Why Professional Hair and Makeup Matters for Your Engagement Photos
Investing time in your engagement photos ensures a polished and timeless look for years to come. Hair and makeup artists provide invaluable expertise and confidence. Get $100 off your wedding day beauty services when you book your engagement hair and makeup.
Professional hair and makeup elevate engagement photos to timeless works of art. Imagine this: a couple standing in a golden field at sunset, every detail polished to perfection.
Their confidence shines through every shot.
On such a significant day, they deserve the assurance that their look is flawless, capturing the essence of their bond.
The Importance of Professional Hair and Makeup for Engagement Photos
Elevating one's appearance goes beyond aesthetics; it's about confidence that radiates from within.
Enhanced features make both partners feel their best.
This self-assuredness translates to photographs that are not just pictorial records but visual embodiments of your joy and love. The care in professional hair and makeup allows you to focus solely on one another and the moment.
When reviewing your engagement photos years later, we know you will be grateful for the investment in professional styling. These cherished images, free from distractions of trendy styles or beauty mishaps, will stand as timeless reminders of their unique story. Confident, polished, and truly reflective of your love, professional hair and makeup underscore the artistry of engagement photos.
Enhancing Your Natural Beauty
Professional hair and makeup artists have the expertise to highlight the best features. Their skills bring out the unique charm that often gets overlooked.
They ensure a cohesive look between partners.
Moreover, their understanding of lighting can profoundly affect the outcome.
Subtle enhancements made by professionals are designed to look flawless under various conditions.
Their techniques ensure that individuals do not look overdone, but rather a polished version of themselves.
Ultimately, these refined touches make a significant difference in the final engagement photos.
Achieving a Polished and Timeless Look
Professional hair and makeup artists excel in creating looks that endure over time. Our team's expertise, combined with a keen understanding of contemporary and classic styles, ensures an elegant appearance in each shot.
WPI Artisans craft looks tailored to the individual.
Importantly, these professionals understand how to balance trends with timelessness.
Artists meticulously select colors and styles that enhance natural beauty through an intimate consultation with you, on-site. This level of attention ensures that engagement photos will appear sophisticated and relevant, even decades later.
Ultimately, choosing professional hair and makeup is an investment in creating lasting memories.
Tailoring Styles to Match Your Vision
Partnering with a professional is all about transforming dreams into reality.
In 2010, Jessica Mae, WPI Beauty Founder and a renowned wedding makeup artist, emphasized that the foundational aspect of her work lies in truly understanding her clients' visions, helping them a realization of beauty inside as well as outside.
So, it's not just about making someone look beautiful; it's about embodying a vision to make each couple's engagement photos unique and reflective of their romance and love story.
Professionals take the essence of the couple’s style, whether it’s vintage chic or modern minimalism, and elevate it to new heights. By blending cutting-edge techniques with personalized elements, they ensure each look is both striking and true to the couple's identity.
An engagement session photoshoot becomes not just a session, but a memorable experience, where the couple's vision is intricately woven into every detail.
Creating Long-Lasting Results
Engagement photos represent a momentous chapter in a couple's journey, capturing timeless emotions and memories that remain vivid decades later. Investing in professional hair and makeup ensures these photographs endure, embodying a couple's true essence.
Professional stylists employ advanced techniques and use high-quality products and tools, designed for longevity and durability. These meticulously selected items help maintain an immaculate look throughout the entire photoshoot.
Moreover, they understand the nuances of different skin types and hair textures, adapting their methods to best fit each individual's needs.
At WPI Beauty, our expertise ensures that your makeup looks fresh and flawless, while hairstyles withstand the rigors of an active photoshoot, keeping every detail impeccable. Confidence radiates from well-applied makeup and well-styled hair, enhancing each moment's authenticity and emotion.
As a result, couples can look back on their engagement session photos with pride, knowing they presented their best, most polished selves. With professional assistance, the images don't just document a moment; they solidify a cherished memory for years to come.
Kaylee and John Engagement Photos. Hair and Makeup by WarPaint International.
Engagement ring by Gittelson Jewelers.
Ensuring Consistency Throughout Your Photos
Consistency is paramount in creating engagement photos that capture the essence of a couple's journey together, which is why hiring an engagement photographer can make all the difference.
In 2016, renowned researchers, by studying visual narratives, demonstrated that consistent styling reinforces the emotional cohesiveness of photographic stories, enhancing their overall impact.
Thus, it’s no surprise that professional hair and makeup's contribution to visual harmony is indispensable. Consistency in appearance across a series of photos ensures that the couple's story remains fluid and uninterrupted.
Consider the impact of a slightly changed hairstyle between pictures; such variances can pull the viewer's attention away from the narrative. Professional hair and makeup ensure that each image aligns seamlessly with the next, culminating in a harmonious album.
Consistency, achieved through professional styling, profoundly impacts the aesthetic integrity and emotional resonance of engagement photos.
Not only will you appreciate your photos for years to come, you'll also have wonderful Reels and Slideshows for the Gram!
Addressing Unique Skin and Hair Needs
Professional hair and makeup artists are adept at addressing the diverse needs of various skin tones and hair types.
Understanding that every individual has unique characteristics, they tailor their approach accordingly.
Through our team's expertise, they are capable of enhancing natural features while expertly concealing any imperfections, creating a perfect balance of radiance and elegance.
Such personalized attention ensures that everyone looks their best in engagement photos, allowing their true beauty to shine through while highlighting the love and joy of the occasion. This meticulous care not only boosts confidence but also contributes to timeless, stunning portraits.
Reducing Stress on Your Special Day
On a day as momentous as your engagement shoot, the anticipation of capturing perfect images can be overwhelming, yet professional hair and makeup artists are there to relieve some of that stress.
By putting trust in highly skilled professionals, individuals can significantly reduce their anxiety levels.
These experts manage every detail with precision, leaving no room for worry about appearance. Their deep understanding of the latest trends, timeless techniques, and individualized approaches ensures an elegant and cohesive look throughout the shoot and alleviates the pressure of last-minute beauty concerns.
Ultimately, knowing that appearance is in capable hands allows couples to focus on the joy of the moment. This confidence not only enhances their overall experience but also radiates through in their engagement photos, resulting in memorable and beautiful images that reflect their happiness and love without the shadow of stress.
The Role of Makeup Artists in Engagement Photos
Makeup artists possess the remarkable capacity to accentuate a person's natural beauty, making them look their best. Their experience ensures that every detail is meticulously attended to, crafting a flawless appearance that is perfectly suited for the camera. And, great wedding/engagement photographers will love you for hiring a beauty team to help make your final product a next-level endeavor.
In engagement photos, the objective is to capture the profound love and joy shared between partners, making romance the central theme throughout the shoot. A seasoned makeup artist understands the interplay of light and shadow in photography. This knowledge allows them to create a look that not only enhances features but also withstands the unique demands of a photo shoot. Their skills enable couples to shine confidently in front of the lens, ensuring the final images are as stunning as the emotions they convey.
Expert Techniques and Products
Professional hair and makeup artists employ advanced techniques, a hallmark of exceptional artistry, which shines through. Their expertise helps craft looks with a distinct polish suitable for any setting.
High-quality products are the backbone of their craft, ensuring a "camera-ready" finish. They use only the best to provide durability, resulting in stunning, timeless engagement photos.
Quality products ensure flawless, long-lasting results that stand up to humidity, sun, wind, and high-resolution scrutiny.
~ Jessica Mae
The right techniques: Experts know which styles and colors will accentuate a couple's best features (considering factors like skin tone), boosting their confidence for the ultimate photo experience. Their well-honed skills and top-tier products are a recipe for unforgettable engagement photos.
Highlighting Your Best Features
Professional hair and makeup artists excel at accentuating a person’s natural beauty, highlighting the best features of every individual.
Customized color palettes that complement skin tones.
Expert contouring to define and sculpt facial features.
