Rebecca Liceaga - Los Angeles Makeup Artist

Makeup, skincare and hair products oh my!

2011-03-07T15:14:00.000-08:00

I know it's been forever since I posted last, but what's 8 months between friends? I promise I'll make it up to you ;)

Anyhoo, on to the fun stuff!

AG Hair Cosmetics Curl Trigger Curl Defining Spray $19.99

Spring is around the corner and soft, carefree, slightly messy beach-y curls are one of the hair trends of the season. AG's Curl Trigger is just the product to help control, define and enhance curly and wavy hair types.

Bonus: Can be used as a refresher spray if your hair gets a little limp throughout the day.

I personally really love the product as my hair can't decide if it's straight, wavy or curly. With Curl Trigger I get really pretty waves all over my hair and if I spray it on damp hair and then blow dry with a diffuser after, I get much more defined curls.

I compare this product to Bumble and Bumble's Surf Spray, but I have to say that I like the way Curl Trigger smells much better.

Too Faced Romantic Eye Palette $35

I received this palette awhile ago but I've been using it on a weekly basis since. The minute I saw the colors I thought how perfect this palette is for wedding looks. Then I saw the shadow names and realized "oh...Too Faced meant this to be a bridal palette too..." :) With names like "I Do", "First Dance" and "Ever After" how could it not be? These colors are soft and feminine, perfect for Spring. My favorite look by far is the Classic look that combines a pale pink, a shimmery lilac and a deep eggplant with sheen to it.

For professional use, these seem fairly easy to depot and would be a great addition to a bridal palette. For personal use, these shadows are super pretty and easy to wear and blend. I also think these would be a cute bridesmaid gift too!

Mario Badescu Herbal Hydrating Serum $30

We all know and love Mario Badescu for his Drying Lotion. It's amazing! I really don't know why I overlooked the other gems in his line, but I got to try some out and my new favorite skin care treatment of the moment is Mario Badescu's Herbal Hydrating Serum.

Most of the serums I tried in the past were nice, but they usually left my skin feeling slightly tacky after initial application (the exception being Merle Norman's Energizing Concentrate, love that stuff!) which I personally can't stand. My rule of thumb is if I don't like the way it looks/feels/smells on myself, there is no way I am putting it in my kit and subjecting my clients to them. What's so cool about the Hydrating Serum is that it's a gel that is instantly absorbed by the skin and gives a cool, fresh and perfectly moist feeling. Love it!

Bonus: If you have oily skin, this can be used as your moisturizer

Stay tuned the rest of this week as every day I'll have three new product reviews for you!

Beach Bodies, Beach Sexy

2010-07-16T00:45:00.001-07:00

I can definitely say Summer has officially arrived in Southern California! ( I know many other places across the nation have experienced this lovely weather for awhile, but it seems we have just ended the "June Gloom" cycle so it's sunny and HOT!)

Inevitably, the sultry warm weather brings with it shorter hemlines and cute strappy sandals. During the rest of the year, I tend to wear jeans religiously so it's no wonder that my legs are generally 5-6 shades lighter than the rest of me when I decide to break out the shorts. Not to fear, Victoria's Secret has created a line of bronzing lotions and powders that will make everyone think that I (and anyone else in the same boat) tan equally all over, year round.

My two favorites from the collection? Flawless Airbrush Instant Bronze Body Spray ($12) and Sun Dust Bronze Shimmer Body Powder ($12). The Airbrush Instant Bronze Body Spray has a heavenly smell that takes me to the white sandy beaches of Hawaii and it goes on light as a veil that doesn't leave a sticky residue. The color is also nice as it isn't your typical "oompa loompa" orange that many bronzing products sport. The Sun Dust Bronze Shimmer Body Powder is a cute touch to add on top of the Airbrush spray for a sexy shimmer that's perfect for a night out.

If you are looking for something to give your tan a little nudge without having to expose yourself to damaging UV rays, then you should definitely check these out! Guess what? VictoriasSecret.com has the entire Beach Sexy on sale for 2/$20, so go stock up!

Urban Decay $5 Sale!

2010-07-13T13:40:00.000-07:00

Get your favorites before they are gone!! Urban Decay is having a $5 sale on their Ultraglide Lipglosses, Loose Pigments and Smoke Out Pencils.

When I last checked at about 12 pm this afternoon, all colors were still available (but who knows how long that will last).

I personally love the Ultraglide glosses, but since all of Urban Decay's products are fantastic, you should check them all out!

Victoria's Secret Secret Moment's Fragrance and Bodycare Collection

2010-03-30T22:46:00.000-07:00

Hello lovely readers!
So Spring is definitely in the air and I am ALL for that! I'm tired of the chilliness and can't wait for the sunshine to make a permanent appearance. That said, I also love the new makeup and body care collections that come out this time of year.

Starting now you can experience the romance that is the Victoria's Secret Secret Moment's collection. Consisting of five scents, you will be sure to find one to match your mood and your senses tingling. Here's the breakdown:

Girls' Night
-Pink Peony and Waterlily Notes
-A light and flirty scent, 100% girly

Island Escape
-Reminiscent of beaches and paradise, this scent has notes of fresh ocean air mixed with coconut and sugarcane
-Exotic and sheer, perfect to channel summertime

At First Sight
-A romantic, flowery scent of Violet and Bergamot
-Soft and feminine, just right for a date or evening event

Room 504
-Naughty and sensual with a sultry blend of Amber and Passionfruit notes.
-A sexy scent that's a go for a night in or an evening at the club.

Good Day Sunshine
-A fresh burst of Peach and Blue Freesia that awakens the senses
-Happiness in a bottle

I'm loving these scents and I know you will too!

Oscar Round Up-My Favorite Makeup Looks Of The Evening

2010-03-07T21:25:00.001-08:00

So the Oscars are over and in case you didn't get to watch them here is the rundown of the top awards:

Sandra Bullock -Best Actress
Jeff Bridges-Best Actor
"The Hurt Locker"-Best Picture

Ok, now on to the makeup looks! My personal favorite of the evening? Kate Winslet:

From the her classic, sleek, not-a-hair-out-of-place vintage-esque hair style to her flawless makeup and that LIP color! Kate was my favorite all around. Her lip color perfectly complimented her strong brows and defined eyes. Oh, let's not forget about her dress. Fabulous!

