Ageless Beauty!

What do Cher, Kathy Najimy, Anne Heche, Amber Valetta, Naomi Campbell, Paris Hilton and Vanessa Williams have in common? They are all fans of Jan Marini Skincare!



As a celebrity makeup artist, this Pro believes that skincare is the most important personal investment you can make in yourself. It is true that genetics, diet and fitness play a crucial part in keeping skin young, but having a good skincare routine is a must to control oil, discoloration and wrinkles.

Let’s take a stroll down Jan Marini lane…

Jan is a respected national skincare authority who has dedicated more than three decades to researching and developing new and innovative skincare technologies that deliver real results. Her products are used worldwide to treat common skin conditions such as aging, sun damage, acne and rosacea. She is a guest on many radio and television programs, as well as a sought-after speaker for medical conferences and industry events.



Her line is also used by some of the biggest heavy-hitters in the world of film and television makeup artistry. Kimberly Greene, Department Head for Superbad, Pineapple Express; Robert Hallowell for Charlie’s Angels, Two and A Half Men, The Mummy; Jori Jenae for Boston Legal and The Practice; Emily Katz for Lost, just to name a few.

This Pro’s love affair with Jan Marini skincare started when I received a message on Twitter from a representative of the line. She asked if I was interested in trying out a few of their products. I am not ashamed to admit that one of the “perks” of this Pro’s career is receiving and testing product sent to me for my kit to use on my celebrity and high-profile clients. A few weeks later I received a very large box containing many products that looked amazing and Jan was kind enough to conduct a short phone interview with me so I could learn and personalize my daily skincare routine.

This Pro’s biggest skin issues are sun damage, age spots and small patches of rosacea forming on my cheeks. I have reached a certain age when the “sag and bag” is starting to appear and it makes me conscience because of my profession. When you are surrounded by beauty all day long, it makes you think about getting a nip here and tuck there or a little Botox! Instead going under the knife or shooting some type of venom into my forehead, this Pro decided to rethink her skincare routine and ask Jan Marini to come to my rescue!



Here is a list of what this Pro uses from the line:

Bioglycolic Facial Cleanser: gentle cleanser with glycolic acid used morning and night. This is a soap-free formula that is nonirritating and rinses completely without the need for a post-cleansing toner or astringent. One drop full into palm of hand (about the size of a dime) and applied to face in gentle circular motion will remove dirt and makeup completely. Remove with warm, wet washcloth.



C-ESTA Serum: contains Vitamin C and is compatible with glycolic acid products and Retin-A. This Pro applies serum all over face and neck (even behind ears). I have noticed that in a 3-week period of time, my jowl area is tighter and deep lines are fading! I don't know about you ladies, but I also have deep lines on my chest almost in between my breasts, which makes wearing a reveling blouse hard for me. I started to apply the C-Esta Serum in that area and I have noticed a huge difference!



Age Intervention Enlighten: because I suffer from discoloration and uneven skin tone areas, I use this product during the day to help fade stubborn and common problems, like hyperpigmentation. One pump onto the back of my hand and applied all over skin (avoiding eye area) and neck. The reason this Pro puts skincare product on the back of hand instead of palm is because if I over “pump” the product and find I have excess, then I simply rub product into the back of my hand (kills two birds with one stone)! After 3-weeks of use my mild rosacea is untraceable and minor sun damage is invisible however, I have a few deep, dark spots that will require a trip to the esthetician for more invasive treatment.



Age Intervention Face Cream: this product addresses the appearance of aging skin changes targeting two critical areas: hormonal levels and cumulative sun exposure. This Pro is in love with this product and uses it both morning and night as an overall moisturizer. I have noticed a difference in the rejuvenation of my skin and it is appearing younger and healthier. I have even left the house sans makeup and have received several compliments on how my skin “glows!”



Age Intervention Peptide Extreme: this is like the holy grail of skincare! I use this product at night to revitalize my skin while I am sleeping. It increases the production of collagen and elastin in my skin and hydrates while decreasing redness with anti-inflammatory topicals!