Precision in application ensures long-lasting, flawless results.
Hair styling is tailored to enhance facial structure and personal style.
WPI Beauty Hair and Makeup Artists employ customized techniques, ensuring each individual stands out in their engagement session photos, thanks to the expertise of an engagement photographer.
Collaborating with experts ensures that every glance, smile, and pose is captured beautifully.
Their work transforms good photos into stunning, memorable images that will be cherished forever.
The Role of Hairstylists in Engagement Photos
A hairstylist's expertise becomes invaluable, especially for engagement photos, where every detail counts. Through their skillful manipulation of texture, volume, and style, hairstylists ensure that each strand falls perfectly in place, framing the face and enhancing the couple's natural charm. Their ability to tailor hairstyles to individual needs not only elevates the overall aesthetic but also fortifies the confidence of the subjects, resulting in images that resonate with authenticity and elegance.
Crafting the Perfect Hairdo
Creating the ideal hairstyle demands a nuanced understanding of each person's unique characteristics. Hairstylists bring their expertise to the table, identifying the most flattering styles for engagement photos, and making sure every detail enhances the subject's beauty.
The role of a hairstylist extends beyond simple styling—it’s about capturing essence and personality. By melding creativity with technical proficiency, hairstylists craft looks that are both timeless and contemporary, ensuring every glance is captivating and memorable.
The professional touch significantly boosts confidence, which shines through in each photo. With their invaluable know-how, hairstylists ensure couples look stunning, allowing them to focus on their connection and the joy of this special moment. WarPaint International hairstylists, like our Makeup Artist are interviewed, technically tested, and have experience working with engaged couples, brides, wedding parties, and families for all of life’s wedding events.
Above images:
Hair and Makeup by Artisan Mariah
Photography by Jeannine Marie Photography.
Utilizing Professional Tools and Products
WPI Beauty Professional hairstylists equip themselves with professional-grade tools and products to create stunning engagement photos.
They understand that the right professional-grade equipment makes an impressive difference, enhancing every detail. Top-quality hair tools and makeup products ensure that every strand and each shade of makeup works harmoniously to highlight natural beauty. This level of precision can only be achieved with specialized tools designed for professional use, making every photo session a resounding success.
Moreover, professional products are formulated to perform under various conditions. They possess long-lasting properties, ensuring the couple remains picture-perfect even as emotions run high. Applied with expert techniques, these products contribute significantly to a flawless appearance, ready to shine in every frame.
By leveraging high-quality tools and products, professionals bring a transformative quality that underscores their experience and artistry. Every brush stroke and hairpin is a testament to their commitment to excellence, ensuring the engagement photos reflect the best version of the couple, celebrating their unique journey with elegance and sophistication.
About WarPaint International Beauty Agency
WarPaint International Beauty Agency stands as a beacon of excellence, committed to transforming beauty into a profound experience of relaxation and intimacy for every client.
Our agency, renowned for its meticulous attention to detail and high standards, ensures that each client experiences a personalized journey toward their most radiant self. WarPaint International brings together top-tier beauty professionals whose skill and creativity elevate every project, from intimate events to grand occasions.
Notably, WarPaint is celebrated for its comprehensive approach. It offers a wide array of services tailored to meet diverse needs, ensuring each client's unique vision is realized with precision and artistry.
With an unwavering focus on quality and client satisfaction, the agency’s impact on the beauty industry is significant. Their expertise contributes to exceptional engagement photos that beautifully capture the essence of each couple during their engagement shoot, fostering memories that last a lifetime and setting new benchmarks of beauty and elegance.
Why Choose Us for Your Engagement Photos
Choosing us means investing in unparalleled expertise and a passionate team dedicated to capturing your love story in the most beautiful way possible.
Since 2013, WarPaint International, a premier beauty services agency, has consistently transformed engagement photos into timeless works of art. Our professional team ensures every detail is impeccable, providing a sophisticated and polished look unique to each couple. Our team is also background checked ensuring your safety and the safety of your personal belongings.
From the initial consultation to the final touches, our agency offers an experience that transcends just the photo session. WarPaint International guarantees personalized attention, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable engagement photoshoot process that results in stunning visuals.
Book Your Wedding Day Makeup and Hair and Save $100
Booking your engagement hair and makeup with WarPaint International not only ensures you look stunning for your engagement photos but also offers an exclusive benefit for your big day. With our engagement special, you receive $100 off your wedding beauty services when you book your engagement hair and makeup with us. This incredible offer allows you to experience our professional artistry and personalized service, giving you confidence in our ability to make you look and feel your best on both occasions.
Take advantage of this special promotion to enhance your beauty journey from engagement to wedding day, ensuring every moment is picture-perfect.
A Personal Journey Towards Safe Beauty Products
When it comes to beauty, you’ve likely heard buzz words like: natural, organic, cleaner, safer, green, and non-toxic. But what does this really mean, and why would someone who has built a career in the health and wellness industry get involved?
Jennifer’s story: Beautycounter
When it comes to beauty, you’ve likely heard buzz words like: natural, organic, cleaner, safer, green, and non-toxic. But what does this really mean, and why would someone who has built a career in the health and wellness industry get involved?
As the co-creator of the top-performing class format and Teacher Training program at one of the largest yoga and fitness company’s in the world, I’m grateful to be the Director of Programming and Teacher Training at a Twin Cities-based company where I create class formats and develop accredited teacher training programs and workshops that allow movement enthusiasts to take their teaching and practices to the next level. When I first stepped onto a yoga mat, I instantly connected with the physical and mental benefits of the practice, as well as the extraordinary teachers and students. The Twin Cities yoga community inspired me to leave corporate cube life and dive into a full-time health and wellness gig.
So, you’d think I’m “healthy”, right? Me too.
Childhood symptoms
Since the age of 10 or 11, I’ve suffered from debilitating migraines, which 85% of women suffer from. There was a point in my life where I was in and out of the hospital every other week and wondered how I’d finish high school or go to college. After visiting countless doctors, and mostly due to my personal research, I was able to pinpoint the role hormones played in my sickness - 80% of women suffer from hormonal imbalance.
At my wits end, and at the encouragement of a natural doctor, I started to learn the severe impact the products I slather on my body everyday could be having on my hormones – and my overall health. To put it lightly, I was furious! As human beings, we’re taught to believe that if we workout and eat well, we’re healthy, so when I learned that the last notable law regarding the safety of what I use on my largest organ every single day was passed over 80 years ago and bans a measly 30 ingredients out of the hundreds of thousands on the market, I had to take action. It’s 2019 in the US. This is a common-sense issue like no smoking on airplanes and seatbelts in cars!
Beautycounter. A safer way to beauty
Simply put, I joined a company that’s fighting every single day to regulate those buzz words. Enter Beautycounter - it changed my life. They are advocating for more health-protective laws in the largest consumer industry and that are providing safe, high-performing product options.
Some other organizations tried to blaze the way. Since 2004, there has been a movement called “Campaign for Safe Cosmetics” which has used smarts and sass to pressure the cosmetics industry to make safer products.
The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics coalition, a project of Breast Cancer Prevention Partners (formerly the Breast Cancer Fund), works to protect the health of consumers, workers and the environment through public education and engagement, corporate accountability and sustainability campaigns and legislative advocacy designed to eliminate dangerous chemicals linked to adverse health impacts from cosmetics and personal care products.
The Campaign has educated millions of people about the problem of toxic chemicals in cosmetics, which has led to an increased demand for safer products in the marketplace. Now hundreds of cosmetic companies fully disclose ingredients and avoid the use of cancer-causing chemicals, reproductive toxicants and other unsafe chemicals, demonstrating these practices are not only possible, but profitable. Retailers, too, are becoming part of the solution by requiring the national brands they sell to eliminate chemicals of concern and practice a higher level of ingredient transparency.
