Interview – Makeup Most Wanted

Category: Interview

26
Oct
2016

Makeup Most Wanted Interview: Les Industries Groom

One of the biggest things in beauty right now is men’s grooming. There are tons of companies popping up all over the place to help men groom their beards and generally keep them looking great. Les Industries Groom is a Montreal-based company started by three friends Julien Blanchard, Maxime Leclerc, and Etienne Côté. We’ve already had a chance to check out a few of their products and we have more on deck. In the meantime, Julien took the time to do our Makeup Most Wanted interview and tell us a little bit of their story and what they have coming up next.

Do you remember your first experience with grooming products?

I do remember my first time shaving. As a boy growing up, you know it’s one of these milestone moments of life. It’s acknowledging that your body has changed in such a way that you have to adapt how you approach it, and there will be no turning back!

In a way you’re prepared for it since shaving is such a universal (maybe I should say « man-versal ») action. You see it on TV and films (Home Alone features a great scene of how NOT to use aftershave!) Still there is a lot of unknown and expectations are high.

I think I was disappointed after that first shave; the way my father taught me was too quick, too simple and it seemed to lack meaning.

Shaving being such a harsh treatment on the skin, it turned out to be a painful experience that I would repeat only when I had no choice. It took many years of sporting trimmed stubble before I actually discovered how to shave the right way, with the right tools and products.

How did Groom get started?

Groom really happened by chance, and still today, we three co-founders are still surprised by how it happened, and how quickly it happened! I decided to grow a full-on handlebar moustache, and at the same time I met a new flatmate, Maxime, who had decided to grow a full-beard; that was just before beards and moustaches made their real comeback. We quickly figured out that there was some maintenance to be done… but no available products for it!

We found some online from the USA, but each moustache wax or beard oil/balm that we ordered seemed to be just a bit off: either the feel wasn’t quite there, or the fragrance not just right. Gradually we knew what quality products should be like.

It took Étienne, whom we met by chance in a cocktail bar, to throw the idea of making some products ourselves. Since we had other occupations and none of us any background in business management, it started out as a fun thing to do: registering a business, learning how to run it, enjoying the thrill of its growth. It gradually took more time in our lives, so we moved it into a commercial space and hired some of our friends to help with production. Now it’s a full-time occupation for us three and a part- to full-time job for 5 other people.

Did any of you have experience making any kind of shaving product before?

No experience whatsoever. We made dozens and dozens of tests for each product, changing dosage here, switching an ingredient there, tweaking the fragrance. In regular business thinking we probably wasted a lot of time developing the products ourselves since we first had to teach ourselves how to do it. However, it allowed us a solid slow-growth approach during which we as persons grew to learn and adopt our roles within the business. Now it allows us to stand in full confidence behind our products.
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Do you have a favourite out of all the Groom products?

It’s hard to have just one favourite! I don’t have children but I can imagine it’s similar to being a parent: you love each child equally for who he/she is.

Since my arm is being twisted, I would have to say that I have a little something special for our old-fashioned shaving products: the aftershave splash and the shaving soap. They resonate with that moment when I discovered – over ten years after my first experience – the true pleasure of shaving with the right products.

With all the men’s lines around right now, what makes Groom different?

There seems to be a strong trend in marketing strategies for men’s lines. They tend to prescribe their vision of manliness by building their campaign around high-profile athletes, motorcycles, attractive women, etc. The psychology behind it has proven to be successful: you choose the products according to what you wish to identify with, carelessly subscribing at the same time to questionable stereotypes.

Since our approach is rooted in the use of traditional products, it made sense for us to foster a genuine, inclusive approach. Becoming a man is a thing that takes time, requires thought that turns into maturity, and grooming reflects that principle.

In our photo shoots we wanted to put forward a diversity of genuine men. Our models are friends or relatives that have a life story: cooks, artists, barbers, carpenters, fathers. They couldn’t be more different from each other, yet they share an essence of masculinity. This is what we want to put forward: be the best man you can be, whoever that is.

Are there any new products coming up?

This year has been a hectic one, with the development of 2 brand new products: a shaving cream and an aftershave balm. They will be the keystone of our shaving line, finalizing a chapter that has required tons of efforts. We’re also looking forward to offering a Trial Kit and a Gift Box for our shaving products, and some branded items (shaving brush, hand towel, dopp-kit) are on the way.

