Welcome to my blog on beauty tips, product recommendations, and my journey as a makeup artist!
YES - You can wear red lipstick!
Everyone can wear red lipstick! It’s all about finding the right shade that works for your complexion. Red is a fierce classic color and it can make a woman feel sexy, feminine, and elegant. Red lipstick will never go out of style, as it is the makeup look for the season. Red lips have been around for decades and its here to stay.
To help find the right red shade that works for you, figure out the undertone of the skin. Warm toned skin looks amazing with golden or orange hues. Cool toned skin looks great with a blue undertone. Follow these guidelines to find the shade just right for you:
Redheads with Pale Complexion: Go for warm reds like a deep brick red, terracotta, or rust red. A red with an orange undertone will look stunning without being too harsh. True reds also look amazing on pale complexions.
Fair/Ivory/Light Beige Complexion: True reds look beautiful against ivory skin tones. Reds with a pink undertone, like a rose red, is also gorgeous.
Medium Skin Complexion: Cool reds in a berry tone is super stunning on beauties with medium tones.
Warm/Olive/Tawny Complexions: Golden or orange based reds complements the skin nicely. Tomato reds and burgundies are also beautiful. Blue reds can be too harsh on olive skin.
Dark Complexions: Cool reds look amazing on dark complexions and the range is endless, from true reds to deep burgundies, etc.
What to do before applying red lipstick
Before applying lipstick, be sure to exfoliate lips and moisturize with chap stick. Red lipstick only looks good on moisturized lips!
Lip liner or not
Yes; apply lip liner on the lip line and fill in the entire lip area in a neutral shade (close to your natural lip tone) or a corresponding lip liner shade that complement your lipstick. Using lip liner will prevent feathering and helps the lipstick to last longer.
Decide on the finish of red lips you want
Do you want a subtle red lip, bold matte red lip, a glossy red lip? If you want subtly, go for a red lip stain or red gloss. If you want a longer wear red lip, go for the matte look as it will last longer being in a matte finish. Going for glossy red lips is still classic but it has a modern touch.
Try these brands/shades:
REVLON Lipstick in Really Red $7
MAC Lipstick in Ruby Woo $14
MAC Lipstick in Viva Glam $14
NYX Lipstick in Snow White $4
Covergirl Outlast Lip Stain $9
Final red lip beauty tips
For an appearance of a whiter smile, go for a red lipstick with a blue undertone. This will surely make your teeth appear like you’ve just received a whitening treatment from the dentist.
And don’t be afraid to break the rules sometimes, if you love it and it makes you feel good, go for it! J
The Makeup Show - Holiday Pop Up Shop
The Makeup Show is an anual event usually held in four to five major cities and showcases new products, beauty secrets, and new technologies pertaining to the makeup artist industry. Here is some information from their website of their Holiday Pop Up Shop to be held on December 2-3, 2011 in New York City. Fellow artists, check it out and try to attend.
http://www.themakeupshow.com/makeupshow/NY/news.html
Show News:
Join us for The Makeup Show Pop Up Shop
An Exclusive Luxury Sample Sale. Shop the makeup must haves and beauty secrets of celebrity artists just in time for the Holidays.
Get your holiday shopping done for the fashionistas on your shopping list or pamper yourself while meeting the makeup artists who set the trends we see on the runway, the red carpet and your favorite celebrities. The Makeup Show Pop Up Shop is the perfect place to shop sales of over 40 brands that usually reserve these prices for the pros.
Friday, December 2nd 5pm-10pm
Saturday, December 3rd 10am-6pm
Metropolitan Pavilion, 123 West 18th Street, 4th Floor, NYC 10011
TICKET SALES OPEN TUESDAY NOVEMBER 1ST
Simply the Best Magazine
Cover & Spread "Rock the new Collections" Photographed and Styled by the talented Robin Basile / Model: Lindsey Hartley @ Wilhelmina Miami / Hair: Agi Brown / Makeup: Taryll Atkins
Editorial "Business & Pleasure" Photographed by the Amazing Anjelica Martinez / Styling: Anthony Bermudez (Jewelry: www.capdesigns.net ) / Model: Britt Erler @ Next Miami / Hair & Makeup: Taryll Atkins
Palace of Passion - Not Your Average Swimwear Line
Makeup Breakdown:
Soft smokey bronzy eyes, glowy skin, and bright lips.
