Bridal Makeup Colors
Light colors such as pastels reflect more light and hence enhance the volume of a person. Advisable for persons on the slimmer side.
Dark colors such as blacks and burgundy, by virtue of reflecting lesser light diminish the volume of the wearer and are advisable for persons on the stouter side.
Short persons should avoid wearing clothes with contrasting colors
Dark colors such as blacks and burgundy, by virtue of reflecting lesser light diminish the volume of the wearer and are advisable for persons on the stouter side.
Short persons should avoid wearing clothes with contrasting colors
Keep your hands soft for Bridal Makeup
To keep your hands soft apply our rich non greasy Hand Crème before going to bed, then put on a pair of white cotton gloves. While you sleep, the gloves will hold in body heat and help the hand crème penetrate. In the morning, you hands will feel softer and smoother. ( This trick works great on feet, too !)
Bridal Facial
Because skin tends to break out or look flushed after a facial, be sure to schedule your bridal facial at least one week before your wedding.
How to do Bridal Makeup
Choose bridal makeup that's on the understated side. Our best suggestion, select a professional makeup artist with experience in bridal photography.
Eyeliner Tips
Avoid heavy eyeliner for bridal makeup . It'll only make your eyes look smaller. Pass on false eyelashes, too. They can cast a shadow beneath the eyes. Instead, accent the outer corner of eyes with black or gray eyeliner.
Bridal Makeup Photos
For Perfect Bridal Makeup photos , apply foundation evenly. Use a long lasting matte finish and end with a dusting of pressed powder. Be sure to keep pressed powder handy for touch up; you don't want a shiny nose or forehead in your pictures! Remember to match powder to your foundation color. Be sure to blend it well along the jaw line.
Bridal Makeup Ideas
Bridal makeup should make you appear radiant and beautiful in your wedding photographs. Your wedding makeup will depend on many factors - where the wedding is to be held and time of the ceremony. Morning wedding makeup should be more natural as too much makeup would appear very jarring. Light colors go well for the mornings. If you are planning an evening wedding, your bridal makeup can extend to formal and darker colors. Do not opt for current makeup styles just to keep with the trend. Instead opt for a bridal makeup style that is more timeless and classic.
The makeup should make you appear healthy and not artificially overdone. Your face shape, structure and color along with the bridal dress and hairstyle need to be complemented to the bridal makeup. Start with your skin and eyebrows and nails. Eyebrows must be trimmed a couple of days prior to the wedding. Ensure that you follow a healthy skin care routine in the months leading to the wedding so that your skin glows.
Try out the beauty products in advance lest you develop an allergy to them. You can look for a wedding makeup professional by perusing the yellow pages or one recommended by a friend or colleague. Check out the portfolio of the makeup artist. Find out the make up brands being used. Look through fashion magazines and wedding makeup albums to select a style that would suit you best. Each culture and society has its traditional bridal dress and makeup style.
Brides should understand the difference between everyday makeup and the type of application that will enhance their beauty in wedding photos. For brides, the choice is simple -- learn the proper techniques from a makeup artist months before the wedding, or simply invest in a professional application on the day of the event.
For Perfect Photos For perfect photos , apply foundation evenly. Use a long lasting matte finish and end with a dusting of pressed powder. Be sure to keep pressed powder handy for touch up; you don't want a shiny nose or forehead in your pictures! Remember to match powder to your foundation color. Be sure to blend it well along the jaw line.
The makeup should make you appear healthy and not artificially overdone. Your face shape, structure and color along with the bridal dress and hairstyle need to be complemented to the bridal makeup. Start with your skin and eyebrows and nails. Eyebrows must be trimmed a couple of days prior to the wedding. Ensure that you follow a healthy skin care routine in the months leading to the wedding so that your skin glows.
Try out the beauty products in advance lest you develop an allergy to them. You can look for a wedding makeup professional by perusing the yellow pages or one recommended by a friend or colleague. Check out the portfolio of the makeup artist. Find out the make up brands being used. Look through fashion magazines and wedding makeup albums to select a style that would suit you best. Each culture and society has its traditional bridal dress and makeup style.
Brides should understand the difference between everyday makeup and the type of application that will enhance their beauty in wedding photos. For brides, the choice is simple -- learn the proper techniques from a makeup artist months before the wedding, or simply invest in a professional application on the day of the event.
For Perfect Photos For perfect photos , apply foundation evenly. Use a long lasting matte finish and end with a dusting of pressed powder. Be sure to keep pressed powder handy for touch up; you don't want a shiny nose or forehead in your pictures! Remember to match powder to your foundation color. Be sure to blend it well along the jaw line.
What is Bridal Makeup Tips
Every bride dreams of her wedding day and wants to be at her best appearance that day. Bridal make up is an important part of bridal dressing. Along with the shinning jewellery and a gorgeous wedding dress if the make up and the hair do is inappropriate then their beauty are also marred. So it's very important to know about the right kind of bridal make up that would suit the brides taste and skin tone.
Though Indian bridal make up is a bit gorgeous with red and gold hues predominating but the make up shouldn't be over the top and should naturally enhance the dewy radiance of the bride. Bridal make up can effective correct any imperfection or marks that the bride may have in her face. So over all bridal make up form and integral part of a brides repertoire.
Though Indian bridal make up is a bit gorgeous with red and gold hues predominating but the make up shouldn't be over the top and should naturally enhance the dewy radiance of the bride. Bridal make up can effective correct any imperfection or marks that the bride may have in her face. So over all bridal make up form and integral part of a brides repertoire.
Henna Body Painting
What is Henna Tattoos
The ancients of India knew a thing or two about body ornament. No dark and aggressive tattoos for them, thank you. Traditional Indian enhancement is based on pretty and voluptuous painted swirls on hands and feet, and today's trendies are jumping on the idea.
Henna, as the 5,000-year-old art of body painting is called, is gaining adherents from Hollywood to Parkville. Demi Moore, Mira Sorvino, Naomi Campbell, the artist formerly known as Prince and his consort Mayte have appeared at star galas with henna-painted body parts. At Usha Gupta's salon on Harford Road, the clientele is not as flashy, but enthusiastic.
Gupta, who was trained in the refinements of this ancient beauty service in India, has been a practitioner for 20 years. She has always had regular Indian clients, but recently the young and hip have started booking appointments for body paint.
'In India, mehndi is worn for celebrations and auspicious occasions such as weddings,'' says Gupta, ''but here the young people do it for fun.
On a recent morning at the salon, a gaggle of young women were waiting their turn to be painted. The painting medium is a henna paste that is squeezed onto the skin with an applicator that looks like a small pastry tube. The dark squiggles and scrolls are left on the skin to allow the design to set, usually overnight. When the dried paste is flaked away, it leaves a stained skin pattern of red tints that can range from orange to deep red.
The result looks like henna tattooing, but the experience is painless and pleasant and the effects temporary.
Danielle Finnerman, a sophomore at the Maryland Institute, was there for a floral garland to accent her navel - a special effect for a weekend at the ocean. ''I know a lot of people who are getting tattoos, but I think they'll regret it 15 years from now. I think about the work world years ahead, and with tattoos there is only so much slack I could expect, even as an artist,'' she says.
Henna Designs can be original or chosen from a book of ancient patterns. Young people seem to have an affinity for the old designs, says Gupta, but they are wearing them in untraditional ways. She has painted stomachs, backs, circlets around the neck, arm or ankle and even full scalp designs on shaved heads.
That's where the Western way with mehndi differs from its origins. Today's fashionables are after a look to flaunt; the Eastern way is based on ceremony and intimacy.
Henna paint is an herbal compound and there are no known reactions. Henna Painting can take as little as minutes for a small anklet pattern or up to hours for the full works on palms and feet.
The ancients of India knew a thing or two about body ornament. No dark and aggressive tattoos for them, thank you. Traditional Indian enhancement is based on pretty and voluptuous painted swirls on hands and feet, and today's trendies are jumping on the idea.
Henna, as the 5,000-year-old art of body painting is called, is gaining adherents from Hollywood to Parkville. Demi Moore, Mira Sorvino, Naomi Campbell, the artist formerly known as Prince and his consort Mayte have appeared at star galas with henna-painted body parts. At Usha Gupta's salon on Harford Road, the clientele is not as flashy, but enthusiastic.
Gupta, who was trained in the refinements of this ancient beauty service in India, has been a practitioner for 20 years. She has always had regular Indian clients, but recently the young and hip have started booking appointments for body paint.
'In India, mehndi is worn for celebrations and auspicious occasions such as weddings,'' says Gupta, ''but here the young people do it for fun.
On a recent morning at the salon, a gaggle of young women were waiting their turn to be painted. The painting medium is a henna paste that is squeezed onto the skin with an applicator that looks like a small pastry tube. The dark squiggles and scrolls are left on the skin to allow the design to set, usually overnight. When the dried paste is flaked away, it leaves a stained skin pattern of red tints that can range from orange to deep red.
The result looks like henna tattooing, but the experience is painless and pleasant and the effects temporary.
Danielle Finnerman, a sophomore at the Maryland Institute, was there for a floral garland to accent her navel - a special effect for a weekend at the ocean. ''I know a lot of people who are getting tattoos, but I think they'll regret it 15 years from now. I think about the work world years ahead, and with tattoos there is only so much slack I could expect, even as an artist,'' she says.