What’s the one thing you want people to know about Groom?

In the past few years, we have witnessed a deep and durable change in how men approach their masculinity. There seems to be a search for the authentic, digging out old traditions and tools in the process. We’re ecstatic to see this happening; our goal is to encourage this movement by providing products, tools and knowledge.

As a Canadian brand that uses natural ingredients, manufactures its own products and puts forward an inclusive image of grooming and masculinity, we strive to be recognized as a genuine agent in that new era.

* Les Industries Groom will have a new shaving collection available as of November 1st that includes shaving cream, aftershave balm and shaving kits. For more information on Les Industries Groom or any of their products you can head to their Les Industries Groom.

18
May
2016

TNCB Sneak Peek

categories: Coming Soon, Interview, Nail Polish, Spa Reviews

We love our manicures around here and it doesn’t hurt when they come with a little bubbly, so we were really excited to hear about a new pop up shop called TNCB, or The Nail And Champagne Bar. It’s the first pop up in Toronto to combine both nails and champagne. Open in downtown Toronto (39 Stewart St.) from May 30 to June 5, TNCB will have everything you want in a nail bar (natural nails only), plus an actual bar for champagne! We had a quick chat with owner Eliza Sipin about what to expect.

How did the idea for the nail and champagne bar come about?

It was a natural progression of my background and what I’m truly passionate about. I started getting my nails done in high school and it has been in my bi-weekly routine without fail. In 2013, I created 2 colours and launched Vain Polish – a small line of nail lacquers under The Vanity Events. My strict love affair with champagne took flight 4 years ago when I visited region. With over a decade background as a Bartender, I’ve always had a deep interest in sparkling wines.

Why a pop up bar and not a traditional, stay in one spot retail location?

The Pop Up scene in Toronto is really growing and it’s such a unique and wonderful way to launch a brand and have people experience your offerings.

How has the response been?

It’s been great! People are excited, interested and curious all at the same time.

You’re only going to be open for a week, are there plans for more pop-ups in the future?

Yes, absolutely! The brand will introduce one-of-a-kind experiences with all things nails and champagne.

Do you have a favourite nail and champagne combo from the list of offerings?

I would definitely recommend the “Manicure with Champagne” combo. It comes with a glass of Tarlant Brut Reserve, which is rich and creamy but still very light and refreshing. I would definitely add some Nina’s Paris truffles. The Marie Antoinette line has ingredients from The King’s Garden in Versailles and will be exclusive at the Pop Up!

Do you have recommendations for people who can’t decide what to get?

I recommend pre-booking a manicure to be sure you have the time you want. Once you arrive, please speak to myself for any recommendations on our champagne offerings or nail services. We also have our nail designers who are all certified nail technicians to guide you. And just in case, I’m also certified so you’re in the right hands!
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For more information on services or to book an appointment, head to http://www.tncb.ca/. If you’re in Toronto or not to far away, you definitely need to check out TNCB, I know I’ll be there!

10
Feb
2016

Acne Skin Care Tips From Neutrogena

categories: Interview, Skin Care

If you are suffering from acne, it can be tricky to know which products are helping your skin and which are only making your skin condition worse. To get the fact, we turned to Neutrogena expert, Toronto dermatologist, Dr. Paul Cohen. Get ready to take notes and hit the stores to stock up!

NEUTROGENA Oil-Free Acne Wash

Q: When choosing skin care lines, are there ingredients that people with acne should look for?

A: It really depends on your skin type and on the severity of your acne. Most people who get acne will develop mild acne and this can usually be treated with OTC (over-the-counter) medications. OTC medications can be bought at a pharmacy without a doctor’s prescription and they are usually applied to the skin (e.g. topical medicines that most commonly contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid).

Benzoyl Peroxide helps kill bacteria and slows down your glands’ production of oil, and is a very commonly used antibiotic agent found in acne treatments. While benzoyl peroxide is a topical antibiotic, it is not something to which we can develop a resistance. Although Benzoyl peroxide can be very drying to sensitive skin types, it’s usually well-tolerated; however, the main downside is it can bleach clothing, pillow cases, sheet, towels, etc. and I usually like to warn my patients in advance of this.