Face
Cinema Secrets Cream Foundation
Milani Multitasking Setting Powder
Nars Blush in Madly
Estee Lauder Signature Silky Powder Blush in Radiant Peach
MAC Iridescent Loose Shimmer in Golden Bronzer
MAC Iridescent Loose Shimmer in Silver Dusk
Eyes
MAC Bronze Eyeshdadow on lid
Naked Cosmetics Pigment in White Shimmer in inner corner
MAC Shimmer Silver Dusk/Bronzer under brow as highlighter
Maybelline Eyeliner
Lips
Mac Lipstick in Show Orchid
Body
Sally Hansen Body Shimmer Spray
Thanks so much to my amazing team, Nilla, Racheal, and Tina, for their outstanding makeup and hair work for the show! It could not have been accomplished without your hard work and dedication.
Here are some pics from the show:
Permalink: blog.taryllatkins.com/2011/08/16/palace-of-passion---not-your-average-swimwear-line.aspx
Nature Girl by Photographer, Bryan Benoit
I had the pleasure to do the makeup and hair for a shoot with one of my favorite photographers, Bryan Benoit. I love working with him because of his sweet and cool persona and amazing talent behind the lense. The editorial created was featured on Benjamin Kanarek's Blog where you can read more about Mr. Benoit and view more photos from the shoot. The styling of this shoot was impeccably done by Jacqueline Perez, who always gets it right! I love working with this team! I hope you love the images as much as I do. 
Model: Kayte Steinmetz with MC2
Permalink: blog.taryllatkins.com/2011/07/15/nature-girl-by-photographer-bryan-benoit.aspx
Musician - Web Three
I recently had a shoot with an artist, Web Three, a rock/rap musician that has a different sound and style of artistry. He is super cool guy that is passionate about his music. He has a great sense of humor and is full of hilarious tattoos over almost his entire body. Web and his Manager, Troy Longhurst, had the crew and I cracking up all day. It is so great to be around artists who are just down to earth, laid back, yet still serious about their work.
The wonderful photographer, Natasha Kertes, came up with some amazing ideas for Web's shoot. Her art direction is always perfect and she brings out the best in any artist or model. Check out some of the pics from our shoot for HUF Magazine. 
Musician: Web Three
Management: Troy Longhurst for Death Proof Records
Photographer: Natasha Kertes
MUAs: Taryll Atkins & Body Art by Keegan
Permalink: blog.taryllatkins.com/2011/06/28/musician---web-three.aspx
Concealers that Actually Work
Concealers are meant to hide the tiny imperfections that we all have; however, there are many on the market that does not last long enough or does not work well at all. Are you looking for a concealer that actually mask imperfections? Check out my top three concealers that WILL do the trick:
Eve Pearl Salmon Concealer $35 – The perfect concealer for covering dark under eye circles! This concealer works because of the pink/orangey tone which completely neutralizes the dark blue color that we have underneath the eye area. This concealer is very light yet still provides full coverage that will completely rid of the dark circles. The colors range in Light, Medium, Tan, Dark and Deep.
Amazing Cosmetics Concealer $42 – Amazingly pigmented concealer in a tiny tube that that will last for the entire year because a little bit definitely goes a long way. This is a great concealer for covering dark under eye circles, acne scars, and other blemishes. Even better, this concealer is waterproof. It is more on the expensive side but it will last for a long time, as using a pea size for your entire face would be too much.
Make Up For Ever Full Cover Concealer $30 – This concealer provides an opaque coverage and will definitely last throughout the day. It is a highly pigmented oil-free waterproof concealer that is silicone-based; therefore, glides on the skin smoothly. There are 12 shades to choose from that will surely match your complexion. Any area of concern (hyperpigmentation, redness, scars, tattoos, etc.), this concealer will do the job!