It’s progress, but we have a very long way to go in the United States with our journey towards safe beauty products…
Change was imminent
I had no choice. I did my research and changed this one simple aspect of my life to help carve the way for healthier living. My journey to safe beauty products pointed to Beautycounter for a few reasons. I crave connection with passionate, like-minded women, I saw an opportunity to work to pay off my pricey private school degree while making a significant social impact, and because I haven’t been this passionate about anything since becoming a fitness and yoga teacher.
BUT, change also happened because of these daunting and debilitating reasons.
I’ve suffered from unexplained debilitating migraines for almost two decades.
I care about my body and take care of myself by exercising and eating in moderation.
I’ve been lucky enough to make a career in the fitness industry and had NO clue the garbage I was slathering on my body every single day.
My hormones are already crazy enough without using products that could disrupt them even more.
Infertility is way too close to me and could be me (because…I was to control the controllable).
Everyone has someone close to them who died way too young from the C word (big love, sweet Allie).
Our government has not passed a meaningful federal law regulating personal care products since 1938.
The current legislation is less than two pages long and has sizable loopholes.
This legislation bans a measly 30 ingredients (compared to 1500+ in the EU), allowing products that contain potentially harmful toxins onto our counters and into our cabinets.
I can be a voice in this crucial mission.
We ALL deserve better.
When we know better, we do better.
Because Beautycounter was the #1 trending beauty brand of 2018.
To see what chemicals the products that you use every day may contain, try the EWG’s Skin Deep Cosmetic Database.
Jennifer Wieck
Supporting the mission to get safe products in the hands of everyone.
The Never List™
Beautycounter produces “The Never List” on their website. I’ve dropped those items below here so you can see some of the things we allow to be consumed in our daily routines that have long-term health affects for you and your family. The list is about 1500 products deep globally; the United States only bans 30 of them. Many of these product are cancer-causing and we let our skin soak them in every day of our lives. In an un-related article, you may find it interesting that dogs can detect cancer.
Just say no. Support the journey towards safe beauty products.
Benzalkonium Chloride
A disinfectant used as a preservative and surfactant associated with severe skin, eye, and respiratory irritation and allergies. Found in: sunscreens, moisturizers.
Butylatedhydroxy Anisole and Butylated Hydroxytoluene
Synthetic antioxidants used to extend shelf life. They are likely carcinogens and hormone disruptors and may cause liver damage. Found in: lipsticks, moisturizers, diaper creams, and other cosmetics.
Coal tar hair dyes and other coal tar ingredients
A byproduct of coal processing that is a known carcinogen. It is used as a colorant and an anti-dandruff agent. Found in: hair dye, shampoo.
Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)
A chelating (binding) agent added to cosmetics to improve stability. May be toxic to organs. Found in: hair color, moisturizers.
Ethanolamines (MEA/DEA/TEA)
Surfactants and pH adjuster linked to allergies, skin toxicity, hormone disruption, and inhibited fetal brain development. Found in: hair dyes, mascara, foundation, fragrances, sunscreens, dry cleaning solvents, paint, pharmaceuticals.
Formaldehyde
Used as a preservative in cosmetics. A known carcinogen that is also linked to asthma, neurotoxicity, and developmental toxicity. Present where quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3 diol (Bronopol), and several other preservatives are listed. Found in: shampoo, body wash, bubble bath.
Hydroquinone
A skin-lightening chemical that inhibits the production of melanin and is linked to cancer, organ toxicity, and skin irritation. Found in: skin-lightening creams.
Methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone
Chemical preservatives that are among the most common irritants, sensitizers, and causes of contact skin allergies. Found in: shampoo, conditioner, body wash.
Oxybenzone
Sunscreen agent and ultraviolet light absorber linked to irritation, sensitization and allergies, and possible hormone disruption. Found in: sunscreen, moisturizer.
Parabens (methyl-, isobutyl-, propyl- and others)
A class of preservatives commonly used to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. Parabens are endocrine (or hormone) disruptors, which may alter important hormone mechanisms in our bodies. Found in: shampoo, face cleanser, body wash, body lotion, foundation.
Phthalates (DBP, DEHP, DEP and others)
A class of plasticizing chemicals used to make products more pliable or to make fragrances stick to skin. Phthalates disrupt the endocrine system and may cause birth defects. Found in: synthetic fragrance, nail polish, hairspray, and plastic materials.
Polyethylene glycol (PEG compounds)
PEGs are widely used in cosmetics as thickeners, solvents, softeners, and moisture-carriers. Depending on manufacturing processes, PEGs may be contaminated with measurable amounts of ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, which are both carcinogens. Found in: creams, sunscreen, shampoo.
Retinyl palmitate and Retinol (Vitamin A)
A nutrient that may damage DNA and speed the growth of skin tumors when used topically. Found in: moisturizer, anti-aging skincare.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS and SLES)
SLS and SLES are surfactants that can cause skin irritation or trigger allergies. SLES is often contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct of a petrochemical process called ethoxylation, which is used to process other chemicals in order to make them less harsh. Found in: shampoo, body wash, bubble bath.
Synthetic flavor or fragrance
An engineered scent or flavoring agent that may contain any combination of 3,000-plus stock chemical ingredients, including hormone disruptors and allergens. Fragrance formulas are protected under federal law’s classification of trade secrets and therefore can remain undisclosed. Found in: all types of cosmetics.
Toluene
A volatile petrochemical solvent that is toxic to the immune system and can cause birth defects. Found in: nail polish.
Triclosan and Triclocarban
Antimicrobial pesticides toxic to the aquatic environment; may also impact human reproductive systems. Found in: liquid soap, soap bars, toothpaste.
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5 Essential Products for Makeup Beginners
Whether you’ve just entered the world of beauty products or you’re looking to brush up on your makeup skills, knowing what to include in your essentials kit is the first step in becoming a makeup pro. Once you have the basics sorted, you can move on to finding more unique variations of your favorite makeup and create your own style.
5 Essential Products for Makeup Beginners
Whether you’ve just entered the world of beauty products or you’re looking to brush up on your makeup skills, knowing what to include in your essentials kit is the first step in becoming a makeup pro. Once you have the basics sorted, you can move on to finding more unique variations of your favorite makeup and create your own style.
In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the basic items that you can pick up from the beginning. We’ve also included a bit of information on each product, as well as a few recommendations to help you get started. So, without further ado, here are the essentials that you should have on hand for your daily routine.
Foundation and Concealer
When it comes to achieving a tone and level of concealment that you like, these two important ingredients should be number one on your shopping list. Starting off, your foundation should be light and natural. The last thing you want to do as a beginner is cake your face with too much makeup.
CC Cream is a great option that provides sufficient coverage. Maybelline and IT Cosmetics are two affordable and reliable brands to check out for your foundation and concealer needs. Be sure to apply a light amount starting off and don’t forget to cover around your eyes and below your jawline.
Eyelash Extensions
Unlike mascara and fake lashes, extensions last for up to a month with good maintenance and can help you achieve a fuller, longer and more versatile look without much fuss. The Lash Professional offers a comprehensive range of high quality, affordable eyelash extension supplies to help you get started. They also have a professional guide on everything you need to know about eyelash extensions.
Primer
If you want to achieve a smoother skin texture and fill in any lines or blemishes before applying foundation, pick up some primer. Application is simple and easy, requiring nothing more than a good brush. Here are some tips to help you apply primer like a pro.
Brushes
Leave your fingers for the moisturizer and pick up a good set of brushes for all your makeup applications. A brush makes applying and blending makeup a much more efficient, effective and hygienic process. It’s also easier to mix and match different tones and colors. BH Cosmetics has a pretty solid range of brushes for you to get started with. Sigma Beauty also has a great line up with something for everyone.
Sigma Beauty Dimensional Brush Set
An Eyebrow Kit
Natural brows are awesome but still require some maintenance. A simple set including tweezers, scissors, brushes and a pencil is all you need if you’re blessed with great looking eyebrows. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case for all of us and a bit of help from a more advanced brow kit is often necessary. Here’s a list with some great eyebrow kits for beginners.