Salicylic acid is an anti-inflammatory topical acne treatment derived from aspirin. Salicylic acid is good for cleaning the skin, and takes excess oil off when used for cleansing. It is good for the face and body too – especially since it doesn’t bleach clothing or towels. It can be drying and slightly irritating for people with sensitive skin, particularly people who have a condition like rosacea. I recommend the NEUTROGENA® Oil-Free Acne Wash for the face and body (it comes in a body wash that is great for the chest and back). The Pink Grapefruit version is great.

If your acne is more severe, you should see a derm. You should visit a derm when traditional over the counter products aren’t working, and when all of the “best practices” are being taken into account (wearing oil-free makeup, practicing proper hygiene, etc.) – but you are still having issues with acne flare-ups. Prescription medications for acne come in many forms, such as creams, lotions, etc. – and your dermatologist will decide what is best for you. You may be prescribed an oral or topical antibiotic for inflammation, or birth control pills if it’s hormonal.

Q: Are there ingredients that they should avoid?

A: For some acne-sufferers, it can be helpful to avoid oil-based makeups, moisturizing creams or lotions, as these contain oil, which can speed up the blocking of your pores. Always look for products that are non-comedogenic, which will not block pores.

Q: There are many different types of skin care products (creams, foams, gels). Is there a type of skin care product people should use?

A: Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic skincare products. People with acne-prone skin tend to have oilier skin and tend to do better with gel-based products and more watery formulas, versus thick, rich creams. Gel-based products and foaming cleansers tend to have more alcohol in them, helping with drying the oil build-up in pores.

NEUTROGENA Oil-free Moisture SPF 15

Q: What are the top products someone with acne should use regularly?

A: A mild cleanser, a light and oil-free moisturizer. NEUTROGENA Oil-free Moisture SPF 15 is one of my favourites. Sunscreen – the sun can aggravate acne-prone skin – use sunscreen regularly. For acne-prone skin, look for oil-free sunscreens with a light, watery and fluid formula. One of my favourites is the NEUTROGENA ULTRA SHEER WATER-LIGHT Daily Face Sunscreen SPF 60. I would say to avoid clogged pores that lead to break outs, consistency is most important. I would also recommend a gel based or spray sunscreen that has alcohol and works well on more oily skin types.

07
Jan
2016

Waxing Tips & Most Wanted Products From WAXON

categories: Interview, Skin Care

waxon-waxbar

With the winter chill here, we are sure that many people are heading south to find the sun, heat and the beach. To prep for bathing suit weather, we expect that you will be hitting a salon, like WAXON to clean up. We chatted with WAXON’s founder Lexi Miles for tips on all of your waxing so that you can be smooth and ready.

Q: What are the steps to prepping the skin/hair before you go for your wax?

Exfoliation is key! Exfoliating before getting a wax will help prep your skin and hair for your wax services. It helps release ingrown hairs from under the skin’s surface and leaves the skin renewed, which will help you to achieve a flawless wax experience!

Trim your hair if it is too long to ease discomfort when the wax strip is removed. The ideal hair length is ¼ of an inch (the length of a grain of rice) or for any of you who haven’t yet converted to waxing (p.s. now is the time) 12 – 14 days after shaving. However, we do have Lycon Stripless Hot Wax that removes hair as short as 2mm, for emergency wax situations! It happens sometimes, we know.

Q: Is there anything different that you should do depending on where you are getting waxed? Specific tricks before a Brazilian, legs, brows, etc?

As always, exfoliating before getting any waxing services will help prep the hair to be removed. Hydrated skin results in a better more flawless wax, so keep your skin well hydrated especially leading up to your waxing appointment. For a Brazilian, trimming the hair if it is too long will ease pain during a wax service as there won’t be a pull when removing the wax strip. At WAXON we also have numbing creams available that are applied 20 – 30 min before your service, used for primarily below the belt services. BareEase numbing cream for Women, and Numb Nuts for Men, and YES – it does exactly what it says. No pain, no problem!

For WOW Brows, the golden rule is DON’T touch them! Leave it to the professionals – if it’s your first time then the more hair to work with the better!

Q: What is the proper way to exfoliate between waxes to stop ingrown hairs?