Permalink: blog.taryllatkins.com/2011/05/20/concealers-that-actually-work.aspx
Amazing Moisturizer – Embryolisse
Check out more products from Embryolisse at www.embryolisse.com.
Permalink: blog.taryllatkins.com/2011/05/20/amazing-moisturizer--embryolisse.aspx
My New Favorite Makeup Store: INGLOT
Beautiful and highly pigmented products is what you will get at INGLOT!
I have fallen in love with their products. My favorite thing about this cosmetic company is the Freedom System they have. We consumers get to customize the products however we want. I also love that the shadows, powders and lip products can be applied in magnetic palettes. That means no products falling out and breaking (that is a super plus for me and other makeup artists that are always on the go.) The eyeshadow colors are super pigmented and long lasting. They are true to color and blends easily. Inglot's products are also paraben free.
10 Color Eyeshadow Palette
Inglot has amazing lashes that are great for creating avant garde looks. Natural lashes are also offered in synthetic and natural hairs. The feather lashes are vibrant and absolutely amazing!
But it doesn't stop at just eyeshadows and lashes. They have amazing face and body products, lip products, and bright and bold nail polishes. Inglot has products for everyone (another plus for me). Don't take my word for it, go try out the products for yourself; you won't be disappointed! - www.inglotcosmetics.com / www.inglotusa.com
Permalink: blog.taryllatkins.com/2011/05/02/my-new-favorite-makeup-store-inglot.aspx
Brow Powder or Brow Pencil???
First, you want to make sure that your brows are very well groomed. If you aren't sure how to create the perfect shape for your face, I highly recommend going to a professional. Below is an example of where your brow should begin, where the arch should be, and where the brow should end.
Second, answer the following questions, and this will help answer which method will be better for you.
- Are your eyebrows naturally full?
- Are your brows thin/sparse?
- Do you want a more natural look to your brows?
- Do you want a more precise and defined look to your brows?
If you have full brows and want to go for a more natural look with not much more attention to your brows, I recommend using a brow powder or matte eyeshadow to fill in the brows. Use an angled brush with the powder in short strokes.
Use Anastasia Brow Kit ($28) to perfect the brows. A wax is also included to keep the hair in place all day. (Can be purchase at Sephora.)
If you have sparse thin brows, use a pencil with a soft hand to create a hair-like appearance for the brows to look natural. Using a pencil will stick to the skin better in those places where hair is supposed to be. Never draw long lines to fill in brows as it creates a harsh appearance. Using a pencil will achieve a more precise look but practicing this technique is very important to achieve natural beautiful looking brows.
MAC Eyebrow Pencils ($15)
Eyebrow Tips for Blondes:
Eyebrows should be a shade darker than the hair.
Go for a matte taupe shade to fill in the brows.
Eyebrow Tips for Brunettes:
Eyebrows should be a shade lighter than the hair.
Use a brow gel to keep hair in place.
Eyebrow Tips for Ethnic Women:
Do not use black powder or a black pencil, as it is too harsh.
Go for a chocolate brown tone to fill in brows even if the hair is black.
Thanks for reading and happy brows to everyone!
Permalink: http://blog.taryllatkins.com/2011/05/02/brow-powder-or-brow-pencil.aspx
Pics of My Work
Permalink: http://blog.taryllatkins.com Pics of My Work.flvPics of My Work.flv
Spring 2011 Makeup Trend: Bright Lips
Get a new (and super easy) look for the new season! Bold bright lips is the main trend for Spring 2011. It is a very fresh and simple look to achieve!
Here are the easy steps:
Leave the heavy foundation behind and opt for a liquid foundation or tinted moisturizer.
Go for soft eyes by applying a light sweep of shimmering eyeshadow in a color that is close to your skin tone with two coats of mascara.