Age Intervention Eye Cream: are you starting to see a pattern here? This eye cream is a staple in my routine and you will never open this Pro’s bathroom cabinet without seeing this product displayed like the Queen on her thrown! I use this product both morning and night (and at noon if it made a difference)! Using my ring finger to gently pat this cream under my eye and on the brow bone! Yes, use it on your brow bone – it is where the “sag” occurs! No droopy eyes for this girl! This product is patented with a new Peptide/Retinol combination and it includes a number of other supporting additives in order to make eyelid skin appear flawless. After 3-weeks of use I see a measurable difference in the reduction of fine lines and wrinkles around my eyes.



Antioxidant Daily Face Protectant: now this product is coveted and this Pro will never be caught without it! I use it personally and professionally because it contains incredible UV protection and because it contains PhytoMelanin technology, which provides a natural photoprotection with exceptional antioxidant activity! Basically, it is best sunscreen for the face I have ever used and it is what I trust when working with my clientele. I have a tube in my bathroom cabinet, car and several tubes in my kit! This product is also a “beige” color and not ghostly white, which means it is easier to blend and doesn’t change the color of foundation!



Now you might be saying, “this is a ton of stuff to put on your face everyday!” I agree, but I am fighting an uphill battle and even though I have taken good care of my skin most of my life, I still live and work in Southern California! The sun and other pollutants get to my skin no matter what and I can’t run or hide from them! A good skincare like Jan Marini’s line, helps to better protect my skin and works to reverse damage! This Pro is not afraid to have some “work done” later on in my life, but for now I would rather invest in myself with as little medical procedures as possible!

To purchase or review Jan Marini’s extensive line of skincare, click on www.janmarini.com.

PRO TIPS & TRICKS:
One of the quickest ways to tell a women's age is to look at her hands! Sad, but true! We forget to take care of our hands, but as I mentioned above putting skincare product on the back of your hands before applying to the face with your fingertips and then rubbing in the excess after, is a great way to ensure that you hands are getting good treatment.

So, the next time you are watching Larry King check out if the actress/actor puts his/her hands on the desk or in their lap! Hands don't always match the face! Apply that skincare and sunscreen the way I just described and rest assure your hands will match your face for years to come!



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Up Next on IMPO: Summer is coming!!! All Hail The Bronzer!!!!

Go Naked!

In My Professional Opinion twisted the arm of our friend and fellow makeup artist extraordinaire, Jose Teneza, until he agreed to guest blog! See, Jose is one of the most knowledgeable artists this Pro knows and he works at...well, we can't tell you, but it is a very large, cosmetic retailer and we knew that he would have the inside "scoop" on natural moisturizers. Check out his review...


Go Naked!! All right…not exactly what you’re thinking but it seems everywhere I turn skincare and cosmetic lines are trying to go “natural!" “Minerals” this, “No Parabens” that, 87% Natural…am I supposed to be comforted by that stat? WHAT’S IN THE OTHER PERCENTAGE?

Working in the skincare and cosmetic field you notice trends - essentially what has been happening is that our skin is becoming more sensitive to ingredients either from allergies or accumulated usage.

Skincare companies have perked their green-colored ears up to this demand, and so it begins…the hunt is on for natural skincare alternatives without controversial ingredients, which can cause irritation and allergic reactions. Is “natural” better? Well, there is definitely something to be said about making sure that your skin will benefit in the long run as opposed to suffering from an accumulation of synthetic binders, sulfates and chemicals that could lead to a reaction.

We are also hearing a lot about peptides, but what exactly are peptides? Peptides are links of amino acids that are essentially natural to our skin. In theory, they are like invisible messengers that send a signal to the lower layers of the skin to create more collagen! Collagen is the structure underneath our skin and as we age, it breaks down producing lines and wrinkles.

Here are two “natural” moisturizer alternatives that have produced results.