Now that you have the essentials, it’s time to dive into the rabbit hole of makeup kits. The countless variety of products will inevitably be a little overwhelming at first, but with enough experience and know-how, you’ll eventually get the hang of it. Just don’t get too carried away - makeup can be expensive!
Want to learn these looks on your own? Book an in-home makeup lesson with a WarPaint International artisan, we also do personal makeup shopping! Happy New Year!
How To Keep Your Makeup From Running When You're Sweaty
Any woman who’s performed in front of a crowd knows how stressful it can be. The human body is a marvelous, powerful thing, but it tends to react in the extreme when we’re faced with any stress of our own. This leads to one of makeup’s biggest enemies: sweat.
How to keep makeup from running
Any woman who’s performed in front of a crowd knows how stressful it can be. The human body is a marvelous, powerful thing, but it tends to react in the extreme when we’re faced with any stress of our own. This leads to one of makeup’s biggest enemies: sweat.
When makeup is up against so many odds from bright, hot lights to sweaty skin, how do you keep your makeup looking it’s best? How do celebrities preserve their perfect looks on the red carpets and when it’s heating up on sets? What about the performers and dancers of the world who break a sweat during their time on stage? Here are tips from the experts for keeping your makeup from running when you’re sweaty.
Start with a primer
If your makeup doesn’t have the right base, it’ll be more likely to slide right off your face. Just like when you paint a wall in your house, you have to start with a fresh coat of primer. While your face isn’t exactly a wall, the same principle applies. If you’re prone to oily skin or excessive sweat, you especially should consider using a primer.
When selecting a face primer, opt for one built for your skin type. If you’re prone to oil, choose a mattifying or smoothing primer which will keep your face from getting that shiny look. If you have a lot of redness, opt for a color correcting primer with green undertones.
Choose your foundation wisely
You don’t want to overdo it with your foundation when you’re likely to be sweating. For example, if it’s the height of summer on your wedding day, don’t go for the heaviest coverage you can find. These will only bleed down your face throughout the day. Instead, opt for powder or airbrush makeup. Powder makeup is lighter and stays put much more effectively than liquid foundation.
Additionally, airbrush makeup provides consistent, moderate coverage without appearing heavy. Because it’s applied in a very fine mist, it has a stronger staying power. Airbrushed makeup lasts longer and feels lighter. Because it allows your pores to breath, you’re less likely to feel overheated throughout the day.
Don’t listen to makeup that claims to be sweat-proof. Natural, high-quality makeup is naturally sweat-proof. Because it contains talc as a binding agent, it has natural abilities to stick to your skin without sliding throughout the day. This is yet another reason to be meticulous when selecting the right foundation for your needs.
Set your makeup
Finally, your makeup needs to be set after application to guarantee it stays where you want it. Using a setting powder will help absorb any excess oil and sweat, so it’s a great first layer. Aside from setting powder, a setting spray will add another barrier between your makeup and the outside world.
Look for a setting spray that doesn’t have any alcohol on the ingredients list. Using a setting spray with alcohol is drying to the face which can cause cracks in your foundation. You wouldn’t risk driving without insurance, would you? Why would you waste your makeup without setting it with powder and spray?
Be prepared to blot
No matter what you do, some sweat might still sneak through. This is okay if you’re prepared with the right tools for touching up your look. It might be tempting to jump right to re-applying your makeup when you see signs of it slipping, but don’t start there. It’s smarter to blot with oil blotting paper or a paper towel to get rid of excessive oil before you touch up your look. If you skip this step, there won’t be much for your makeup to stick to.
Look to the pros
Finally, take a hint from the professionals. Dancers, for example, rock their full-faces of makeup despite harsh lights and high stress. They use professional-level makeup to make sure they have perfect performances every time. Alexandra has the perfect dance shoes just as professional dancers use high-quality makeup and professional application.
If you’re planning for your big day, whether it’s a performance or even your wedding day, you might consider professional help. A qualified makeup artist can help you establish a sweat-proof beauty routine. In the meantime, use the tips above to keep your face looking fresh all day long.
More Women Are Bringing Hair & Makeup To The Delivery Room
More and more women are hiring beauty services on-site in one place you might have thought of - the delivery room. It's no secret that women feel better when they look better and that is our goal with delivering hair and makeup services to new mothers.
Birthing Center Beauty Services
More and more women are hiring beauty services on-site, in one place you might not have thought of - the delivery room.
You might not think of yourself as a celebrity, or rather one who needs to be camera-ready 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, but whether you realize it or not we have all celebritized ourselves in some small way by living out our lives on social media. So when celebrity stars are booking beauty professionals to come into the birthing center to have their hair and makeup done, it might seem to be "too much" or not for you. The truth is, the trend took off quite some time ago and WarPaint International has been beautifying new moms for their after-delivery photo sessions for a couple of years now. And though we've worked with the wives of professional athletes from the Minnesota Vikings and Minnesota Wild, there are certainly women without A-list status booking WarPaint Artisans in the delivery room too.
WPI Founder, Jessica Mae, started her mission with this beauty agency with the idea that Life is a stage - "Prepare For Battle". This growing trend of delivery room beauty services couldn't be more grounded in our tagline.
When to book
Today we will always see new mothers sharing photos of their newborn baby in the delivery room, whether it be on social media, their photo albums on their phone or in their home. What image would you like your friends and family to see? There's simply no reason to LOOK like you just went through labor when you don't have to.
“Hair is not the only focus - many moms are now also reporting calling in on-site makeup artists to finish the look in the delivery room. ”
Many women look back at their memories from the hospital and wish they would have looked a bit more put together, as they'll be sharing and reminiscing about those memories for the rest of their life. Maybe you'd like to hang it on your bedroom wall or in the baby's room.
Media outlets across the United States have reported on the growing trend of stylists arriving at hospitals with their kits of curling irons, hair sprays, etc to style a new mom's hair after labor, but before photos. Hair is not the only focus though - many moms are now also reporting calling in on-site makeup artists to finish the look. Presumably you don't want to do it yourself...
Photo Credit: makeupbyalaha via US Magazine
So when is the time to call on these beauty professionals? Some women have their beauty team glam them up during labor because their focus is that moment directly after birth with their newborn baby. Some have hired a professional photographer to come into the delivery room sometime after birth to get newborn photos after they've decompressed from this major life event. The later seems like a less stressful plan, but it's entirely up to you and your baby.
Look like yourself
If you follow the stars, you probably haven't forgotten Kate Middleton stepping out in high heels and with perfectly bouncy hair after delivering newborn Charlotte? Other stars such as Beyonce emerged form childbirth with a head of voluminous, shiny curls while holding baby Blue Ivy years back.
PHOTO VIA ED BURKE FOR BEYONCE.COM
So let's be clear - you don't need to keep up with the Jones's. Celebrity personalities are followed by the media everywhere they go. Whether they look good or shabby, it's never quite right and always news-worthy. So they opt to be fabulous and drive the standard - whether they like it or not. It's just part of the job.
You're not a celebrity. So we've identified you're not a celebrity, therefore, it's not about waving at the cameras as you leave the birthing center. You want to look like you, but with a fresh face and nice hair. That's really the focus of what we're talking about here and as a professional beauty agency catering to these growing needs, this is where we come in. So what are our tips and advice for bringing on-site beauty services into the delivery room?
No lashes and bold colors
If your focus is to capture the memory than keep it all about you. You will already have a natural glow and smile that surfaces only once or twice in a lifetime. We would never prescribe a red carpet look or something you might do for a night on the town. That's not you - that's a version of you that isn't having a baby. Most of the clients that we work with in birthing centers keep it simple with a fresh, natural face and nicely manicured hairstyle.