Exfoliating at least 2 – 3 times per week in the opposite direction of hair growth to slough off dead skin cells and help prevent ingrown hairs.

HOT TIP: For best results, we recommend WAXON Loofah Scrub ($10) for below the belt exfoliating and ‘On the Rocks’ Body Scrub ($29) for full body exfoliation.

The very best product to eliminate and prevent ingrown hair from coming back in the future…the Oprah favourite PrinceReigns Ingrown hair serum. Use daily post shower to get rid of those pesky ingrown hairs and prevent them from coming back in the future!

Waxing frequently is key! Waxing every 4-5 weeks helps prevent ingrown hairs. When the hairs are shorter and are on the same growth cycle it reduces the pull during a wax service which in turn can cause ingrown hairs

Q: What are your top products for caring for your freshly waxed skin?

WAXON’s Skin Quenching Body Oil; BodyShot is a 100% Natural go-to post wax product. Not only does it make your body look look and feel fabulous, it’s ultra-hydrating, containing ingredients like coconut oil, avocado oil and arnica, which helps remove heat from the skin post wax.

BIG News – you no longer have to schedule your day around the dreaded post-brow wax redness! At WAXON we complete every brow service by applying Priori Mineral Makeup. Priori is a medical mineral makeup that actually has beneficial ingredients that improve the skin while you wear it while reducing and concealing any redness caused by waxing or threading without clogging pores. Receive your Priori touch up, followed by a brow fill in by our Brow Experts using WAXON’s WOW BROW DUO and you are ready to hit the town!

Yes, there is one more! At WAXON, we complete our 5-step wax process by renewing the skin post-wax by applying our soothing Prince Reigns Ingrown Hair Serum. Exclusively sold at WAXON, Prince Reigns contains aloe, chamomile and lavender that helps calm the skin post while reducing the chance of ingrown hairs.

18
Nov
2015

Waxing Tips & Trends From WAXON WAXBAR

categories: Interview, Skin Care

It was a great day when I discovered WAXON WAXBAR. Founded by Lexi Miles, this growing chain of waxing spas makes an uncomfortable and sometimes awkward process, easy, affordable, and pain-free. I even look forward to my visit to WAXON. With beach vacation season coming up, we wanted to get tips, advice and the latest waxing news right from the source.

Q: Are there any new trends or innovations in wax that people should keep an eye out for or try?

Hard wax, though not brand new, would be a major waxing innovation and it’s a hot trend that is here to stay! No more getting ‘stripped’ during a Brazilian wax. Hard or ‘hot’ wax, also known as ‘stripless’ wax, is applied to the skin and then removed sans strip. At WAXON the type of hard waxes we use are virtually painless and will give you a flawless result… if you haven’t tried it, we dare you to, you won’t be disappointed!

As for trending areas of the body to wax, Arm waxing is the best-untold secret!! This should be on every Woman’s to do list. Arm waxing is becoming more and more popular every day! Having smooth, hair-free arms makes your arms look leaner and sexier! Try it for yourself – you will thank us later!

HOT TIP: Prtty Peaushun Skin Tight Body Lotion is a must! It acts a tinted moisturizer, and will give you smooth, sexy, defined arms all year long!

(P.S. can be used on face & body – so don’t forget to apply to your arms and sexy stems!)

Q: Is there anyone who shouldn’t get waxed?

In general most people can get waxed and it’s more their current situation or medical condition that would make waxing ‘off limits’ – ie; someone who has a sunburn, is taking Accutane or using Retinol/Retin-A products should avoid waxing. People with diabetes, on blood thinners or with extremely sensitive skin should contact their doctor and/or do a wax test strip before getting a full service.

Q: Can I still get waxed if I have sensitive skin?

Yes, you can and rest assured that at WAXON our waxes are designed for even the most sensitive skins, only adhering to the hairs and not the skin. If you are still unsure, we always recommend you come in and try a test strip to be sure our waxes are suitable for your skin.

With sensitive skin, regardless of what salon/waxbar you go to, getting a test wax strip done is always a good ‘beauty rule’ to follow to avoid any potential irritation or reaction… you can never be too careful when it comes to your skin!

We also recommend going to a professional Esthetician/Waxologist who specializes in just waxing for best results and experience.