Bieux Skin 24 Hour Moisturizer: claims to provide intense hydration and deliver collagen-rebuilding ingredients that immediately firms and soothes skin while preventing lines and wrinkles. What makes Bieux Skin 24 Hour Moisturizer amazing? It’s what is not in it that’s great: No parabens, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, synthetic dyes, and petro-chemicals. It also has an exclusive peptide complex to smooth and build collagen under the skin (all the better for anti-aging, my friends!).



TECH TIME: For all you tekkie’s out there (that is, those who tend to be obsessed with ingredient lists like I am), here is the run down on all the super high-tech ingredients in the Bieux Skin 24 Hour Moisturizer: Saccaride Isomerate (which helps the skin to retain moisture and intensely hydrates) Hematite Extract (which purports to firm the skin and build collagen), Alpha Arbutin (to even out skin tone and hyperpigmentation gently), and Trylagen complex (a blend of active peptides and proteins that protect and boost the skin’s collagen).

I’ve been test-driving this moisturizer for several weeks now: I have oily skin that gets hideously dry in winter and try as I might, even in humid weather, I have dry patches on my forehead and jawline (I use a 1.0% Retinol treatment every other night and have eczema). Just applying this once a day, I felt an absolute difference on my skin – my skin felt perfectly moisturized with little to no dryness/flakiness or tightness. Layering this under sunscreen did not produce any breakouts, which I found astounding given the thickness of the cream and its ability to really hydrate. My skin looked even and plumped up, minimizing my fine lines and wrinkles.

Bare Escentuals RareMinerals Purely Nourishing Facial Moisturizer: excludes controversial ingredients like parabens, sulfates, petro-chemicals, synthetic fragrances and dyes and Phthalates. It also is totally free of GMO’s, triclosan and does not test on animals (call PETA!). Just like the Biuex Skin moisturizer, it has a patented delivery system to hydrate the skin inside and out! Curiously this is not an oil free moisturizer – it has natural oils, which moisturize and absorb into the skin without causing irritation and sensitivity.



TECH TIME: In addition to natural moisturizing oils, bitter orange and licorice extract to tone and brighten, the new Purely Nourishing Moisturizer has an electrolytic delivery system to hydrate with the star ingredients being trelahose and myrothamnus flabellifolia extract (from an African tree – a “resurrection“ plant). Allegedly these ingredients are antioxidant rich and form a protective layer around cells so that they replump and reform when they are sufficiently hydrated, even after being dehydrated . There is also honeysuckle flower extract and soy, which helps to boost moisturization within the skin for better hydration and moisture retention. Company press says it is “clinically proven to optimize your skin's ability to absorb and retain moisture for plumper, firmer, brighter and healthier-looking skin."

I confess, I was skeptical when this first premiered however, I tried it out and promptly started selling it to EVERYONE! It is a PERFECT companion if you use a powder cosmetic or mineral makeup. But more so, I have found that this absorbs quickly and hydrates beautifully without being greasy or slick. It is also whisper light! I was a little cautious because it has natural oils and minerals in it, but so far the client feedback has been amazing! It is a highly recommended product worth every penny!

And like a certain tax preparer, I too have people! I gave this moisturizer to a friend of mine who frankly doesn’t pay attention to her skin, but knows enough to know that most moisturizers feel heavy to her and leave her feeling oily and shiny. She also complained that most of the over-the-counter moisturizers broke her out. I believe she has been using Purely Nourishing for several weeks – she noticed that her skin feels smooth and hydrated, and she found that unlike other moisturizers, she is less oily later in the day than with other lotions she has tried. I myself have noticed that her skin is brighter, dewier and clearer!

NOTE: The writer, while having 7 years of retail experience in the makeup and skincare industry and as a working makeup artist, is NOT a doctor, and this review should not be taken as or in lieu of actual physician endorsed advice and/or medical advice. If you have a persistent skin condition, seek the advice of a licensed and practicing physician as opposed to self treating with over the counter products.

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Up next on In My Professional Opinion: Spring must haves!

Prime Time!