Henna Designs can be original or chosen from a book of ancient patterns. Young people seem to have an affinity for the old designs, says Gupta, but they are wearing them in untraditional ways. She has painted stomachs, backs, circlets around the neck, arm or ankle and even full scalp designs on shaved heads.
That's where the Western way with mehndi differs from its origins. Today's fashionables are after a look to flaunt; the Eastern way is based on ceremony and intimacy.
Henna paint is an herbal compound and there are no known reactions. Henna Painting can take as little as minutes for a small anklet pattern or up to hours for the full works on palms and feet.
Mehendi for Hair
Mixing henna powder for your hair is the same as it is when mixing for skin. Just as you need to leave the paste on your skin for hours you will also need to leave the paste (or mud) on your hair for hours.
Once you have applied the paste on your hair, wrap your scalp with clingfilm and put a warm hat or towel over your head. After 6 hours wash it out by wetting it thoroughly. Usually there is dried paste that comes out easier if you use some conditioner to loosen it up. After all the paste is rinsed out of your hair it doesn't feel soft and silky immediately. That seems to occur a few days later.Henna won't completely change the color of your hair. It will make it red but the color is more of a transparency over your hair.
Please stay away from these products and stick to pure henna. Allergic reactions to henna are very rare, it is safe to use and the result is beautiful. If you already have a black henna burn, please go to see a doctor as soon as possible to get treatment. If you are a henna artists, plase note that I shall not allow the commercial use of my designs for black henna users.
Once you have applied the paste on your hair, wrap your scalp with clingfilm and put a warm hat or towel over your head. After 6 hours wash it out by wetting it thoroughly. Usually there is dried paste that comes out easier if you use some conditioner to loosen it up. After all the paste is rinsed out of your hair it doesn't feel soft and silky immediately. That seems to occur a few days later.Henna won't completely change the color of your hair. It will make it red but the color is more of a transparency over your hair.
What is Henna
Black Henna
Black henna, a green powder that smells like frozen peas, is neither black nor henna. It is indigo, Indigofera tinctoria Mehendi, often referred to as henna tattoos, is done by applying a paste made of henna powder and lemon juice on skin. With the help of heat, moisture and time the paste leaves a reddish brown stain on skin, first light, then darkening during the next 24 hours. The method has been in use for hundreds of yearsBlack Henna Warnings
The henna powder is made by drying and grinding the leaves of a henna plant (lawsonia inermis). Pure, 100% henna always leaves a brown stain: the shade variates according to the quality of henna used, the ingridients of the paste and the methods used when applying, and sometimes the color can darken to almost black, but basically the colour is brown. All products claiming to be "Black Henna" have other ingridients than henna added in them. A chemical dye called henylenediamine, referred to as PPD, is often used to create a fast-taking, jetblack result. Unfortunately PPD is very harmful on skin, often causing a so-called chemical burn. This is much like a strong allergic reaction, many people get it and many don't, but I advice you not to take the risk. A black henna burn takes a long time to get better and often leaves a scar.Please stay away from these products and stick to pure henna. Allergic reactions to henna are very rare, it is safe to use and the result is beautiful. If you already have a black henna burn, please go to see a doctor as soon as possible to get treatment. If you are a henna artists, plase note that I shall not allow the commercial use of my designs for black henna users.
Red Henna
Red henna, a green powder that smells like hay, is Lawsonia inermis, commonly known as henna. The leaves of the henna plant have a red-orange dye molecule, Lawsone, a napthaquinone. Henna will stain your hair red-orange; but this stain is translucent and will combine with your natural color. Body art quality henna has a much higher dye content than the henna usually sold for hairNeutral Henna
Neutral henna, a green powder that smells like freshly cut grass, is neither henna nor neutral. It is Cassia obovata. Cassia obovata contains anthraquinones, particuarly Chrysophanic acid, a remarkable anti-fungal, anti-microbial and anti-bacterial. Cassia obovata doesn't color hair. It will help damaged hair, make hair full, glossy, healthy.Mehendi Recipe | Mehndi Recipe
Selection of mehendi
Fresh Mehendi is always advisable to use for the cone, as it will give u good color without much efforts.If mehendi color is fedded, that means if it is more like a brownish then dark green.Filter this powder with a nylon clothe or even the tea striner will work. For 2 cones u will need 50grams of strained mehendi powder.
Add water
To get a good color and for a longer period,
Boil 1 cup of water, add ½ tea spoon of tea powder(Indian tea) Fresh Mehendi is always advisable to use for the cone, as it will give u good color without much efforts.If mehendi color is fedded, that means if it is more like a brownish then dark green.Filter this powder with a nylon clothe or even the tea striner will work. For 2 cones u will need 50grams of strained mehendi powder.
Add water
To get a good color and for a longer period,
Add ½ tea spoon sugar
Stir it and then filter.
Then add this water to the mehendi powder as required.
Also add 6-7 drops of eucalyptus oil.
The consistancy of this paste should be as thick as hurshes chocolate cerup. Stir it till u do not see any lumps(for 10-15 minutes) Put it in the cone when u need apply it on the hands. You can preserve this paste in the freeze but not the cone.
How to Apply Mehendi | How to Apply Henna
You can make your own powder by drying henna leaves in shade. It might take weeks for them to dry to a crisp and you need to grind them thoroughly. You may also buy henna powder from the market.
Take....
1. Henna powder sieved through a muslin cloth.
2. Well strained strong tea decoction.
3. Eucalyptus oil (few drops).
4. Strained lime juice.
5. Sugar (one table spoon).
Take the henna powder in a bowl, add the tea till it becomes a thick paste (similar to a dough). Add eucalyptus oil, sugar and lime juice and mix well to make it into a smooth and thin paste. Leave it covered over night or during the day if you prefer to apply in the night.
Take....
1. Henna powder sieved through a muslin cloth.
2. Well strained strong tea decoction.
3. Eucalyptus oil (few drops).
4. Strained lime juice.
5. Sugar (one table spoon).
Take the henna powder in a bowl, add the tea till it becomes a thick paste (similar to a dough). Add eucalyptus oil, sugar and lime juice and mix well to make it into a smooth and thin paste. Leave it covered over night or during the day if you prefer to apply in the night.
Make a cone....
Take a thick plastic cover or use any thick freezer bag - cut it into shape of rectange 7" X 4".Twist one corner of the cover to make a cone.
Tighten the tip to make tiny hole.
Hold the tip and fill the paste and tie the broader end tightly with a thread.
Let imagination fly...
Now have fun. What ever you draw is beautiful and is a master piece in its own.
Remember....
You should leave the mehendi to dry on your skin and keep it on for as long as possible (4 to 6 hours if possible - you may go to bed also with it). Scrape it after that. The color will become deeper if you leave it untouched by water for another 4 to 6 hours. A deep color may last upto two weeks. The coloration varies from person to person.
Mehendi Healing Properties
In various eastern parts, henna is thought to hold special medicinal or even magical properties. It is used to help heal skin diseases, prevent thinning hair, and cool the skin to reduce swelling in hot climates. It is made into a beverage to heal headaches and stomach pain. Newly purchased homes in Morocco often have their doors painted with henna to wish for prosperity and chase away evil. Henna is used as a protection against the "evil eye". The foreheads of bulls, milk cows, and horses are sometimes decorated with henna for their protection. Tombstones in graveyards are sometimes washed with henna to please the sprits.
Mehendi flowers produce perfume, and the Egyptians are believed to have made an oil and an ointment from them for increasing the suppleness of the limbs.
Mehendi has been used to treat a number of ailments due to a brown substance of a resinoid fracture found in it. This has chemical properties which characterize tannins, and is therefore named hennotannic acid. It has been used both internally and locally to treat conditions including leprosy, smallpox, cancer of the colon, headaches and blood loss - especially during childbirth. It can be used for skin conditions such as eczema. The plant can also treat muscle contraction and fungal and bacterial infections.
Mehendi flowers produce perfume, and the Egyptians are believed to have made an oil and an ointment from them for increasing the suppleness of the limbs.
Mehendi has been used to treat a number of ailments due to a brown substance of a resinoid fracture found in it. This has chemical properties which characterize tannins, and is therefore named hennotannic acid. It has been used both internally and locally to treat conditions including leprosy, smallpox, cancer of the colon, headaches and blood loss - especially during childbirth. It can be used for skin conditions such as eczema. The plant can also treat muscle contraction and fungal and bacterial infections.
Mehendi in the West/Mehendi Fashion
The introduction of Mehendi into Euro-American culture is a recent phenomenon. Today Mehendi, as trendy alternative to tattoos, is an in-thing in the West. Hollywood actors and celebrities have made this painless art of body painting famous. Actress Demi Moore, and 'No Doubt' crooner Gwen Stefani were among the first to sport Mehendi. Since then stars like Madonna, Drew Barrymore, Naomi Campbell, Liv Tyler, Nell McAndrew, Mira Sorvino, Daryl Hannah, Angela Bassett, Laura Dern, Laurence Fishburne, and Kathleen Robertson have all tried Henna tattoos, the great Indian way. Glossies, like Vanity Fair, Harper's Bazaar, Wedding Bells, People and Cosmopolitan have spread the Mehendi trend even further.
