Posts Tagged ‘jane iredale’

BEHIND BEAUTY: ETHICAL QUESTIONS IN BEAUTY & COSMETICS

Last night, in desperate need of an electric pink lipstick, I dashed into the mall to grab one. There were a couple colours to choose from and  when I finally flagged down the lone sales associate, the first (and only) selling feature? “This one has the PETA Bunny on it.” When did our priorities change? No comment about the stunning colour, or glossiness, or lasting time. Instead, the focus was immediately placed on the “ethical” nature of the product.

While I find this to be a reassuring shift, I’m also a little saddened.  It’s 2013, “Cruelty-Free” should be a standard. While I don’t have a flying car in my driveway, shouldn’t I at least have an ethical lipstick? Recently, the EU passed legislation banning the sale of any product tested on animals. Expanding on laws that made it illegal to test products on animals within the EU, they will soon refuse all products tested on animals.

Animal testing is the most well publicized ethical dilemma in the beauty and cosmetics industry. However, there are lots of questions that educated consumers are starting to ask. The “Dirty Dozen”, a group of ingredients pointed out by David Suzuki to be harmful, are on a lot of women’s “avoid” lists. In fact, with the average person using 10 to 20 personal car products a day, it’s important to understand exactly what your using. In fact, most skin care companies have voluntarily removed the parabens from their formulations due to the public distrust. By choosing companies and brands that offer ethical alternatives, we have inspired ethical behavior.

Naturally, looking at the scary list of what all of these  chemical ingredients might do tends to cause consumers to gravitate towards natural or organic products. There are some fantastic brands in these categories that work very hard to ensure they provide results as well as that warm fuzzy feeling. We love Eminence, Jane Iredale, Decleor, GM Collin, Phytomer and several others!

Retailers are constantly monitoring their inventory. Keeping track of which products sell, and which don’t. They use this information to determine which products to stock more of and which brands to stop carrying. As we actively choose ethically responsible brands, stores start stocking more choices. At Spa Boutique, we have responded by providing a natural section as well as ensuring all our products meet our ethical standards.

Does this mean conventional products are bad? No. In fact, most of the active, effective ingredients come from years of laboratory research. For optimal results, clients still gravitate towards premium products with retinol, peptides, and stem cells. However, companies are becoming increasingly aware of how their business practices are perceived by consumers.  Companies like Guinot do their best to ensure “the active ingredients used in our formulations are chosen so as to respect the environment”.

Another big ethical question is cosmetic or elective surgeries and medical treatments, such as Botox. Images from a South Korean beauty pageant recently surfaced online. All of the contestants looked strangely similar. Initially the high rates of elective surgery in Seoul were blamed for giving the women a “cloned” appearance. However, there is now talk that the overall “clone” effect is due more to Photoshop than surgery.

However, The best way to handle these ethical questions is to ask them of yourself:

Do I want a Product Tested on Animals?
Do I prefer a product that is non-natural but free of certain ingredients?
Do I prefer a Product that is Natural/Organic?
Where do I want my products manufactured? In Canada, France, or Overseas?
Are there any symbols, such as the Recycling Circle, PETA Bunny, or Sustainability Leaves on the box?

Once you choose to make ethical skincare and cosmetics a priority, you’ll be surprised to discover how many of your favourite brands already meet your standards!

 

As always, just for being a follower of our blog, enter coupon code BLOG10 for 10% off your next purchase! Also, remember to follow us @spaboutique on Twitter, like our Facebook  page, and check out our boards on Pinterest! You could be the lucky winner of one of our many contests!

 

BEHIND BEAUTY: SOFT SPRING SMOKEY EYE TUTORIAL

Transform the shimmery Spring day look into a sultry smokey eye for evening!

Start by thoroughly cleansing your eye area. A clean canvas is necessary for optimal results.

Gently Sweep Jane Iredale PurePressed Eye Shadow in ”Champagne” across the entire lid as a base.

Add a touch of colour. We choose a soft gold with a hint of pink, “Rose Gold” Pressed Eye Shadow. Apply in a “V” shape along the corner of the eye (where you would add the “Wing” of a cat eye) into the crease. Blend into the base colour for a seamless transition.



Next, use your darkest colour, such as “Shady Lady”, as an eyeliner. Apply with an angled brush and gently smudge upward to create the “smokey” effect. By using a soft powder instead of a liquid liner, the smokey effect is much softer for spring.

As a highlight, add “Oyster” along the brow bone. Next, add just a touch of Jane Iredale 24-Karat Gold Dust Powder to the interior of the eye for extra romance and an elegant shimmer.

Finish with Jane Iredale PureLash Mascara in classic black for a fantastic look for an intimate coffee date, a walk along the pier or dinner by candle light!

As always, just for being a follower of our blog, enter coupon code BLOG10 for 10% off your next purchase! Also, remember to follow us @spaboutique on Twitter, like our Facebook  page, and check out our boards on Pinterest! You could be the lucky winner of one of our many contests!

The BEST Bronzers Guide

What is Bronzer?

A Bronzer is a tinted makeup that adds a sun-kissed or “Bronzed” look to the skin.