Add a soft pink or peachy blush on the apples of the cheeks with a shimmering highlighter on the cheekbones.
Now on to the lips....
Tangerine, Orangey Reds, Hot Pink, and Bright Corals are the main colors for spring. A kissable bold lip can be achieved with many options. Of course lipstick is a great choice but you can also go for a lip stain or a statement lip gloss that pops!
MAC Lipstick - $14.50
Covergirl Lip Stain - $8
Make Up For Ever Glossy Full Color - $19
HAPPY SMILES!!!
Permalink: blog.taryllatkins.com/2011/03/11/spring-2011-makeup-trend.aspx
To mineral makeup or not to mineral makeup?
There are so many cosmetic companies with a mineral-based makeup line and there is so much hype surrounding all of them. Mineral makeup gets a lot of buzz because of the claim that it is so much better for your skin rather than the traditional foundations. There are a lot of great mineral makeup brands that work well for many but I have learned that they do not work for everyone. Of course, mineral makeup is nothing new on the scene but let’s be honest; mineral foundation is really just another type of powder foundation. The word "mineral" is supposed to mean that the ingredients are all natural, free of fragrances and dyes. Unfortunately, this really isn’t the case for all of the mineral makeup brands, as there are some that contains minerals and ingredients that are known to irritate the skin.
Let’s discuss the real benefits of mineral makeup:
Most mineral foundation provides UVA and/or UVB sun protection which is great especially for those living in hot sunny climates. The feeling of mineral makeup is almost weightless and does not have that heavy feeling, even after being layered. Mineral makeup is great for those with normal to oily skin as it provides an opaque and matte finish. It is also free of fragrances which are great for those with sensitive skin. Mineral makeup is also non-comedogenic (does not clog pores) and allows the skin to breathe, which is another plus for those who have acne-prone skin.
Now on to the Cons:
The sun protection found in mineral makeup is really not enough to fully protect the skin. Most only provide a sun protection of 15, which will never provide enough protection. It is very important to use a stronger sunscreen underneath your makeup. Ingredients like Bismuth and Mica are found in mineral makeup and these ingredients may cause breakouts or reactions for those with sensitive or dry skin. Mineral makeup can look cakey and accentuate fine lines and wrinkles, especially for those with dry or mature skin. If maximum coverage is your desired look, then most likely that will not be achieved with mineral foundations, unless using a cream based concealer underneath. Some mineral foundations create an ashy appearance for darker complexions and many companies do not cater to darker ethnicities.
Loose mineral makeup can be very messy and not a good idea to take along when traveling. There are several companies that have a pressed powder format and a liquid form as well. The ingredients found in mineral makeup are the same ingredients that have been used for decades in traditional foundation forms. Many cosmetic companies rave that mineral makeup is so pure that you can sleep in it. There is no scientific proof that it is actually purer than any other form of foundation. Furthermore, you should never sleep in any type of makeup as the skin repairs itself while sleeping and having any makeup on the skin will prevent that. For everyday usage, mineral makeup will be great for those that do not have many skin issues; however, for special occasions or being in front of the camera, opting for liquid, cream, or airbrush foundations will provide a more flawless coverage.
In a nut shell, mineral makeup has its pros and cons just like any other foundation on the market. Is it really better for the skin? It really just depends on the type of skin and skincare concerns for each person.
Permalink: blog.taryllatkins.com/2011/01/24/to-mineral-makeup-or-not-to-mineral-makeup.aspx
Catalog Shoot for ICO Uniforms
I was very fortunate to provide makeup and hair services for their photoshoots to showcase their new collections. Below is just a sample of their new Spring 2011 Collection.
Do you work for a business or know someone that owns a business that requires uniforms for their employees? Well, you must check out ICO Uniforms. ICO Uniforms provides stylish and high quality uniforms for women and men in different job functions including corporate offices, hotels and resorts, the food service industry, and also maintenance. They are definitely not your typical uniform company! Check out their website to view other styles at www.icouniforms.com.