Mehendi has broken free of the traditional wedding, Teej or Karva Chauth days and is being applied for a Valentine's Day bash, a formal party or even an evening at a disco. In its new avatar, mehndi has been elevated to the status of body art and a fashion accessory for the fashion-conscious youngsters
A famous singer with mehndi all over her body created quite a stir at last year's MTV awards function, bearing testimony to the fact that this art has moulded itself so perfectly according to the needs of changing times to become chic and fashionable rather than being drab .
Mehendi has broken free of the traditional wedding, Teej or Karva Chauth days and is being applied for a Valentine's Day bash, a formal party or even an evening at a disco. In its new avatar, mehndi has been elevated to the status of body art and a fashion accessory for the fashion-conscious youngsters
A famous singer with mehndi all over her body created quite a stir at last year's MTV awards function, bearing testimony to the fact that this art has moulded itself so perfectly according to the needs of changing times to become chic and fashionable rather than being drab .
Mehendi - The Mark of the Suhaagan
No Indian wedding is ever complete without the Mehendi. Whichever part of the country the bride may be from, her hands are adorned with the lovely red hue of the mehendi (mehndi).
Beauty parlours have special bridal mehendi packs - these days, the brides have a choice between the Indian mehendi (which covers pretty much most of the palm) and the Arabic mehendi (in which the pattern is drawn to one side of the hand). The cost of applying the mehendi / henna may vary from parlour to parlour.
Mehendi (Mehndi) is associated to lots of things - a good dark design is a sign of good luck for the marital couple. It is common for the names of the bride and groom to be hidden in the mehndi design; and the wedding night cannot commence until the groom has found the names. Some examples of popular traditional images used in mehndi designs are the peacock, which is the national bird if India, the lotus flower, and an elephant with a raised trunk, which is a symbol of good luck.
From adorning brides' hands, to being used to make hip tattoos on arms and bellies, Mehendi / Mehndi or Henna has gone international. Once a typically Indian custom and an indispensable part of a brides makeup, Mehendi has gone cosmopolitan thanks to the attention it gets through stars like Madonna, No Doubt and Bjork.
Beauty parlours have special bridal mehendi packs - these days, the brides have a choice between the Indian mehendi (which covers pretty much most of the palm) and the Arabic mehendi (in which the pattern is drawn to one side of the hand). The cost of applying the mehendi / henna may vary from parlour to parlour.
Mehendi (Mehndi) is associated to lots of things - a good dark design is a sign of good luck for the marital couple. It is common for the names of the bride and groom to be hidden in the mehndi design; and the wedding night cannot commence until the groom has found the names. Some examples of popular traditional images used in mehndi designs are the peacock, which is the national bird if India, the lotus flower, and an elephant with a raised trunk, which is a symbol of good luck.
From adorning brides' hands, to being used to make hip tattoos on arms and bellies, Mehendi / Mehndi or Henna has gone international. Once a typically Indian custom and an indispensable part of a brides makeup, Mehendi has gone cosmopolitan thanks to the attention it gets through stars like Madonna, No Doubt and Bjork.
Wedding Mehendi | Wedding Mehndi
The occasion of Mehendi / Mehndi is fun a filled ritual, which is celebrated mainly by the bride's family. Today in our Hindu culture weddings are no more a small affair with only get together of family members and friends. But it is celebrated in a much more larger canvas than earlier. It is a lavish and elaborate affair nowadays. So pre wedding functions are no more a private affair. It is celebrated with equal fun and enthusiasm as the main wedding.
Mehendi has great significance in all Eastern wedding traditions, and no wedding is complete without the decoration of the bride's hands and feet - in many cultures on both the front and back of the hands right up to the elbow, and on the bottom half of the legs. The Mehendi night is something like a hen night in the West, with all the bride's female friends and relatives getting together to celebrate. They spend the evening singing traditional Mehendi songs, which tell of he good luck and blessings that Mehendi will bring, and of its significance with different in-laws.
The Mehendi night is common in the Gulf regions of Saudi, Bahrain, Kuwait and the UAE. Here, the celebration is generally held a few days prior to the wedding, and is strikingly similar to that of Indian culture. The bride has her hands and feet painted, and traditional songs are sung by the mothers and grandmothers, who tease her about her future. Mehndi also features in other Middle Eastern celebrations such as births and christenings. In Gujarat, Mehendi tattooing is part of the Adivasi women's wedding traditions. Leaves and flowers are used as templates around which complex designs are painted on the bride's face and arms.
The Mehendi ceremony is considered so sacred in some religions that unless the mother-in-law has applied the first dot of Mehendi to the bride's hand, the painting cannot go ahead. The Mehendi dot is considered to be a symbolic blessing, bestowal of which permits the new daughter-in-law to beautify herself for the groom.
Many brides believe that the deeper the color of the Mehendi, the deeper the love they will receive from their in-laws, in particular the mother-in-law, whose blessing is particularly important to an Asian bride. Hence she does whatever she can to ensure that the Mehendi stain is deep. A good deeply-coloured design is a sign of good luck for the marital couple. It is common for the names of the bride and groom to be hidden in the Mehendi design; and the wedding night cannot commence until the groom has found the names.
A bride is not expected to perform any housework until her wedding Mehendi has faded. While much of the symbolism of Mehendi designs are being lost some examples remain. The peacock, which is the national bird of India, the lotus flower, and an elephant with a raised trunk, which is a symbol of good luck, are all popular images.
In some customs the bridegroom's hands are also decorated, and communities in Kashmir and Bangladesh have evolved particular men's designs. A current trend in the UK is for traditional patterns in the form of a ring or bracelet.
Mehendi has great significance in all Eastern wedding traditions, and no wedding is complete without the decoration of the bride's hands and feet - in many cultures on both the front and back of the hands right up to the elbow, and on the bottom half of the legs. The Mehendi night is something like a hen night in the West, with all the bride's female friends and relatives getting together to celebrate. They spend the evening singing traditional Mehendi songs, which tell of he good luck and blessings that Mehendi will bring, and of its significance with different in-laws.
The Mehendi night is common in the Gulf regions of Saudi, Bahrain, Kuwait and the UAE. Here, the celebration is generally held a few days prior to the wedding, and is strikingly similar to that of Indian culture. The bride has her hands and feet painted, and traditional songs are sung by the mothers and grandmothers, who tease her about her future. Mehndi also features in other Middle Eastern celebrations such as births and christenings. In Gujarat, Mehendi tattooing is part of the Adivasi women's wedding traditions. Leaves and flowers are used as templates around which complex designs are painted on the bride's face and arms.
The Mehendi ceremony is considered so sacred in some religions that unless the mother-in-law has applied the first dot of Mehendi to the bride's hand, the painting cannot go ahead. The Mehendi dot is considered to be a symbolic blessing, bestowal of which permits the new daughter-in-law to beautify herself for the groom.
Many brides believe that the deeper the color of the Mehendi, the deeper the love they will receive from their in-laws, in particular the mother-in-law, whose blessing is particularly important to an Asian bride. Hence she does whatever she can to ensure that the Mehendi stain is deep. A good deeply-coloured design is a sign of good luck for the marital couple. It is common for the names of the bride and groom to be hidden in the Mehendi design; and the wedding night cannot commence until the groom has found the names.
A bride is not expected to perform any housework until her wedding Mehendi has faded. While much of the symbolism of Mehendi designs are being lost some examples remain. The peacock, which is the national bird of India, the lotus flower, and an elephant with a raised trunk, which is a symbol of good luck, are all popular images.
In some customs the bridegroom's hands are also decorated, and communities in Kashmir and Bangladesh have evolved particular men's designs. A current trend in the UK is for traditional patterns in the form of a ring or bracelet.
Mehendi Designs | Henna Designs
Mehendi/Henna has moved out international. Once a typically Indian custom and a vital part of a bride's makeup, Mehendi has gone cosmopolitan. Thanks to the attention it gets through stars like Madonna, and other Hollywood & Bollywood / film artist.
With the passing of centuries, mehndi has gained in significance in cultures within the middle East, Asia and North Africa. All of these communities use mehndi (mehendi) for the same purpose: to decorate and beautify; however, each one has its own unique designs, inspired by indigenous fabrics, the local architecture and natural environment, and individual cultural experiences.
In south India, a circular pattern is drawn and filled in the center of the palm. Then a cap is formed on the fingers, as if they had been dipped in mehandi. This design is used by most Asian elders, as in the early days before cones (similar to icing bags) were available it was simple to apply. It is this design that is used by south Indian classical dancers.
In north Africa, very intricate designs are developed around peacock, butterfly and fish images, which are completed with finely detailed patterns. The effect is that of a lace glove, as great attention is given to filling in the gaps that surround the main motif. Religious symbols are incorporated, such as the 'doli', a form of hand-pulled carriage which was used to transport the bride from her home to her in-laws' house in the days before cars. The lotus is also popular. Many people confuse Pakistani with north Indian designs, because both are intricately applied to give a lacy glove-like effect.
In fact, however, Pakistani designs are a blend of the north Indian style and Arabic motifs - flowers, leaves and geometrical shapes. This choice of motif derives from religious teachings: Muslims must not pray with figurative representations on the body, and so do not employ designs depicting human faces, birds or animals. Arabic patterns are well spaced on the hand, and traditionally completed by dyeing the nails with mehndi to give a deep stain.