Embrace the comfort
It's true, some clients report that there is comfort in having beauty services done either during their delivery or directly after. Women that can't comprehend having this done often have the comment that they wouldn't want people in their face and it's too excessive, but for some the opposite is true. Some moms report feeling reduced nerves and actually being able to focus on the pampering vs the labor. For those that hire beauty-on-demand services to come in after childbirth with their photographer, there seems to be a whole new level of luxury and relaxation in the beautifying process. It's really all about making mom comfortable.
Trust in your team
Should you opt for delivery room beauty services, you have to put trust in your team. You've sourced a professional or two.. you've hired them for the job. Now, just relax and let them take care of you - trust me when I tell you that they are having a memorable life experience alongside you that can not be replicated the same way again with anyone else. Memories and relationships are all that you have.
Keep it about feeling your best
Ultimately, labor is a grueling experience, even with painkillers. It's no secret that women feel better when they look better and that is our goal with delivering hair and makeup services to new mothers. Because although looking and feeling better is a key element for your photo memories, feeling really good about yourself and how you reflect on your memories is what it's all about.
Why Should You Hire a Beauty Agency
Well, not all beauty agencies are built the same. In fact, many are not agencies - they are freelance artists who contract a few other people. Whether you are a new mom, a bride-to-be or hiring on-site services in your home or office, there are many factors to consider outside the skillset or reputation of a particular artist.
How about your safety? How about the safety of your family and loved ones? At WarPaint International, our team goes through an onboarding process that we believe to be unique. At first, we interview our Artisans, we then technically test them for skillsets, customer service and hygiene practices with products, brushes, etc. From there, our Hair Stylists and Makeup Artists go through national criminal background checks. We look for everything and we do turn people down because we hold a very high standard when it comes to trust and safety in our client's homes, hotel rooms, delivery rooms and offices.
Are you looking for trusted beauty professionals? You can learn more about us and the benefit of an agency at Why WarPaint International.
Photo: Amore Lux Studios. The Leadership Team at WarPaint International.
Download WPI's media kit to view our beauty services. From delivery rooms, to weddings, to a simple night out and all of life's events - WarPaint International Artisans are focused on making your memories as vibrant as possible.
3 Top Trending Wedding Makeup Looks
When thinking about what style of makeup you are going for, the way in which you communicate to your artist is essential. Here are the top 3 trending wedding makeup looks and my recommendation on how to acheive them.
There is so much that goes into planning your wedding. The venue, Photographer, Flowers, THE Dress, etc. When it comes time to think about what you want your wedding makeup looks to be for the big day, there is SO much to think about. Not to mention the countless photos on Pinterest, Instagram and Google. Where to begin?
“When thinking about what style of makeup you are going for, the way in which you communicate to your artist is essential. ”
My recommendation is to stay true to who you are. Really think about what your personal style is, and make your goal to accentuate that. Too often I hear about brides who go against what they truly want, and where their comfort zone truly lies. Now, if you are someone who wants to do something different and out of your comfort zone, by all means, go for it girl!
When thinking about what style of makeup you are going for, the way that you communicate to your makeup artist is essential. Having photos of inspiration is a great starting point, but also knowing what you want and using the right terms to describe it will lend to the success of the look.
I am here to help! I have broken down 3 Top Trending Wedding Makeup Looks to aid in not only narrowing down the look you want, but also being able to then communicate that to your artist.
On to the wedding makeup looks!
Natural
For ladies that want to slightly enhance their natural beauty, keeping your makeup look simple is the way to go. This is what most brides ask their artists for, but knowing what natural makeup means to an artist versus you is very important. Coming prepared with photos is key. When this makeup look is requested it is also helpful to have a photo of yourself with your daily makeup done. This way it gives your artist a gauge of what you're used to - if anything at all.
“Knowing what natural makeup means to an artist versus you is very important.”
When a natural makeup look is requested I recommend airbrush foundation as it tends to look more like your actual skin and is lightweight while still giving nice coverage. When requesting this look from your artist it is helpful to use descriptive words like; fresh, glowy (if you like a glowy look), not over done, myself but slightly enhanced.
Pro tip: When thinking about lashes for a natural look, ask your artist about individual lashes or a half strip lash.
Natural
You, but a little more than your every day.
Romantic
I love this look for brides who want to have a hint of glam, but not too much. This type of makeup look is great for clients who want more than their every day look, but still would like to look like themselves. For me, what makes a look romantic is adding lashes and a little hint of smokiness to the shadow. This makeup look works for any type of venue or time of year. When requesting this look from your artist it is helpful to use descriptive words like; medium spicy, natural glam, romantic.
Pro Tip: For an extra pop, have your artist use shadows with some shimmer to them!
Glam
Full on bold and spicy! Glam looks are great for clients who love to wear makeup and want to make a statement with their look. If you're considering this look you can count on a bold lip, a smokey eye, some contouring (or sculpting which I prefer to call it) and of course lashes! I typically see brides request this type of look if they have a Fall, Winter or evening wedding, but the Glam bride can rock this look any time she wants. When requesting this look from your artist it is helpful to use descriptive words like; sassy, sexy, bold.
Pro Tip: Take your look to the next level by adding wings to your eye liner!
Glam
For those not afraid to make a statement.
Whatever style of makeup you decide on, make sure it makes you feel like your most beautiful self. Too often I have brides in my chair who are easily influenced by others (ahem... Mother of the Bride and sisters...) of what they think the bride should have for makeup. Remember, you're the one getting married - not them.
One last piece of advice...
Keep in mind when you are looking for inspiration images... any image you find online is likely edited. Some more so than others, but they are all edited. It is also a good idea to find photos where the person in it has similar features to you. Having realistic expectations not only sets you up for success but your artist as well.
Photo Credits:
Banner Image: Brovado Weddings.
Natural Makeup: James Stokes Photography.
Romantic Makeup: De La Vue.
Glam Makeup: Justina Louse Photography.
Want to learn these looks on your own? Book an in-home makeup lesson with a WarPaint International artisan, we also do personal makeup shopping!
5 easy steps for your 2017 Makeup Bag overhaul!
2017 is off and running - so it’s time to take a look at your makeup bag. Let’s toss the old, keep the new and upgrade our look this year; shall we? Here are 5 simple steps...
What's in Your Makeup Bag?
2017 is off and running - so it’s time to take a look at your makeup bag. Let’s toss the old, keep the new and upgrade our look this year; shall we? Here are 5 simple steps to help you declutter your makeup bag and discover a new and more fabulous you!
Step One: Take inventory of your makeup. When’s the last time you replaced your mascara? Have you been using the same blush for 3 years? Probably time to toss it and get a new one. Even for “solid” products bacteria builds up over time, so make sure you are adhering to the shelf life guidelines of the product.
Pro Tip: You can extend the life of solid products by sanitizing them from time to time. Make sure you use a 70% alcohol as opposed to 99%.
Image: www.hypehair.com
Step Two: Implement a brush washing routine. You really should wash your makeup brushes once a week. (Note: if you use a beauty blender or makeup sponge, those should be washed after each use!) DO NOT use rubbing alcohol or other soaps on your brushes. The bristles will become dry and brittle ruining your brush.
Make sure to use a gentle shampoo designed for makeup brushes. I really like the makeup brush shampoo from Sigma Beauty, as well as their brush cleaning mats & gloves.
Image: Sigma Beauty
Step Three: Schedule a makeup lesson with a pro artist. Many artists, like those who work for my company, will come to your home for a personalized lesson. In addition to teaching you all that you want to know about applying makeup to yourself, they will take a look at your makeup bag and give you advice on additional products you should purchase. They will ask questions about your lifestyle and daily routine, to make sure they teach techniques that will be appropriate to the amount of time that you want to spend putting your paint on each day.
Photo Credit: Brio Art
Skin Care is a must!