Q: I never know when I should go back for my next wax appointment. What are some ways to know when it’s the perfect time to go back?

The ideal hair length is the length of a grain of rice – approximately 2mm, or 4-5 weeks between waxes. If you have shaved, (tisk tisk) then ideally 12 days growth is best. At WAXON we use the incredible super hero hot wax which can pull hair as short as 1mm, so if you are in the need of an emergency wax don’t fret our Waxologists have got you covered!

Stay tuned for more tips and advice from WAXON WAXBAR’s Lexi Miles soon!

13
May
2015

Dermalogica Face Mapping Helps Educate You

categories: Interview, Skin Care

Dermalogica is taking skin care to the next level by offering face mapping to people across Canada who want to get serious about their skin.We spoke with Leala McInerney, Senior Educator, The International Dermal Institute® to learn more about why you should get face mapped.

How would you describe Face Mapping to someone who knows nothing about it?

Face Mapping® Skin Analysis is a revolutionary technique that creates a dialogue between the client and therapist with the goal of education in mind. When we know why things are happening in their skin, we will be much better positioned to get the desired results. We break the skin down into 14 distinct zones and focus on what we are seeing/feeling as well as triggers and solutions.

What made Dermalogica decide to implement this technique into their processes?

A lot of people may not realize that Dermalogica was actually an education company (The International Dermal Institute) long before we ever created our professional product line Dermalogica. Our whole philosophy since inception has been education. Education during skin analysis was an area that we identified was lacking in the skin care industry. Clients truly didn’t know how to take care of their skin and more importantly why they need to take care of their skin. While therapists were unsure of how to truly communicate what they were seeing during this important conversation. Face Mapping® bridges the gap on both ends.

Is this something that you would recommend for everyone?

Everyone should have their skin mapped! Whether it’s to treat existing concerns, learn how to prevent future damage or just ask that burning question “what is this on my skin” there is something to be learned for everyone!

What can you learn from getting a Face Mapping?

Face Mapping Skin Analysis can tell you about your skins past, present and future in 5 short minutes. We can keep track of how your skin changes from season to season. We can track the success that is gained through correct product use and professional treatments as well as how your skin responds to new health concerns, medications, elevated stress levels etc.

Once someone has been through the process, what can they do with the information that they are given?

After each Face Mapping® the client will receive a personalized prescription sheet. This contains all the information about the recommended products for their use as well as crucial lifestyle advice. A lot of people view this sheet as their “instruction list.” Upon implementation of the specific lifestyle advice & the correct use of their new formulations, they should expect to start to notice their skin change for the better.

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant 75g (2)

Is this a one-time process, or something that you should repeat?

We suggest that clients have their skin mapped every 3-4 months (or every season change.) This is to help keep up with the changes you may experience with your skin during this time. Also as we age, we will notice that a lot of things start to change with our skin. Face Mapping® Skin Analysis helps you to stay on top of them.

Are there any products from Dermalogica that you would recommend everyone try?

Daily Microfoliant®! This is our number one selling formulation all over the world, with good reason. This unique rice and enzyme based exfoliant buffs and polishes away dead skin cells, while brightening and smoothing the skin. You feel and see the difference after one use. Also Daily Microfoliant® has won numerous awards, including a coveted spot on “Oprah’s Favourites List”

19
Sep
2014

Hair Tips From Kérastase’s Stacey Staley

categories: Interview

Fall is definitely a transitional time for hair. We go from the summer’s humidity heading into winter’s dryness. We had the chance to ask Kérastase’s Artistic Director Stacey Staley to give us some tips.

What’s your first memory of doing hair? Was it always something that interested you?
My first memory of doing hair would be when I was about 3 or 4 years old. My great grandmother used to set her hair in rollers once a week, and she would let me comb her hair and put rollers in. She always bought professional salon products and I would use them at bath time. I developed a liking to quality shampoos and conditioners at a very early age!
What are your favourite hair trends right now?
I really love the wet looks and spin on 90’s grunge looks that have a prettier spin this time. The hair is smooth and straight, but not flat and greasy like the first time around. And I love the pastel and bright colors that women are experimenting with right now. So fun!
Are there any hair trends right now that you wish would just stop?
I am really over bad hair extensions. I love extensions, and wear them myself, however, the poorly blended and bad color matched ones need to STOP! You cannot go cheap on extensions!
What are your pet peeves when it comes to hair?
It makes me crazy when clients fight their natural texture and want to have a stick straight style. Put down your flat iron ladies! It will save you time and frustration to learn to work and love your natural hair type!