With the passing of centuries, mehndi has gained in significance in cultures within the middle East, Asia and North Africa. All of these communities use mehndi (mehendi) for the same purpose: to decorate and beautify; however, each one has its own unique designs, inspired by indigenous fabrics, the local architecture and natural environment, and individual cultural experiences.
In south India, a circular pattern is drawn and filled in the center of the palm. Then a cap is formed on the fingers, as if they had been dipped in mehandi. This design is used by most Asian elders, as in the early days before cones (similar to icing bags) were available it was simple to apply. It is this design that is used by south Indian classical dancers.
In north Africa, very intricate designs are developed around peacock, butterfly and fish images, which are completed with finely detailed patterns. The effect is that of a lace glove, as great attention is given to filling in the gaps that surround the main motif. Religious symbols are incorporated, such as the 'doli', a form of hand-pulled carriage which was used to transport the bride from her home to her in-laws' house in the days before cars. The lotus is also popular. Many people confuse Pakistani with north Indian designs, because both are intricately applied to give a lacy glove-like effect.
In fact, however, Pakistani designs are a blend of the north Indian style and Arabic motifs - flowers, leaves and geometrical shapes. This choice of motif derives from religious teachings: Muslims must not pray with figurative representations on the body, and so do not employ designs depicting human faces, birds or animals. Arabic patterns are well spaced on the hand, and traditionally completed by dyeing the nails with mehndi to give a deep stain.
Mehndi Culture | Henna Culture
Many celebrities have been seen wearing mehendi designs and general awareness of the art form has increased due to articles in national magazines, publications and television broadcasts. Traditionally, mehendi designing for any Indian bride is a must event of the Indian weddings.
Starting from Madonna till Britney spears, or let us say nearly every Western Female as well as male celebrities use this customary Indian art very frequently these days. From decorating brides' hands, to being used to make body tattoos on arms & bellies etc. Mehendi/Henna has moved out international. Once a typically Indian custom and a vital part of a bride's makeup, Mehendi has gone cosmopolitan. Thanks to the attention it gets through stars like Madonna, and other Hollywood & Bollywood / film artist
Starting from Madonna till Britney spears, or let us say nearly every Western Female as well as male celebrities use this customary Indian art very frequently these days. From decorating brides' hands, to being used to make body tattoos on arms & bellies etc. Mehendi/Henna has moved out international. Once a typically Indian custom and a vital part of a bride's makeup, Mehendi has gone cosmopolitan. Thanks to the attention it gets through stars like Madonna, and other Hollywood & Bollywood / film artist
Mehendi
Mehendi History | Mehendi History | History of Henna
What is Mehendi
The Mughals brought Mehendi to India as lately as the 12th century AD. As the use of Mehendi spread, its application methods and designs became more sophisticated.According to professional henna artist and researcher Catherine C Jones, the beautiful patterning prevalent in India today has emerged only in the 20th century. In 17th century India, the barber's wife was usually employed for applying henna on women. Most women from that time in India are depicted with their hands and feet hennaed, regardless of social class or marital status.
The art of Mehendi has existed for centuries. The exact place of its origin is difficult to track because of centuries of people in different cultures moving through the continents and taking their art forms with them and therefore sharing their art with everyone along the way.
Some historical evidence suggests that Mehendi started in India while others believe it was introduced to India during the twelfth century A.D. I personally feel that it would be hard to argue the fact that it appeared as an art form in Egypt first.
Proof has been found that henna(Mehendi) was used to stain the fingers and toes of Pharoahs prior to mummification over 5000 years ago when it was also used as a cosmetic and for it's healing power. The mummification process took 70 days and as the Egyptians were diligent in planning for their deaths and their rebirth in the afterlife, they became quite obsessed with the preservation process. The Egyptians believed that body art ensured their acceptance into the afterlife and therefore used tattooing and Mehendi to please the gods and guarantee a pleasant trip.
The henna used for mehndi comes from a bush called Lawsonia Inermis which is part of the loose strife family and is grown in the Sudan, Egypt, India, most of the North African counties, The Middle East and other hot and dry places. The bush is also grown in Florida and California for his ornamental appearance and often grows to be quite large, ranging from six to twenty feet in some cases. The lance- shaped leaves from the bush are harvested, dried and then crushed to make the henna powder. Henna is used for hair dye, as a skin conditioner and as a reliever for rashes. The art of Mehendi is referred to as henna, mehndi or mehandi depending on where you are and which name you feel came first (or are most comfortable using). No matter what you call it though -- the art form remains essentially the same as it was centuries ago. It is beautiful the way it stains the skin!
Henna designs have traditionally fallen into four different styles. The Middle Eastern style is mostly made up of floral patterns similar to the Arabic textiles, paintings and carvings and do not usually follow a destinctive pattern. The North African style generally follows the shape of the hands and feet using geometrical floral patterns. The Indian and Pakistani designs encompass more than just the feet and hands and generally extend further up the appendages to give the illusion of gloves and stockings which are made up of lines, paisley patterns and teardrops. Lastly, the Indonesian and Southern Asian styles were a mix of Middle Eastern and Indian designs using blocks of color on the very tips of their toes and fingers. All of these styles remain popular today but have also been joined in popularity by celtic designs and chinese symbols. The point once again is to have fun with designs and experiment with them until you find something that you feel really passionate about.
Your Professional Manicure or Professional Pedicure
There is no need to go to a professional manicurist to get a professional manicure. With your own professional manicure sets (whether it's just the basics or the latest state-of-the-art pedicure machines), you can give yourself a professional manicure or pedicure.
There are different types of manicures and pedicures. Different locations may offer several options and treatments. Quite often, nail salons and spas will offer a basic package and let you add on additional services, or they might already have several packages already put together for you to choose from.
Usually a basic manicure includes clipping and cutting the nails, shaping, pushing back the cuticle and applying nail polish and nail hardener (which makes the nail stronger) to the surface. Also, you may choose to add acrylic nails to enhance the look. This is when a fake nail is glued to your nail bed and acrylic powder is applied to create a natural look. Then the nail technician or manicurist cuts down the nail to the length of your choice. Acrylic nails normally lasts for about two to three weeks before touch-ups or refills are needed. It is very important to take care of your fingernails, toenails, and the skin on your hands and feet. So, just like your hands, your feet need special treatment too. A basic pedicure includes the same services as a manicure, with the addition of a warm foot bath and foot exfoliation (scraping the dead skin from under the foot).
Most nail salons and spas offer additional services with your manicure and pedicure. For example, if you are getting a manicure or pedicure, you may have the choice of receiving a paraffin wax treatment.
This is when your hands and feet are wrapped in plastic and dipped into a container of warm wax. This process softens your skin and makes it really smooth.
Also, most businesses offer hand and foot massages. Just keep in mind that when you choose additional treatment options, you are normally charged extra for these services. In addition to the wax treatment and massages, many salons also offer other products that can enhance your manicure and pedicure experience, such as scented lotions and oils.
There are different types of manicures and pedicures. Different locations may offer several options and treatments. Quite often, nail salons and spas will offer a basic package and let you add on additional services, or they might already have several packages already put together for you to choose from.
Usually a basic manicure includes clipping and cutting the nails, shaping, pushing back the cuticle and applying nail polish and nail hardener (which makes the nail stronger) to the surface. Also, you may choose to add acrylic nails to enhance the look. This is when a fake nail is glued to your nail bed and acrylic powder is applied to create a natural look. Then the nail technician or manicurist cuts down the nail to the length of your choice. Acrylic nails normally lasts for about two to three weeks before touch-ups or refills are needed. It is very important to take care of your fingernails, toenails, and the skin on your hands and feet. So, just like your hands, your feet need special treatment too. A basic pedicure includes the same services as a manicure, with the addition of a warm foot bath and foot exfoliation (scraping the dead skin from under the foot).
Most nail salons and spas offer additional services with your manicure and pedicure. For example, if you are getting a manicure or pedicure, you may have the choice of receiving a paraffin wax treatment.
This is when your hands and feet are wrapped in plastic and dipped into a container of warm wax. This process softens your skin and makes it really smooth.
Also, most businesses offer hand and foot massages. Just keep in mind that when you choose additional treatment options, you are normally charged extra for these services. In addition to the wax treatment and massages, many salons also offer other products that can enhance your manicure and pedicure experience, such as scented lotions and oils.
Cuticle Care
Cuticles protect your nail against bacteria and damage, so it is important that they are adequately protected. While pushing back cuticles, make sure the action is gentle. If you handle cuticles roughly, they could become damaged.
It is also important that cuticles do not become dry. Dry cuticles will tear and split. Protect your hands with gloves while doing house cleaning chores (like washing up). Apply a hand lotion regularly.
Dry cuticles can be treated with a herbal tea. Soak chamomile and peppermint in some warm water and let your hands soak in it for a while. Olive oil or jojoba oil is also good for dry cuticles.
It is also important that cuticles do not become dry. Dry cuticles will tear and split. Protect your hands with gloves while doing house cleaning chores (like washing up). Apply a hand lotion regularly.
Dry cuticles can be treated with a herbal tea. Soak chamomile and peppermint in some warm water and let your hands soak in it for a while. Olive oil or jojoba oil is also good for dry cuticles.