Runner up for best makeup for me was Anna Kendrick, hands down:

Doesn't she look like she is positively glowing? I love her makeup and how it sets off her creamy complexion. The lipcolor looks great with her hair and her eye makeup it perfect. Not too dramatic and not underdone either. I am not crazy about her hair, but her dress more than makes up for it. I adore the rose color and how utterly girly it is!

I also really really liked Mo'Nique's makeup. Her face is contoured and highlighted perfectly and it allows her vibrant blue dress to take center stage.

Those are my faves of the evening and I'm looking forward to reading the other blogs I follow to see what they thought of the actresses all in all.

All pictures Courtesy of CocoPerez.com

Urban Decay Stardust Shadows

2010-03-07T19:25:00.000-08:00

So, like any makeup artist, I love makeup and I love sparkle. However, as we all know, those two certainly do not go together on set. Why? Well because sparkle (in the form of glitter) has a nasty habit of getting EVERYWHERE in my kit. I HATE bringing glitter with me SO much that I specifically make sure everytime I do a creative that we either are or are not going to be using glitter because I have a special separate case for it that I never carry unless I have to.

I think I may change that. Why? What has caused this oh-so-sudden sudden change of heart? Well, it's because I just met a product that is not only incredibly pigmented, it's also packed with major glitter that does not cause a giant mess and doesn't even fall out when applying it to my talent!

This miracle product is: Urban Decay Stardust Shadows

These cute little shadows are Urban Decay's newest addition to their already amazing shadow line. Boasting 40% more glitter than even their most sparkly shadows, Stardust delivers a stunning wash of color that is topped with teeny bits of iridescent glitter. The reason why the glitter doesn't have the fallout problems of 99% of other glitter shadows is because of a pricey ingredient called reflex. I'm not sure what it is, but I LIKE it. ALOT.They apply like a dream and I mean it when I say there was zero glitter fallout. Z.E.R.O

I'll end my post by telling you the two best ways I personally feel you should apply this shadow.

Technique #1:

*Sanitize hands and fingers thoroughly.

*With your ring finger, pick up a generous amount of shadow by using a circular motion of "grabbing" the product with the pad of your finger.

*Lightly sweep and press shadow into place on you or your talent's lid.

*Repeat until desired look is achieved.

Technique #2:

*With a shadow brush that has a stiff-ness to it (I would either suggest a small concealer brush or a shadow brush that has a denseness to it rather than an extrememly soft one) and pick up a generous amount of shadow

*Press onto lid or crease until all color is deposited.

*With a softer brush, blend colors on lid until desired look is achieved.

If you all end up getting any (or all) of the colors, let me know which ones you love! I am currently digging Atmosphere and Diamond Dog.

Catching Up, The Makeup Show LA, New Make Up For Ever Products

2010-03-07T19:08:00.001-08:00

Hello Lovely readers!
First off, I want to let you know that I truly did not realize that it has been over a month since my last post! That's just horrible, and I will try my hardest to update the blog a bit more often than that.

Next, I have a flood of new posts for this evening, so that should make up for it just a little.

Last weekend I was attended the Makeup Show LA put on by the Powder Group. It was great to catch up with old friends that apparently I only see at makeup shows, as well as meet lots of new artists that I "know" from forums and such. As I was working the Yaby booth (www.yabycosmetics.com), I couldn't really "shop" and wonder around as much as I would have liked, but I have IMATS LA in June for that.

Anyhoo, a couple of months ago one of my good friends (some of you may know him as KJ)works as the artist director for Make Up For Ever cosmetics was in town and we got to chatting and he pulled out a bag that contained a plethora of new goodies that would be coming out from the line in the next coming months.

Sworn to secrecy, I played with all the lovely things until my heart was content, but I didn't breathe a word of it to anyone for fear I would open the flood gates and let it all tumble out.

Luckily, a couple of those new products have debuted, one is on Sephora.com and the other was a huge hit at the Makeup Show and I can happily sing it's praises. Firstly, The new Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish Blush.

As a makeup artist, I work in HD often, and I loathe a blush that has talc in it or that is loaded with shimmer for HD. Matte blushes can also look muddy if the talent is particularly sweaty or oily and has to be touched up often. With the new Make Up For Ever HD blushes, those worries are over. This blush literally looks like you skin produced the color. There is no trace of shimmer or even that gooey sticky feeling that one can sometimes get with gel blushes. Once worked into the skin, the color is that of a slight flush and completely natural looking and feeling. Oh, did I mention it also lasts for hours and hours?

To try a blush that will change the way you actually look at blush, hop over to your local Sephora or Make Up For Ever studio if you are lucky enough to have one near you.

As for the new aqua colors, I don't have a picture of them (and I can't seem to locate on online) but they are in pots similar to the aqua creme liner. These little pots of heaven are what KJ referred to as "Waterproof Flash Colors in separate containers". Um, SQUEE! If you love your Flash Colors / palette just like I do, then a waterproof version should just about rock your world. How waterproof/lasting are they you ask? Well the day KJ let me play with all the new goodies, I put a blue one on my hand and two days later you could still see traces of the blue. It serious is majorly awesome stuff.

L'oreal Studio Secrets Professional

2010-01-31T22:54:00.000-08:00

Hello lovely readers!
So, I know I am not the only one who loves a nice drugstore find. While it is true that most of my mascara and lipstick purchases are drugstore ones, (I only have a couple of coveted mascaras and lipsticks that I will schlep $25 for no matter what) other items are kind of a luck of the draw.

Eyeshadows that look silky and pigmented in the package are sometimes sprayed over with a sheen and after the first initial applications are a chalky disappointment. Concealers in attractive packaging that promise under eye coverage ball up after attempting to blend it in. These are a few major let downs I've discovered as a makeup addict...err connoisseur, but now there is a line that gets my heart racing and looks extremely promising.

L'oreal cosmetics is coming out with a new Studio Secrets Professional makeup line that includes a primers, correctors, a foundation that is housed in a smoothing foundation brush, richly pigmented eyeshadows and liners, and a full wardrobe for lips.

I personally cannot wait to try this line out as I am often asked for recommendations of quality products that can be bought on a shoestring budget.

Keep an eye out for an update!

