An Eye Opening Mascara Tip that Will Change the Way to Swipe, Promise

While there may not be one mascara out there that does it all, throughout my years interviewing makeup artists, I've found that no matter what type of look you seek (length, volume or definition) one thing's for sure – application is key.  I'm sure you've heard it all before: take your time, wiggle the brush in between your lashes before pulling up for definition and of course, mixing formulas couldn't hurt.  However, I spoke with Celebrity Makeup Artist, Jake Bailey, who confessed the ultimate mascara tip that changes everything.

This may seem like common sense, but Bailey explains, "When applying mascara, it’s more important to coat the root of the lash rather than the tip." To make sure you get in there without leaving a mess, fold a Puffs  tissue and place it at the bottom of your eyelashes, where the roots meet your eyelid. Then, apply the mascara from the root and pull it through your lashes against the tissue toward the tip, leaving the excess on the tissue.  

Genius!  If you try it, you'll notice there will be mascara all over the Puffs tissue, but not on your eyelid and you can really concentrate on pulling your lashes up from the root without your nerves getting in the way.  Plus, you can do this on the bottom too to prevent raccoon eyes.

*This post is sponsored by Puffs, but all of the information is true.

Spring 2013 Beauty Trend: Flawless Faces, Get the No-Makeup-Makeup Look

Backstage at NY Fashion Week this September I took note of the top beauty trends for Spring, some of which included buff nails, nude lips, electric eyes, deep side parts and flawless faces.  Flawless faces, which to me is more than just a trend, it's a way of life.  It's your skin! I got some tips from CoverGirl Celebrity Makeup Artist, Jake Bailey, on how to achieve the no-makeup-makeup look, flawlessly. 1.       Start by removing any excess oil or makeup with a toner or astringent.

2.       Apply lip balm at the start of your makeup routine so it has time to be absorbed. Then, when you’re ready to apply lipstick, lips will be soft and supple, but not sticky.

3.       Spread a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer over entire face as a primer and then blot with a sponge to remove excess.  I'd recommend Cetaphil DermaControl Oil Free Moisturizer, $16.99.

4.       Using a flat-topped brush, dab a creamy foundation like Giorgio Armani Designer Shaping Cream Foundation SPF 20, $65, onto your face and décolletage.

5.       Conceal under eye circles with a light reflecting concealer.  Be sure to keep the product away from your lash line  It will only highlight puffiness.

6.       Use the sponge to blot away excess foundation before applying blush and bronzer to prevent a “cakey” look.

7.       Using a brush, apply cream blush to the apples of your cheeks, then blend it out around your entire cheek for a natural flush.  The brush gives it a more natural look.

8.       Warm up the look with bronzer in the hollows of your cheeks and around the perimeter of your face.

9.       Use an oversized, soft brush to set the look with a light powder.  The soft bristles provide less resistance, helping keep makeup intact.  I use the CoverGirl + Olay Pressed Powder, $10.49, because it's a bit moisturizing and doesn't make my skin look cakey.  Check out my review here.

10.   Finish with mascara. For a smudge-free application, place a business card at the base of the lash line, then brush mascara over top lashes. The business card helps separate lashes and prevents clumping and excess.

Easy Mascara Trick for Longer, Thicker Lashes

Last week I had dinner with Celebrity Makeup Artist, Jake Bailey, known for perfecting Taylor Swift's flirty lash look in the Cover Girl ads and Katy Perry's signature cat eye. While I learned a ton of great makeup application tips and tricks from him throughout the meal, there was one that deserved a post on its own – the best mascara tip ever! Somewhere in between testing out an eyeshadow on my hand and drinking a glass of red, Bailey began doing a mascara demo that changed my life (well, changed my makeup routine).  His secret was a prop – a business card.  Here's the how-to:

1. Place a business card behind your upper lashes to protect your lid from the pigment.

2. Place the wand at the base of your lash line and wiggle it in between your lashes for added definition.

3. Next, as you pull the brush up throughout your lashes, rotate it so you're continuously coating them with fresh mascara and lift your lashes up with it for added length.

4.  Allow the brush to continue past your lashes and run onto the business card so the excess mascara doesn't clump on the tips of your lashes.

You don't have to use a business card to pull of this trick.  A match book, credit card, or anything thin and small will work.  As far as mascara goes, work with what you like, but I recommend trying CoverGirl's Nature Luxe Mousse Mascara, $8.49 at drugstores.  It's what Bailey used for the demo and created dimensional lashes.