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The 10 Best Professional Makeup Artist Palettes For 2018

The 10 Best Professional Makeup Artist Palettes For 2018

We LOVE makeup palettes. For professional artists and beauty enthusiasts alike - palettes are convenient, easy to tote around, and provide flexibility when creating different makeup looks. But with hundreds, if not thousands, of options on the market, which makeup palettes are worth the splurge? We read through hundreds of customer reviews and crunched the numbers to determine which makeup artist palettes our customers deemed holy grail status for their kits and makeup bags. What did we find? Keep reading for the 10 best professional makeup artist palettes, all of which you can purchase by clicking the links below. Happy palette shopping! RCMA: 5-Part Series Cream Blush Palette Available in two color variations - a pink-coral collection and a mauve-brown collection - the RCMA 5-Part Series Cream Blush Palette is a professional makeup artist go-to. The palette not only saves room in your kit but also includes five gorgeous, high-definition shades that work well with any skin tone. Use the colors individually or blend for a custom look. The versatile palette can even double as lip color. Camera Ready customer Lindsey says, “These are the longest-lasting blushes I’ve ever used, plus a little goes a long way. Love, love love! Blending is super easy and flawless.” NYX: Highlight & Contour Pro Palette For budget-conscious shoppers, the NYX Highlight and Contour Pro Palette comes at a great price point (less than $25!) without sacrificing high-performance. It’s also refillable! You’ll get eight highlighting and contouring shades to work within one, compact case. Flawlessly emphasizing your favorite features for any skin tone has never been easier, or more affordable. Camera Ready customer Felipe says, “Extremely easy to use. Great variety and impressive blending.” Make Up For Ever: 12 Flash Color Neutral Palette The Make Up For Ever 12 Flash Color Neutral Palette offers limitless possibilities for the eyes, lips, face and body. It’s quickly become a staple in professional makeup artist kits worldwide, and it’s no wonder why. Convenient and travel-friendly, this 12-in-one palette includes multi-use cream colors that work just as easily for everyday wear as they do for more dramatic makeup looks. The Neutral Palette includes shades: Grey, Neutral Brown, Purple Grey, Rosewood, Dark Antique Pink, Ivory, Livid, Kaki, Pink Brown, Fresh Pink, Sienna and Rusty Brown Camera Ready customer Maria says, “Super versatile, really easy to work with. Creates very beautiful natural makeup looks on any skin tone.” Violet Voss: Ride or Die Eye Shadow Palette Just as the name suggests, the Violet Voss Ride or Die Eye Shadow Palette is truly a ride-or-die product for makeup artists at every career level. Just like a trusted best friend, you’ll never want this palette to leave your side (or makeup kit, that is). Formulated with the highest quality ingredients, each of the 42 shades blend together smoothly to create a flawless, sexy look for any occasion. The palette is complete with full-sized mattes, metals and satins. Camera Ready customer Amy says, “This palette has it all! I do stage makeup, and this palette is my go-to. It also has soft colors for bridal makeup! Colors are true and rich and build very well.”  Kryolan: 6-Color Creme Palette The Kryolan Dermacolor Camouflage 6-Color Creme Palette comes in five color combinations for a highly pigmented, full-coverage look. The creme-based, long-lasting formulas are designed to correct and conceal skin disfigurements, discolorations and tattoos on the face or neck. Finish your look with a translucent setting spray and Kryolan’s Fixing Spray for a waterproof finish. If set properly, this makeup will stand up to extreme conditions like swimming, heat and physical strain. Camera Ready customer Jessica says, “I am fully enjoying this product for my makeup kit. It is taking my makeup applications to the next level.” Viseart: Eye Shadow Palette in Neutral Matte This top-selling palette includes all of Viseart’s most popular neutral shades in one. The 12-Color Eyeshadow Palette in 01 Matte does everything from brows and eyes to contouring and hair color touchups. Makeup artists love the quality and color density, as well as the easily blendable color shades to create subtle natural looks or even sexy smokey eyes. The palette is not tested on animals and contains no parabens, silicone or mineral oils. Camera Ready customer Bridget says, “I can’t get over how easy these blend and how almost silky they feel. 100% the best eyeshadows I’ve ever owned/bought. Completely in love.” La Femme: Blush Palette Exclusive to Camera Ready Cosmetics, the La Femme Blush Palette is a rose-colored dream. The 12 stunning, richly-pigmented shades is the perfect combination of cool and warm tones, suitable for any skin tone. The palette even doubles as eyeshadows. A makeup artist staple, this palette creates flawless, matte looks that will make heads turn. Camera Ready customer Keshona says, “Absolutely love this palette, the pigment is insane!! It works for all skin tones!! A must-have for a professional artist or a girl who loves blush!!!” Senna: Brow Book Palette No makeup artist kit is complete without the Senna Brow Book Palette. This super skinny, refillable, magnetic palette is the ultimate tool for mastering the perfect brows. The palette includes nine highly-pigmented, natural-looking brow powders for a natural, long-wearing finish. The shades match every brow color and skin tone, as well as two Browlite colors for a softened, yet-defined brow line and a Brow Pomade for texture and fullness. Camera Ready customer Patricia says, “Game changer! This palette is able to pull together any eye look. There’s a shade there for everyone.” Ben Nye: Natural Lip Colour Palette The Natural Lip Colour Palette makes it easier than ever to find the right lipstick shade for not only yourself but clients, too. Plus, it’s refillable! Buy the palette at full-price just once, and stock up on affordable refills as needed. The palette includes six ultra-creamy shades perfect for everyday wear, or you can blend colors to create a custom look. For those on-the-go moments, a compact lip brush is included with purchase to make application easier during crunch time. Camera Ready customer Sarah says, “This lip palette does not disappoint. Beautiful colors and a smooth, long-wearing finish. Highly recommend!” OFRA: On The Glow Palette The On The Glow Palette includes all of OFRA’s best-selling highlighter and bronzing shades in one, making it the ultimate tool for a natural, sun-kissed look. Each of the palette’s shades can also be used as eyeshadows to create a radiant smokey eye. OFRA’s use of high-grade pearls and liquid-to-baked technology provides unparalleled pigment payoff and illuminating sheen you just won’t find anywhere else. Highlighting colors include: Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive and Blissful Bronzing colors include: California Dream, 3D Egyptian Clay and Americano Camera Ready customer Abeer says, “[This] OFRA palette is amazing and fantastic!” Shop The Palettes It’s time to stock your kit with one (or all) of the professional makeup artist palettes listed above. To make it even easier, we’ve linked them down below: 1) RCMA: 5-Part Series Cream Blush Palette 2) NYX: Highlight & Contour Pro Palette 3) Make Up For Ever: 12 Flash Color Palette 4) Violet Voss: Ride or Die Eye Shadow Palette 5) Kryolan: Dermacolor Camouflage 6-Color Creme Palette 6) Viseart: Eye Shadow Palette in Neutral Matte 7) La Femme: Blush Palette 8) Senna: Brow Book Palette 9) Ben Nye: Natural Lip Colour Palette 10) Ofra: On The Glow Palette Tag us on Instagram and Facebook in your creative looks using the palettes above, and use the hashtag #crcmakeup for a chance to get reposted! Comment below with questions or feedback regarding one of the makeup palettes mentioned in this article. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for at Camera Ready Cosmetics, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!
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The Simple Guide To Natural Beach Makeup