Chiffon Magazine "Awkward Issue" - Beauty Spotlight and Fashion Story

2010-01-09T19:18:00.001-08:00

Hello All!
Our anticipated "Awkward Issue" for Chiffon Magazine has FINALLY come out! I am posting the Beauty Spotlight that I wrote and the Fashion Story I did makeup for.

For the fashion story, our inspiration was the "Awkward Prom Picture" only our models are wearing fabulous couture dresses. Enjoy!

Beauty Spotlight

Awkward Fashion Story

New Years Eve Beauty

2010-01-05T20:11:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a great New Years! I know I sure did :)

I have a few stories coming out soon, so until those show up I thought I'd post an article I wrote for NocheLatina.com. It's all about New Years Eve Beauty that you can wear anytime this season. Enjoy!

New Years Eve Beauty Tips

Elicia

2009-12-14T19:53:00.000-08:00

Hello All!
It's been awhile since I've posted anything, and since most of my work wont' be coming out for a little while, I thought I'd post something fun. It's just some beauty shots that would just go into my port, but Elicia is super pretty and I think it's a nice break to see something a little more "natural" (Although I know we all love teal lips every now and then ;D )

Savvy Magazine

2009-11-24T00:12:00.000-08:00

Hello All!
I thought I'd pop in and post the story I did with Maiara Walsh from Desperate Housewives for the latest issue of Savvy Magazine. The photographer was the talented Paul Sebring. Enjoy!

Chiffon Magazine "Red" Issue

2009-10-25T22:12:00.000-07:00

Hello all!
The "Red" Issue for Chiffon Magazine is live! Here is the beauty section, but you can check out the entire magazine at www.chiffonmagazine.com

AIRbrushing made easy

2009-10-21T15:10:00.000-07:00

This past Friday I received the new Temptu AIRbrush Makeup System (Thanks Fawn!) and I must say I was quite impressed and happy with the initial results.

I've been airbrushing models and clients on a professional level for the past 4 years. I must say that for the seasoned artist, it only takes a couple of hours to pick up the basics and the more practice one gets the better. So when I heard about Temptu's new system designed for the savvy cosmetic consumer to use on herself, I was a little skeptical. How would the customer be able to choose the best setting for her so that she doesn't get any product in her eye? Will she be able to tell if she has the gun too close to her face and create a tell-tale sploch of makeup on her otherwise flawless face? So many "what if's " were swirling around my mind that honestly I didn't know if this system would take off.

I should have known better! The good people at Temptu are the masters of airbrush and know what they are doing. This system was created by pro's who were inspired by professional airbrush systems and make tweaks in design to make it virtually fool-proof.

Used in conjunction with AIR pod™ makeup, the AIRbrush system delivers a wide range of shades, from cool and light to deep and warm, making it appropriate for all women, regardless of age, ethnicity, skintone, undertone, style, or preference. And it's true. The compressor is cleverly designed with three setting. The lightest one would be perfect to apply blush or a highlighter. The medium setting is great for a light coating of foundation. The highest setting is great for a heavier coverage, especially for those with alot of redness or uneven skin tone.

The only qualm about the system (and it's actually not the system itself) would be the scent of the products in the AIRpods. It has a slight baby powder smell which some people love, but I could see just as many others who aren't so hot on it.

All in all, I found this to be a fantastic system. I can't wait to try it on myself soon. The model definitely gave it a thumbs up!

Downtown Los Angeles Fashion Week

2009-10-14T21:03:00.001-07:00

Hello all!

I'm sorry for the lag in posts (again!), it's just been a busy month! Last night I had the pleasure to work with some great people (hair, makeup and models!) on the fashion shows for Downtown Los Angeles Fashion Week.

My favorite designer of the night was Louis Verdad and his Spring/Summer 2010 Louver Collection. I loved soo many pieces! All the models in his show were all African-American women that ranged in skin color and the effect was so stunning. Verdad was inspired by the "Black Out" issue of Vogue and his show started with images of strong, influential African-American women. I also have one from the "Emerging Artists" show, designer Krys N' Jack.

While I did makeup for four models, it seems the cameras loved one in particular! So I have posted a couple of pictures of them. Don't you just love the navy blue dress? If you want to check out some images of the gorgeous outfits, you can do a google image search or log onto wire image, Getty Images or Life Images to sneak a peek.

I was also supposed to be working today, but it started raining yesterday and I even though I had an umbrella my feet got wet and I had to drive home that way, and I woke up in the middle of the night with a fever and slight chills. So I had to bow out for tonight.

I hope I will be able to blog a little more frequently as some great projects are in the works :)

Desperately Gorgeous

2009-09-25T23:15:00.001-07:00

Hello All!
I am sorry it's been so long since I've updated the blog, but lots of things have been going on!

Firstly, my niece Alexandria was born on September 14th (The Drs. induced my sister-in-law) and she came out weighing a whopping 11 lbs and 1 ounce and just shy of 2 feet long! Big baby :D Unfortunately, she was born with PPHD (hypertension in newborns) and was transported to UCLA medical center and admitted to the NICU. On Friday she was moved to Miller Children's Hospital in Long Beach and if all continues to go well, she should be coming home later on this week! We definitely some scares along the way, but she has made a turn for the better and we are all pulling for her!

Secondly, I had the opportunity to meet and work with Maiara Walsh, who plays Gabby's niece on Desperate Housewives. Not only was she gorgeous on the outside, but a really lovely person on the inside as well. We were shooting for Savvy Magazine (www.savvymag.net) and here are a few "behind the scenes" pics. We shot 7 looks total. I will post the spread from the magazine once I get sent a physical copy.

Also, the shoot I did with Jessica Kinni and photographer Paul Sebring should be coming out the first week of October so I will definitely post those tears once I get the magazine.

For now, enjoy the pics I snapped with my Iphone of the lovely Maiara Walsh!

Chiffon Magazine Cover and Beauty Story

2009-08-25T12:50:00.001-07:00

Hello All!
No new niece yet (while I cannot wait to meet her, the longer she stays in the oven, the better!) but some more new stuff to show!

I know I've spoken volumes about Courtney Dailey, an amazing photographer who is also my dear friend. Well, Courtney has created a new magazine called "Chiffon" (www.chiffonmagazine.com) that is described as "an artist created and run fashion/culture magazine".

I am honored that she has chosen me to be the beauty editor of this fabulous magazine. Courtney of course is the senior editor and our other friend Giorgia Severino, who is a fantastic fashion stylist, is the fashion editor.