How To do a Pedicure
The steps needed to give yourself a pedicure are very similar to those taken for a manicure.
Once you know how to manicure, you'll find it easy learning how to pedicure.
Once you know how to manicure, you'll find it easy learning how to pedicure.
- If you have any nail polish on your toes, remove it before you start. Soak your feet in a large bowl of warm water or a foot bath.
- Use large nail clippers to trim your toenails. File them into the desired shape.
- Apply cuticle lotion to the edge of the toenails and push back the cuticles with a cuticle pusher.
- Using a pumice stone, remove any calluses and dead skin from the sole of your foot.
- Return your feet to the water to soak again. Take them out and dry them with a clean towel.
- Using a nail polisher (or nail buffer), polish the nails.
- Apply nail polish to each toenail (if desired). Use a base coat, a colored coat and a top coat. Clear nail polish can be used in place of the base coat and top coat.
- Apply body lotion or oil to your feet. Massage your feet and the bottom of your legs as you apply it.
How To Do a Manicure
If you have ever wondered how to do a manicure, the following list should be helpful. It is a list of steps that professional manicurists take when giving people manicures. By following the same steps (and using your own professional manicure sets) you too can give yourself a professional manicure
- Remove any old nail polish with nail polish remover. Wash and sanitize the hands with soap and hot water or by scrubbing with bath salt. Bath salt is best because it removes dead skin cells. Dry the hands with a clean towel.
- Trim the fingernails and shape them with a nail file. Metal nail files or emery boards can be used, but professionals usually use fine glass files. To file properly, start with the file at the outer edge of the nail and move towards the center. You should not file nails with a saw-like motion.
- Soak the hands in water. A cream, oil or chemical cuticle remover can be applied to remove cuticles. The cuticles are pushed back with a cuticle pusher. Metal cuticle pushers can be used, but they may damage the fingernail. It is best to use orangewood cuticle pushers.
- Polish the fingernails with a polishing board (or nail buffer). A polishing board has a soft foam layer with a polishing surface.
- Apply nail polish. Most professionals apply at least one layer of clear nail polish. If you want to apply colored nail polish, use at least three layers. Start with a base coat. Then put on the color coat. Finish with a top coat. Clear nail polish can be used in place of a base coat and top coat.
- Finish the manicure with a hand massage. You can use hand lotion or oils. Some manicurists will soak the hands in paraffin or wax before putting on hand lotion.
Professional Manicure Set / Professional Pedicure Set
Here are all the tools you will need to give yourself a manicure or pedicure. Some items on the list are essential, but some items can be left until later. You can also buy professional manicure sets or individual manicure and pedicure sets.
The Basics
- Bowl of warm water (this will have to be a very large bowl for a pedicure).
- Nail polish remover.
- Cuticle pusher (preferably orangewood)
- A hand towel.
- Nail clippers or scissors.
- Clear nail polish.
- Cotton pads.
- Finger brush.
- Nail file or emery board.
- Nail polishing board (or nail buffer).
- Massage lotion or hand lotion.
- Pumice stone.
Extras
- Finger bath.
- Foot bath.
- Bath salt.
- Cuticle remover (this is not necessary).
- Cuticle oil (this is not necessary).
- Colored nail polish. (This isn't necessary if you do not want colored nails.)
- Base coat.
- Top coat.
- Professional Items
- Pedicure machines (can also be used for manicures).
Nails for Different Occasions
Nails for Interview
Keep the nails clean, simple and short for attending interview . Use neutral shades.Party Nails, Late Night Nails
Arrive dark and dramatic: Plum Fairy, Midnight Metal Cabernet, or Classic Red.Natural Nails
Pink Snow, Clear Ice, or any other shade that is trendy, young and attractive.Short Nails, Metallic Nails
Metallics are all the rage this year, and spring is a great season to sport a trendy new look. For the best impact, keep your nails trimmed relatively short and show off a splashy metallic look. Silvers, greens, blues and blacks. Greens are especially hot this year, so apply a pretty green hue to get in on the latest color craze.Pretty Nails, Pastel Nails
It`s likely that pastel colors will never go out of style. Find a shimmery lilac or lavender, a dainty pink, peach or rose, or try other pale pastel shades. For an extra creative touch, apply an iridescent, glossy, pearly or glittery topcoat. Or, for a modern twist, introduce a delicate white on your tips and enjoy a unique new French manicure.Traditional Nails
For a no-fail look no matter what your personal style or wardrobe options, consider a standby pink or red. Softer pinks and reds seem to be making a strong appearance on nails, blending nicely with all skin tones, nail shapes and clothing color choicesRed Nails, Pink Nails
These colours tend to be classics in the world of lips and fingertips, so even if you can`t find a trendy look for your nails, you can stay in style with a tried-and-true color scheme. To get a little daring, gradually tone down your colors until you are moving from fire engine red and lollypop pink to paler shades of carnation, brick and maybe even peach!Nail Makeup / Nail Makeup Tips
To finish your makeup programme the last step is nail makeup. Here all you have to do is be creative and as daring as you can. The basic care of nail is very important and hence regularly manicure and pedicure for having healthy and beautiful nails. Given below are some of the tips for the nails to keep them healthy and tidy.
- Slim the look of wide nail bases with an oval shape.
- Pastels and neutrals go the distance on longer, rounder nails.
- Darker polish looks best on short, squared nails. Narrow nail beds appear stronger with a soft square shape. Create a lighter side of bold by add drops of a dark, rich creme to a bottle of clear polish and shake.
- Storing polish in a warm place may change its consistency. Keep nail shades in the refrigerator or a bathroom cabinet.
- Experiment and you will come up with something very trendy and genuine.
- Take the time to cultivate your nails.
- Stop biting the nails.
- Use a nail hardener to protect them from splitting and peeling. Vitamin E supplements keep nails growing long and strong.
Nail Care / Nail Care Tips
- Don't use nails as tools to keep them from breaking.
- Use a pen or pencil to dial a telephone number and a letter opener to open envelopes.
- Avoid using rough metal nail files that can damage nails, and never clip or cut a cuticle unless absolutely necessary.
- After they've been in water, let nails dry completely before filing them.
- Keep nails away from detergents, chlorine and salt water whenever possible.
- Wear gloves in the winter not only for warmth but to protect nails from chipping.
- Wear protective gloves when gardening or doing other household tasks, especially if it involves using hot water, soaps or strong chemicals
Contouring Cheeks | Cheek Contouring | Cheek Contour
- Use light tones in areas you want to highlight and darker tones to shade areas you want to downplay.
- Use a foundation or concealer in a shade lighter than your natural coloring to highlight different areas on the face for a "lifted" look. Consider the corner of the eyes, center of the forehead, tops of the cheekbones, underneath the brow bones, under the lower corners of the mouth and the center of the chin.
- Use a darker makeup, concealer or powder to shade, or create a shadow, that recesses a particular area of the face. This can give the face quite a dramatic effect, especially in photographs. It's less effective and unnatural looking in daylight, so for street makeup use this technique subtly, and blend your makeup well.
- Contouring can define your jawline, diminish a double chin, create a cheekbone or soften a prominent jawbone.
- Shading works best if used under your regular foundation. Use powder shading, however, after you've applied your foundation.
- Highlighting looks best if used on top of foundation.
- Blend well when highlighting and shading.
- You can use shading to shade the hollows of the cheek.
Cheeks Makeup
For a soft, natural appearance, use a blush brush to apply powder blush to the balls of your cheeks. Using a clean, dry sponge, blend evenly in all directions until all edges disappear.
While applying Cheeks Makeup for a more contoured look, apply powder blush from the front of the center of your ears and continue forward, curving slightly under your cheek bones, to the center of your face. Blend well with a dry sponge. The deepest color should be closest to the ears to create depth.
While applying Cheeks Makeup for a more contoured look, apply powder blush from the front of the center of your ears and continue forward, curving slightly under your cheek bones, to the center of your face. Blend well with a dry sponge. The deepest color should be closest to the ears to create depth.
Lip Tips
- To keep lips going all day, first pencil all over lips with a soft lip pencil. Apply lipstick over and blot.
- To make lips look fuller line lips with a pencil and then blend the edges with a sponge applicator. Cover with gloss or petroleum jelly.
- To keep lipstick off teeth, pucker lips into an extreme "O". Cover your finger with tissue, and pole it into your mouth. Slowly twist it out of your mouth, eliminating any excess color.
- To achieve a pouty, sexy mouth, emphasize your top lip by dabbing just a touch of gloss in the center.
- Highlight your lips with a very light eye- shadow color that coordinates with your lip colour tones. Place it right in the center of your upper and lower lips. To balance unevenly shaped lips, use a lighter colored lipstick on the smaller-sized lip.
- To keep lipstick in place while dining, keep lips off utensils. Use your lower teeth and tongue to do the work.
- Gently rub with washcloth over lips before applying lipstick to smooth out lips.
- Apply foundation around the lip give a precise look without lip liner.
- To stop lipstick from bleeding, use a lip-liner, or apply foundation over the lips first.
- If you have big lips, use muted colours such as purples, browns and bronzes.
- If you have small lips, avoid dark colours. Professionals prefer to use a brush for lipstick application. Brushes generally allow you to use much less lipstick.