Used on the face or body, it can take you from tepid to tawny with 3 easy strokes!  Most bronzers come as a pressed, pearled, or loose powder. However, you can find liquid ones as well. Self tanners with a “Wash Off” option can also act as a bronzer.

There are two primary kinds, matte and shimmer. Matte bronzers are great for contouring and help to keep your sun-kissed look natural. Shimmer is fun for a night out or special occasion, however the light catching makeup can emphasize pores. The best bronzers have an illuminating quality without overpowering the rest of your makeup. At Spa Boutique, we carry over 50 Blushes and Bronzers, there’s a perfect shade for every skin tone!

How Do I Apply Bronzer?

Start with a foundation slightly darker than your normal tone.

Choose a Bronzer 2 shades darker than your skin tone.

Using a large bronzer brush, make a “3″ along each side of your face. Don’t press too hard, keep it light so it blends naturally.

Sweep the bronzer along the sides of your face, just below the cheekbones, and underneath the chin. Soften and Blend so no harsh “edges” remain.

Also add a touch along the neck. If you have short hair, or will be wearing your hair up, remember to add some colour to the back of your neck and behind your ears. If exposed, add to shoulders or lightly brush along legs.

 Top 3 Best Bronzers

Jane Iredale MoonGlow Quad Pressed Bronzer (8.5 g)

Four Shimmering Shades that work together for all over illumination. Or, use these subtle powders individually to highlight the eyes, lips, and cheeks. New Beauty Magazine Beauty Choice Award Winner “Best Bronzer” & Chosen Beast of Beauty by Allure.

 

Eminence Mineral Makeup Mocha Berry Bronzer Mineral Illuminator (0.28oz)
Add a natural glow with this elegant pressed powder. Warm and luminous, it helps to control oil while adding a stunning medium to dark highlight. Contains Rosemary Extract, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Aloe, Acai Berry, and Green Tea.

Priori CoffeeBerry Sun Kissed Bronzer (14G)

This 100% Natural loose powder is fortified with CoffeeBerry, a potent anti-aging botanical. In addition to providing an elegant sun-kissed look, this bronzer is Non-Comedogenic and Non-Acnegenic,  offers free-radical protection, soothes the appearance of fine lines & wrinkles, conceals blotchiness and is ideal for sensitive skin.

 

Honorable Mentions: The key to perfect Bronzer is a perfect bronzing brush. Choose one that is soft with lots of bristles. We love the Eminence Powder Brush and the Jane Iredale Kabuki Brush & Case

As always, just for being a follower of our blog, enter coupon code BLOG10 for 10% off your next purchase! Also, remember to follow us @spaboutique on Twitter, like our Facebook  page, and check out our boards on Pinterest! You could be the lucky winner of one of our many contests!

BEHIND BEAUTY: Soft Day Make-Up with Jane Iredale

This week, we asked one of our estheticians, Rebekah, to demonstrate an easy, clean day look for spring. She was delighted to share some of her pro tips with all of our readers. For this demo, she decided to stay within the Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup Family.

1. Start with a Primer, Jane Iredale Smooth Affair Primer. With a blending brush, use a smooth circular motion to work the cream across your face. Follow with a BB or Beauty Balm Cream. Rebekah likes Jane Iredale Glow Time Full Coverage Mineral BB Cream as it is hypoallergenic and effective!

2. Next, to complete your foundation, add Jane Iredale Amazing Base Loose Minerals Powder with SPF 20. This fantastic loose powder offers all day sun protection while matifying.

3. Smile slightly and gently blend your Jane Iredale’s PurePressed Blushes from the apple of your cheek towards your temple.

4.With the Jane Iredale PurePressed Eye Shadow Trio - Sweet Spot, take the medium colour in the trio and use as an all over base. Next, with the darkest tone, accent the contour of your eye and and highlight the lid with the light peach. Gently blend so the colours seamlessly transition from lid to brow.

5. Next, Rebekah takes the Jane Iredale Bitty Brow Kit and defines her brow with the dark brown brow colour and uses just a touch of wax to ensure they stay still.

6. Then, she applies her Jane Iredale’s Eye Pencil. While the trend this spring is nearly liner less eyes, Rebekah still wants a touch of liner to help open her eyes. She chooses a pencil instead of her usual liquid liner as it creates a softer line and is much more forgiving. Always sharpen your pencil before each use as this gives you the most control over the line. Struggling to get it straight? Try applying the liner in little dashes, connecting them together instead of trying for one swooping line. For a touch of vintage charm, Rebekah adds a slightly winged out tip.

7. To finish up her eye, she applies Jane Iredale Longest Lash Mascara. Rebekah always opts to do her mascara last, so that she doesn’t accidentally get powder stuck to her lashes. Plus, it’s a great finishing step as it really makes your eye pop! Open your mouth slightly to widen the eye, brush the mascara on the top and bottom lid. Then, relax your eyes and “fiddle” the brush back and forth.

8. With Jane Iredale Lip Liner Pencil Crayon in a colour that complements your lip gloss, outline and colour in your lip. This helps your lip colour last longer. The lip liner just around the edge of the lip has really fallen out of fashion and our clients are wearing a solid lip.