Our first issue just launched a few days ago, so I thought I would share the cover and the beauty story that Courtney and I created that features Ford model, Beau Dunn. Enjoy!

SCRATCH Magazine Spread and Jessica Kinni shoot for UNIQ Lifestyle Magazine

2009-08-12T19:18:00.000-07:00

Hello All!

Lots of things going on around here lately! Firstly, the August issue of SCRATCH magazine finally came out and I can now show you the lovely cover and spread! Fun times :)

Here is the cover. This was the sneak peek picture I showed you a couple of months back.

Next is page one. Don't you love the green??

And here is page two. There is a collage of the remaining pictures. Bright colors for summer is always fun :)

Secondly, I had an incredible shoot with photographer Paul Sebring last week for an editorial in his magazine UNIQ Lifestyle. We were lucky enough to shoot the lovely and super sweet Jessica Kinni (you may have seen her on "Rock of Love" and "Charm School" as well as a host for VH1's internet shows). We shot at the drool worthy Chic Little Devil studios in Downtown LA with some really incredible views. Here are a few "behind the scenes" pics:

The fabulous view from the roof

The aforementioned drool-worthy racks and racks of clothes, shoes, bags and jewelry at Chic Little Devil

Jessica's first look. What an amazing view of the buildings of Downtown LA

Jessica's second look. Love the couch and accessories!

Paul and Jessica

And last but not least, Jessica's final look. So glamorous!

Hopefully next time I come on to blog, my sister in law will have already delivered my newest niece (and first goddaughter!) Alexandria! My sister in law has been going into false labor for a few days now, but hopefully in a week or so little Alexandria will be ready to say hello to the world :)

Oops!

2009-07-29T19:15:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update, some followers said they couldn't see my Hawaii and On-Set pics, so I have fixed those for ya in case you couldn't see them either. Thanks!

Summer Vacations and Getting Back To Work

2009-07-26T16:28:00.000-07:00

Aloha Everyone!
I am so sorry I've been sort of neglecting my blog lately :( These past few weeks have been incredibly busy yet wonderful, and I just wanted to give an update and rave about a new product or two!

First of all, I was busily preparing for my birthday/big summer vacation trip to Oahu, Hawaii namely Waikiki Beach! I had never been to Hawaii and was very excited to go. This is the view from our window as we were preparing to land. Isn't it beautiful?

This was the view from one of our balconies.

It was incredible! We were able to see the largest fireworks show on Oahu perfectly from here. I couldn't have asked for a better 4th of July!

I was very sad to leave, but I know I will go back soon :)

Anyways, I've had quite a bit of work lately (which is great!) so that is why I haven't really had the energy to blog, but I'm fully recharged and ready to go with a couple of product reviews and a shot from yesterday's commercial shoot.

I recently fell head over heels in love with Too Faced Cosmetics Metal Eyed Liquid Metallic Liner. What I love about it is that it isn't a glittery liner like Urban Decay's (although we all know a good glitter liner has it's time and place and can be quite wonderful!) but this is rather a highly metallic liner. I love to use it all over the lid as a basis for an incredibly smokey eye.

I am also digging Gerda Spillmann Bio-Fond foundation. This little gem is what American Idol's key makeup artist uses on the contestants, and I can see why. It's a creme foundation that delivers a heavy medium-to-full coverage without looking or feeling heavy. An added bonus? They petite sizes that are perfect to de-pot and stick into your Yaby palettes (Freestyle or the 8-well ones) are only $16 this month. Joy! You can get the most popular colors for under $80 and they will last you forever as you don't need very much of the product at all.

I will be back in a few days with some exciting updates!

I love a good highlight

2009-06-10T15:36:00.000-07:00

For those who do makeup (whether on yourself or on other people's faces for a living) regularly, you will understand where I am coming from. There are certain aspects of the face that you become semi-obsessed with. It might be the brows. I was pretty obsessed with full, thick, luscious brows a couple of years ago. If a model had ample brow hair, I would be there brushing through them, adding a little brow powder here and there, more brushing, and then finally lightly gelling them into place. *You can see a good example of this phase below*

I know someone who is currently experimenting with the perfect foundation-to-luminzer ratio that will give the skin a healthy glow without looking dewy. You would think she is trying to prove a molecular theory with the amount of work she has put in. But it's important to her nonetheless, and I know exactly where she is coming from.

These days, I am obsessed with highlighting. And not just the act of highlighting but finding the products that impart that almost natural sheen to the high points of the face. After much experimenting and product testing, I have found some products that I realize I must always have in my kit just for this purpose.

Make Up For Ever Shine On Compact Powders

These are absolutely gorgeous highlighting powders and I really don't know what I would do without them. The give the skin a luminosity that is not sparkly or glittery. I will describe it as almost iridescent. If you are able to play with them you must!

Smashbox Soft Lights in Tint

Wow. Just wow. Tint is a fabulous color for medium-t0-deep skin tones. It's a mixture of peach, pink, gold, apricot and champagne which looks just heavenly on warmer, deeper skin tones to highlight, and even more so when the light catches is just so. I daresay you could use it as a blush on lighter skin...

Benefit Hollywood Glo

While I am a huge fan of powder highlighters to gently sweep across cheekbones and the bridges of noses, I am definitely all for mixing a highlighting creme with foundation. I love Hollywood Glo when I am not only applying makeup to the face, but the body as well. It's as if I crushed dark beige colored pearl and sprinkled it into foundation. It's creamy and dreamy and I love it!

Kevyn Aucoin Beauty Liquid Shimmer in Gold

For beautiful, deep complexions with a golden undertone my go to product would be Kevyn Aucoin's Beauty Liquid Shimmer in Gold. Again, I mix this more into the foundation rather than actually applying it on top of the skin just because a drop or two adds just the right amount of luminosity and the pure gold color is spot on. Gorgeous!

Until I become obsessed with another aspect of the face, I will revel in sculpting my talent's faces with highlighters and allow myself a little moment of "ooooh" every now and again ;)

Model: Brandie
Makeup: Moi
Photographer: Courtney Dailey

Let's Go Viral!