The Simple Guide To Natural Beach Makeup

White-sand beaches. Salty sea air. Frozen cocktails. Hello, Summer! It’s time to strut your inner goddess along the stretches of a tropical oasis. But before jet-setting off to paradise, be sure to pack your bags with all of the essentials for a natural beach makeup look. The key to a low-maintenance, long-lasting look is to keep it light, keep it bright and embrace the bronze. Follow our tips below for a simple, fuss-free makeup routine that’s perfect for a sunny beach getaway. Always Start With Sunscreen Regardless of skin color or tanning ability, you risk a plethora of negative consequences for failing to protect your skin from the sun. Before applying even one drop of makeup, coat your body (face and neck, too) in a high-SPF sunscreen. Allow a minimum of 20 minutes for the product to soak in before makeup application. Powder sunscreens are ideal for reapplication later in the day, as they won’t mess up your final makeup look. You may also consider a sunscreen-based primer to prep the skin, like the By Terry SPF50 Invisible Primer. This cream-gel formula is perfect for daily protection, leaves behind a velvet finish and provides long-lasting makeup hold. Avoid Cream Foundations It should go without saying that thick, cream-based foundations won’t stand a chance against heat and humidity. Powder foundations tend to perform better in these scenarios, but likely won’t last if you’re planning to enter the water. Stick to light, sheer, waterproof products that absorb into the skin. Our favorite is the Make Up For Ever Water Blend Foundation. Going foundation-free is the best option, but if you’re worried about lack of full coverage, mix a small amount of foundation into your sunscreen before applying. For blemishes or dark spots, a small dab of concealer, topped with a pressed-powder, should do the trick. Opt For Waterproof Eye Products Well, duh! You can’t go to the beach without waterproof eyeliner or mascara. We’re obsessed with Stila’s Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Liner, which seriously will not budge no matter how much water-based fun you endure. As for mascara, look for flake-free options, like Inglot’s Volume & Waterproof Mascara. The clump-free, smudge-proof formula adds volume and lasts all day, even after getting wet and re-drying. We prefer to skip eyeshadow altogether - because, well, it’s more natural - but if you’d like a little something on your lids, apply a touch of illuminating powder to the inner corners of the eye and under the brow bone. Ofra’s Glazed Donut Highlighter is a great option. Illuminate and Bronze Speaking of illumination… Amp up your glow early in the day with an illuminating cream above the cheekbones, across the forehead, on the chin and along the bridge of your nose. Don’t worry about waterproof formulas. The sun will give you a natural, sun-kissed glow as the day goes on. While bronzers aren’t necessary for a natural beach makeup look (reference previous sentence), choosing a matte bronzer is best for those beach babes who can’t live without it. Choose a sheer, multi-dimensional color like the ones in BECCA’s Gradient Sunlit collection. Shop The Look Now that you’re equipped with all the beach-makeup-expertise you’ll need, it’s time to stock up on the essentials mentioned above. 1) By Terry SPF50 Invisible Sunscreen Primer 2) Make Up For Ever Water Blend Foundation 3) Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner 4) Inglot Volume & Waterproof Mascara 5) Ofra Glazed Donut Highlighter 6) BECCA Gradient Sunlit Bronzer Tag us on Instagram and Facebook showcasing your natural beach makeup looks, and use the hashtag #crcmakeup for a chance to get reposted! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for at Camera Ready Cosmetics, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!
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Pro MUA Joe Blasco: An Interview With The Pioneer of Film & Television Makeup Education

Pro MUA Joe Blasco: An Interview With The Pioneer of Film & Television Makeup Education