9. Rebekah adds Jane Iredale PureGloss Lip Gloss for a touch more colour and shine. If you notice you have fine lines forming around your lips, opt for Jane Iredale PureMoist LipColours With SPF 18 instead as some glosses can bleed into fine lines and leave your sharp lips looking blurry.

10. Finally, she finishes with the Jane Iredale’s D2O Hydration Spray. This product really sets the look and keeps you fresh and hydrated.

As always, just for being a follower of our blog, enter coupon code BLOG10 for 10% off your next purchase! Also, remember to follow us @spaboutique on Twitter, like our Facebook  page, and check out our boards on Pinterest! You could be the lucky winner of one of our many contests!

 

BEHIND BEAUTY: Jane Iredale Spring 2013 Makeup Trends

Monday night, our team hopped a cab to the  Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup Spring Launch!

This fantastic training session gave us a sneak peek into the hot new colours and trends for Spring 2013. The big, exciting, AMAZING thing for Spring? New PureGloss Lip Gloss! With 11 new shades and 7 Fab Favs, they’ve reformulated to make the Glosses soothing and hydrating. With a variety of colours ranging from Snowberry to Black Cherry, as Jane says, “I challenge you to just pick one of the 18 shades – you’ll want to try them all!”

Ruben, the  Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup National Trainer and Makeup Artist, is in utter love with “Bellini” for nude or natural lips. We had a chance to test out these new formulations and they are glossy, creamy and delicious! They’ve redesigned the wand and it hugs the lip just perfectly. I had the chance to test out the Tangerine, a sheer orangey coral, and the lusciously dark purple Black Cherry. The Tangerine is much sheerer than it looks in the bottle which came as a bit of a surprise but it’s very wearable and will be finding a permanent place in my bag! The other big colour hit? Our team just adored the Crab Apple, a bold brick red that is just perfect for creating a statement lip!

Statement lips are the hottest trend for spring. We’re seeing of ethereal, glowing faces with minimal eye makeup and powerful pouts! I adore this trend. Especially, because it’s so easy! Some of the models are barely even wearing eyeliner! They’ve switched from heavy black to soft neutrals or even just a touch of white to give them little hot spots. The trend excites Ruben because, “If you can dream it- Do it! It’s so easy! No more fussing with your eyes in the morning, just pop on your lip plumper, gloss and go!”

Exclusive to Canada, we’re excited to be carrying the “Jane Iredale Fresh Delight Grab & Go Kit”. These special 7 piece makeup sets contain all the basics of their makeup line. Available in “Cool” or “Warm”, each set contains an Eye Gloss, Eye Shadow, Eye Highlighter Pencil, Blush, Lip Pencil, PureGloss Lip Gloss, and a stylish Travel Bag! Personally, I’m really excited for these kits. I really like being able to complete a whole look with a starter kit, and this set really achieves that goal. I do wish they’d been a touch more daring with the lip colours but the kit is extremely wearable, and you can always pick up a playful lipgloss!

These new colours are Especially sensational when paired with dewy, radiant, glowing skin. While Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup is perfect for creating that ethereal glow on your face, this spring we’re seeing the skin glowing everywhere!

Want the look? Ruben recommends pairing your  Jane Iredale Mineral Makeup with ST. Tropez Wash Off Instant Glow Body Lotion. A noncommittal self-tanning product, it acts more like as a body makeup than a true self-tanner. Creating a gentle glow on arms, legs and décolletage only takes a few minutes and drastically elevates your look. Especially when you add one of their ST. Tropez Skin Illuminators! For darker complexions, pick up the Gold or theRose (depending on your tan level). Want to celebrate your porcelain skin? The Violet Illuminator gave even my almost-see-though wintery skin a romantic brilliance.  Have a special even coming up and really want to shimmer? Try the St. Tropez Get The Look Instant Tan Kit (3pc). The Wash off products won’t stain and are designed for minimal transfer- they’re a bridal favourite.

Not to  cram even more news into this blog- but I’m going to cram even more news into this Blog! The Jane Iredale Longest Lash Mascara Wand has also had a major overhaul! With better bristles it opens the eye and helps to nourish your lashes. As we move into spring, we’re seeing a lot less on the eye- minimal liner and shadow. Because of this, we’re going to see a lot more emphasis on mascara.

My Spring 2013 Makeup Checklist:

• Vibrant Lips –  Jane Iredale Just Kissed Lip Plumper in NYC with  Jane Iredale PureGloss Lip Gloss in Crab Apple
• Soft Eye Shadow - Jane Iredale PurePressed Eye Shadow in Hush or Peach Sherbet & Jane Iredale Eye Gloss in Peach
• Bold Lashes (Minimal Liner) - Jane Iredale Longest Lash Mascara & Jane Iredale Double Ended Eye Highlighter Pencil
• Glowy Skin - St. Tropez Get The Look Instant Tan Kit (3pc)

As always, just for being a follower of our blog, enter coupon code BLOG10 for 10% off your next purchase! Also, remember to follow us @spaboutique on Twitter, like our Facebook  page, and check out our boards on Pinterest! You could be the lucky winner of one of our many contests!