Step Four: We can’t have great makeup without great skin care. Go see an esthetician for a facial and chat with her or him about the current products you’re using. A solid skin care routine will make or break your makeup application. Trust me! Ps: We love Jill at Skin Savvy, tell her WarPaint sent you!
Step Five: Hit your local Sephora or cosmetics department. Try something new, I dare you! I’ve talked with many women who say they’ve always wanted to rock a red lip, or wear false lashes. DO IT! We only get one go around at this life - step out of the box a bit; you may find you like it.
Photo Credit: Conner Bilt
Following these easy steps will help you declutter your makeup bag. They will save you time and keep you looking and FEELING your very best! For an ultimate makeover, book a WarPaint International artisan for a makeup lesson - you won't regret it!
Xo,
Jessica Mae
Founder & Creative Director
Behind Every Amazing Makeup Application Is Great Skin Care
Ladies, I am here to tell you that if you do not take good care of your skin your makeup will not look good either. Think of your skin like the foundation of your home. If the foundation is solid, then a beautiful home can be built on it.
Skin Care, AHHH!
As a child growing up, we're told "Wash your face!", "Put sunscreen on!" from our parents. A task that as kids, we most likely had a sassy comment back or at least rolled our eyes. Now, through years of experience and self-education, I've learned how important a good skincare regimen is. I'd put myself in the skincare enthusiast category.
Enter Adulthood... I've been working as a professional makeup artist for 10 years, you could say that I've seen it all {or almost all}. With that in mind, what shocks me the most is when I ask a client about their skincare and they tell me "Oh I just use bar soap." or "Does splashing water on my face before bed count?" or the worst of them all "I don't wash my makeup off ever.". (<--- if this is you stop it right now! For every day you don't wash you makeup off your skin will age by 7 days!!)
Before and after shots above: Experts said Anna's skin aged by ten years as a result of not removing her make-up for an entire month. Original Article from DailyMail.co.UK. Read More.
Why Don't You Wash Your Face?
I hear these comments more often than not these days. It's left me asking...WHY? I don't think it's due to lack of resources or education. There are more skincare products out in the market than we can count. I also don't think it's due to the lack of being able to find products that are affordable. I do, however, believe that two things are happening:
- We are relying too much on the facade that makeup will make everything perfect. I know this because I've had women say to me "Why would I waste money on skincare when makeup can make me look perfect?".
- Social media has given a false sense of reality. This is not a new epiphany. We know that social media often is "smoke and mirrors" especially when it comes to images of beauty. With tons of filter & editing options, we're able to hide any flaw on our face in an image, and in an instant.
LADIES..., I am here to tell you that if you do not take good care of your skin your makeup will not look good either. Sure, you might not see the effects right away, but over time this will absolutely be the case. Think of your skin like the foundation of your home. If the foundation is solid, then a beautiful home can be built on it. If your skin is well taken care of, a beautiful makeup application can be applied and you'll look amazing! It's that simple. Now, I know that skincare products can be costly but they don't have to be. I also know that mother nature has a funny way of intervening and sometimes it's a challenge to get our skin to cooperate. What I'm talking about here is simply the need for us to take better care of our skin and ourselves. Here are a few tips for an easy, effective and affordable skincare routine.
STEP 1
Cleanse both morning and night. I really like the Gentle Daily Cleanser from Arbonne. For $28 it's a high-quality product that won't break the bank. For those that are acne-prone, I'd recommend Neutrogena's Oil-Free Acne Wash ($5). Start off by using it once a day (and your other cleanser for the second wash) then increase to twice a day, but if you get dry or flakey back it down to just once a day. Make sure you are getting all of your makeup off - especially mascara. Use an eye makeup remover to ensure it's gone for the day.
STEP 2
Exfoliate 2 to 3 times per week. Exfoliating can help improve your skin's overall tone & texture as it removes dead skin cells. This also allows your skincare products to penetrate deeper into the skin. If you like to use a granular exfoliant, make sure that you are really gentle and don't rub your skin harshly. Using gentle circular motions - polish your skin.
STEP 3
Moisturize Day and Night. This is a crucial step. Properly moisturizing your skin will help with anti-aging and also help your makeup application go on smoothly and last throughout the day. My two favorites moisturizing products right now are Ultra Sheer from Skin Medica ($58) and Water Balm from Sonia Roselli ($48). Both are a little spendier but so worth it. Water Balm is a multi-use product as well, so there's lots of bang for your buck! Don't forget a good night cream. I like No 7's Beautiful Skin Night Cream ($15).
STEP 4
SPF! The sun is one of the leading causes of aging and not to mention the risk of skin cancer. Apply after your serum / moisturizer / eye cream. I really like Skin Medica's Tinted SPF ($68), I use that one as a foundation replacement in the summer. Neutrogena's Age Shield Face Lotion ($13) is also a great affordable option.
STEP 5
Go to see an esthetician. Regular facials can make a huge difference. An esthetician will treat your skin based on its needs. This is especially helpful for those pesky blackheads. He or she will do extractions to clean out the pores and leave your skin soft & supple. A good facial will run you around $80, but look for deals on places like Groupon if you're sticking to a budget.
BONUS: To REALLY make a difference in your skin (do all of the above of course) invest in a Clarisonic. Seriously. They are a bit expensive, but so worth it. I've had mine for 2 years now and I can't speak highly enough about how it has changed my skin. I now have the confidence to go sans-makeup and still feel beautiful. I attribute a lot that to using my Clarisonic every day along with great skincare products. Save your pennies and get one. You won't regret it!
Me, no makeup - no filter!
Those are the basics. Start with those 5 steps and your skin will thank you, as well as your makeup artist. If you come to a makeup appointment with skin that hasn't been cleaned in a week, your makeup will not be all that it can be and you can't blame your artist if the makeup lacks the level of perfection you were expecting - there's only so much we can do. Take the extra few minutes a day and invest in your skin, invest in YOU!
Lastly, none of the above really matters unless you are well-rested and in good health. Starting with good sleeping habits can not only change your life but accelerate great skin care (among many other things). To learn more, read this article about:
Top Tips To Help You Get Your Beauty Sleep.
Lacuna Coil's, Cristina Scabbia talks about Beauty - Inside and Out.
WarPaint International Beauty Agency's Founder & Creative Director, Jessica Mae, sits down for a heart-to-heart about inner and outer beauty, with Rock Goddess, Cristina Scabbia of Lacuna Coil.
Interview with Cristina Scabbia
WarPaint International Beauty Agency's Founder & Creative Director, Jessica Mae, sits down for a heart-to-heart about inner and outer beauty, with Rock Goddess, Cristina Scabbia of Lacuna Coil.
“ When you believe in who you are and who you represent, and look at yourself in the mirror... and you’re proud of yourself - you can only irradiate magnetic energy around you.
”
Image courtesy of Century Media: Loudwire
The beauty industry is nearing the $500 billion mark and proving to be a creative outlet for professionals, hobbyists, women and men. With the number of cosmetic companies and beauty brands that have niched their way into the drawers and cases of beauty fanatics, its no wonder that actors, musicians and creatives of all types rely heavily on their go-to products.
But what exactly does "Beauty" mean? The latest Makeup trends on Instagram may have you thinking that tiger stripes and heavy contouring are how normal women are supposed to look. Jessica Mae's chat with Cristina Scabbia reveals a little bit of insight to her go-to products and perspective on beauty, but also.. what beauty really means to Cristina Scabbia.
Interview - The Deep Stuff
Jessica Mae:
You’ve spoken quite a bit over the years about not depriving yourself from the sexy element of being a beautiful woman inside an industry and genre that is largely dominated by men. Can you describe your thoughts on how beauty is perceived in the metal / rock industry and how your personal style works to combat people’s perceptions of what beauty really is?
Cristina:
Back when I started, there were not so many metal bands with a female in the line up. So I guess I developed during that year, a sort of “I don’t care what you think” attitude, as I don’t really see myself as the different element in the band. I look at myself as a singer and performer.
