MA Beauty Insider: The Transformative Power of Lipstick
Email to a friend
Permalink
Saturday, March 08, 2014
Donna Macdonald, GoLocalWorcester Beauty Expert
Although some women say they don’t have the confidence to try a daring lipstick, it’s actually the lipstick itself that will give them confidence, believes Donna Macdonald.
Lipgloss may have edged out lipstick sales recently but judging from the Oscar’s red carpet looks this week, lipstick is back- big. Bold lips painted on just so, make every outfit more glamorous. But what about the woman wearing it? Is there transformative power in lipstick?
When given the opportunity, most little girls will grab Mom’s lipstick for a quick swipe across the mouth. The result might be a Kodak moment but there’s more behind it than that. Lipstick is the ultimate feminine cosmetic. It’s womanly in an iconic way and that’s why little female tykes go for it. They know it transforms Mommy into an enchantress. Lipstick-loving women know it too because they suddenly smile more when wearing it. And although some women say they don’t have the confidence to try a daring lipstick, it’s actually the lipstick itself that will give them confidence. Here are some tips:
Skin tones
Choose the right statement color with your skin tone in mind. If you have dark or olive skin, stay with hues that have warm and golden undertones. If you are fair-skinned, go with cool blue undertones. You’ll have a reaction the minute you apply it. The right color will unmistakably brighten up your face.
Texture
If you’re new to real lipstick, start with something creamy. A formulation that’s a little glossy will feel more natural to you. Some companies are also adding treatments to their lipsticks so if your lips dry easily, your choice should have a buttery texture. Laura Mercier Crème Smooth Lip Colours are semi-lustrous lipsticks in animated colors. Try Portofino for a great wearable coral red that transcends warm skin. Damask is for fair-toned lovelies.
Application
For long-lasting color, apply the first coat with a lip brush. That’s the stabilizing layer that remains after the top coat is worn off. Next, take the lipstick bullet and really lay it on. This is where the glamour comes in. Blot with tissue gently. The third step is to use a neutral or a light lip pencil and outline where your lip line is fractured a bit. Just a few feathered strokes along the edge will keep your great color from bleeding and will add fullness to thinner lips. Take your time – the right application of lipstick is an art form! Clinique Quickliner in Baby Buff is a great neutral that will blend into your lively color for a really finished look.
Balance
Resist the urge to use a lot of eye makeup when your lips are doing the talking. A smoky eye with heavy-handed shadows will make you look too made up. Eyeliner and a few strokes of inky black mascara will be enough. But to balance your dazzling mouth, your cheeks will need some color. To get shade harmony, hold your open lipstick over your blush compact. You’ll know if they’re simpatico and part of the same color family instantly. Another tip is to apply a smidge of lipstick directly onto your ring finger and then pat it on your cheeks and blend. Now that’s a match.
Remember it isn’t just a simple slick of lipstick. It’s a bold declaration of your femininity. It’s color, glam, and confidence. And what woman doesn’t need that these days?
Donna Macdonald is a freelance writer who enjoys covering topics of interest to women, especially fragrance, style, beauty. She has also written marketing material for a women's book that hit the New York Times Bestseller list and netted her an up close and personal discussion on the Oprah Winfrey Show. Donna currently writes her own personal blog, alovelyinconsequence.blogspot.com where she also writes about issues close to a woman's heart. Donna believes that when a woman finds beauty in the world, she will find beauty in herself.
Related Slideshow: Get Pampered
Prev
Next
Bellisimo European
Bellismo European Day Spa is located inside a beautiful exposed brick building in a convenient area of the city. This place is 3,100 square feet of pure relaxation. Since 1985, Bellisimo European Day Spa has been building a loyal clientele—a testimony to how professional and relaxing their spa environment is. They offer nail and hair services, along with other innovative treatments. What’s hot now? Radio Telemetric Lifting (RTL) to reverse aging, and microdermabrasion.
