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Eye Makeup 911 - M Magazine
Eye makeup 911
By AMY SIEWERT
September 2012
It’s a morning ritual for many women: standing in front of the mirror applying your eye makeup. But when is the last time you replenished your supplies? You may think your eye makeup is your friend, but it can turn into your foe without proper care. Dr. Daniel Ferguson, a corneal specialist and partner at Eye Care Specialists, and Jhousy Leon, owner of Blush Beauty, shared their expertise on when eye makeup can be harmful and what you should look for the next time you are at the makeup counter.
M: What types of precautions should women take when it comes to using eye makeup?
DF: “Eye makeup-related dangers can often be avoided by following simple common sense precautions. One analogy I like to use is that you most likely wouldn’t want to shake someone’s hand after watching them sneeze into it, so why would you want to take their mascara wand and wipe the same bacteria around your eye?
M: Are there certain types of ingredients in eye makeup that people should avoid?
JL: "Most eye makeup products contain ingredients like dimethicone and propylene glycol, which may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions on a person-to-person basis. Every individual is different.”
M: What types of eye problems can arise as the result of using eye makeup, and what are the warning signs?
DF: “The most common problems arising from eye makeup include allergic reactions, viral or bacterial conjunctivitis and corneal abrasions. These problems can all have similar symptoms, such as pink or redness of the whites of the eyes and an increase in tear production (in the body’s attempt to soothe the eyes). Allergic reactions will also often include irritation and itchiness. Viral and bacterial conjunctivitis (commonly called "pink eye”) is a swelling or infection of the membrane lining the eyelids. Conjunctivitis may have a yellow or green discharge and can cause the eyelids to stick together or ooze. Infections and abrasions of the cornea are a serious concern, often marked by pain and sensitivity to light. If you develop any of these symptoms, contact your eye care specialist to determine a specific course of treatment.“
M: What type of eye makeup should people purchase?
JL: "As it goes for anything you put into your body, the more natural and the more protective factors included, the better. Most of our brands, if not all of them, are hypoallergenic or organic. I would look for eye makeup that is mineral based or powder based, otherwise specifically hypoallergenic.”
M: How often should people get rid of their eye makeup and purchase new makeup?
JL: “Experts suggest makeup should be disposed of every six months to one year. However, I strongly disagree. I believe makeup should change every three to four months. A warm, moist climate breeds bacteria; therefore, our air is contributing a lot of it regardless of where your makeup might be stored. This is especially important for mascara, as studies show each time the wand reaches the air, it is exposed to an abundance of material that is then stored in the container — which is why mascara is the first to spoil. It is also vital the tools used to apply your makeup are thoroughly cleaned on a regular basis. However, if you were to have any type of eye infection, all your eye makeup needs to be thrown away and all new makeup purchased before applying post-infection.”
Happy Eyes
Dr. Daniel Ferguson of Eye Care Specialists offers the following safe storage, use and replacement tips for eye makeup:
• Always wash your hands prior to applying makeup.
• If you do try makeup at a store or salon, insist the person applying it uses newly opened products or disposable applicators. Consider using disposable applicators at home, as well.
• Never drive and put on makeup. Not only does this make driving a danger, hitting a bump in the road and scratching your eyeball can cause serious eye injury.
• Don’t sleep in your makeup. You are creating an environment that invites infection.
• Keep makeup containers closed tight when not in use.
• Keep makeup out of the sun and heat (especially hot cars). Bright hot conditions can degrade the preservatives used to fight bacteria.
• If you do carry makeup in a purse, consider placing it in Ziplock storage bags that offer a clean environment that can be frequently replaced.
• Never add liquid to a product (to extend its use or change its consistency), unless the label tells you to do so. This can introduce germs that can grow out of control.
• Throw away any makeup if the color changes or it starts to smell. This might be due to degradation of preservatives, making it unable to fight bacteria.
• Stop using any product that causes an allergic reaction or eye infection, such as “pink eye.” Throw away any makeup you were using when you first found the problem.