  Here at Camera Ready Cosmetics, we have promoted, sold and loved Joe Blasco cosmetics for years. When clients walk through our doors looking for highly pigmented, high-performance makeup for film, television or the stage, the Joe Blasco collection is one of our first go-to recommendations. Known worldwide for his decades-long career as a leading makeup artist in Hollywood, highly sought-after film and television makeup visionary, first ever creator of government-approved makeup education centers, and the inventor of a 45-year-old+ successful cosmetics line, Joe Blasco has made his mark on the world of makeup artistry and education like no one before him. We had the opportunity to sit down with Mr. Blasco and discuss his start in the industry, his passion for teaching, and his secret to making one of the highest-performing makeup lines for film and television. Not into reading? Watch the full video interview here. Camera Ready Cosmetics: What inspired you to pave the way for makeup education? Joe Blasco: I realized that I wanted to teach, more than anything, when I felt that by teaching I was also learning, and the more I taught others the more I was able to experiment. When I was at ABC Television, they would come to me and say, “How do you do that? Why [do your foundations] look the way they do? How are you highlighting and shading the way you do?” And I realized most of the makeup artists didn’t really have as keen an understanding of highlighting and shading as I was taught by Ben Nye, and Kiva Hoffman, and some of the other artists that I studied under. So I thought, “OK. I’m going to take all of my understanding of corrective makeup and I’m going to create a class.” So I started with small classes, and gradually, more and more people wanted the instruction. I got calls - tons and tons of calls. And suddenly I went from just being this journeyman makeup artist at ABC also to having these big classes at night. So I thought, “Wait a minute. This is really interesting. This is going somewhere.” CRC: What were some of the industry challenges you faced early on? JB: [After my classes started gaining popularity, ABC] came to me and said, “Conflict of interest! You’re teaching, and we can’t allow you to advertise that you’re a makeup artist [while] working for ABC.” So I said, “OK, well, I’m out.” So I left ABC, and I went completely into being an independent makeup artist and to teaching. There were very few women in the industry. There just weren’t any, they weren’t makeup artists. The makeup artists were all men. When I opened my doors to students who wanted to be makeup artists, gradually more and more women came to the forefront. I’m proud to have been able to be a catalyst for allowing women into the profession…and gays…and various races. [They] were not, originally back then - 40 years ago - permitted into [the industry]. It was primarily a white man’s job. Not anymore. CRC: What has been the most rewarding moment as a makeup instructor? JB: My proudest moment as a makeup instructor had to be when I saw Matthew Mungle receive an Academy Award. He was my first graduate to receive an Academy Award. Since then Bill Corso has also received an Academy Award. I’m proud to have been influential in their success. But there have been many, you know. Every time I look at the credits roll by and see someone’s name that I know that I taught, it’s a good feeling - a real feeling of satisfaction and accomplishment. CRC: When did you realize you wanted to create your own makeup line? JB: I loved being involved in monster makeup and horror makeup in the very early portion of my career. What I did was simply to be as creative as I could possibly be, follow the script that I was given, come up with whatever the writer envisioned and the director wanted. After working in the industry for quite a few years, I saw that the products we were using - and they were excellent products, Max Factor, Ben Nye, RCMA - I would do a lot of mixing. And I thought, “Wouldn’t it be nice not to do all that mixing?” So that’s when I came up with our base tone related neutralizers. CRC: How and where did you learn to create makeup? JB: I learned how to make makeup in two different places - one was at the Max Factor company, and the other was the Ben Nye company. I learned more from Ben Nye than from anyone. However, I was always wanted to change things. If you use an oil that will break the makeup down after the body temperature starts to rise then your makeup isn’t really going to serve a professional purpose. It’s going to require more work. It’s going to slow production time down. So I thought, “What can I do to make makeup better?” CRC: What’s the difference between Joe Blasco products and other high-performance brands? JB: The amount of pigment that we put into the product is a puzzlement to other cosmetics companies. They’ll try this, and they’ll say “how do you get all this pigment into the product.” And that’s the secret. The secret is to put the pigment in with the waxes and with the oils in a conventional manner, and then process it - very much like you’d process fine chocolate - so that it removes the excess vehicle, the excess oils and waxes, leaving behind a higher percentage of pigment. And how we do that, I can’t discuss. CRC: What is your favorite product from the Joe Blasco collection? JB: All of the Ultrabases are amazing. You can put it on with a dry sponge. You can put it on with a wet sea sponge. There are no other professional makeups, that are oil-based makeups, that will go on as successfully as mine with a wet sea sponge. Mine goes on because there’s so much pigment, and we’ve all that vehicle. When you put it on, it goes on very evenly and it covers. I think most popular are the neutralizers and then the Dermaceals and Ultamattes™. Oh, here we go we’re just going to name everything, aren’t we? [Laughs] The Ultamattes™ are extremely, highly-pigmented makeups, and I’ll tell you how I came about this. Ben Nye had a product that I helped him make, and it was the beard stipple product. It was a dark, dark black makeup that we put a lot of pigment into. I looked at it and thought “wow, there’s a lot of pigment in this,” unlike any of the other products in the line. And I started using it for eyeliner. Years later when I made my own line, I thought back and remembered that and I thought “let me make a line that has a tremendous amount of pigment.” But not just black. I made them in taupe, and brown, and warm brown, and then lighter colors that would be the same as the neutralizers. The highlighting colors became the Dermaceals, and the darker colors - the browns and the taupes and the blacks - became the Ultamattes™. So that concept split off into two different categories. The Ultamattes™ for eye makeup, and the Dermaceals for corrective makeup and concealing. So it’s all a matter of working with a product that has more pigment. That’s the secret. CRC: What is next for Joe Blasco cosmetics? JB: I just turned 71, and I’m really looking forward to continuing to work and to teach and to inspired other - inspiring young people to go into the profession in a manner that is sophisticated and well represents them as artists and also serves the profession well. CRC: What advice would you give to anyone interested in getting into the industry or following in your footsteps? JB: I don’t know that anyone really needs to follow in anyone’s footsteps. I think that what one needs to do is to create their own footstep template and to keep making that template grow and to do makeup artistry as they envision it - to be creative, to create their own style and to learn as much as they can from as many people as possible, but never try to copy any other people. You can emulate, you can be inspired by, but to copy is not being artistic. Be inspired, and create your own style. Have passion, and by all means, practice, practice, practice, practice. The more you practice, the better you’re going to be, and that’s the secret. Meet Rudy Blasco Following our interview, Joe introduced us to his dearest friend - and Joe Blasco cosmetics mascot - Rudy, an adorable pup that accompanies Joe on his many travels.  Watch the full video interview here, and comment below with your favorite Joe Blasco product. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for at Camera Ready Cosmetics, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!
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Introducing The Free Spirit Palette From OFRA: Fearless Brights, Everyday Essentials