372 Chandler Street, Worcester. (508) 799-7767.
Photo: The Merlin Phuket/Flickr
Prev
Next
Mocine Salon and Spa
Whether you need a full pamper session or just some hair and makeup done before heading out on a Friday night, Mocine has got you covered. Every month, there are specials and discounts on treatments that are definitely worth checking out. Need a day out with the girls? The spa hosts great group parties! Make sure to try out the Moroccan Mud Wrap and the Wine Wrap—they are amazing.
258 Park Avenue, Worcester. (508) 756-5555.
Photo: ppacificvancouver/Flickr
Prev
Next
Essential Aesthetics
Looking to try out a day spa for the first time? Head over to Essential Aesthetics Day Spa—each new client receives a complimentary service upon booking a second appointment. Essential Aesthetics is dedicated to removing all the stresses that are present in day to day life. Enjoy well-being treatments, anti-aging treatments, beautification treatments and more.
17 Converse Street, Worcester. (508) 831-0400.
Photo: ppacificvancouver/Flickr
Prev
Next
Tu Moda
Since 1987, Tu Moda has been making it their mission to help people look and feel the best that they can. With services that cater to men and women of all ages and skin types, there will definitely be a treatment that will cater to your needs. Tu Moda uses only top-notch products, and their services are high quality and professional.
574 Pleasant Street, Worcester. (508) 754-1513.
Photo: Dennis Wong/Flickr
Prev
Next
St. Cyr
If you’re looking for a one stop shop for beautifying yourself inside and out, St. Cyr Salon and Spa is for you. This spacious day spa offers a plethora of great products and services perfect for anyone. Choose from an array of spa packages, like the Day of Luxury or Men’s De-Stress Package. If you need a quick pick me up, try out great services like their new Alaskan Mud Facial al a carte.
235 Park Ave., Worcester. (508) 752-2222.
Photo: Dennis Wong/Flickr
Prev
Next
Paul Conzo
Head to Paul Conzo Day Spa & Hair Salon this month to take advantage of specials on cranberry and pumpkin services! This great full service salon has plenty of treatments to choose from that are sure to be a hit with anyone. Try out a relaxing massage, a paraffin hand dip, a full body scrub, or go all in with a spa package. While you’re in, pick up a gift card for a no-brainer holiday gift!
490 Shrewsbury Street, Worcester. (508) 754-5418.
Photo: Tara Angkor Hotel/Flickr
Prev
Next
Rituals
Rituals Salon & Spa in Leominster is a local favorite. While they offer traditional spa treatments like manicures, pedicures, and hair styling, they have one thing that sets them apart from the rest: their mother-to-be services. If you or someone you know is expecting, treat them to a day full of relaxation. Treatments are all pregnancy friendly and include Tummy Masque Treatments, Mother-to-be Pedicures, Well Mother Massages, and more.
646 Central Street, Leominster. (978) 537-9394.
Photo: Mer Montagne Vacances/Flickr
Prev
Next
Colours
If a clean, spacious environment is what you are looking for when finding your perfect salon and spa, Colours is your go-to. They specialize in skin and nail care, and offer complete spa packages that will make you feel amazing. With five types of massage, you will keep coming back for more.
638 Chandler Street, Worcester. (508) 792-7577.
Photo: Whyology/Flickr
Prev
Next
Fulgere
In Latin, “Fulgere” means to shine. Fulgere Salon & Spa wants to help its customers do just that. Their services go beyond the aesthetic benefits of traditional salon treatments in order to de-stress and harmonize the entire person. Try out their deep tissue massage for a truly relaxing experience.
108 Grove Street, Worcester. (508) 831-9595.
Photo: Gaelx/Flickr
Prev
Next
Moji
Moji Salon & Day Spa wants to help you accentuate and pamper all that you have to offer through their innovative services. Their stylists and nail technicians are highly trained and educated in all the best cutting edge techniques in the industry. If you have had problems with salons in the past, they also offer corrective treatments!
1064 Pleasant Street, Worcester. (508) 791-8686.
Photo: Prefeitura de Sete Lagoas/Flickr
Related Articles
Enjoy this post? Share it with others.
Email to a friend
Permalink
Follow us on Pinterest Google + Facebook Twitter See It Read It