Blog

Devita Solar Protective Moisturizer SPF30

June 3, 2013 · Leave a Comment ·

This wonderful product is a moisturizing day cream and sunblock all in one. It’s one of my personal favorites and a big seller at my store.

Zinc, which is now considered the safest and most effective sunblocking agent, is the star ingredient. But no worries about the moisturizer looking white on your face like a lifeguard’s nose; Devita’s blend, in a base of organic aloe vera gel, goes on like any other moisturizer.

It was formulated specifically for those sensitive to breakouts. That’s an issue for alot of us because most natural sunblocks are heavy and greasy. But not this one which absorbs quickly leaving the skin nourished, feeling soft and smooth ready for makeup (or not).

Another important aspect of Devita SPF30 Moisturizer is that it offers broad spectrum UVA/UVB sun protection. Your doc or derm will tell you that’s very important.

DeVita skin care products are 100 percent vegan and paraben free. They are considered gluten sensitive safe and never contain GMO’s. Never tested on animals. And no nanotechnology is used.

Enjoy the summer sun and take care of your skin!

Available at: If a Goddess Wore Makeup 2.5oz – $28

To your health and beauty!

-Sheila

Concealer – Must Have Makeup

May 15, 2013 · Leave a Comment ·

Being a makeup artist, I look at women’s makeup. I can’t help myself. One of the things I notice the most is concealer. The biggest mistakes I see are: concealer that’s obvious, too light, too thick, too dry, looks gray, doesn’t cover well, looks cakey.

Almost every woman can benefit from the right concealer because most of us have darkness under our eyes. Cream or liquid foundation will cover enough for some, but because concealers are more pigmented, they can really knock out the discoloration that most of us are plagued with. The goal is to have the skin beneath the eyes be the same shade as the rest of our face. The right concealer should instantly make you look better; lifting and brightening up the whole eye area. If you didn’t get 8 hours of sleep last night, your concealer will make you look like you did.

Picking the right shade is key. Choose a shade that’s just a bit lighter than your face or foundation. Most concealers are yellow/beige which works well for many but for extreme darkness, look for a concealer with a little bit of pink in it. The pink (usually referred to as cool or neutral) is better at canceling out the violet/gray/brown of the darkness like nothing else.

Always prepare the eye area first with a light application of eye cream. Let it absorb for a few minutes. I suggest using a synthetic (vegan) concealer brush for the best results. Take a good look and brush the concealer on only in the areas where you see darkness but don’t forget the inner corners and upper side of the nose. Using your ring finger, tap and press gently to blend the edges. I’ll sometimes bring the concealer just a bit out of the eye area for the most natural look and for a bit of highlighting in the center of the face. This is all very subtle.

Right now I’m loving Lauren Brooke Creme Concealer in the neutral shades. It covers well, looks natural and can also be used on the face to cover blemishes.

Available at: If a Goddess Wore Makeup $15

To your health and beauty!

-Sheila

Dr. Ohhira’s Probiotic Kampuku Beauty Bar

April 24, 2013 · 1 Comment ·

I’m a soap and water girl. And I may have found the perfect soap for me and maybe for you. My skin tends to be somewhat dry and sensitive; I get a pimple once a week and an occasional rash or irritation. Since I’ve been using the beauty bar, my skin has been soft, smooth, clear and may I say even radiant! I no longer have that feeling of having to rush to apply a moisturizer after washing because it’s not the least bit drying.

You may know about probiotics for dietary supplementation but using them in skincare is new to the US. but popular in Japan. Award-winning microbiologist Dr. Ohhira is the creator. Probiotics on the skin feed and nourish good bacteria, encourages microbial balance while maintaining a proper Ph. Enough science! This product works.

The beauty bar is recommended for all ages and skin types. I find it especially helpful for those with sensitive skin that tends to breakout. It may even help with eczema. Before ordering from the company, I gave samples to 2 clients of mine to do a test run. Both were thrilled with the results. One woman had suffered with acne on her chin for years and after using the bar just once a day for a few weeks, her chin cleared up completely.