What hair product(s) can you absolutely not live without?
I am hooked on the new Kerastase Discipline line. They smell amazing, it doesn’t weigh down my naturally fine hair and it helps control my frizzies and unruly bits at the same time. Everyone needs a bottle of Fluidissme!
Coming out of summer, a lot of us have sun damaged hair. What’s the best way to repair it, short of cutting it all off?
I recommend that you switch up your at home care and go with something more moisturizing and reparative. Also, Fusio Dose treatments from Kerastase are the best thing to do in salon with a micro trim. Your hair will look and feel amazing. And they are a great way to prepare your hair for winter, which is so drying!
What styles should we be looking into for the fall and holiday season?
For the fall winter runway, there are a lot of pony tail looks and sleek styles. The hair is glamorous and glossy. I can see the hair trends for the season moving away from the beachy waves and braids that we have been doing for the past few seasons.

What products should we all have as essentials?
Fluidissme! I just love it! However, you can’t go wrong with the classics- Nectar Thermique and Elixir Ultime.
What’s the easiest hairstyle to maintain in the colder months?
Winter is a great time for hair because there is no humidity. I always encourage clients who want to try a fringe or bangs to do a test run in the winter. Also, it is a great time to create lift and volume with layers for the same reason. Styling them are easier, and you can have your fun and grow them out before summer starts and hair gets more natural movement.

The Discipline line from Kérastase is available in salons now.

03
Sep
2014

Natalie Burn Beauty Interview

categories: Interview, Uncategorized

Once a prima ballerina for the Bolshoi Ballet and a choreographer, Natalie Burn is showing no signs of slowing down in her latest role as actress. She was recently in Expendables 3 and Nymph, which premiered at Cannes this year. With ten movies in the works on her IMDB page she’s definitely busy. We recently had a chance to ask her our Most Wanted Beauty Questions.
What is your first makeup or beauty related memory?
When I was five years old, I was obsessed with bright colors, so I stole a bright red L’Oreal lipstick from my grandmother. Aside from putting it all over my face, I also tried to eat it! They say it’s “everlasting” for a reason, it was certainly not easy to remove. From then on, to appease me, my grandma would pretend to put lipstick on me. She would slide the lipstick cap over my lips but wouldn’t show me the mirror and just compliment me on how beautiful I looked!
What is your everyday morning beauty routine like?
I get ready for the day by putting on Christian Dior daily cream first thing in the morning. It moisturizes and keeps my face looking fresh throughout the whole day. As for makeup, I wear Estee Lauder foundation, use MAC products for my brows and blush, and black Dior mascara to emphasize my eyes. But my main daily routine that keeps me glowing and strong is to walk/jog with my dog three times a day and take ballet classes to exercise and stretch.
What will you never leave the house without wearing or applying?
I never leave the house without clothes on! 😉 Seriously though, I never go out without my Victoria Secret flavored “Juicy” lip gloss, a pair of flip flops just in case I need to take a break from shoes, a hair brush, my Chanel compact, my Dior eyeliner, some eye shadows by Guerlain and a jacket in case I have to get ready for dinner in my car!

What is your budget friendly beauty secret?
I love the True Match powder from L’Oreal. It’s easy to apply, affordable, and blends perfectly with any type of skin color. You can get it at your local pharmacy.
Do you have any tricks that you have learned on sets?
Before I go into makeup on any film sets, I always use Guerlain Meterotes Perles Base Perfectrice Anti Terne Light- Diffusing Perfecting Primer. The base primer makes the makeup last longer because it is water resistant and keeps it in perfect condition so the makeup artist never has to retouch my face throughout the whole shoot. On set however, I learned how to apply foundation to make it look like I’m not wearing anything at all! The makeup artists use an airbrush – it’s super fast and blends in naturally leaving your skin looking perfect.
How do you keep your hair looking gorgeous?
I try not to use too many hot tools like curling irons on my hair because it dries it out and gives me split ends. I always use leave-in hair products to make my hair look glossy. For shampoo and conditioner, I love Kerastase. It makes my hair look fuller, shinier, and flawless.