At a recent television shoot I was asked the question, “Is using a primer before applying foundation really necessary?” After I closed my mouth and shook the shocked expression off my face, I thought about the hundreds, maybe even thousands of women and men who don’t know the value of a really good primer.

After all, primer hasn’t been around very long and it occurred to me that some people might think it is just another makeup “gimmick.” In my first post, I wrote extensively about foundations, but I realized that I did not mention primers (which really are the “foundation” of foundation).

Let’s start with the basics – why do we need it?

Primer performs a different function than a moisturizer (even though it may feel the same on your skin). A moisturizer is used to protect your skin from the environment, used as treatment or to repair skin damage. Primer’s main function is to make your foundation go on smoother and last longer during the day. It also acts as a barrier to prevent your foundation, concealer and powder (and all that retouching during the day) from settling into any fine lines or wrinkles. Let’s face it – foundation, concealer and other makeup products can cause skin irritation, a good primer may help prevent breakouts or other skin-related problems.

There are many options out on the market today, but here are a few of my favorite primers that I use on set and that I keep in my personal makeup bag.

MAC's Prep & Prime - $23.00 - a fluid lotion with silicones. Calms and soothes skin, controls oil and evens out redness. This primer looks like a cream (white color) and blends into the skin well leaving no residue. Out of all the primers I have tested MAC’s is the least expensive and best “bang” for your buck!



Tricia Sawyer Beauty's Skin Balancing Water Primer - $34.00 – oil-free, infused with aloe leaf to soothe and cool the skin, sodium hyaluronate to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and silicone to help maintain your skin’s natural moisture levels. Non-greasy feeling. I use this primer on men after grooming (beard shaving/head shaving) to calm any type of post-shaving rash and it is what I carry in my personal makeup bag.



Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer - $36.00 – a blend of vitamins and antioxidants to smooth and perfect skin prior to foundation application. Also contains collagen to fill in fine lines and pores. I use the “original” and colorless formula. There is also an oil control formula that I keep in my professional makeup kit for my clients that tend to have very oily skin. This product is also available in a variety of correction colors (but those tend to be complicated and need a professional’s application advice).



Primer tends to be more on the expensive side because it is one of those dual-purpose products, i.e., it is used as part of the skin regime and makeup regime. In my professional opinion everyone should use a primer after skin care and before foundation/concealer application to ensure a flawless face!

Time for a little Q & A:

Everyone wants to know what the pros know......let's get some of your most important makeup questions answered right here and right now!

Dawnn S. wants to know:
Any good suggestions on a primer for my oily skin and can you give me the "skinny" on eyelid primers?

Pro suggests:
Hi Dawnn! Check out the Smashbox Photo Finish Primer - Oil Control formula. I have found it has really helped control oil and minimize the need for tons of touch up during the day. Check out the section "Tricks of the Trade" on this blog, I have posted something there especially for you! As far as eyelid primers go....Urban Decay makes the best and I use it all the time. I do feel that it helps control oil around the eyes and on the lids, plus it helps to "hold" the eye shadow on the lid longer with no creasing!

Melissa F. wants to know:
Sometimes I feel that in the hour commute to work my eyeliner has already faded and my foundation already needs a touch up. Any great products you can suggest to help solve my problem?

Pro suggests:
Hi Melissa! Sounds to me like you should try one of the primers I have listed above and also check out that "Trick of the Trade." Using Urban Decay's lid primer may help solve your problem with fading liner or you could try to use a great gel liner (it has more staying power). Bobbi Brown makes my favorite gel liner in some fantastic colors!

One more thought before I go.....You can also do what a lot of professional makeup artists do to "seal" makeup and help it stay put through many hours on a film or television set. Spray your finished makeup with a product called Setting Spray by Graftobian and you don't have to be a pro to get it for your makeup bag. Just contact Camera Ready Cosmetics and put in an order. Graftobian's spray is one of the best out there and it may feel strange to spray something "wet" on your face after you have completed your makeup, but I promise it will dry matte and help to keep you from feeling like you need to touch up all the time!