Free of: Synthetic fragrances, stabilizers, deodorants, preservatives, chemicals, artificial colors and animal testing. Vegan. $12.50

Available at: If a Goddess Wore Makeup

To your health and beauty!

-Sheila

Interview with Doree Klassen

April 15, 2013 · Leave a Comment ·

I recently talked with Doree Klassen, the owner and formulator of Pink Quartz Minerals. Doree is a one-woman business creating her makeup line just outside of Milwaukee, WI. This is the foundation that I wear on a regular basis. It’s such an amazing product that I just had to get more information from her about why me and my clients love this makeup so much.

1. Tell me about your mineral makeup? How does it work to give such nice, natural coverage?

Pink Quartz Minerals mineral makeup uses 7 cosmetic grade mineral ingredients that are safe for topical use to blend onto skin. Mineral makeup is a better choice than traditional makeup because it is non-comedogenic, free of parabens, chemical dyes and perfumes. Pink Quartz Minerals gives a protective barrier to shield your skin from environmental pollutants. It covers imperfections but still looks natural. It can also be layered in certain areas where you might need more coverage.
2. Are all mineral makeups the same?

No. As of right now, the regulations regarding mineral makeup only require some minerals be used in it. Some so-called mineral makeup is chemical compounds with a dash of minerals in it. Checking ingredients is crucial.
3. How did you get started in the business of making mineral makeup?

I tried a well know national brand, liked the color and application but did not like the sheen of it. It also made me break out although touted as safe and natural. So I started researching ingredients. I purchased quite a few raw mineral ingredients and finally came up with my own formula.
4. How is Pink Quartz different from other mineral makeups?

Pink Quartz Minerals foundation is my own formula consisting of 7 mineral ingredients, and specifically does not contain the substance bismuth oxychloride which is in many other mineral makeups. Bismuth oxychloride is a by product of a mining process and can cause clogged pores and an unnatural sheen as well as irritation.
5. What are the benefits of wearing mineral makeup?

Pink Quartz Minerals is safe and good for the skin. It does not contain any chemicals or fillers. Mineral makeup is easy and quick to apply, stays on all day, and is equally easy to remove with soap and water, no special removal cream needed.
6. Does your powder foundation work well for all skin types?

Although most skin types can use mineral makeup without a problem, very dry skin may need a moisturizer first. The powdered foundation can be mixed with moisturizer to create a cream or liquid.
7. Are mica and titanium dioxide in any way dangerous to our health? What about nano particles?

Mica and titanium dioxide have been assessed by the FDA and certified safe. Any health risks would be breathing in large amounts of the dust which would be more likely in the manufacturing process. Studies are ongoing and varied regarding the safety of nano particles which could be absorbed into the skin more easily. Pink Quartz Minerals does not use nano particle sized minerals in any products.
8. Any beauty tips you’d like to share with us?

Pink Quartz cosmetics are versatile and easy to use. I made the foundation to enhance your natural beauty, not completely mask the skin. You don’t have to be a makeup artist to create a beautiful look with Pink Quartz Minerals.

Thanks Doree. Pink Quartz Minerals Foundation ($21) and Bronzer ($18)

vegan and gluten free

available at: If a Goddess Wore Makeup

To your health and beauty!

-Sheila

B Pinched Cream Blush

March 20, 2013 · Leave a Comment ·

Sally B’s Skin Yummies offers a flattering cream blush in one shade that works for most skin tones. It’s a neutral rose color that does what blush is supposed to do which is mimic the skin’s natural flush. Go ahead, pinch your cheeks – that’s the shade you’re looking for.

Cream blush gives the skin a radiant, healthy glow and can be more natural looking than powder as well as easier to blend. Cream works especially well for normal to dry skin giving added moisture. Powders still work best for oily skin.

Just dot on the apples of the cheeks and using fingers blend lightly upward toward the hairline.

I love this product! Comes in a cute silver case with a mirror.

Available at If a Goddess Wore Makeup. $18

Ingredients: Organic Coconut Oil, Organic Cocoa Butter, Organic Argan Oil, Organic Beeswax, Infused Organic Calendula Oil, Vitamin E, Mica

Shelf Life of Natural/Organic Makeup

February 26, 2013 · Leave a Comment ·

I clean out my fridge every once in awhile and throw out anything old or questionable. And I do the same with my makeup case. When’s the last time you sorted through your makeup and tossed the old stuff?