Lip Gloss
Go in for the usage of lip-glosses because it is the in-thing, this season. There`s nothing that makes you look more glamorous as quickly as lip-gloss does.
- For those who like shine with the minimum amount of stickiness, go for light and skin caring glosses. Normally Lip-Glosses come in a multitude of shades in one of those handy tubes with a brush. Simply twist and the gloss comes out on the brush.
- Most of these are very sheer as the name says, but if you like a very soft, natural mouth, these will be a great choice. Some lip-glosses also come in beautiful smell and taste.
- If you want to go for the stickier glosses then it will take you some time to get used to the stickiness. Most people get used to it very quickly, and the advantage is that they usually stay on that little bit longer. These also come in different fruit flavours and smell and give an extremely glossy finish.
- If you like gloss that feels comfortable on the lips then go for those that give moisture and shine to your lips and feels more like Vaseline than anything else. The colours look vivid in the tubes, but when they are on the lips, they look sheer and next to nothing.
- Lastly, there are glosses that are definitely sticky, but those who use them couldn`t care less. The shine is terrific and they do stay on very well indeed. They also come with suspended holographic particles that catch the light and change colours.
- If you don`t like the feel of a gloss but are interested in experimenting with the look, you should have a look at some of the fantastic new sheer lipsticks. They give the transparency that you get from gloss but not a bit of the heavy or sticky feeling often associated with them. They are also easier for some people to apply, as they`re exactly like a normal lipstick, and some people also find they have more staying power. Some shades are twinkly and others are just shiny.
Lip Design
Anytime, any place, anywhere, here`s a mistake-proof way to create great-looking lips in no time. All you need to do is follow the procedure as illustrated below.
- Your tools should be your favourite lipstick or lip-gloss, a freshly sharpened lip pencil in the same shade or a beige or neutral shade and a lip brush.
- Then create an outline by dotting your lips with a pencil at the main areas, one at the edge of each corner on either side of your upper lip. Then, add two more dots --one at each of the Twin Peaks (the crests) in the middle of the upper lip.
- Now connect your dots - first, connecting the dot on each corner up to the dot on the crest on the same side. Then, connecting the 2 dots on both crests together, to completely outline the top lip.
- Outline, starting from the middle of your lower lip, lining outward three-quarters of the way to the corners, stopping right before you get to the corners.
- Fill in with lipstick or lip-gloss, using your lip brush to apply colour evenly. Blend any visible edges of your pencil lines with lipstick, using your lip brush to apply and blend.
- The best lip colour fixative is a thin layer of chapstick. The formula holds lip colour like crazy as it heals and protects. Powder is also a good lip colour fixative.
- For longer wear, blot lips after applying lipstick to set colour and remove excess. Add a thin layer of loose or pressed powder, then apply colour again.
- Turn down too much shine by holding a single-ply tissue to your lips and pressing a little loose powder through it - just enough will sift through the tissue to adhere to colour and reduce the shine.
- Keep matte lip colour from drying your lips - use a lip primer or lip colour fixative before you apply the matte colour.
Lipstick for Brown Skin | Lipstick for Black Skin
Try red with a blue undertone, which are deep and rich. Also, mahogany, and deep plums, and wine reds are worth trying. Avoid orange and pink reds for this skin tone.
Browns: Almost any shade of brown suits black skin. Sheer and shimmery light browns to a rich, dark, coffee brown.
Pinks: Medium and soft sheer pinks are very flattering. A hint of pink in glosses and sheers with a touch of beige can really enhance this skin tone. Berries, deep roses, and plums also flatter this skin tone.
Lipstick for Olive Skin | Lipstick for Yellow Skin
Rich, deep brown reds and deep, dark berry shades. Stay away from orange/reds and pink/reds.
Browns: Browns with a red or auburn/mahogany undertone work well with this skin tone. Also, rich browns that resemble coffee, toffee, and chocolate colors work well.
Pinks: Deep berries, rich rose, and soft to medium plums are very flattering to this skin tone which have very strong yellow undertones. Avoid pinks that are cool and too light as these pinks can make complexion look draining.
Lipstick for Medium Skin
Deep Reds are most flattering. Blue-reds brighten medium skin with a yellow undertone. Brown, warm reds will soften and look warm on medium skin.
Browns: Browns that are very pale can make medium skins look ashy and washed out. Stick to rich caramel shades, medium brown with yellow or pink undertones, and creamy coffee colour browns. Sheer browns in these varying shades can also be very flattering.
Pinks: Rich and deep pinks, which tend to fall on warm, look best on medium skin. Also pinks with brown undertones enhance and flatter medium skins very well. Sheers, creams, and mattes can all be tried and tested with much success using these shades of pink.
Browns: Browns that are very pale can make medium skins look ashy and washed out. Stick to rich caramel shades, medium brown with yellow or pink undertones, and creamy coffee colour browns. Sheer browns in these varying shades can also be very flattering.
Pinks: Rich and deep pinks, which tend to fall on warm, look best on medium skin. Also pinks with brown undertones enhance and flatter medium skins very well. Sheers, creams, and mattes can all be tried and tested with much success using these shades of pink.
Lipstick for Fair Skin
Deep Plum Reds: Soft berry and wine reds with a blue undertone. Avoid reds with an orange undertone. These can make you look washed out and ashy. Sheer medium brown with pink undertones or beige lipsticks with a pink undertone flatter fair skins.
Browns: Mocha browns, and darker brown/pink lipsticks are also flattering for an evening lip look. Extra pale browns with yellow undertones make fair skin look washed out.
Pinks: Pinks look fantastic on fair skin. Sheer, light shiny pink lipsticks with blue undertones also work well. Pinks with a slight gold shimmer also enhance this skin tone very nicely. Dusty roses with or without shimmer are good ones. Stay away from hot pink lipstick as it overpowers fair skins.
Browns: Mocha browns, and darker brown/pink lipsticks are also flattering for an evening lip look. Extra pale browns with yellow undertones make fair skin look washed out.
Pinks: Pinks look fantastic on fair skin. Sheer, light shiny pink lipsticks with blue undertones also work well. Pinks with a slight gold shimmer also enhance this skin tone very nicely. Dusty roses with or without shimmer are good ones. Stay away from hot pink lipstick as it overpowers fair skins.
Lip Colors
Most important things for choosing the right colour for the lips are the skin color, hair color and shape of your lips.
- For light skin and blonde hair: all shades of orange, pink and purple.
- For dark skin and dark hair: all shades of red, violet.
- For light skin and dark hair: all shades of brown and beige.
- For red hair women: coral-red, brown and bronze colors.
- For shimmery lips the colors in golden shades and iced pastels are in vogue. Keep your lips looking sweet with moisturizing lipsticks or glosses in pearly nude, candy pink, lilac, silver and gold.
- For party lips fruit-flavored lip-glosses are in. For a techno, ultra-gloss look, apply a dash of metallic lip-gloss over lipstick in the center of your lips
Eyebrow Colors
It can be hard to figure out the exact color you should use on your eyebrows. Sometimes we are taught to match your hair color exactly and there is some truth to that. However that doesn't work for everyone. Here is a simple guide to help you choose the best color for you.
Eyebrow Gel
Brow gel comes in clear or color formulas. It is only necessary if you have unruly eyebrows. If you use the clear formula, fill in prior with an eyebrow pencil or powder and apply the gel on top.
Eyebrow Powder
Brow powder is always a matte powder with high color pigments. You can also use an eye shadow that is matte and matches your hair color. Eyebrow powder provides the most natural look. Apply with an angle eye brush and with light strokes. Blend with an eyebrow brush.
Eyebrow Pencil
The eyebrow pencil is the most common product to use on ones eyebrows. However it can look harsh, so be sure to have a sharp point for easier application. For a more natural look, use short soft strokes and remember to blend with a firm eyebrow brush.
Makeup Eyebrow
Makeup for the eyebrow consists of powder or pencil. There are some brow finishers that are liquid or wax. These don't add color, but help hold the brow in.
Eyebrow Makeup
Eyebrows are one of our most expressive facial features. They are also one of the most overlooked features when it comes to make up. Many women will give the minutest attention to their lips, eyes and face, but leave the eyebrows au natural. Eyebrows need to be tweezed if they are too bushy or filled in if too sparse. You fill them in using makeup.
Experiment with Eye Makeup Tips to Find the Balance
You really need to experiment and play with new colors and have fun learning to apply eye shadow that is within the same shade and that complement each other (you can soften and blend similar colors easier). That's why matte, neutral eye make up is a favorite. When applied properly it draws people's gazes "into" your beautiful eyes, not "at" your eyes.
The ideal behind eye make up tips application is to create illusions that minimize "faults" and increase the perception of picture perfect expressive eyes. Eye makeup should enhance your eye's shape and color. To outline the contour of the eye, you can use eyeliners or pencils.
Eye make up tips can be used for shading and shaping the eye, and mascara to give eye lashes the illusion of length and thickness. When it comes to creating the illusion of light and shadow, eye makeup does a wonderful job, once you can apply eye make up tips appropriately.
Here's the general rule to apply eye make up tips. You need to use four different-colored shadows as follows;
The ideal behind eye make up tips application is to create illusions that minimize "faults" and increase the perception of picture perfect expressive eyes. Eye makeup should enhance your eye's shape and color. To outline the contour of the eye, you can use eyeliners or pencils.