• If you are having eye surgery, follow your doctor’s instructions for not wearing eye makeup before and/or after your operation. Discard partially used makeup to avoid bacterial contamination.
• Prior to use, clean pencil eyeliners and sharpeners by removing any residue and then wiping them down or placing them in a small paper cup filled with rubbing alcohol. Allow the pencil to dry before using on skin. When sharpening the pencil, make sure you have smooth edges so wood pieces do not scratch your skinor eye.
• Avoid placing eye liner inside the lash line. It is best to apply along the outer edge of your lashes, away from the mucous membrane.
• Never share eye makeup with anyone. Another person’s bacteria can be hazardous to you.
This story ran in the September 2012 issue of:
12 12 / 2013
Blush’s 2013 Guide to Gifting - Hear the must-haves from your go-to girls of beauty!
Lori recommends Laura Mercier’s Ambre Vanilla body line. “From the body scrub to the rich body butter or the soft perfume, it’s a wonderful sweet & spicy holiday aroma!”
"One of my favorite products is Laura Mercier’s Caviar Sticks. Any color is great to quickly smudge on eyelids for a fresh, long-lasting day look or to turn any soft day look into night with just a swipe of a darker shade.”
Isca
"Relax your senses this holiday season with the Lavender Whish Body Collection. Scrub away the stress and revitalize your skin with this sugar scrub and rich body butter.”
249 North Water Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Phone: 414-272-1718
Email: info@blushmilwaukee.com
Mon: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm
Tue - Thu: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Fri: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sat: 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Sun: Open during high traffic holiday seasons. Please call the store.
Blush - Mequon
1515 West Mequon Road
Mequon, WI 53092
Phone: 262-643-4700
Email: info@blushmilwaukee.com
Mon - Fri : 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sat: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sun: Open during high traffic holiday seasons. Please call the store.
11 12 / 2013
Smooth it over - Tips on keeping your skin soft and healthy
Smooth it over
Tips on keeping your skin soft and healthy
By AMY SIEWERT
1. Hydrate from Within: “The human body is comprised of roughly 65 percent water. To maintain health, our bodies require a lot of water. The skin is the body’s largest organ and is an external indicator of internal health. Keeping your body thoroughly hydrated will reflect through your skin,” says Delmore. “We should drink half our weight in ounces of water a day,” Leon says.
2. Maintain a Good Diet: “Eat a diet containing lots of fruits and vegetables to help keep your skin healthy. Vitamins A, C and E are antioxidants that will help maintain your skin. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, which are unstable oxygen molecules that contribute to cell damage,” says Delmore. And don’t skip the healthy fat. “Fat coming from avocado, olive oil and fish will contribute to healthy skin. Bodies need fat to stay healthy, and so does your skin. Healthy fats will help keep your skin supple and moisturized as you age. Oil production in the skin decreases as we age and our hormone levels shift and decline,” Delmore says.
3. Get Moving: “Incorporating exercise into your daily routine will not only benefit your health, but your skin as well. Cardiovascular exercise will increase your heart rate, which will improve your circulation. Keeping your blood flowing properly will keep the healthy glow in your skin and help your body filter out toxins,” says Delmore.
4. Exfoliate: “The skin cells turn over on a 28-day cycle. We should exfoliate nightly to help the cells turn over and prevent them from building up on the skin. A build-up of dead skin cells can lead to a dry, dull complexion,” Leon says.
5. Lather Up: “It’s important to apply moisturizer in the morning and night to help hydrate the skin,” Leon says.
6. Put Your Mask On: “Treat yourself to a little TLC and use a hydrating mask to provide deeper moisture. Osea has a white algae mask that you can put on for 15 minutes or sleep with a thin layer on. It makes skin look amazing and is also great for rosacea and sensitive skin,” Leon says.
