PROPER TECHNIQUE FOR APPLYING EYE SHADOW

With a lot of buzz surrounding the new launches from Motives by Loren Ridinger and Motives for La La, it is easy to easy to get excited about the product and to forget the proper technique for using it.

When it comes to using the new Motives by Loren Ridinger or Motives Fall/Winter 2012 Runway Collection (US Link) palettes, you will need the proper tools to apply. Grab a clean Motives Eye Blender Brush (US Link) and Motives Primer Brush.

Using the Motives Primer Brush from the Motives 15 Piece Professional Brush Set (US Link), apply a thin layer of Motives Eye Base (US Link) from the lashline to the brow. Press the Motives Eye Blender Brush flatly in the eye shadow color you want to use and tap any excess shadow from the brush.

To deposit more color to the eye, press the brush with eye shadow flatly to the lid. If you find that too much color has been deposited or is uneven, sweep the color away with the Motives Eye Blender Brush that is free from shadow.

It is important to remember that even if a color looks intense in the compact, you can apply the color in a sweeping motion, rather than a pressing motion, to deposit less color so it appears less intense on your eyelid.

The best eye looks are smooth and well-blended and with the right tools from Motives, getting a great look is easy!

Tell us, what are your tips for the perfect Motives look?

DIRTY LITTLE (MAKEUP BRUSH) SECRETS

How many of you are cleaning your makeup brushes? My guess not many of you. This New Year we shall strive to do better: I say we because I am guilty of the dirty brush as well.

Think of it this way: Professional make up brushes are an investment and the best way to get the most out of your investment is to take care of it. Your makeup only looks as good as the tools you use to apply it.

Brushes should be cleaned on a consistent basis especially if you have acne prone or sensitive skin. So how often should you be cleaning your brushes? Here are some guidelines:

• Foundation brushes: minimum once a week
• Brushes used for finishing powders and bronzers: once a week
• Blush brushes: once a week
• Eye shadow brushes: every two or three days
• Eyeliner brushes: after every use especially if you use an eyeliner sealant

How to clean

• Dampen the bristles of the makeup brush with warm water.
• Add a small amount of mild shampoo to the brush bristles and lather up.
• Rinse the bristles of the brush under running water until the water turns clear
• When all brushes are clean, run the bristles across the towel then lay them flat across the towel to air dry. Do not dry them standing up.

Properly cleaning your brushes will not only keep them in good condition, keeping them around for a lot longer.