Eye make up tips can be used for shading and shaping the eye, and mascara to give eye lashes the illusion of length and thickness. When it comes to creating the illusion of light and shadow, eye makeup does a wonderful job, once you can apply eye make up tips appropriately.
Here's the general rule to apply eye make up tips. You need to use four different-colored shadows as follows;
- Apply eye make up tips in a neutral-toned base
- A main color
- A lighter shade for highlighting
- A darker shade for emphasizing
Applying Eye Makeup
Eye shadows come in in several textures, powders (compacts), pencils, and creams:
- Powder can be used either dry or wet and it's really easy to control. Make sure you look for a powder that feels moist.
- Pencils are fairly easy to use, but you need to remember to smear the line as you go or you'll have lines all over your face.
- Creams tend to be hard to control. They can look beautiful and stay that way if you use a good quality eye foundation (eye primer), otherwise they can slip and slide into the crease on your eyes and eyelids.
Vintage Looks and Retro Looks
Many gorgeous eye makeup looks from the past have come into vogue once again. Popular styles include:
- 1920's Eye: Line both top and bottom of eye lids with thick, black liner. Cover the entire eyelid with a shadow in dark gray, green or turquoise.
- 1930's Eye: The deep-set eye look was in, so use dark shadow along the crease of the upper eyelid for this effect. Top with blue, green, or violet shade, medium black liner, and mascara or false eyelashes.
- 1950's and 60's Eyes: Use liquid liner in a thick, bold line across the top lid and two coats of mascara for a simple 50's eye style. Another popular style was the cat eye makeup look with winged liner and a blue, grey, or turquoise shadow.
- 1970's: Darker eyes were, out and lighter eye makeup or bare natural eyes were in. Try light pastel shadows, pale blue, or silvery liner and light mascara for this style.
- 1980s: Lots of blue eye shadow and colored mascara were staples of the 80's. Goth and punk styles with heavy, exaggerated makeup on the eyes also became popular during this era. 1990s and beyond: The looks of the nineties reflected a focus on the individual that extended to makeup. The overdone looks of the 80's gave way to more subdued looks. Today, both natural and dramatic eyes are popular.
Emo Eye Makeup | Scene Eye Makeup
The eyes are typically the focus of scene or emo makeup looks. The style is very dark. Eye Makeup Styles include combinations of the following:
- Gray or black shadow applied to the entire eyelid
- Black shadow blended up towards the browbone
- Black liner applied to the inner eye
- Deep colored or lack liner applied along the corner of the eye and along the lower lash line
- Black liner may also be applied to the top lid
- Dark Mascara
Dramatic Eye Makeup
Dramatic eye makeup designs are the perfect evening look , for special occasions, or simply when you really want to draw attention to your eyes. Looks in dramatic eye cosmetics range from dark, smoky eye makeup to glitter fantasy styles. When creating a dramatic eye makeup style:
- Go bolder with liner than you normally would, and don't be afraid to extend the line a bit beyond the eyes.
- If you normally only wear liner on the top lid, try lining under the lower lash line or smudging eye shadow under the lower lashes for a softer look.
- Curl lashes and apply several coats of mascara (combing in between each application to avoid clumps) or try false eyelashes.
- Experiment with bright colors or those different from your everyday makeup routine.
- Experiment with various eye makeup finishes, such as metallic liner or shimmer shadow.
- If you go extremely bold with your eyes, use more subdued and nude tones on cheeks and lips for the best effect.
Natural Eye Makeup
Natural eye makeup is typically characterized by neutral colors that mimics the natural beauty of the eye. The goal is to enhance the eyes without looking 'made up' or making it obvious you are wearing eye makeup. Use eye shadow that is in the same color family as your skin tone, and use eyeliner the same shade or only a shade or two darker than your eyelashes. Use mascara that is close in color to your natural lashes, or opt for a clear mascara. A natural look is great for everyday wear, home, and office settings
Eye Makeup Styles
The following Eye Makeup styles and eye makeup tips are discussed in general terms, and these can be very different looks depending on the individual. For example, a natural eye for a woman with fair skin and light hair might mean a beige eye shadow and a coat of brown mascara, while a darker-hued individual might achieve a natural look with a stroke of black eyeliner on the upper lid and black mascara. Have fun experimenting with different eye makeup styles and colors to find a look you love!
Eye Look
Choosing the makeup eye look you want for your eyes depends on several factors, including your eye shape, your eye color and skin tone, your personality, and the occasion. While the possible styles and looks you can create are virtually limitless, there are several broad groupings of general eye-enhancing cosmetic styles that might make it easier to decide on and create the look you want.
Tinted Moisturizers
For women who do not like to apply too many things on the face, this is an attractive option. The moisturizer has a tinted base that provides some coverage. They are very sheer, ideal for people with good skin and who like the natural look. Young mothers who do not have time to put foundation can find this cream extremely helpful.
Dual Finish Foundations or Cream to Powder
They are, as their name indicates, a powder that becomes cream. They can be applied dry or wet, powder or cream. They are great for women a la carrera (in a hurry). If you apply them dry, it is as if applying powder and if you apply wet, the sponge is like applying a cream. They can be used by women of all skin types.
Stick Foundation
They provide great coverage. They have a thick texture and can cover any color imperfection in the skin. They are ideal for dry or normal skin. They also can be used as concealers. People with uneven skin tones or some skin conditions can benefit from using this type of foundation. They are not easy to apply, but with practice it becomes easy.
Mineral Foundation
Minerals are the latest thing in makeup. Their popularity has come about in part due to the fact that the foundation has very few ingredients, and those being inert minerals, tend to be perfect for people with allergies or sensitive skin. Brush on minerals with a big, puffy brush, building up layers of nearly-invisible powder. Advertised as a "soft-focus" look, mineral makeup has been compared with the airbrush in creating a flawless appearance.
Concealer
Concealer is thickened, even tinted to correct color for particular areas-undereye smudges, pimples or redness, for example. It's thick and comes in compacts or cover sticks. Makeup artist Bobbi Brown suggests applying concealer before foundation for perfect coverage.
Cream-to-Powder Foundation
One of the most interesting and popular foundation options is cream-to-powder foundation, made by companies of good reputation, like L'Oreal. It goes on as a liquid, but dries to a powder finish that minimizes oil and lasts all day. You'll find cream to powder makeup in compacts that look like powder (which may make you wonder why it isn't called powder to cream to powder makeup), or in tubes or bottles. The big draw is its easy application and the fact that you don't have to put on powder for full coverage
Liquid Foundation
Many women like liquid foundation best because it applies so smoothly and is easily found at your local drugstore. You can enhance the smoothness by putting it on with a slightly damp makeup sponge. Liquid makeup is good around the eyes, where you may want a bit more coverage; you can put it on with a small lip brush for the best control.
You'll often see liquid makeup in waterproof or smudgeproof or even 24 hour versions. But these specialized cremes contain oils and waxy ingredients, causing some sensitive wearers slight skin irritation. If you start having problems with breakouts when wearing waterproof makeup, switch to a non-waterproof type and see if it helps. With more people becoming aware of the importance of skin care to their overall health, companies are creating foundations made with organic ingredients such as essential oils, vegetable oils and minerals instead of chemical dyes.
You'll often see liquid makeup in waterproof or smudgeproof or even 24 hour versions. But these specialized cremes contain oils and waxy ingredients, causing some sensitive wearers slight skin irritation. If you start having problems with breakouts when wearing waterproof makeup, switch to a non-waterproof type and see if it helps. With more people becoming aware of the importance of skin care to their overall health, companies are creating foundations made with organic ingredients such as essential oils, vegetable oils and minerals instead of chemical dyes.
Mousse Foundation | Whipped Foundation
Mousse or whipped foundation is easier to apply in thin layers than liquid makeup, so you have more control. Mousse makeup is liquid makeup with air whipped in, making it lighter and smoother. It comes in a spray or aerosol-type can, like whipped cream. It costs more than other cosmetics because you're paying for the added air and specialized packaging, but if you've ever spread whipped butter on a hot piece of toast, you know the difference is vast. Whipped foundation is good for all skin types, but it's especially nice for those with dry or aging skin because of its tendency to go on smoothly instead of caking up in facial lines.
Tinted Moisturizer
If you don't need a lot of coverage but do want something to even out your skin tone and relieve dry skin, tinted moisturizer may provide you with just what you need. Tinted moisturizer is perfect for softening and protecting the skin while adding a hint of foundation color. This makeup is also ideal because you don't have to put on moisturizer and then foundation: it's a one-step process.
Types of Make-up Foundations
Foundation has come a long way since our mom's day, when choices were limited and most foundations were thick, unmanageable creams. These days, there are many types of foundation available, from thick creams with the consistency of concealer to light-as-air tinted moisturizers which create an even skin tone while creating just a hint of color. Thicker, drier makeup covers more, but it's harder to blend. With light makeup, blending is easy, but it's harder to conceal skin's imperfections.
Foundations should do more than even out skin tones and conceal blemishes; it should also actually help your skin appear dewier, stronger and healthier. Here we rundown several types of makeup foundations.