Makeup can turn and go bad just like food. I’ve heard of women getting eye infections or funky irritations on their lips as well as breakouts and rashes from using products past their prime. If it starts to smell funny or look weird, toss it. Lipsticks gone bad will smell like rancid cooking oil, liquid makeup may start to separate.

Following is a list of common natural/organic makeup products and their shelf life:

1. Mascara - 3-4 months

2. Eye Liner Pencil – 1-2 years if sharpened often to keep fresh

3. Powder Eye Shadow - 2 years

4. Powder Blush - 2 years

5. Cream Blush - 1 year

6. Liquid/Cream Foundation - 1 year

7. Mineral Makeup Powder Foundation - 3 years or even longer

8. Lipstick/Lip Gloss - 1-2 years

9. Lip Liner Pencil - 1-2 years if sharpened often

10. Cream Concealer - 1 year

If you need help, bring your makeup bag to me and I’ll help you decide what to toss and what to keep.

To your health and beauty!

-Sheila

Amend Facial Solar Repair Anti-Aging Serum by Blissoma

February 20, 2013 · 2 Comments ·

My husband and I were fortunate enough to enjoy a 2 week winter vacation in southern Costa Rica along the Pacific Ocean. The tropical sun is very intense and I was a bit concerned about my skin and how to protect it.

I packed 2 pairs of sunglasses, 3 hats, sunblock for face and body plus my new favorite product by Blissoma – Amend Facial Solar Repair Anti-Aging Serum. This new serum is amazing because it actually delivers on its claims. The ingredients are stellar and the name says it all. The star is pomegranate, a powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and much more.

While on vacation, I used it twice a day (2 pumps on my face and throat) then followed with Devita SPF30 Solar Protective Moisturizer. I ended up with just a bit of healthy color and feel confident that I didn’t damage my skin from the sun. By the way, I’ll continue to use this product year round, vacation or not. I’m all about prevention AND repair.

Here’s the detailed information from the Blissoma website:
Instead of blocking rays, Amend offers a superior boost of pomegranate antioxidant nutrition along with Coenzyme Q10 so your skin can protect itself from the inside out. Amend Facial Solar Repair Serum builds and defends collagen, firms skin, lessens wrinkles, decreases environmental damage and discoloration, and is your all around daily maintenance best friend. Amend for face layers effortlessly so you can apply it in addition to your favorite moisturizer, foundation, or sunblock products. The weightless feel won’t clog or make your skin feel greasy, just hydrated and balanced.Pomella trademarked pomegranate extract has been verified scientifically to reduce UV ray related cell death and free radicals generated in exposed skin. It also fights inflammation and contributes to reduced collagenase activity. Collagenases are pesky enzymes that degrade your collagen structure, contributing to a loss of tone and firmness. Pomella also up-regulates the Sirtuin SIRT1 gene related to longevity, helping your cells remain more vital. Coenzyme Q10 offers a collaborative effect to the total formula, keeping the integrity of your cellular matrix for smoothness, elasticity, and wrinkle reduction. Oils of Acai and Cranberry continue to pack in the antioxidant punch with light conditioning that soaks right into skin. Healthful Rooibos and healing Club Moss, Comfrey, Linden, and Aloe create a base that works to your benefit as they soothe irritations and fight environmental stress.The total effect of Amend facial serum is energized cells, a fully functional skin defense system, and an overall more brilliant you.

Available at If a Goddess Wore Makeup $48.99

To your health and beauty!

-Sheila

Use this, not that

January 14, 2013 · Leave a Comment ·

A list of eco alternatives for your beauty routine.