Introducing The Free Spirit Palette From OFRA: Fearless Brights, Everyday Essentials

Be uniquely you this summer with the all-new Free Spirit palette from OFRA. With fearless brights and everyday must-haves, this fiery palette gives you the freedom to create a look based on whatever mood you feel. Insta-glam one day, soft and neutral the next - whatever your makeup style, this palette offers the perfect pairing of shadows, blushes, highlighters, bronzers and powders to transform your look and show off your current mood. Keep reading to see what we love about this summertime staple, as well as a breakdown of each product included in the palette. About The Free Spirit Palette This vibrant palette is compact, and perfect for traveling. Complete with eyeshadows, blushes, highlighters, a bronzer and setting powder, this all-in-one palette creates a variety of stunning, full-face looks no matter your makeup style or the occasion. We’re especially loving the playful, vibrant blues, purples and oranges for summer. Dress up a casual look with a trendy take on a classic smokey-eye with rich blue definition and a blend of shimmering orange shades across the lid. Shop The Free Spirit Palette The Color Breakdown This fiery makeup palette comes with all the shades you need to create a full-face look. With eight vibrant eyeshadows, two blushes, two highlighters, a bronzer and a face powder, you can go bold one day and opt for a neutral glow the next. The shadows come in the following shades: Royal (satin true purple) Ultra Violet (satin silvery soft violet) Bright Blue (matte royal blue) Country Road (matte soft orange) Gold (metallic yellow-gold) Turquoise (satin aqua blue-green) French Mocha (matte neutral brown) Latte (matte neutral beige) The blushes come in the following shades: Pink Satin (matte light cool pink) Winter Rose Glow (subtle shimmer warm rose brown) The highlighters come in the following shades: Beverly Hills (a 10-gram tin of five neutral highlighting shades) Mini Rodeo Drive (a 4-gram tin of OFRA’s most-popular highlighter shade) Also in the palette: Versatile Matte Bronzer (a 10-gram tin of tanning powder) Banana Powder (a 4-gram tin of light, translucent setting powder) Like all of the OFRA palettes, once you’ve hit the pan, just restock your palette with an individual refill or try an all-new shade. Shop The Free Spirit Palette Transform your summertime look and tag @camerareadycosmetics on Instagram with your creative looks from the Free Spirit palette. Add this seasonal must-have to your makeup collection today, or shop the entire OFRA collection available at Camera Ready Cosmetics. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for at Camera Ready Cosmetics, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!
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The Ultimate Male Grooming Guide: Featuring 18.21 Man Made

The Ultimate Male Grooming Guide: Featuring 18.21 Man Made

Dear men: has your grooming routine become mundane? Longing for better quality products that keep your hair perfectly styled all day long? Meet 18.21 Man Made: a Texas-based business with a passion for making premium goods. Made for men by men, the new collection from 18.21 elevates and simplifies the male grooming experience. Camera Ready Cosmetics first met the masterminds behind this unique brand at the 2018 Indie Beauty Expo, and we knew right away we had to carry the line. From waxes and pomades to hair wash and spray, 18.21 has created a variety of must-have products for perfectly coiffed hair. And for an added old-school touch, all 18.21 products have the aroma of Sweet Tobacco which is irresistibly manly. Man Made Wax This two-ounce container of texturizing perfection works to eliminate frizz and keep hair in place all day. Perfect for any hair type, this paraben-free wax is great for separating, defining and manipulating hair and leaves a natural, satin sheen that’s not too shiny and not too matte. The formula is created from a beeswax like mixture of wax and clay that is great for both structured and unstructured hairstyles. Shop The Wax Man Made Pomade Shape, refine or separate hair with this medium-hold, non-greasy pomade. This product is perfect for short and medium length hair and helps to tame texture and create classic or structured hairstyles that hold all day. The water-soluble formula easily rinses out, does not flake, and is easy to scoop out of the jar and comb through. Shop The Pomade Man Made Paste Get ready to mold your hair and refine texture like never before. This lightweight, creamy mixture offers medium hold and a satin sheen finish that helps to control frizz, moisturize and shape hair before blow drying. The formula is created from a cream like mixture of wax and grooming cream that is great for shaping, molding and managing wavy or curly hair. Shop The Paste Man Made Clay This mixture of clay, wax and elastic fibers provides medium to strong hold with a natural finish and no shine. Work this through the hair to thicken, separate and define an unstructured hairstyle. The non-greasy clay is perfect for fine or thinning hair types. The water-soluble formula feels similar in consistency to pottery clay and leaves touchable hold that’s not too stiff or crunchy. Shop The Clay Man Made Wash Inspired by the look and feel of a whiskey bottle, we’ve found an all-in-one hair and body wash (shampoo, conditioner and body wash) that cleans and conditions from head to toe, made just for men. Infused with macadamia glycerides, hydrolyzed quinoa and jojoba esters, this sulfate-free, ph-balanced wash gently works to moisturize and strengthen the hair and skin. Shop The Wash Man Made Hair Spray Control frizz and protect again humidity with this fast-drying finishing mist. Inspired by the look and feel of a beer can from the early 1900s, you’ll feel retro as ever while setting your hairstyle in place. The hairspray work for any hair type, especially those with fine or thinning hair, and offers a flexible hold that lasts all day. No touch ups required. Shop The Hair Spray Are you ready to elevate your hair grooming routine? Shop the 18.21 Man Made collection and find the perfect products for you. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for at Camera Ready Cosmetics, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!
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How To Apply Magnetic Eyelashes In 4 Easy Steps