That said, I like my femininity as an individual and I am proud to be a woman. So even if I am also “one of the guys” I still love to play with my hair and make up and wear a tight dress with killer heels.
Now things are even more mixed up and some guys are wearing more makeup and hairspray than women usually do so the game has changed :) Whenever a look works very well and can be loved by many, there is also that other part of the crowd that will keep and extra eye on you and judge whatever you wear or how you look “just ‘cause”. It's part of the game and I love that , it keeps it exciting :)
This is also why I’ve never tried to fight against whoever had pre-conceptions about females in a rock metal world…because it would be useless. And in the end, everyone chooses their own idea of what beauty is, and it is impossible to make everybody happy.
Jessica Mae:
How does femininity play into your role in Lacuna coil? What elements do you work hard at to ensure that you remain “Cristina" at your core?
Cristina:
Honestly I would not know, as I don’t think about it at all! I think there is a special sparkle from inside that tells you what to do in every situation, may it be in a live show, in a photoshoot or in a regular day out. The most important thing for me (and the most natural) is to be myself, whatever happens and whatever the situation is. That includes taking public photos with no makeup on… or being super dressed with makeup on. This is even if I am alone at home, ahaha!
Jessica Mae:
Can you talk a little bit about some of the criticisms you’ve faced from a beauty perspective inside the metal music scene?
Cristina:
Well, women in the business are in a position of being more easily accused of abusing their “sexuality” in photoshoots and live shoots: some people might think they try to sell themselves out. All the while, no one says anything if a guy sweats with no shirt on… :-)
I don’t tend to show too much, but only because i like to feel comfy and I'm more of a tomboy. But I think that all the other women should be free to do whatever they want on stage and wear whatever they want (or go naked if they like) as long as THEY are the ones who chose the way they dress.
Jessica Mae:
You are a big advocate of inner beauty. In a world that is mostly material and driven by sex-appeal marketing, can you talk about what’s below the surface for Cristina Scabbia? - What does inner beauty mean to you?
Cristina:
In one word I would probably say... CONFIDENCE.
I know that's a word that’s maybe been a little trite or abused. but it’s so perfect in the end. When you believe in who you are and who you represent and look at yourself in the mirror and you’re proud of yourself, you can only irradiate magnetic energy around you.
Jessica Mae:
What defines the beauty of a woman?
Cristina:
Some women have that special “glow” that everyone else is amazed by. It might be the light in the eyes, some gestures, a special way of walking… Beauty in general is such a complex thing to define. A person can have nearly perfect facial features and the perfect body (in terms of a generic aesthetic idea) but then they might not be attractive anyway. Weird, uh?
Jessica Mae:
If you were to sit with a group of young women that struggled with self-confidence and inner beauty, what tips or piece of advice would you give them? What should they walk away with? What would they learn from Cristina Scabbia?
Cristina:
I would say this. You think you are not beautiful because you are hypnotized by media bombarding you with the ideals of the “perfect woman”. But if you pay more attention to how many women are completely far from that ideal, do you still consider yourself very beautiful and attractive?
Looks are very standardized these days but true beauty really comes from within. We are ALL different and unique, there is none in the world just like us. We are not even a limited edition so-to-speak - we are all one-of-a-kind… yet we don’t always appreciate that.
Jessica Mae:
Speaking of self-confidence, inner beauty is often driven by one’s ability to see their own glow and special light in the world. What words of wisdom do you have about self-confidence, when we’re often surrounded by people trying to take that away from us.
Cristina:
I would be a hypocrite if I would simply say to someone else: “believe in yourself, you can do it!”.
Obviously I strongly believe that the more I believe in myself, the more I am driven and the more I feel comfortable with my reflection in the mirror. But I also have some days when I feel that I look like shit no matter what makeup I have on, whatever dress I am wearing. Its then that I realize that 99% of the time its not even about my look, it is not about how people really see me… but is about ME, judging myself on a deeper level because I am usually bothered about something else.
Did you notice that when you feel very happy you pretty much feel you look fantastic even with no makeup and a cheap shirt on?
Jessica Mae:
Can you describe your journey briefly, growing up as a Creative, an Entrepreneur and a female business owner. Is there anything you wish you could have done differently? How have your biggest challenges related to being female?
Cristina:
Woah... long story short (we are talking about almost 20 years in Lacuna coil), I started to sing in Lacuna coil in 1996, when there were definitely not so many bands with a female in the line up. Weird thing is, I have never felt like the different element and never felt I had to work more because I was a female. I looked at myself as another member in the band.
Of course I had to go through stages like “hey, I might be slightly pretty but I can actually sing as well!” to convince a still very conservative slice of metal fans that there was space for women in metal. I am very happy that things changed though, and there are now more women in bands of all genres. I am also proud of the fact that I am still here and others are looking at me as an example to follow. I am honored.
As per my career, I took care of my singing (writing lyrics and creating vocal lines) and also my looks from day one. I adopted some in the past that were not exactly great, especially in the first years (I still remember a blue short velvet dress with very puffy eyes, tons of make up and fake long nails) but I also came out of it with great ones that fans are still remembering. In the beginning, I experimented a lot and it was my attempt on searching for the perfect look and I quickly realized, changing and playing with my image, that the best solution was to wear a style of clothes that was… me.
Jessica Mae:
You were quoted once saying, "No matter what, be strong, because the message that people will get is from your strength. There is not just one kind of beauty in this world." Can you describe the time or moment when you turned the page and understood what that strength and inner beauty looked like for you?
Cristina:
It is weird because some people think I am, but I never really looked at me as a beautiful woman. I still consider myself as a very normal (at least aesthetically) woman that learned to improve some things on her look.
I think strength is when you don’t feel the most perfect person in the world but it is when you can accept your flaws as well, and make them your best quality.
The Fun Stuff: On The Surface
Jessica Mae:
We know that understanding what is inside, is the driving force behind one’s beauty, but we still like to “look” beautiful and feel sexy too. What are the top 3 things that you do to create your radiant look or sex appeal?
Cristina:
My “raccoon eyes” signature look. My eyes are kind of small so I started to enhance them years ago with lots of black matte eyeshadow that was reminiscent of “smokey eye” look, but was also covering all the lower part of the eye. So I feel good when I have this look on!
Whenever I want to feel really sexy I put on a mini-dress and very high heels. I don’t wear them often (my friends are always telling me I have to show them more, ahaha!) as I feel uncomfortable to show my legs. I prefer leggings and biker boots but I have lots of high heel shoes at home (I love to own them but don’t wear them often… weirdo). So I put them to use every once in a while.
I also have a weird passion for fake fur jackets especially when they are super puffy - funny (with ears for example) and with strange colors. I know it sounds silly but I feel so comfortable that some people say my face kind of changes too and is more relaxed. Eeeeeh!! I am strange, I know.
Jessica Mae:
What is your favorite shade of lipstick right now?
Cristina:
Redrum by Jeffree Star cosmetics. Awesome shade of red.
Jessica Mae:
If you had to choose one beauty product that is your favorite, what would it be??
Cristina:
The Beauty blender, it changed my whole makeup universe!!!!
(Check out this link for some great tips on how to clean the beauty blender)
Jessica Mae:
Your eyeliner is always so rich in color. What brand do you like to use?
Cristina:
The Kat Von D one (tattoo liner in shade Trooper), is pretty cool!
Jessica Mae:
What is your favorite brand of makeup and/or beauty products?
Cristina:
Anastasia Beverly Hills, Becca, Bare Minerals, Kat Von D, Urban Decay, Benefits, Jeffree star, Beauty Blender.
Jessica Mae:
And I think everybody probably wants to know... how long does it take you to get ready before a show?