Use Mad Hippie Cream Cleanser, not Cetaphil Facial Cleanser

Use B Leaf Replenish Eye Cream, not Chanel Ultra Correction Eye Cream

Use Gabriel Foundation Powder, not MAC Studio Fix

Use Facial Freedom Blemish Toner, not Clearasil Acne Treatment Cream

Use Gabriel Bone Eye Shadow, not Bobbi Brown Bone Eye Shadow

Use Larenim Sheer Perfection Powder, not Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Powder

Use Pink Quartz Mineral Powder, not Bare Minerals Powder

Use Devita SPF30 Moisturizer, not Neutrogena Healthy Defense Daily SPF30

Use Mad Hippie Vitamin C Serum, not Estee Lauder Advanced Night Repair

Use Vapour Organic Beauty Lipstick, not L’Oreal Colour Riche Lipstick

Use Pangea Organics Body Lotion, not Lubriderm Daily Moisture

Use Microderma Makeup Remover Mitt, not Pond’s Cleansing Towelettes

Use SKIN Daily Greens Hydrating Cream, not Bobbi Brown Hydrating Cream

Use Lauren Brooke Cream Concealer, not Clinique Even Better Concealer

Replenish Hydrating Eye Cream

January 8, 2013 · 2 Comments ·

I’m a huge fan of eye cream. My mother suggested I start using one when I was in my early 20s. And I’m glad she did. That, and always wearing sunglasses has kept me pretty smooth rather than crinkly looking around my eyes. This thin-skinned area is the first place to show signs of age. If you have fine lines or wrinkles and loss of firmness, an eye cream can make a huge difference. For younger women, a good eye cream is a necessary preventive product.

Replenish Hydrating Eye Cream by b-Leaf Botanics is super hydrating and firming yet feels light and penetrates easily and quickly. The jar usually lasts 6 months because a little bit goes a long way. Use morning and night. I even tap a little on mid-day to rehydrate.

When applying concealer to a client with dark shadows, this is the perfect complement underneath to give a smooth look so concealer never looks dry, cakey or like you’re wearing makeup. Just make sure to allow the cream to absorb a few minutes before applying concealer.

The ingredients are stellar. I especially love that the formulator uses essential oil of elemi. This precious oil boosts collagen support for firming and reducing the look of lines and wrinkles plus has cell regeneration properties. Here’s the best part, elemi oil is one of the ingredients in Chanel’s Ultra Correction Eye Cream which sells for $85! Other ingredients in Replenish are: vitamin A-rich carrot seed and antioxidant-rich sea algae and green tea, moisturizing plant oils of meadowfoam, rosehip, grapeseed, and sunflower seed that are rich in vitamins A, C and E.

I recently told Ellen, the owner of b-Leaf Botanics, that I refer to Replenish as a lip and eye cream. I recommend using what’s left on your finger or take a little more and rub it on your lips. It works so much better than any lip balm to soften and moisturize dry chapped lips. Most lip balms tend to sit on the surface protecting against moisture loss. But what if your lips are already dry and chapped.? Trust me, this works a whole lot better.

vegan, cruelty-free, mostly organic ingredients – $30

available at If a Goddess Wore Makeup

Caring for Makeup Brushes

December 3, 2012 · 1 Comment ·

Makeup brushes can last for many years if properly cared for. Some of my favorite brushes have been in steady use for over 10 years. Others I’ve had for more than 20 years. Accumulation of makeup, skin cells, facial and moisturizer oils plus bacteria can cause brush hairs to break down. Don’t over-wash your brushes, but they should be cleaned at least once a month; more often if you’re having skin issues like breakouts.

I find that Trader Joe’s dish soap with essential oils works great as a cleanser. I’ve also used Dr. Bronner’s Liquid Magic Soap or a good green/clean shampoo.

Here’s how to wash makeup brushes:

Start by getting the bristles of the brush wet with warm water
Put a small amount of soap in the palm of your hand
Pick up some of the soap with the wet brush massaging it gently in your palm
To rinse, hold the brush downward under warm running water to get all the soap out
Give the brush a shake to get out the excess water and gently reshape if needed
To dry, lay them flat on a towel with the brush heads hanging over the counter edge. This way, they dry evenly.

I like to wash my brushes at night so by the morning they’re fresh and clean and ready to go. Store brushes in a cute container or in a cup that’s not too deep rather than in your makeup bag.

To your health and beauty!

-Sheila