How To Apply Magnetic Eyelashes In 4 Easy Steps

Attention false eyelash lovers: if messy lash glue isn’t your thing, but you can’t leave the house without your eyes on point, magnetic falsies may be your new best friend. When we first heard about Ardell’s Magnetic Accents lash collection, we couldn’t believe that magnetic lashes ACTUALLY stayed put…much less, all day long. And, boy were we proven wrong! We carry four styles in the Ardell Magnetic Accents collection - Accents 002, Double Wispies, Double Demi Wispies, and Double 110. Camera Ready’s lash-obsessed, beauty guru Rocio applied the Accents 002 and Double 110 magnetic lashes to show you how easy they are to apply (just four easy steps!) Watch the full video tutorial here, or keep reading for a step-by-step guide. Step 1: Apply Mascara Before you apply falsies, add a light coat of mascara to your natural lashes to enhance the final look. This technique also gives your falsies something to cling onto, which makes application much easier. Step 2: Apply The Top Lashes When you get your lash kit, you’ll notice a top row and bottom row. As you may have guessed, the top row is designated for the top of your lashes, and the bottom row is designated for underneath your top lashes. To get started, take the first top row lash and place it as close to the lash line as you can get. Step 3: Apply The Bottom Lashes Next, you’ll take the bottom row lash and place it underneath your top lashes, as close to the lash line as you can get. The magnet strips will connect as you do this, locking your lashes in place. If you need to adjust, simply grab the corner of each lash strip to gently to pull to reposition. If the lashes are completely off, just gently pull them off starting from one corner of the eye and reposition. Step 4: Repeat On The Other Eye To complete your look, just repeat steps 1-3 on the opposite eye. Voila! You’re looking fab :) Shop our site to discover other Ardell lash products or to browse the other false eyelash brands we carry. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for on our site, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!
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New From Becca: Be A Light Face Palette and Glow Gloss Review

New From Becca: Be A Light Face Palette and Glow Gloss Review

Goodbye spring, hello summer! It’s the time of year when beauty enthusiasts stock up on all products that highlight, shine and shimmer. BECCA is one of our go-to brands for achieving a natural, sun-kissed glow. The cosmetic brand’s motto focuses on individuality and creating a natural, effortless complexion for all. Their limited edition Be A Light Face Palette and new Glow Lip Glosses are no exception. When our beauty team tested these products, they fell in love. Fast. Keep reading for our detailed review of these new makeup essentials, and find out why we’re so obsessed (and you should be, too!) Be A Light Face Palette This limited-edition face palette includes all the products you need for an effortless, all-over glow. Each of the four shades inside the compact feature BECCA’s new Sheer Glow Filter Powder which help to brighten, blur, contour and blush the entire face. Silky smooth to the touch and formulated with BECCA’s signature Light-Diffusing Technology, this palette acts as a real-life camera filter, leaving you with an even skin tone and a soft, natural finish. The palette is easily blend-able and buildable. Each layer you apply provides sheer coverage that can easily be built-up to customize your glow. The Be A Light Palette comes in two shade variations (Light to Medium // Medium to Deep). Glow Gloss This luxe, conditioning formula provides all the things you love about lip products in one sleek tube. With the shine of lip gloss, the pigment of a liquid lipstick, and nourishing benefits of balm, the BECCA Glow Gloss collection includes 10 shades inspired by the brand’s best-selling highlighters and blushes. The gloss features 3D light-reflecting pigments to enhance glow, as well as ginger, peppermint oil and a plumping peptide that doesn’t sting. With one application your lips will appear fuller and smoother. The formula is packed with Vitamins C and E, as well as Shea and Murumuru Butter for softening and conditioning. Ready to add these products to your makeup bag? Grab your shade in the Be A Light Palette and your favorite Glow Gloss from Camera Ready Cosmetics today. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for at Camera Ready Cosmetics, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!
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YOUR GUIDE TO PERFECT BRIDESMAID MAKEUP