2009-06-03T23:24:00.001-07:00

Wow! Two blog posts in one day? This has got to be a record ;)

Just a quick post - Remember when I posted about the gorgeous model with the fabulous lips? Well, Courtney Dailey worked on those images and made them into cool little pics to be passed on to friends or those who just love a pretty picture :)

Here they are and feel free to forward them to anyone you would like! We want them to go viral :D

SCRATCH Magazine

2009-06-03T17:02:00.000-07:00

Good news!! The photograph I posted under the title "Nailed It", along with the rest of the series (there are about 5 other pictures) were picked up for the August issue of the UK magazine "SCRATCH" !

We will get the cover (the turquoise nails and lips) as well as an editorial inside.

As much as I want to share the rest of pictures with you *they are gorgeous* I cannot until they come out in the magazine :( But I promise to post them as soon as the mag comes out :)

Behind the Scenes - A Week of Shoots

2009-05-26T14:23:00.000-07:00

Last week was quite busy for me as I had three shoots scheduled. Two were tests with models and one was a commercial shoot.

The first of the week was with a model for possible stock photos (yay for $$$!) and also for portfolio building purposes.

Here is a quick behind the scenes shot of the first shoot of the week (stock):

We also did some on-location that day, but because I was helping hold the reflector, I couldn't snag some photos with my phone.

The next shoot of the week was with this GORGEOUS Australian model who relocated to Los Angeles and had the most gorgeous face. At certain angles she reminded me of Angelina Jolie.

We did some really clean looks and then we did a creative lip series. Since she has such fantastic lips, we did a look with some red glitter, super shiny iridescent gloss and one with about 7 or 8 different colors melded together. I cannot wait to get the pictures from this shoot back! I was so excited I didn't want to take any phone pictures as that would just not have done the looks justice.

Last but not least was a commercial shoot on Saturday. It went very smoothly and I think they will be a good set of commercials. Here are a couple of pictures from my vantage point on set:

(In the photo above you can see my lovely set bag. I love it so much! If you are wondering the brand, it's from Luxor Pro. It is so light but hold LOTS of products).

And there you have it! As promised, as soon (and I mean the minute they arrive in my inbox) I will post the lovely lip series from my mid-week shoot.

Lip Service

2009-05-20T22:35:00.000-07:00

Hooray! I finally received the final pictures from a shoot I did about a month ago with Courtney. First we did some really clean looks, and then let loose with a fun beauty series focusing on just the lips, playing with color and texture.

I think they came out very well, and our lovely model Jolette did such a great job. I've posted them below.

As far as products, Surprisingly, I didn't use an actual "lip product" on any of the looks. I played scientist and mixed some products together to get what I wanted. For the pink and purple lips, I used my trusty Yaby eyeshadows mixed with Face Atelier transforming gel and topped with a clear gloss, while the yellow lips were actually Cinema Secrets creme makeup, and since it was super emollient, no gloss was needed.

Hope you enjoy the pictures! I will post a snippet about my quick and fun shoot today on Friday.

Picture #1 from "Nailed It" shoot

2009-05-06T22:33:00.000-07:00

I was beyond excited to get the first photo from the shoot I mentioned in my "Nailed It" post this morning. I think it's gorgeous, but I will let you decide ;) I cannot wait for photo #2 :)

Nailed It

2009-05-04T20:11:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday I was fortunate enough to do a shoot with Courtney, a beautiful model and a fantastic manicurist. It is truly rare to have a manicurist on set, unless of course nails will be featured or be a central part of the story. Other than that, I am usually required to have a mini manicure set on hand in case a little touch up is necessary.

Having Julie on board was fantastic! We did two looks, one with a vibrant turquoise nail color paired with long nails. We kept the look rather simple on that look with clean skin, no liner (just a few false individual lashes thrown in for a slightly more "oomphed" natural eye), groomed brows and no blush. Just a little contour powder and gloss topped off with slicked back hair. I think it turned out rather well with the nails and the lips stealing the scene.

The second look was pretty much the opposite. Jule trimmed the nails and gave them an "inverted half moon" shape topped with a shimmery granite color polish. It was fabulous! I created a smokey eye with slate and granted colored shadows as the lid and accent shades and contrasted the crease with a warm coppery bronze color. We also used extensions in black to give the picture a dark and mysterious mood.

I loved the way both the looks were executed and shot, and couldn't thank Julie and Courtney enough for the quick and fantastic shoot. These shots will definitely be going into my book. Below are some behind the scenes pictures of the shoot...Well, the first look anyways. My Iphone died sometime between the last picture and my completion of the second look. Enjoy!

Since we were shooting from the shoulders up, our lovely model didn't have to "strip down" and only needed to wear a flesh colored sports bra. Much easier to shop out :)

Below are some key products I used on the shoot. I am so happy to have them in my kit as they produced such stellar results.

Embryolisse 24 hour miracle cream

It truly is a miracle cream. Just a little dab on the 5 points of the face and you (or your model) will have creamy dreamy skin almost immediately. This product has saved my skin on more than one occasion.

Kevyn Aucoin The Sculpting Powder

While this powder looks to be an unusual shade, it is fabulous for creating natural looking shadows/contours. I've had more than one person call me a miracle worker because of this amazing powder.

Face Atelier Lip Glaze In Cameo

I thought I couldn't live without my Peach and Flamingo Lip Glazes from Face Atelier (Well...I can't!) and after the Makeup Show in March, I realize I can't live without Cameo either. This is a perfect shade to create the coveted "nude lip" in light medium to medium deep skin tones. Gorgeous!

Face Atelier Transforming Gel

What do we have here...another product from Face Atelier! It's a great line, what can I say? You might have noticed that gorgeous shade of turquoise on my model's lip. While I would like to say that I am fully equipped with every shade of lipstick known to man, my kit (and my back!) couldn't handle that load. So I do what any makeup artist who wants to really pare down their kit does: Carry this little baby! I actually mixed a Yaby eyeshadow and pearl paint together with the transforming gel and I instantly had a yummy aqua lipstick. Transforming Gel, I love thee!!

Yaby Pearl Paints

These little darlings are the basis of the fantastic range of colors in my kit. With my pearl paint palette, I have any color liner, lipstick, eyeshadow or whatever I may need at my finger tips (paired with my Face Atelier transforming gel of course!) One of my kit staples. Love them!

Stay tuned for some pictures of my last shoot and a behind the scenes from another shoot!