Do you have a signature scent? What is it and how did you fall in love with it?
There are two perfumes that I’m in love with right now. The first is “Lady Million” by Paco Rabanne which makes a woman feel like a million dollars. The second is the most expensive perfume I’ve ever owned but it’s definitely worth having – “Love – Don’t be Shy” by Kilian. The Kilian perfume makes a woman shine bright and it makes her natural scent come through which attracts a lot of attention from the people around her.
Do you have any products or treatments that you splurge on?
I love the face cream by La Prairie. It’s amazing for your skin. It stops the aging process & reduces wrinkles. In my case, it would slow down the process of wrinkles from appearing and will help my face look younger longer. This cream is a dream come true!
What is your latest beauty obsession?
As I mentioned before, since I was a young girl, I’ve always had the urge to wear bright red lipstick. That urge has never gone away. I’ve always enjoyed experimenting with different colors. Even more so now with all these new colors by MAC, L’Oreal and Dior. I can’t wait to hit the red carpet and try something new and bold with my makeup.

What are 5 products that are always in your makeup bag and you can’t live without and why?
1.Foundation by Givenchy makes my face look fresh, it covers the negative emotions that sometimes show on my face.
2.Victoria’s Secret lip gloss makes my lips shine.
3.Hand cream by L’Occitane always keeps my hands moisturized and feeling smooth.
4. Dior Addict lip glow (lip maximizer) — it’s a great new invention that makes my lips look fuller and sexier.
5. Star Sponsor magic bronzer brush from Lancome is a perfect way to make my face look tan no matter what the season is.
My 5 favorite products would definitely help anyone feel and look like a star

22
Aug
2014

Nail Tips from essie’s Rita Remark

categories: Interview, Nail Polish, Uncategorized

Nail polish has become huge business lately, especially with nail art. essie Canada’s lead nail artist Rita Remark has done some of our favourite nail art technique videos so we decided to get some tips on how to make our nails look amazing.

What’s your first memory of using nail polish?
When I was younger, I was never allowed to wear make-up and polishing my nails was the first beauty ritual that my mom allowed me to indulge in. I remember buying a box full of nail polish from a yard sale and spending the afternoon with my cousins polishing our nails and toes in all different colours and taking pictures. You could say it was my first photoshoot.

What are your favourite nail shades and trends right now?
This summer, I’m smitten with orange and blue. Bold blues like Essie “Strut your Stuff” and sunny melon and tangerine shades like “Tart Deco” are never far from my fingertips. Trends that are catching my eye are negative space and nude. Both of these trends pertain to a nail look that is either partially polished or seemingly unpolished. For seasons we’ve been putting everything on our nails, but now we are leaving areas of the nail bare, for a surprisingly stronger effect.
What nail trends absolutely drive you crazy?
Though I can’t say any particular nail trend drives me crazy, I can say that there are some habits that I wish would disappear. One is chipped polish. A manicure is not meant to be worn past its due date. Let it go and get a fresh polish change. Secondly, I cannot stand uneven nail lengths. We’ve all heard someone say, “Just because one chipped, it doesn’t mean that the others have to be short too.” Well, I’m here to say they do. Heartbreaking though it may be, it is like what your friends told you about your bad haircut: they grow back.
We’ve seen your nail art videos, we love the ink spill! What’s your favourite nail art to do?
Before I was a nail artist, I studied to become a visual artist, so my favourite nail art to do is the kind that you would normally do with a paintbrush. I love watercolouring, like I did with the ink spill, but I also love using other traditional painting techniques like stippling, blending, dry brushing and marbling. They’re very easy to do and always create unique works of art on your nails.
Is there a trick to doing nail art so I have both hands looking great?
Always start with the hand that you find most challenging. Nothing could be trickier than trying to polish with your non-dominant hand when it’s wearing wet polish. When it comes to applying nail art, try to use your dominant hand to your advantage. I’m right handed and when I’m polishing a stripe onto my right hand, I hold the striping brush still in my left and, rather than brush it down, I move my right hand up. This makes polishing nail art less stressful and more controlled.