Cristina:
Not much!! I don’t spend a lot of time putting makeup on, definitely waaaaay under half an hour. And in the case of need, a few minutes at best :-)
The Wrap Up
There you have it! Some thoughts on the meaning of beauty and few personal indulgences from Cristina Scabbia. Not only am I a huge personal fan of Cristina and her success with Lacuna Coil, I truly believe she lives in my own beliefs that our company wears proudly on their backs. Life is a Stage "Prepare For Battle".
Cristina Scabbia | Lacuna Coil & Jessica Mae | WarPaint International Beauty Agency.
Lacuna Coil: The House of Shame.
You can hear Cristina's heavenly voice against the metal grit of Andrea Ferro and the powerful Maki bass line, in this new single. Check it out!!
PRIDE Hair & Makeup Looks for 2015
#TCPride 2015. This year, WarPaint International Beauty Agency worked with Minneapolis's premier GLBT Journal, Lavender Magazine, to create a few Pride hair and makeup looks with three local Minneapolis celebrity figures. Nothing compliments a Pride festival like Hair, Makeup & Glamour. Check out how these three Minneapolis celebs "Prepare For Battle™" with WarPaint International's "Pride Paint" for 2015.
"Pride Paint" #TCPride.
Celebrity Hair & Makeup looks for TC Pride 2015.
“So how do three of our local celebs show their Pride? Doug Melroe, Grant Whittaker, and Jamie Yuccas give you an Event Look, an Everyday Look, and a Special Occasion Look.”
#TCPride 2015. This year, WarPaint International Beauty Agency worked with Minneapolis's premier GLBT Journal, Lavender Magazine, to create a few Pride hair and makeup looks with three local Minneapolis celebrity figures. Nothing compliments a Pride festival like Hair, Makeup & Glamour. Check out how these three Minneapolis celebs "Prepare For Battle™" with WarPaint International's "Pride Paint" for 2015.
Doug Melroe
LOOK: PRIDE EVENT
"You may recognize Doug Melroe as the face of The Firm, where he has been teaching since 1986. He has also led the warm up for the MN AIDS Walk every year for 28 years. Or you might recognize him as the guy at the end of the Pride parade wearing his pride and not much else." ~ Lavender Magazine.
On Doug: Makeup: Carla Anderson, Artistic Director; WarPaint International.
Photography by Kyle Lieberman
Grant Whittaker
LOOK: EVERYDAY
"A Twin Cities style catalyst and fashion and events producer, Grant sets the table with European flair and new and original ideas." ~ Lavender Magazine.
On Grant: Hair & Makeup: Benjamin Rodich Artistic Director; WarPaint International.
Photography by Kyle Lieberman
Jamie Yuccas
LOOK: SPECIAL OCCASION
CBS local news anchor by morning. Fervent philanthropic cheerleader by night. Friend and supporter of the GLBT community — always and forever.
On Jamie: Hair & Makeup: Anna Giuliano, Artisan, and Jessica Mae, Creative Director; WarPaint International.
Photography by Kyle Lieberman
Photography by Kyle Lieberman
PRIDE PAINT
By Brandon McCray June 11, 2015
Categories: Featured - Home Page, Our Scene, Style & Entertaining
Orignial article: Lavender Magazine Pride Edition.
Book your Pride Hair & Makeup online,
with WarPaint International Beauty agency.
Top 5 Wedding Day Skin Care Tips for Brides.
Your wedding day is here but your skin is FREAKING OUT!
One of the biggest concerns that a Bride-to-be has on her wedding day is what her skin is going to look like. Brides and wedding parties will often spend quite a bit of time and money investing into Wedding Day Beauty services such has hair and makeup, but will then be disappointed by the appearance of their skin. There is a way to help...
Your wedding day is here but your skin is FREAKING OUT!
One of the biggest concerns that a Bride-to-be has on her wedding day is what her skin is going to look like. Brides and wedding parties will often spend quite a bit of time and money investing into Wedding Day Beauty services such has hair and makeup, but will then be disappointed by the appearance of their skin. There is a way to help...
Wedding day advice from our preferred Skin Care Specialist. Call today to talk to Jill.
Jill Schierholz | Owner of Skin Savvy
Aesthetician & skin care specialist.
Stress, weather, and other external forces will often dictate what our skin looks like but there are many things can be done leading up to your big day in terms of a skincare ritual that can help alleviate this from happening. I'll address the most common questions about wedding day skin care tips below.
1. How long before a bride's wedding should she start a skin care regimen to improve tone and texture of her skin?
A consistent treatment and product regimen should be between 2-4 months prior to the wedding. For more mature skin, where there can be more concerns with uneven color, laxity, lines and wrinkles; 4 months is crucial. Acne problems can be stubborn and controlling, so it can take more time to get it under control- start earlier for better results. For someone with little concern, but looking to get a fabulous glow and texture improvement to the skin; 2 months can be enough. All the while for all people, using an AM and PM skincare routine to maximize and maintain is important to ensure the BEST results for the big day!
2. What is the difference between a facial and a peel? What type of results can you expect to see from each?
A facial is deep cleansing, mildly exfoliating, and hydrating. A chemical peel is regenerating, smoothing, pore minimizing, tone evening and can be antibacterial depending on which used. The two compliment each other so much, the best results can really be seen when done together.
3. For brides that are looking to reduce the appearance of acne scars, what treatment would you recommend?
It can really depend on the skin color and skin type for this one. More olive skin types can get brown discoloration on spots of acne, which would then be treated best with IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) and/or a medium-depth chemical peel. For lighter skin types with red/pink scars, Derma-pen treatments would be the best. For "ice pick" or any scar that causes an indentation in the skin, Derma-pen would also be ideal.
4. For us "oily-skinned" gals, what products and treatments do you recommend to help reduce oiliness?
Being an "oily gal" myself, I've always tried to find the best combination to conquer the shine! For treatments - definitely peels. These help to shed the built up layers of dead skin and thickness that can lead to excess oil. The best are medium depth peels. (The Vitalize Peel or The Perfect Peel)
The best products to help exfoliate to maintain the results of the peels and flush out and shrink pores are professional strength Retinol, Alpha Hydroxy acids and the amazing Clarisonic Cleansing Brush with deep pore or acne brush head.
5. For the night before wedding prep; what can a bride do to ensure a radiant flawless glow?
The night before, exercise if possible to stimulate circulation, a hot bath with a mask suited for their specific skin type, drinking TONS of water to flush toxins and hydrate the skin from the inside out and of course plenty of sleep. Using a satin or silk pillowcase will prevent "sleep lines". All this along with topically applying a professional Retinol cream or Alpha Hydroxy cream along with an individually suited luxurious eye and lip cream will have the skin canvas perfect for a WarPaint International Makeup Artist to work their magic for impeccable skin!
Below are some examples of skin care procedure before and afters. Click them to expand and have a closer look at the results.
I offer the "Perfect Derma Peel", which is a bride and mother-of-the-bride favorite.
What ingredients are in Perfect Derma Peel?
Glutathione - an anti-aging ingredient and skin lightener.
Kojic Acid - skin lightener. (The combination of both these ingredients are unique to this peel)
Trichloroacetic Acid
Salicylic Acid
Phenol
Retin-A
Vitamin C
- The percentages are not noted as this is a proprietary blend, however this is proven to help with Melasma, Rosacea, Hyper-pigmentation, acne and some other skin problems.
Is it safe for all Fitzpatrick's (Skin type scale - 1-6, 1 = super pale white to 6 = dark black)?
Yes, the "Perfect Derma Peel" is safe for all skin types.
How long do you leave it on?
Six hours. Overnight if there is no discomfort for you.
How long does the Perfect Derma Peel last?
Results with maintenance can last a long time. It can be done 3 - 4 times per year (4 - 6 weeks apart) and with the Perfect A it will elongate the effects. How long this procedure lasts depends on how well you care for your skin (i.e. staying out of the sun, tanning, etc).
What does a kit cost and what does it include?
Its $300 for a kit. It includes six customer take home kits with six peels in a kit and A moisturizer and Retin-A pads.