Photography: Sean Murdock
Model: Kamilla Sun @ Wilhelmina Models Miami
Art Direction/Stylist/Designer: Vivian Vo and Ana Elizabeth da Silva
Makeup & Hair: Taryll Atkins (Using Temptu SB Airbrush and MAC Products)
blog.taryllatkins.com/2011/01/05/catalog-work-for-ico-uniforms.aspx
Holiday Makeup Guide
Got invited to a couple of holiday parties? Well, for the long hours of fun with family and friends, your makeup has to last and look fierce all night. Take the extra prep time to make sure that your makeup is flawless and long lasting through all of the great food and drinks, dancing, photos, and kisses with these helpful tips.
It is absolutely necessary to prime your face and eyes to ensure your foundation and eye makeup last the entire night. Instead of a heavy makeup look, go for a liquid foundation or tinted moisturizer which is much more light and will easily achieve that dewey skin finish and a healthy complexion. Laura Mercier has an amazing tinted moisturizer which is super light yet gives coverage too. Use a great powder to lightly set your foundation. Apply a matte blush on the apples of the cheeks and a powder highlighter on the cheekbones, temples, and lightly down the bridge of the nose. Smashbox Cosmetics have amazing powder highlighters that are easy to use. Highlighters are really beautiful and it accentuates features; just make sure that you apply the highlighters lightly to avoid looking oily.
Now on to eyes and lips. The main trends this holiday season are smokey eyes and deep red lips. Make sure to only choose one to play up versus both. Choosing one area to focus on will achieve a more balanced look. If you want smokey eyes, go for a nude lip and if you want red lips, opt for light shimmery eyes. Choose a different makeup look for each party you attend. Make sure to use a waterproof mascara and eyeliner to prevent smudges and fading. Waterproof products are perfect for events such as holiday parties because of the long-wear capabilities. Using waterproof products will eliminate the need to touch-up your makeup throughout the evening. For an extra pop for the night you go for the hot red lips, make sure your nails match your lip color. The only thing missing now is a smile on your face and confidence in your walk. Enjoy your holiday parties and be safe!
Smokey Eye Look
Photographer: Alejandro
Makeup & Hair: Taryll
Permalink: blog.taryllatkins.com/2010/12/21/holiday-makeup-guide.aspx
Top Five Foods that are GREAT for the Skin
Do you want to improve your skin? Try out my five top food choices that are sure to help you to be on your way to a perfect glowy complexion...from head to toe.
1. Water and Green Tea
Water is the BEST thing that you can put in your body to give you healthy glowy skin. Water helps our organs to absorb nutrients and helps our metabolism. Drinking water prevents dehydration and helps dry skin. It also helps to replenish skin tissues, moisturize the skin, and best of all, increase elasticity.
Green tea contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It boosts your health and slows down the aging process. Topical green tea formulations has been found to reduce sun damage as well. And another positive, green tea helps to be slimmer.
2. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes helps the skin to stay clear and younger looking. Sweet potatoes are super rich in Vitamin A. Vitamin A helps with producing new skin cells and sheds the old skin cells. Sweet potatoes are full of antioxidants which helps remove free radicals from the body. Studies have shown that sweet potatoes are a great preventative of heart disease and cancers too.
3. Salmon
Salmon is very low in calories and saturated fat. Even better, salmon is very high in protein, Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6, and healthy fat - Omega 3 Fatty Acids. Salmon also improves production of keratin, melanin, and collagen, which will help to be less prone to wrinkles! You can't go wrong with eating salmon; there are just so many pros to this fish.
4. Green Vegetables
Green vegetables are hard for me to eat but I force myself because of all of the great benefits. They have tons of vitamins that helps to maintain a healthy complexion. Green leafy vegetables contains zinc which is great for those who have acne-prone skin. Zinc actually helps control oil production and helps control hormones that create acne. The Vitamin A helps to minimize the production of sebum which also helps to limit acne. Vitamins like C, K and E are also found in green leafy vegetables. Eat the vegetables raw and you will not loose out on all of the great benefits!