Beach and Gardens

2009-04-28T16:58:00.000-07:00

A few blog posts ago I mentioned the hair and makeup I did for the lovely Summer Rayne Oakes for her L.A. book launch party of her book "Style, Naturally". She posted some great pictures and gave me a nice little shout out on the blog, so check it out here:

http://www.summerrayne.net/index.php/2009/03/18/style-naturally-la-launch-party/

Also, one of the shoots I did last year or so was posted on the Behance Network, and when I stumbled upon it I thought you lovely readers would like to see it :) So here is a link to that:

http://www.behance.net/Gallery/Beach/180069

I did a shoot with my most favorite photographer Courtney Dailey about a week and half ago, so once she finishes editing them I shall post them for your viewing pleasure.

I may post a blog tonight about some new Smashbox products I bought...stay tuned!

A Luster In My Eye

2009-04-15T17:22:00.000-07:00

Spring is here...the flowers are in bloom, the birds are singing and it's time for me to purchase a few new color products from Spring/Summer collections to add to my kit to keep it current.

Since I've been doing quite a bit of event makeup and commercials, much of my work needs to reflect the trends of the moment, rather than the upcoming fashion season.

I've found a few little gems that I am absolutely loving and so I thought I'd blog about them here for your viewing (and perhaps purchasing) pleasure :)

Too Faced Cosmetics Luster Liners

While these little pencils have been out for a couple of months, I somehow recently noticed how a couple of these colors are perfect for the Spring trends for lips...and to add that I absolutely adore the finish and feel of the product. It has a slight cooling effect and they go on quite opaque.

These are advertised as lip liner, but they are chubby and you can easily use them like lipstick. They also come with their own sharpener so you can keep them sharp and sanitary for your clients.

My current favorite colors are South Sea, Caspian and Akoya. Gorgeous!

NARS Summer '09 Collection

So while I love all of my NARS products, I am really excited about some of the new products and color combination that NARS came out with for their Summer color collection. What found it's way into my kit (and dare I say...my heart?)

NARS eyeshadow in Tropic. What can I really add but that it's a truly gorgeous shade of teal. Not too green, not too blue which means it will look absolutely fantastic on everyone. *yay!* Don't let the tiny sparkles fool you. This will not turn into a hot glittery mess. It gives a subtle sheen that looks marvelous on set as well as "in real life".

NARS Falbala Lipstick

It's just a pearly gorgeous bronzy/beigey shade that will look hot paired with any vibrant shadow that is so in for Summer. Truly beautiful.

NARS Outsider Lipstick

It's pearly in consistency and copper in color. Could you really want anything else in a lipstick for Summer? This shade will go perfectly with bronzed eyes (or cheeks!) and will look lovely on medium to dark skin tones. *Love!*

For a little twist I am also adding a drugstore foundation find that I recently tried and decided that I love!

Max Factor Pan Stick Foundation

This little gem has been a cult favorite since it's release in the 1940's. I had a coupon for one, so I decided to give it a whirl. Wow! Was I impressed. The consistency, opacity and finish reminded me of my Gerda Spillman ( the foundation of choice for the American Idol makeup artists) although I must say the Max Factor is slightly less "dewy" and imparts a very nice satiny matte finish.

While I don't usually suggest buying drugstore foundation for one's kit, I understand there are instances in life in which emergencies happen (my good friend once had her car broken in to and her entire kit was stolen, and when she went out to go ready her kit for her 6 a.m. shoot, she discovered it was gone) and you need a reliable foundation that will do in a pinch. I can confidently recommend these foundation to anyone who finds themselves in a situation like that and can't get to a pro store, or can't find one that is open (let's face it, Walgreen's is open 24 hours...Frend's not so much).

So for the week, these are my new loves and I hope to discover (and report!) some others in the coming days :)

Getting Back To Business

2009-04-06T23:55:00.001-07:00

I have said it before, and I will say it again - I am a bad, bad blogger. I sort of have an excuse. I've been quite sick and I am just feeling better so here I am getting back into the swing of things, and most definitely back to business!

So as promised, here is the roundup of Day 2 of the L A Makeup Show

It was certainly much less crowded on Day 2. I think that fact that it was Monday and 2/3 of the Sunday crowd had to go back to work.

My artist friends and I started off the day by taking in K.J. Bennett's lecture on ensuring makeup on-set lasts. It was a little loud on the sales floor, so the closer you were to the stage, the better.

When then proceeded to buy more cosmetic goodies and see if any "extra show" specials were to be had. I purchased more Face Atelier glosses (at 3 for $23, how could I not? That's better than the 40% off discount I get!) and I bought some more velour puffs for on-set needs.

I was also finally able to get some more Crown Brushes (it was virtually impossible on Sunday) finally bought some coveted Kevyn Aucoin Sculpting Powder (LOVE it!)

We were there a considerably less amount of time since we had done most of our shopping on Sunday, but it was great to meet up with and see friends, and of course make new ones. The amount of cosmetic companies there was great, and there truly were some great show deals on alot of the merchandise.

Friday I have a shoot at CBS studios, so I shall blog about that and I have a couple of product reviews coming up. I promise to be a better blogger for those who actually read my blog ;)

Day 2 of the LA Makeup Show to come soon!

2009-03-30T00:10:00.001-07:00

I know I promised a few days ago about part 2 of the makeup show, but I am still waiting on some pics, so I will update when I get them :)

Summer Days and Nights

2009-03-17T19:13:00.000-07:00

I know I promised a round-up of Day 2 of the LA Makeup Show, but I decided to leave that until tomorrow and post about Summer Rayne Oakes today...since I mentioned her first a week or so ago.

As I had blogged, I was attending the launch of Summer Rayne Oakes book "Style, Naturally" and she also asked me to do her hair and makeup for the event.

It was a beautiful day in Venica, CA when I arrived at the house of her friend she was staying at. It was such a lovely sunny day that we decided to soak in some rays and do her hair and makeup outside. It was definitely a good call!

Summer Rayne's dress was a beautiful black cocktail dress that had a very archetictural structure to the front and we really wanted echo that in the hair. Whatever style I decided on, she had one request: Beachy waves! So I decided to bring the front of her hair up and over to one side, and had a couple of levels of height in the front that ended in a cascade of waves.

For her makeup, we decided a smoky look would be best since it was an evening event and she is a pretty natural girl normally. Breaking away from that and going glam was definitely a change!

