gorgeous

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