Dry skin isn’t a cold-weather only affliction. Jhousy Leon, owner of Blush, and Erin Delmore of The Institute of Beauty and Wellness, say proper diet, exercise, hydrating and moisturizing are key factors to keeping your skin healthy during the warmer months, too.
11 12 / 2013
Design The Day of Your Dreams! - M Magazine Post
Design the day of your dreams that’s on trend and so very you, taking your lead from Milwaukee’s fashion and event insiders on the best of all things bridal. As always, moderation is key. “Start with what is intrinsically you,” recommends David Caruso, president of Dynamic Events. “Approach trends in a simple way, and maximize your budget with big statements.”
Follow a Beauty Regimen
“We’ll see very sheer, glow makeup with burgundy or nude lips and a lot of sparkle in the eyes,” says Jhousy Leon, owner of Blush Beauty, Milwaukee and Mequon. She recommends skincare preparations beginning at least six months in advance of the big day, including facials, body wraps, high-frequency treatments and brow shaping. Nails sparkle too, with lots of little diamonds or Swarovski crystals. “The look is totally different than last year,” Leon says.
5 Hot Hairstyles for the Bride
Jennifer “Hailey” Buetow of Bella Lei Salon & Spa, Mequon and Cedarburg, lists five big styles for 2013: French twists, Old Hollywood glam, braids, buns and ponytails. Statement side parts are also very in. Be sure to balance your hairstyle, dress, veil or headpiece, and jewelry. An “undone” or structured style depends on season and location, and especially personal preference. “You have to be true to you,” Buetow says.
Print Your Memories
Modern portraiture has more of a photojournalistic style to “capture who you are,” says Matt Haas of Matt Haas Photography. “The more comfortable you are with your photographer, the more likely you’ll have a natural smile, laughter or tears in front of the camera.” Many couples are returning to physical albums instead of digital copies to cherish their memories. “Print lasts a lifetime,” he says.
Add Color to Your Gown
“After years and years of strapless gowns, we’re finally seeing different necklines,” says Kate Iggens of Stone Manor Bridal, Cedarburg. Choose from tank tops, v-necks, boatnecks, and sheer or lace illusions. Dramatic backs are also big, featuring a cutout, keyhole or low V. Some dresses have a removable illusion element for “the look and feel of two dresses. It’s exciting,” Iggens adds.
Other new shapes include cap sleeves, a more fitted silhouette and shorter hemlines. The most noticeable trend is colored gowns. Instead of white or ivory, these dresses are red, café and blush. “It’s very fresh and beautiful,” says Marina Kuhn of Zita Bridal Salon, Milwaukee. For a more subtle variation, try a pop of color in the sash.
Think Earthy and Natural for Bouquets
Terri Madison at Bayside Floral Design, Bayside, customizes flowers with “a cluster of colors, varieties and textures.” In a hand-tied bouquet, “We let the flowers do the arrangements” for a more natural look. Boutonnieres have transitioned from a single rose to a cluster of berries and leaves. Another trend is the use of earthy elements and natural fibers. “This look is a little less elaborate,” Madison says.
And for the Guys?
Traditionally, rental tuxedos were nice, but most focused on durability of the product. “The enhancements in 2013 will better mimic what goes on in the retail realm,” says Tim Ryan, owner of Harleys The Store for Men, Shorewood. The contemporary fit is slimmer in shirts, trousers and jackets. “The retail side always has a little more variety, but rental now has more distinctive selections,” he says.
Squire’s unique rental fashions are provided by Jim’s Formalwear. Sophisticated colors and patterns can fit the wedding theme, in the classic look of a bow tie and cummerbund or more contemporary combination of long ties and vests. For “ultra customer service,” a tailor can make immediate adjustments. “It’s important to feel comfortable,” says Dennis Ervin, manager of the Brookfield boutique. “We want you to look great and have a great time.”
Cupcakes Out, Three-tiered In
“Cake concepts are trending back to simple, elegant design,” says Alicia Strackbein of Rochester Deli, Waukesha. Traditional three-tiered cakes feature scrollwork and flowers in butter cream icing, and are personalized with colored ribbons or cake toppers. “These are important items in the couples’ lives that show off what they mean to each other,” she says. Cupcakes are less prevalent, but pies might be the next big thing.
