Beauty Advice
Best Organic Beauty Products on a Budget: Reader Advice
Organic, natural, green, eco-friendly—all catch phrases in both the fashion and beauty industries right now, which means navigating the products produced under those labels can be, well, confusing. We like the idea of greening up our beauty routine, but getting organic/natural beauty products on a budget can be a challenge indeed, and knowing which ones we should pick up can be even harder. Kiss My Face is one line we like, with products that are deemed “natural” but aren’t too outrageously priced (like this Kiss & Makeup 3Way Color, $8.99).
But tell us, TBF readers, what budget natural/organic beauty products do you swear by (and don’t forget to tell us where you get ‘em)?
Best Makeup for Women of Color (on a Budget): Reader Advice
Some of us here at TBF are women of color, and some of us are not. Regardless, anyone who’s spent a little time learning about the beauty industry knows that the make-up made for the masses is generally not geared towards the skin tones of women of color. The big brands have done better as of late—like Cover Girl’s Queen Collection —and Kathryn, of course, has referred readers to brands like Black Opal (specifically for their great foundation) in the past, But we want to know your thoughts—what’s your favorite make-up brand/product for women of color, on a budget?
CoverGirl Queen Collection Oil-Free Moisturizing Make up, $6.99 at drugstore.com.
Reader Advice: Best Exfoliator on a Budget
Summer can mean showing off just a bit more skin, and that means keeping that skin in glowing good shape is especially important (that sassy little sundress can’t compete with dull ashy skin—trust us). We budget fashionistas either can’t, or won’t, pay big bucks for high-end exfoliators or an all-out spa treatment on a regular basis, so we’re on the lookout for great exfoliators (either for the face or all over) that won’t clean out our discretionary budget. Of course, Kathryn digs this easy from-the-kitchen Oatmeal Facial Scrub recipe, which couldn’t be more cost effective, really. And we’re kind of fond of Boots Meditteranean products, like this Almond, Pistachio, and Olive Body Scrub ($9.99 for 13.5 oz at CVS.com). But we want to know—what budget-friendly exfoliator do you swear by to keep that summer glow glowing?
How To Wear False Eyelashes
What was more breath-taking than the fashion in the hot new movie “The Devil Wears Prada”? Well, Anne Hathaway’s fabulous eyes, brought to the forefront of her face through the use of false eyelashes (and, yes, a bit of mascara). Now, false eyelashes aren’t just for Hollywood starlets and fictionalized fashion editors- this inexpensive beauty accessory can be purchased from your local Walgreens. Here’s the scoop on the lashes.
At Home: Get started by picking up theAndrea Modlash Starter Kit, 53 black ($5.79 at Walgreens or drugstore.com
). Standing in front of a mirror, curl your own lashes with an eyelash curler (note: ALWAYS curl your lashes BEFORE applying mascara—curling after can rip out your eyelashes). Then remove the false eyelashes from the kit and measure to your own lash line. If the lashes are too long, trim them with a pair of small eyebrow/grooming scissors. Use the enclosed applicator to hold on to the lashes while applying a thin ribbon of adhesive, give the adhesive 30 seconds to get tacky, then apply the lashes to your upper eyelid.
Let them set for about 1 minute, then cover any exposed adhesive with eyeliner (in my opinion liquid eyeliners work best). Lashes will easily peel off when you’re through with them; just be sure to remove them before bed (or you’ll have a morning mess on your hands).
Professional: This is a great option if you’re a little afraid to go it alone and have a little extra cash. Head to the nearest Saks Fifth Avenue and visit the Shu Uemura Tokyo Eyelash Bar, where you can pick out a set of lashes (available lashes ranging from small extensions to plush faux fur) and have them professionally applied, with prices starting at $15. Other make-up companies, like MAC, sell false eyelashes, but Shu Uemura is like the czars of lashes.
Shu Uemura artists will show you how to properly apply your lashes. One of the of tips you’ll learn (that can be used by those trying this at home) is to squeeze a small dot of adhesive onto your hand and swipe the lashes through before applying. Lashes will last a day and are reusable, so be sure to store them properly. If you can’t make it to Saks, visit www.shuuemura-usa.com, where you can register for free samples and free shipping on purchases over $75.
Beauty Advice: At Home Teeth Whitening Solution
Dear Budget Fashionista
I read on your site a comment from one of your readers that they use hydrogen peroxide once a day to rinse their mouth and keep their teeth white. What I would like to know is…is that a safe practice?
A: My advice is to first check with your dentist (a quick call should do the trick) about your particular dental needs and if your dentist gives the okay, go ahead with trying it out. A lot of people do rinse or brush their teeth with hydrogen peroxide and/or a hydrogen peroxide/baking soda mixture (by dipping the tooth brush in a small cup of hydrogen peroxide and then dipping it in a small amount of baking soda). I do know is that you have to be very careful not to swallow hydrogen peroxide and some people’s gums make not react well to the strength of the solution. Since I’m not a dentist, you should definitely consult with a professional first before trying this out.
Reader Tips: Preserve that Manicure
TBF reader Ronica sent me tips products she uses to preserve her manicures:
Sticky (that’s what it’s called) base coat ($5.99 at your local drugstore). A coat or two of this and my polish lasts WAY longer.
Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat ($9.99. Gives a glass-like shine, makes polish last much longer, and dries it with in a minute or two. This stuff is gold!)
Have a cool tip? Please feel free to send it along.
Advertisement
Featured on TBF
Copyright 2003-2009 TBF Group, LLC.