What are the nail essentials we all need to have?
A basic manicure kit should include:
-A nail file (especially in your purse for on-the-go touch ups)
-Nail polish remover. This isn’t just for removing our polish. I like to use it to wipe my nails free of excess oils and residue before applying polish.
-Base coat, like essie’s “Grow Stronger,” for a manicure that not only lasts, but also benefits your nails.
-Quick dry topcoat, like essie “Good to Go” because no one likes smudges!
-Cuticle Oil, like essie “Apricot Cuticle Oil.” Not only does it soften dry cuticles, but moisturizing the cuticle area daily will overtime restore health and strength to your nails.
-An angled eyeliner brush. Dip it in a bit of nail polish remover to quickly and accurately wipe away any polish mistakes.
How do you come up with ideas for runway nails?
When it comes to designing nails for the runway, no two shows are the same. Sometimes designers have an exact idea in mind, while others may give me a bit more creative freedom. It’s all about asking the right questions. I want to know what inspired the collection. A country? A feeling? A film? I like to know who the woman is that they are dressing this season. Is she bold? Professional? Demure? Does she live in this era? This country? Finally, I love being able to see the actual clothing, the patterns, fabrics and textures. This all plays a role in finding the perfect nail look to suit the collection. Then it’s a matter of me drawing out design ideas in coloured pencils in my sketchbook, polishing some ideas on myself and presenting some options to the designer. The best part is always choosing the right look and seeing it walk down the runway.

What shades should we be getting our hands on for the rest of summer, into fall?
There are plenty of polish colours that lend themselves to both summer and fall you can invest in this season. First, try for a bolder, deeper shade of blue. Not quite midnight; royal or teal blues pack just enough punch to compliment your summer sandals and brighten your fall scarf. Try essie “Style Cartel” or “Go Overboard.” Next try a bright red. Red, as we know, never goes out of style, but a brighter version like essie’s “Haute in the Heat” or “Fifth Avenue” is perfect for both hot and cold weather. Finally, find yourself a bold bare polish. The nude nail trend isn’t going anywhere, so a complexion-flattering opaque nude should be your never-fail go-to. Try essie’s “Sand Tropez” or “Topless and Barefoot. “

15
Aug
2014

The Ten Spot’s Nail Polish Tips & Tricks

categories: Interview, Makeup Most Wanted

The Ten Spot quickly grew from a small boutique nail salon to the must visit salon for the busy woman who wants a manicure, pedicure or waxing on the go. We asked Leslie Ferranti, in-house esthetician expert at The Ten Spot for her tips and tricks for nails for the rest of the summer.

What are your favourite colours for summer 2014 and why?

It is so hard to choose just a couple, but for summer 2014 I am loving sand tones like our Get Nailed I’m Taupe Sexy For My Shirt, anything purple like Get Nailed Grape Smuggler and neons are super fun for summer.

What are the biggest mistakes women make when doing at home manicures?

When doing at home manicures the most common mistakes that are made are cutting your cuticles too short, which usually happens because you don’t have the proper tools at home. Not using a top and base coat can also make or break your at home manicure.

What nail or cuticle treatments would you recommend investing in?

Some of my favourite products to have at home are nail strengthener, like Nail Envy by OPI. It helps keeps my nails strong in between manicures. Also investing in regular manicures is great for your overall nail health.

What are your favourite base coats and top coats?

The Ten Spot has its own brand of in house nail polish called Get Nailed and our Quick Dry Top Coat and Bottoms Up Base Coat are some of the best out there! But I also love the Ridge Filling Base Coat by Essie and the SuperDuper Top Coat.

Is there any nail art you would recommend?

Absolutely! Nail art that looks simple and classic and totally wearable for work is always on trend. At The Ten Spot we do something called #GetTheLook. Each month we create a new nail art trend that is simple and promote it through that month!

Do you have any tricks for applying or removing glitter and textured polishes?

Working with glitter polishes can be difficult. While it looks so pretty and sparkly it can be a bit of a pain to remove. Always remember to use a base coat with glitter polishes this will help it come off easier when it is time to change your colour. Another tip I like to use is when using acetone based nail polish at home, you want to saturate your cotton pad in acetone and let it sit on the nail for 30-40 seconds, this will help the polish come off easier.