Regina’s Bay Bakery, Whitefish Bay, often prepares a sweets table with its signature French pastries to complement a smaller tiered cake. “A lot of brides incorporate bold and soft colors,” says Robin Krajcik, easily achieved in an ombre cake. Elegant adornments include sugar flowers, crystals and pearls, and monograms; equally popular is more rustic design with pine cones, birds or fresh flowers. Cake pops make fun party favors.
Let Your Computer Do the Addressing
The invitations of 2013 will be white or ivory with an updated look. “We can customize the typestyles, ink, lining, motif, paper … an invite can become more or less formal on typestyle alone,” says Beth O’Connell of Three Wishes, Whitefish Bay. New trends include font mixing, eco-friendly inks and paper, design motifs and two-color text. With the rise of digital printing, “Brides can do an awful lot without extra cost.”
Another big change is the transition to machine addressing rather than handwritten cursive or calligraphy. “There are so many beautiful fonts, it’s becoming more common,” says Allison McWilliams at Touch of Whimsy, Delafield. While contemporary styles are appealing, “Weddings are elegant affairs and more brides want a traditional look — that in no way means old-fashioned,” she says. Pearlized, tone-on-tone papers and gold ink are simple and beautiful.
Live Music Makes a Comeback
Live bands are popular again, but disc jockeys are still important to a festive event. “We can provide more with package pricing,” says Matt Antoniewicz of ACA Music & Entertainment. In addition to music during the ceremony, cocktail hour and reception, auxiliary services such as custom uplighting and photo booths are also offered. “You don’t have to deal with multiple vendors,” he says. “We put it all together.”
Personal Space
“People want to put a personal spin on their registry, and we make it really special,” says Jessica Arendas of Susan Fredman Design Group. The At Home collection includes luxury items to complement purchases from big-box stores. Display pillows that “say what you feel,” embrace eco-chic with natural and emerald elements, or even register for one-on-one interior design expertise.
The statement pieces at Xenia in Mequon go hand-in-hand with current fashion trends, says Amy Maxwell, owner. The look now is feminine and soft, but sophisticated and simple to appeal to both men and women. Coral, amethyst and mint mix with bold patterns of chevron, stripes and polka dots. Gold accents and contrasting textures also are gaining popularity. Blend existing pieces with new elements to create your personal style.
Put Your Signature on Your Reception
Ken Hudak of Canopies says, “Brides and grooms are looking for originality, not a cookie-cutter wedding.” Each venue can be transformed with a distinctive configuration. Table variety is a big thing, including square seating arrangements, taller chairs, long farm tables and fabric treatments at the head table. Lounge furniture provides a comfortable “getaway” space. “Small changes create something a little different,” he says.
Splash Some Color
“Color is at the top of the list in 2013,” says Caruso. Incorporate navy blue or pastels such as violet, mint, dusk blue, nectarine and linen. “I personally love the combination of mint and sunburst yellow,” he says. Emerald is the color of the year, described by Pantone as “a lively, radiant, lush green.”
Personalize Your Bling
Schwanke Kasten Jewelers, Whitefish Bay and Milwaukee, is the exclusive dealer of Forevermark diamonds in Wisconsin. “These are really beautiful, rare diamonds, and it’s a feather in our cap to carry them,” says Tom Dixon, owner. In this economy, men are purchasing smaller stones of higher quality set in white gold. Halo jewelry features a center stone surrounded by smaller diamonds. “It keeps the cost down in per-carat price, but adds a lot of brilliance,” Dixon says.
Custom jewelers such as Steven Paul Designs, Delafield, provide an opportunity for couples to shop together. Some men will purchase the stone first, which is placed in a temporary solitaire mounting for “a surprise proposal and her perfect ring,” says Matthew Willert. Vintage-inspired and classic styles are popular. For a trendier look, round-cut colored stones such as sapphires, rubies and yellow diamonds are set with pavé side stones.