YOUR GUIDE TO PERFECT BRIDESMAID MAKEUP

Choosing the perfect bridesmaid makeup look for a bridal party is tough. Countless factors determine the final look: the wedding theme, the venue, the dress, the time of day … the list goes on. Follow these classic, go-to tips to make your wedding day seamless and stress-free. (And to ensure you and your bridesmaids make it down the aisle on time and looking fabulous!) 3 Main Focus Areas for Bridesmaid Makeup Looks: Face Eyes Lips Bridesmaid Makeup FOR THE FACE Prime, prime, prime! Before you apply any makeup to the face, be sure to use a mattifying primer to reduce shine and ensure the foundation stays put through hour-long photo sessions (and the ceremony, of course!) There are countless primers to choose from, but one of our favorites is the Bioderma Sebium Control for those with an oily complexion.This quick absorbing, moisturizing lotion smoothes, mattifies and provides instant, deep down results for naturally beautiful skin that stays matte all day and night. For those with a more mature complexion, Mehron Skin Prep Pro prolongs weartime while providing lasting hydration to plump up the skin for a hydrated and fresh appearance. Once you’re primed and ready to continue the bridesmaid makeup look, choose a lightweight, full-coverage foundation that will translate well on camera. We recommend TEMPTU’s Perfect Canvas Hydra Lock Airbrush Foundation, which comes in 20+ shades, does not transfer, and lasts all day. The semi-matte finish leaves a natural-looking appearance.  If you don’t have the airbrush applicator, we recommend TEMPTU Air, which weighs less than one pound and is easy to pack in your kit. BRIDESMAID EYE MAKEUP A classic smokey eye is the most common wedding bridesmaid makeup look because it’s easy to achieve and customizable depending on the colors you want to incorporate. To start this bridesmaid makeup look, you’ll want to apply a light silver or gold eyeshadow across the lid.. Choose an option with a little shimmer to enhance the bridesmaid eye makeup. We love using Viseart Sultry Muse because it offers a wide range of tones perfect for a wide range of complexions and eye colors. Next, you’ll want to apply a dark or jewel tone matte shade to the crease of your eyelid. Concentrate on the outer corner of the eye and blend upward toward the brow bone. Depending on the color you’re after, La Femme offers a variety of affordable shades perfect for a smokey eye. Finish the bridesmaid eye makeup with a light neutral color across the brow bone, like Kitten by Stila. If you’re looking for an eye palette that has all the colors you need in one for the best bridesmaid eye makeup looks, the Viseart Grande PRO 1X Palette offers all the shades you need to create looks ranging from soft glam and natural to deep and smokey.  BRIDESMAID MAKEUP FOR THE LIPS A neutral lip is a perfect way to balance out a smokey bridesmaid eye makeup. Choose a lip creme for added shine without the messy look that gloss can create. We’re loving lip palettes like Ben Nye’s All for One  or Danessa Myricks Beauty Luxe Cream Palettes in Nudist and The Feminist. Each palette boasts a wealth of shades that can be mixed and matched to create the perfect lip shade.  If you’re going for a bolder look, the Besame Red Lipstick is a true classic. Modeled after the iconic red lip made famous in the 1920s, this bright and vibrant lipstick leaves a full-coverage, semi-matte finish with just one coat. 30-MINUTE BRIDESMAID MAKEUP WORKSHOP This event has passed, but be sure to sign up for our text messages and emails to be notified of future classes, events, and sales! With bridal parties getting bigger and bigger, the key for any bridal makeup artist is maximizing efficiency to save time. Camera Ready Live has teamed up with pro makeup artist Erin Blair to showcase tips and tricks that will elevate your bridal makeup career. Learn how to simplify your makeup kit and speed up your process to execute a beautiful bridesmaid makeup look in just 30 minutes or less. After the demo, you'll get a chance to test out the new tricks you've learned during the hands-on segment of this workshop. Be sure to bring your kit so you can practice with the tools you're most familiar with! ABOUT PRO MAKEUP ARTIST ERIN BLAIR Erin Blair Gobin has been one of Dallas-Fort Worth’s leading bridal makeup artists for almost 15 years. She is the owner of Erin Blair Makeup & Hair Design, which handles approximately 150 weddings each year. Erin Blair is a member of the Knot: Best of Weddings Hall of Fame and a five-time nominee of the AACWP Vendi Award for best wedding hair and makeup in Dallas-Fort Worth. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by makeup artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set.  If you don’t find the product you’re looking for at Camera Ready Cosmetics, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!
Beauty Tutorial, Bridal, Makeup, Makeup Artist Career Tips
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Developing Your Drag Queen Character, Part 2: By Dallas Sheraton (aka Pro MUA Michael Moran)

Developing Your Drag Queen Character, Part 2: By Dallas Sheraton (aka Pro MUA Michael Moran)