After I brushed and teased and pinned and sprayed and adjusted and sprayed some more, and blended and curled and added more shadow and then blended and couple of more times, she was ready. She looked and herself and loved it. I was so happy with the way the look came out and complimented not only her naturally gorgeous features, but the style of her dress and shoes.

Here are some pictures from the event:

Now for the product round-up! To get Summer Rayne's look, here are the products I used:

I airbrushed two coats of foundation using Temptu S/B Foundation

I then set the foundation with Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish Powder

I gave Summer Rayne's beautiful cheeks a peachy glow with Tarte's Powder Blush in Flip Flop. Unfortunately these babies are discontinued, but you can still get them on Tarte's website under "memory lane".

To highlight her face, I also used Make Up For Ever's pressed Shine On Powder

I always prime the lids with my favorite Primer Potion by Urban Decay

I couldn't do without my pearl paints! Summer saw my palette and immediately exclaimed "Oooh! I love those colors! Let's use those".

I also used Yaby brow powder on her lovely arches.

I *love* these Aqua Liners by Make Up Forever. For Summer's look I stuck with basic Black.

And last but not least, I fnished the look with two coats of Bourjois Say Oui! To Volum Mascara.

I had such a blast working with Summer, and I hope to have to opportunity to do so again!

Day 1 Of The L A Makeup Show

2009-03-15T23:03:00.000-07:00

Today I attended day 1 of The LA Makeup Show hosted by the Powder Group. My friend Chris Guerra (www.christinaguerra.com) and I headed over to Downtown LA where the show was being held and met with a few fellow artists from our makeup/hair forums at the cafe across the street from Cal Mart. The food was delicious and the conversation was quite enjoyable. We got to met Sue (http://www.smmakeup.com/) a lovely makeup artist from Australia, Verity ( http://www.modelmayhem.com/verity ) who is also from Australia but moved out to LA in September, and Angela (http://www.angela-renee.com/) from Sacramento.

After gorging on breakfast we headed to the show, where sadly the checking in process was horribly slow and disorganized. We waited about 45 minutes in line just to get in.

We saw Billy B. (http://billybbeauty.com/) give a lecture and demonstration first. He was really friendly, funny, (and most importantly) honest about the in's and out's of the industry and how even to this day he works for free at times and is still reaching goals he never though he would accomplish.

Here are a couple of pictures from the lecture:

Afterward, we hit the booths to do some shopping. I was amazingly surprised that the only cosmetics I purchased today were some fabulous Face Atelier Lip Glazes (I mentioned them previously in a couple of my posts). They had a great show special, so I picked up three that I needed in my kit as I just ran out of Flamingo and wanted to have a backup of Peach. I also bought Cameo which is a luscious nude...I may buy more colors tomorrow ($28 for three is an incredible deal!).

Other than replacing the Face Atelier glosses, I didn't need any other makeup for my kit *Did I just say that?* so I focused on the basics that I love to buy in bulk at the shows.

I grabbed a big bag of Alcone sponges *LOVE these sponges* and a bag of smaller velour puffs for when I am on set.

My favorite (And most exciting) purchase of the day was the portable airbrush compressor by Sparmax. I airbrush ALOT (like 90% of all my jobs) and I have grown to hate lugging my Silver Jet compressor. Granted, it's not THAT heavy...but it is another piece of equipment to carry (Especially when I have to do hair...I have a backpack for all my hair stuff, my train case for my makeup AND a bag for my airbrush compressor and accessories. It's alot to carry!!). So, needless to say when I researched portable airbrush compressors, this one stood out in my mind:

Not only does it come with a carrying case I can clip around my waist *GASP! I don't have to actually hold it? Sold!* it comes with a hose for the airbrush gun, a battery pack (with charger) or a connection to use if I am near a plug. No more fumbling with my airbrush bag?? Be still my heart!

Chris and I went to lunch with my friend the talented Rachel Rose (http://rachel-rose.com/) who happened to be working at the OCC Cosmetics booth. We had a gab fest over really fattening fast food *we really needed our sustinence ;) * and overall had a great time.

Tomorrow, my friend Laura Judson and I are hitting the show and we are going to listen to our friend KJ Bennett (http://kjbennett.com/) who works with Make Up For Ever give a seminar and then do more shopping!

I have to pick up some Crown Brushes (if we can even get through! That booth was crowded and busy all day!) and I may pick up the set apron from Make Up For Ever. As I have mentioned a few *hundred* times, anything to make my life on set easier is a huge plus for me. I have a little set bag, but the pockets don't always fit what I need perfectly (pockets are either too big or too small generally) but it does the job. The set apron is something you can either attach around your waist OR sling over your shoulder. It has room for brushes, hairspray, brushes, combs, powder, puffs...literally anything you would need to carry on set with you so you can leave your kit in the makeup room. They ran out today *pooh!* but they may have more tomorrow so I am crossing my fingers and I will report tomorrow if I get it or not.

Tonight was a mixer/afterparty for the makeup artists but being the old lady fuddy-duddy that I am, I came home and crashed. Open bar or no, I needed to unwind and relax from walking all day.

I will report day 2 of The Makeup Show tomorrow. Stay tuned!

Busy Days

2009-03-08T23:50:00.000-07:00

I've been bad. Really bad. I haven't updated my blog in over a week! Bad blogger! Bad!

Ok, now that's off my chest I'll explain why i've been M.I.A. I not only work on set, but I also do many weddings each year. In fact, I have my own bridal beauty business that is separate from my freelancing and it really picks up after Valentines Day. I can confidently say that the Spring wedding season is in full bloom. My week was jam packed with scheduling previews with brides, conducting previews with brides, and making sure my lovely freelancers who I send out to weddings I cannot personally do myself, have those previews and wedding scheduled in their books. It's pretty exhausting.

This next week should be a little more calm (but I'm sure that will change come Monday morning!) as it seems I have just one commerical set for this week and on Thursday I am doing Summer's hair and makeup for her cocktail party that my dear photog friend Courtney and I are attending. Pretty easy week and I am looking forward to it all.

I wanted to post a story from late last year (December 2008) as I found a couple of photos I took of all the pretty hats and accessories. Enjoy!