Mary Seramur, owner of East Towne Jewelers in Mequon, often repurposes heirloom jewelry into new designs. Many of her clients have a “more mature taste,” perhaps a preference for a beautifully set diamond band to a large center stone, or two rings that don’t follow the same contour. In custom jewelry, “Anything goes. It’s very individual,” Seramur says. “This is her signature piece.”
Customize Your Meal
“Food accommodations are becoming more prevalent,” says Beth Shully of Shully’s Cuisine & Events. “We custom cater to your heart’s desire.” That includes vegetarian, organic, farm-to-table, gluten-free and other food allergies, kosher and other religious needs. Food stations that showcase chef preparations, hors d’oeuvres and small plate items are very popular, as are late-night snacks, especially deep-fried cheese curds, mini sliders, pizza, and milk and cookies
04 12 / 2013
ONE DAY ONLY! Complimentary application with THE AMAZING Ellis Faas Celebrity Make Up artist David Stella!
01 10 / 2013
Enter to win $75 in blush bucks for your makeup makeover
Enter to win $75 in blush bucks for your makeup makeover. That’s $55 towards your application and $30 in product.
Tell us why YOU or someone you know deserves a makeover and products worth $75. Makeover is for Saturday at our blush mequon location only!
To enter- you must “like” our page and be a blush lover. Cannot be transferred for cash or used any other day….. You may send us a picture of your makeup inspiration.
Blush will select the winner tomorrow morning!
30 9 / 2013
Blush Beauty Turns to Distributor for Expansion
September 25, 2013
Blush Beauty Turns to Distributor for Expansion
NEW YORK — Blush Beauty, a retailer with two beauty boutiques in the Milwaukee area, exemplifies an up-and-coming channel in the beauty business.
Retail consolidation has compressed the options for beauty brands at a time when spas, salons, upscale pharmacies and specialty beauty boutiques find shoppers hungry for unique lines.
“We offer services and products that are very unique to the city,” said Jhousy Leon, the owner of Blush Beauty, referring to the stores’ makeup applications, lessons and services.
An obstacle for these operators, however, is that too often the owner is stretched thin running the business and can’t always be on the prowl for brands. There’s also tedious financial planning and training that is required to expand beauty sales.
The solution for Leon and many others within the new breed of beauty players has been to tap distributors to deliver brands that resonate with consumers. At the same time, these brands get exposure to fuel growth. Leon works in tandem with Beauty Fashion Sales to secure brands such as Ellis Faas, Kevyn Aucoin, Kinara and Jouer.
Finding and servicing the growing assortment of specialty stores can be a challenge for beauty brands, especially those organized around department stores, said Lindsay Crames, president of Beauty Fashion Sales. “If you are a [Estée] Lauder, you become a retailer of your own brands. But for smaller brands without that option, they are stuck between servicing in house, where the combination of local ‘touch’ and national coverage are not economical, or developing a network of regional representation that requires great care and servicing itself,” said Crames.
Beauty Fashion Sales is a full-service sales representation company for non-competing beauty brands. She said the company could help with short-staffed independent stores while also “vigorously” representing each non-competing brand. The company said it currently supplies 350 independent prestige boutiques, salons and spas in the country such as Hera Apothecary, La La Lipstick, Circe, The Beauty Mark and Arch Apothecary.
“Lindsay is the perfect middleman between vendor and boutique relations,” said Leon. “She can speak both languages: The language of the vendor, which consists of sales goals and product orders, as well as the language of a beauty boutique.”
Beauty firms said Beauty Fashion Sales has helped them with expansion goals. “Lindsay Crames and her team at Beauty Fashion Sales has played an integral role in our domestic retail expansion since contracting their services in January 2011,” said Desiree Tordecilla, executive vice president, global sales and marketing at Kevyn Aucoin.