  Once you've identified the Drag character you want to be, it's time to make sure she lives and breathes in the world outside. That means you’re going to have to piece her together.When it comes to Drag, there are a lot of "pieces." To start off, find a pair of good heels that you can walk in. Nude, open-toe, strappy shoes are best for those of you with big feet. They extend the length of the leg with no discerning finish to the foot. A closed-toe high heel with tons of rhinestones only says, “look at my gigantic feet!” Walking in your new shoes can be a whole other story. I happened to discover I was born to be on a runway, but I’ve seen some Queens who look like newborn colts. That's never a good look. I recommend shoes that do not have too large of a platform, as it can be quite a balancing act. Just find a pair at least 4-inches off the ground. (And make sure they match your purse!) Speaking of purses, you will need a sizable bag that can fit all of your makeup. Remember this rule: It is better to don a beautiful handbag with no label than to try passing off a fake designer bag in front of a room full of homosexual experts. Your Coco Chanel bag may as well be a set of handcuffs if it’s not the real thing. However, if you are a Comedy queen, then flaunt whatever knockoff bag you choose! Regardless of the handbag you buy, the important thing to remember is to find a bag large enough to fit all of your last-minute accouterments. (I can’t count how many times I’ve left the house absolutely flawless, only to discover once I was at a show that one of my eyelashes had lifted or my lipstick was smudged.) In any case, be prepared! In your handbag be sure to bring lash glue, a touch-up lipstick or gloss, foundation powder, eyeliner, and black eyeshadow. Why black eyeshadow? Because you'll need to enhance your smokey eye even more once you realize there’s a man with a lot of money in the room ready to pay for drinks. Forgive me, I  digress... Next on the list: your outfit! Drag queens, just like women, come in all shapes and sizes, but it is rare for a boy to be built for women's clothing. If you are buying from a store, go one or two sizes up and have it taken in for the perfect fit. Otherwise, find a seamstress, and pay to tailor-fit your fashion. The biggest rule of Drag fashion is to never look like you are stuffed into an outfit. Too many Queens make this mistake and end up looking like a Christmas ham that is strung and ready for the oven. Your Drag clothes should accentuate your figure effortlessly and beautifully. If you're a bigger Queen, you can still wear fashion fabulously. Look at Whitney Paige, for example. She was a plus-sized entertainer and Drag performer who always looked svelte in everything she wore! Regardless of your size, unless you weigh 90 pounds, you probably need a girdle. And a strong one at that! Remember undergarments are supposed to be worn UNDER your clothing. Choose a flowy outfit with a bold print, sparkle or bright colors to camouflage your undergarments well.  To pull your look together, you'll also need a wig. Choose a high-quality synthetic wig that can withstand heat for styling. That’s right, you'll need to learn how to style your wig! Don't just pull the wig out of a box and slap it on your head. You'll end up looking like a member of the witness protection program. Caring for and styling a wig probably requires a blog article of its own. But the key rule to wig styling is this: let your hair frame the face. It's best to style a wig while it's on your head and with your makeup already applied so you can see what suits you best.  This brings me to my final part of your Drag shopping list: makeup! You will definitely need a lot of that! Of course, I highly recommend shopping at Camera Ready Cosmetics for all your cross-dressing necessities. Not only will you be camera-ready, but you'll be stage-ready as well! For foundation, choose a full coverage formula like Kryolan, which is the standard in Drag makeup. Kryolan foundations eliminate texture and discoloration, leaving your skin with a smooth and silky finish that is sure to deceive anyone into thinking you're a fierce female. (Which you are!) For a finishing powder, I always use Cody powder from the drugstore. Set your foundation with this powder, and you'll notice how soft and flawless your skin can look. You will need a good set of eyeshadows, as well. Ben Nye or La Femme are high-quality, affordable options. Then accentuate your smokey eye with a black eyeliner. Inglot 77 is blacker than Satan‘s heart, and it has stolen mine for being the best eyeliner in the business. Finish your eye look with dramatic false lashes, like the ones from Lash Pop. When it comes to lipstick, find one that you don’t mind wasting around the glass rim of a cocktail. Expensive isn’t always best. That same statement applies to brushes. You'll need makeup brushes to apply a variety of different products, and BH Cosmetics makes affordable brush sets that can’t be beaten. Now that you have an idea of how to get started, it's time to create a look that's all your own. Remember, darlings, once you've completed your look for the first time, it's always worth asking for a second or third opinion from people who have good fashion and makeup taste. That means NOT to ask your best friend. It's her job to be nice to you. Ask a successful Drag Queen who you admire. (Afterall, she just may become your Drag Mother. Don't know what I'm talking about? Read Part 1 of my blog series here.) Or, you can always ask me: Dallas Sheraton. I may not be your mama, but I’ll always tell you the truth. About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by Makeup Artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs. Mary is the buyer for Camera Ready Cosmetics and chooses only what she would use on set. If you don’t find the product you’re looking for at Camera Ready Cosmetics, that’s because we have something better. Just ask us!
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MAKEUP EXPIRATION GUIDE: WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR FAVORITE BEAUTY PRODUCTS