Highlights

2009-02-27T21:48:00.000-08:00

As promised, I have a sparkly new post about some cosmetics items that I recently tried out and loved.
I know finding new and exciting makeup probably isn't the most difficult thing in the world for me...but finding products that make my life easier on set truly is. And one of those little goodies is Sugar Cosmetics Sweet Cheeks Baked Blush in Cupcake.

Not only is it a lovely pinky-plum color, perfect for a lightly flushed look, it has a silvery pink highlighter on the left side that is a perfect color for light to medium skin tones. It's actually a very close match in color to Benefit's High Beam only in a powder version. So, having a great blush color AND highlighter in one cute compact that fits in the palm of my hand...makes life easier, check!

Second on the list is actually an eye shadow color. Lancome's Color Design Shadow in "Mannequin" This is a gorgeous coppery beige-y slightly shimmery (but not glittery) shadow that is perfect for the lid color when creating either a subtle smoky eye or even for a not so natural neutral eye. My new favorite for medium-dark skintones. *Love!*
Lastly, the mascara brush thats easiest for me to use on models lashes that I have tried to date has to be Rimmel London's Lash MAXX mascara. It's a little comb that's not too thick and allows me to get right to the base of the lashes and get a nice full look. It cuts my time in half for doing lashes when compared to those horrific disposable brushes. While it takes a littel time to clean, it's sooo worth it for me.

On Set

2009-02-26T16:05:00.000-08:00

So lately I have been doing more and more commercials. On average, it comes out to about one per week (and I am SO not complaining!). Once the hair and makeup is done, there is quite a bit of downtime in between powdering a shiny nose or fixing that rogue hair. Because of the massive amounts of downtime, I took a tip from one of my fellow artist friends and started taking "behind the scene" shots. Here are a few from the past couple of commercials for Superior Grocery Stores.

And what are some of the products that make my life a little easier on set?
Cinema Secrets Light Touch Powder in Soft Custard. A universally flattering shade for anyone, this super soft powder soaks up any oil and gives a matte, almost airbrushed apperance.

Graftobian Setting Spray. After the initial makeup look is completed, I spray a fine mist of this all over the face so the makeup doesn't smear or smudge and helps to prevent the talent from sweating their makeup off. Definitely makes my life easier!

I'll actually be shooting another commercial Thursday so if anything out of the ordinary happens, I will definitely post it here. Tomorrow I will review some new makeup finds :)

A shoot with Allie

2009-02-17T20:13:00.001-08:00

A few weeks back when it was still nice and sunny here in L.A., Courtney and I did a shoot with Allie Sims. She's a really sweet girl and was loads of fun to work with. What made the shoot even better was the fact that we got to choose wardrobe from a clothing designer just down the hall from Courtney's studio.

We picked out some lovely feminine dresses, and to compliment the wardrobe I created a look that was soft and delicate, yet sexy at the same time.

I first lightly curled and set Allie's hair. Once the curls cooled and I brushed them out, I sprayed a mist of shine gloss to bring out her highlights.

As a foundation (literally) I used my beloved Make Up For Ever HD foundation

For the eyes, I choose to create a smokey eye using a peachy-gold pearl paint from my beloved YABY palette

false lashes and a lightly smudged line on the top and bottom lids with Rimmel London Kohl Kajal Liner in Sable *love these liners!*

For Allie's lovely brows I couldn't use anything else but my trusty YABY brow powder

And Bourjois' Sourcil Animation in Brun *I have these in every color*

To Give Allie's cheeks a healthy glow, I opted to use Tarte's Cheek Stain in Tipsy

To top off the look I wanted a flirty pink pout and reached for my much loved Face Atlier Lip Glaze in Flamingo *seriously some of the best lip gloss I have tried*

As always, whenever I get to play with my makeup I have a great time and even more so when when it's my favorite all-girl team :)

Product Love

2009-02-13T20:07:00.000-08:00

I recently did a fun test shoot with one of my favorite photographers (who also happens to be a good friend) Courtney Dailey. It was a really quick and laid back shoot and I got to test out a couple of new products and and re-discovered an old favorite.

For this look my main focus was on the skin and lip and I am now *in love* with NARS lipstick in Captiva

I also used Make Up Forever 's Shine On Compact Powder to give the skin a nice glow

For this look, I wanted a smoldering and smoky eye. I thought this would be a perfect opportunity to try out my new Urban Decay Potion Primer in Sin. My thoughts? Wow! It is the same Primer Potion we have come to love, now with a nice shimmery champagne color base to work with. *swoon*

One of the things I abhor about working with loose pigments is the fallout. (Well, with my shadow shields that's not much of an issue anymore but I hate carrying those pesky pigments around!) so using something that eliminates a step is a huge plus in my book.

I also have to just comment on how much I love my Make Up For Ever eyeshadow in #004 (matte black). It is just a rich, deep, highly pigmented matte black. *love*

For those who know me, I am a huge brow person. I adore brows. So I just have to mention that my favorite brow powders ever are made by YABY cosmetics (thank you for creating such an awesome product / line Liz!) and I used bp004 for Mariel's brows

The shoot also reunited me with an old flame. I fell back in love with what is now a permanent fixture in my kit, NARS lipgloss in Chelsea Girls. How did I ever stop using it? I guess paring down my kit to the very basics has brought out only the best in my vast cosmetic inventory :)

*phew* so those are the newest additions/loves of my kit. I wonder what fabulous new product(s) will catch my wandering eye next...

New Beginnings

2009-02-12T23:03:00.000-08:00

So I finally got around to creating a separate blog entirely dedicated to my freelancing as well as throwing in reviews, rants and raves about beauty products, fashion and general pop culture that relates to beauty somehow for good measure. I know I'm late to the whole blogging game but it's ok...better late than never, right?

Fun news! The latest issue of Coco Eco Magazine is out. I am fortunate enough to have not only done the cover, but an editorial as well.

On this particular shoot I had the chance to work with the lovely Summer Rayne Oakes. Being the very green and environmentally aware model that she is, Summer has just released a new book entitled "Style, Naturally: The Savvy Shopping Guide to Sustainable Fashion and Beauty". Very exciting news and I wish her all the best :)

Without further ado, here are the pretty pictures. This was shot by the fabulous Courtney Dailey on-location in the beautiful Hollywood Hills.

Makeup: Rebecca Liceaga
Hair: Brian Bowman
Styling: Robin Garvick