5. Citrus Fruit
Citrus fruit are packed with vitamins that aid in healthy skin. Not only are they super delicious but applying them directly on the skin has amazing benefits. Skincare companies pack their products with citrusy fruits because of the Vitamin C that is found in them. Oranges, lemons, tangerines, and grapefruit are yummy and they help to strengthen the immune system. They are a great natural "toner" for the skin too.
Looks like you have a complete meal with my top five food suggestions. Your skin will be very happy with you and you will be very pleased with your skin too!
ENJOY!!!
Facials, Brows, and Waxing Services Provided at AOG
I am someone who stresses the importance of taking care of the skin. Unfortunately I have extremely oily skin and suffer from cystic acne. I am big on making sure that I have facials bi-monthly, a deep cleansing mask every week, and also the basics, cleansing, toning, and moisturizing twice a day. Because I am a freak about my skin, I have had a number of facials from estheticians across South Florida. Finally, I am happy to say that I had the best facial of my life from Gail with WowBrows. This was the first time that I was not red and swollen from having a deep pore cleansing facial. My skin feels better and is clear from pimples and deep bumps underneath the skin. As each day came after the facial my skin just looked better and better. YES!!!!!
Gail also tinted my eyebrows. I naturally have extremely thin and sparse brows and the tinting method is awesome for people like me and for those who may have over plucked. My next session, I will provide before and after pictures so you can see the amazing transformation; it is unbelievable! I was also blown away on how long the tinting lasts as well – up to a month! Another plus, her products are of the highest quality of organic hard and soft wax.
I highly recommend you check out Gail for brow waxing and tinting, full body waxing, and facial needs. Come by the Academy of Glam to experience the WOW from Gail with WowBrows!
Check her out – www.wowbrows.net
8698 Griffin Road, Cooper City
(Academy of Glam)
WowBrows Contact: (617) 763-7406
Fall 2010 Makeup Looks
Copper Eye Shadow
Copper works for almost all skin tones. Take the shadow a bit over the crease for a more dramatic look. Soft peachy blush and nude lips, really makes this look sexy and easy to wear.
Look inspiration from Designer Brian Reyes Show
Popping Metallics
Tons of silver, gold, and bronze metallic shades appeared on the runway (makeup and clothing). Metallics are great for a night out on the town. Pop the eyes and keep everything else a little softer and you will be sure to shine on the dance floor!
Look inspirations from Designer Jason Wu Show
A Natural You
The "No-Makeup" look is still appearing on the runway and it is still fabulous. To pull of this look, your skin has to be flawless, so make sure you get your facials bi-monthly then cleanse, tone and moisturize twice a day and you will be on your way to a more beautiful natural you.
Look Inspiration from Marc Jacobs Show Look Inspiration from Michael Kors Show
Purples and Plums
Purple shadow.....purple liner.....plum pouts.....plum nails - Super cute and so loving this look!
Look Inspiration from Dior 2010 Fall Line
Silver Dagger International Campaign
Silver Dagger is currently distributed in over 25 countries and is nationally represented with showrooms in New York, Los Angeles and Miami. Amazing designs and quality...from reading and sun glasses, awesome jeans, sexy dresses, the list goes on. Trust me, you won't be disappointed in this line! Check them out www.silver-dagger.com
Photographer: Natasha Kertes
Photograper's Assistant: Katia Hernandez
Models: Breanna Elise, George, & Juliya
Makeup/Hair: Taryll Atkins
Makeup/Hair Assistant: Fredressa (Thank you so much for your hard work with this shoot. I couldn't have done it without you!!!)
944 Magazine - MIAMI HEAT - July 2010 Spread
Amazing sports-themed editorial by the most creative and crazy photographer I have ever worked with, Natasha Kertes (Just love her!!!). Please don't think that models have an easy job; these ladies worked extremely hard!
Photographer: Natasha Kertes
Modes: Tico Armand and Sophia Clerius @ Mega Models
Makeup: Taryll Atkins