MAKEUP EXPIRATION GUIDE: WHEN TO REPLACE YOUR FAVORITE BEAUTY PRODUCTS

When it comes to your favorite makeup products, here’s a truth that many find hard to accept: makeup doesn’t last forever. Mascaras. Liquid eyeliners. Foundations. Moisturizers and toners. These are a few of the many products that do, unfortunately, have a shelf life. We aren’t writing this because we’re heartless. If we could use our favorite mascara until the bristles fell off, we would. But we’re writing this to protect you from the harmful bacteria that live and grow inside everyday beauty essentials – it’s important to check those makeup expiration dates!  This handy makeup expiration guide will serve well in moments when you wonder, “Is it time to replace?” So, let’s dive into the “when” and “why” of checking the expiration dates on cosmetics and refreshing your beauty favorites. How Long Does Makeup Last? This is the burning question, right? The truth is, it varies by product, and with so many different types of products, figuring out how long your makeup lasts can feel overwhelming. While mascara only lasts for a few months, some products may last you years. We’re here to break it all down and answer those questions, like, “Does eyeshadow expire?” so your products continue serving you flawless looks instead of bacteria and gook. We’ll help you check the expiration dates on the following makeup products and tools: Mascara Foundation Powder Liquid or gel eyeliner Eye and lip pencils Skincare Brushes Makeup Expiration: Mascara Shelf Life: 3-6 months once opened While you may check the expiration date on your makeup and see it’s years away, that only applies to unopened mascara. Once opened, mascara needs to be replaced more frequently than any other beauty product. Every time you pump a mascara wand back into its tube, the product traps bacteria, which can cause harmful eye infections. 3 Tell-Tale Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Mascara:  It’s dry and clumpy Bristles have excessive buildup Scent change Shop Mascaras  FOUNDATION Expiration  Shelf Life: 6-12 months Unlike powder formulas, liquid foundations contain oils or other ingredients that break down over time. Pump containers provide more protection than ones with an open top. For open-top foundations, it’s best to put the product on a palette or mixing tray before applying with a clean brush or sponge.  How to Tell if Your Foundation is Expired When a foundation is nearing expiration, you may notice dryness or changes in consistency. If the consistency seems normal, but you know you’ve had the foundation for a long time (no judgment), it may be worth checking the expiration date on your cosmetics! Shop Foundations Powder Makeup - Does Eyeshadow Expire? Shelf Life: 3 years Because they don’t require large amounts of water to manufacture, powders, like setting powders and powder eyeshadows, have a longer shelf life than most other cosmetic products. To prevent the early makeup expiration of your powder products, store in cool, dry locations with the lids firmly closed. When to Replace Expired Powder Makeup If you notice powder becoming more difficult to blend or chalky, the makeup is expired, and a replacement is due. Shop Eyeshadows Shop Powders How Long DOes LIQUID OR GEL EYELINER Last? Shelf Life: 3-6 months Like mascara, liquid eyeliners should be at the top of your frequent replacements list once the bottle is opened – despite what the makeup expiration date on the bottle says. Because this product is applied to the eyes, you’re at higher risk of contracting an infection if the makeup is nearing expiration. When to Replace Liquid or Gel Liners The most common sign of expired liquid liner is a dry formula. Most people think adding a little water will prolong the life, but doing so helps bacteria to grow faster. A product like Inglot Duraline or Cozzette Matrix Mixing Liquid can help revive a drying gel liner, but since you're opening and closing it frequently, replace it every three to six months, depending on how often you use it. Shop Liquid Eyeliners EYE & LIP PENCILS – Does That Makeup Expire, Too? Shelf Life: 1-2 years Pencils tend to last longer because they are constantly being sharpened, which provides a clean, fresh layer before each application. However, it's important to disinfect and sharpen them after every use since they're being used on the eyes and lips, where bacteria levels are higher than other areas of the face. How Do You Know When to Replace Lip and Eye Pencils? Aside from checking expiration dates on cosmetics, it’s difficult to tell when an eye or lip pencil has gone bad. A good rule to follow is to replace pencils that no longer sharpen easily. For example, pencils that frequently break off after sharpening are best to toss. If you notice they're changing color, the makeup is expired, and it's time to throw them away. Discoloration is often a sign of mold growing within the product - yikes. Shop Eye Pencils Shop Lip Pencils Do SKINCARE Products Expire? Shelf Life: Varies, but typically 12 months The shelf life for skincare can vary based on the ingredients, packaging style, and frequency of use. However, a good rule of thumb, aside from checking the skincare expiration date, is to replace it if it's been more than a year. How to Prolong the Life of Skincare Products After a year, moisturizers and toners lose most of their beneficial properties. The efficacy of the active ingredients decreases over time, and some deteriorate each time they're exposed to air. Others include ingredients that break down with exposure to light or extreme temperatures, so be sure to read the label, check the products’ expiration dates, and store them properly. Always apply these products with clean hands. Never add water to prolong the life of these products, as it dilutes the formula. Shop Moisturizers Shop Toners Can Makeup BRUSHES Expire? Shelf Life: N/A  Thankfully, makeup expiration dates don’t apply to brushes. They can last for decades if you properly care for them. Purchase an all-natural, deep-cleaning brush cleaner to rid your bristles of pesky bacteria and buildup. Crazy Merman offers a variety of vegan brush cleaners that smell amazing and make your brushes like new again. Will I Ever Have to Replace My Makeup Brushes?  If your brush sheds with every use or no longer applies product evenly, it may be time for replacements. Shop Brush Cleaners Shop Brushes OTHER Makeup Expiration GUIDELINES Knowing how to properly identify when expired makeup needs to be replaced can help keep any makeup products you purchase from causing an infection. Here are some tried-and-true bonus tips to help you figure out if your makeup is expired and teach you how to check those pesky makeup expiration dates:  1) Write the date of purchase or open date on the outside of each product. 2) Federal law requires all makeup products to feature a PAO (Period After Opening) or BBE (Best Before End Date) symbol. A PAO symbol applies only if the shelf life is 30 months or more. Any less, and the product will feature a BBE symbol to signal makeup expiration date. 3) Products made from natural ingredients will include a makeup expiration date that applies even if unopened. 4) If you can’t find an expiration date on your makeup or skincare product or a PAO or BBE label, check for the manufacture date. This will help you to know if the product is nearing expiration, as many unused cosmetics lose their quality over time.  To answer specific questions about your makeup products, email our beauty experts. Then shop our site to replace expired makeup with fresh products! About Camera Ready Cosmetics Camera Ready Cosmetics was founded in 2003 by makeup artist Mary Erickson. Having been in the makeup artist industry for 30+ years, Mary knows quality and value and understands what an artist needs She dreamed of having a pro makeup showroom where artists could play with professional products without the typical makeup store attitude.  Today, our team of beauty industry veterans works together to curate the best quality products on the market. We partner with brands who respect the industry and formulate products for true working artists. You won’t find CRC in high-end malls, and we don't wear matching brush belts. If you want to play with products for a few hours and buy nothing, that's okay ... come in and play! Our store is your playground.    
Makeup, Makeup Artist Career Tips, PRO Tips
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