Foundations should do more than even out skin tones and conceal blemishes; it should also actually help your skin appear dewier, stronger and healthier. Here we rundown several types of makeup foundations.
Paraffin Facials
These facials are offered as part of bridal beauty packages. It involves the application of a special paraffin mask on the face over layers of gauze, which helps seal in the special anti-aging and rejuvenating creams applied to the skin. It aids better absorption and brings back the radiance of the skin.
Special Facial
These are a step-up from the normal facial. Specially formulated hypoallergenic creams are used to moisturize the skin. Face packs are applied depending on different skin types and special cleansing and rejuvenation techniques are also part of the process. These are recommended for people with sensitive skins.
Normal Facial
These facials are a simple cleanse, steam and massage affair. They're the least expensive of all facials. They're also the best option for normal skin that isn't prone to acne. The difference between these facials and a clean up is that the skin is massaged for a longer period of time in a facial.
Gold Facial
This facial makes use of creams containing 24-Carat pure gold, which penetrates the skin easily. It is a powerful rejuvenating treatment. Gold has a powerful effect on lymphatic drainage, facilitating the removal of toxins and wastes. This accelerates the regeneration of new cells. Masks, containing gold, are also applied. The gold facial helps to restore youthful qualities, like softness, smoothness, elasticity, resilience and radiance.
Galvanic Facials
In this Galvanic gadget is used, by which a steady, direct galvanic current is utilized, to introduce water-soluble substances through the skin. It heightens the skin's capacity to absorb and improves the penetration of the products. The treatment of specific problems becomes easier. This benefits dry, dehydrated skins, improving moisture retention. It also helps remove congestion.
Bio-lift Facial | Lifting Facial
In addition to cleansing, massage and rejuvenation techniques, these facials include treatment that targets dark circles under the eye. The characteristic of this facial is the bio-mask, which tones and tightens the skin on the face, making it look younger.
Electronic Facial
Electrotherapy is said to enhance the action of skin-care products. The best-known electrotherapy method is called Cathiodermie and was established in the 1960s. It involves two types of low-voltage current being applied with tiny fork-like electrodes. Galvanic current ionizes both skin and gels, improving absorption. High-frequency faradic current massages the skin's surface, boosting circulation and producing anti-bacterial ozone.
Collagen Facial
This type of facial includes use of a multi-phase technique of exfoliation, warm vapor, deep pore cleansing, lymphatic drainage massage and self healing mineral or paraffin masque over a freeze dry collagen sheet to ensure the ideal hydrating effect. Normally in this kind of facial, liquid nutrients in the form of vials or ampoules are used and for quick absorption of liquid nutrients in the skin, laser or galvanic treatment is done. This is an effective preventative treatment against harmful environmental damage, wrinkles and dark circles. Recommended for all skin types.
Basic Facial
These involve manual massage with a variety of skin-care products. Some may also include mini hand, shoulder or foot massages.
Aromatherapy Facials
In these essential oils are used, which have potent and specific curative properties that are of particular benefit to the skin. They are effective for relaxation of body and mind. Aromatherapy facials help clear skin congestion and improve the normal functions of the skin. The mask, which is applied at the end of the massage, also contains essential oils. The elimination of toxins, the improvement in the skin's normal functions, including cell regeneration and the uplifting effect, all combine to make aromatherapy facials revitalizing and rejuvenating.
Acne Facials
A treatment for those who suffer with troubled skin; particularly effective on teenage and adult acne. After cleansing this treatment begins with enzyme or glycolic acid exfoliation and a warm vapor mist, followed by extensive manual deep pore extractions, electric disencrustation and a skin-calming, anti-bacterial masque. This facial should be performed at regular, two-week intervals until problem clears.
Antioxidant facial and Pollution-fighting Facials
This facial uses creams and masks enriched with free-radical fighting agents like vitamin A, beta-carotene and vitamin E. Pollutants are first removed and the skin is then deep cleansed in this procedure. This is recommended for people who have to be outdoors often-on account of their work.
Alpha Hydroxy Acid Facial (AHA)
AHA acids, which are derived from fruits and flowers, are known for their anti-aging effects. These facials use creams formulated with AHAs, which help the skin look smoother and healthier. They are also recommended for people who have pigmented skin, and are prone to wrinkling easily.
In these, creams containing flower extracts are used, which improve action of the capillaries, skin texture and tighten pores-- inducing relaxation and calming the mind. In ancient times, the fragrance of rose, lavender, jasmine, neroli, etc., was used to cure depression, insomnia, anxiety and other mental states. Fresh fruit facials are done with pulps of fresh fruits; mostly seasonal fruits.
For e.g. Orange or sweet Lime pulp. Fresh fruit facial is very good for very sensitive skin, which cannot tolerate any chemically prepared cosmetics. Fruits are chosen according to the skin type. Banana for dry skin and Orange for oily skin.
In these, creams containing flower extracts are used, which improve action of the capillaries, skin texture and tighten pores-- inducing relaxation and calming the mind. In ancient times, the fragrance of rose, lavender, jasmine, neroli, etc., was used to cure depression, insomnia, anxiety and other mental states. Fresh fruit facials are done with pulps of fresh fruits; mostly seasonal fruits.
For e.g. Orange or sweet Lime pulp. Fresh fruit facial is very good for very sensitive skin, which cannot tolerate any chemically prepared cosmetics. Fruits are chosen according to the skin type. Banana for dry skin and Orange for oily skin.
Benefits of Facials and Facial Massage
Facials involve a cleansing procedure, a massage and steam, and the application of a face mask. What they help to do is remove the dead, dull outer layer of cells that make up the skin's surface or epidermis along with pollutants. The massage, which is an important part of a facial, helps blood circulation, which in turn aids lymphatic drainage (the removal of toxins and waste from the body). A facial massage also relaxes the facial muscles and is very important to delay the onset of wrinkles.
The face is steamed during a facial for two main reasons. Firstly, steam helps the skin absorb cream better. Secondly, it helps in softening blackheads and whiteheads so that they can be removed easily. The application of a face mask in the end helps tone and clarifies the skin. Face masks are also used to treat dry and acne-ridden skin.
The face is steamed during a facial for two main reasons. Firstly, steam helps the skin absorb cream better. Secondly, it helps in softening blackheads and whiteheads so that they can be removed easily. The application of a face mask in the end helps tone and clarifies the skin. Face masks are also used to treat dry and acne-ridden skin.
Facial Skin Care and Facial Beauty
The skin provides an honest mirror of inner health and well-being. It is thus especially important to use only natural, gentle ingredients on skin whenever possible. Application to the skin of fresh, natural products such as essential oils, plant waters (also called "hydrosols") and cold pressed unscented oils helps maintain a youthful, glowing complexion.
Essential oils and hydrosols are the fragrant liquids that are distilled from different plant parts, such as flower petals; herbs leaves and tree barks, and are fundamental components of any solid, natural skin care regime. Cold pressed unscented oils are extracted from various fruits, nuts and seeds, and include olive oil, sweet almond oil, avocado oil and jojoba oil. Used in tandem, essential oils, hydrosols and cold pressed unscented oils work together to soothe and nourish the skin, encouraging a healthful, radiant complexion.
Essential oils and hydrosols are the fragrant liquids that are distilled from different plant parts, such as flower petals; herbs leaves and tree barks, and are fundamental components of any solid, natural skin care regime. Cold pressed unscented oils are extracted from various fruits, nuts and seeds, and include olive oil, sweet almond oil, avocado oil and jojoba oil. Used in tandem, essential oils, hydrosols and cold pressed unscented oils work together to soothe and nourish the skin, encouraging a healthful, radiant complexion.
Facial Skin Care and Facial Treatment
Skin is the largest organ, performing several functions, including protecting from invasion by foreign substances and serving as the transfer point for the release of toxins from bodies. Facials are deep skin treatments that cleanse, rehydrate and rejuvenate the skin, apart from minimizing skin blemishes, acne, dry skin and, of course, wrinkles. Facials vary depending on skin type, the kind of treatment chosen, the products used and the person's age. However, it is advisable to start having facials in late 20's.
What is Facial
Facial is a very general term for skin treatments usually performed by a licensed aesthetician. As the name implies, it is skin treatment for the face, though you may be lucky and get some neck or shoulder massage (and sometimes even a foot massage) too. There are a variety of types of facials, different types of products used, and there can be some variation in length. The typical extensive facial generally lasts about an hour or even longer, and other treatments called “mini-facials” may only take about 15-30 minutes.
The basic goals of facials are the same regardless of treatment, and you can expect the following things to occur when you have one:
* The skin will be thoroughly cleansed and dead skin cells will be exfoliated.
* The aesthetician will likely evaluate your skin type and find treatments that will best tone and moisturizer that type.
* You may have extraction of blackheads.
* You will likely have a skin mask treatment. You may have some degree of facial massage with applications of various creams and moisturizers.
The basic goals of facials are the same regardless of treatment, and you can expect the following things to occur when you have one:
* The skin will be thoroughly cleansed and dead skin cells will be exfoliated.
* The aesthetician will likely evaluate your skin type and find treatments that will best tone and moisturizer that type.
* You may have extraction of blackheads.
* You will likely have a skin mask treatment. You may have some degree of facial massage with applications of various creams and moisturizers.
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