Browsing Tag

Makeup

Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Master Instructor

Creating Deep Cuts with Molding Wax

By Lisa Johnson

This effect is for creating slit wrists or deep gashes in the face.  This effect is a bit more in depth than the rest, but if done correctly it can be the most effective special effect technique without the use of prosthetics.

You will need more products than in the last few blogs and it will take some patience, but the results are far better than just using latex or gelatin.

Using molding wax allows you to change the shape of the face or body part.  It also allows for creating a loss of depth in the skin, like a cut or a gash.  You can also put items in the skin when using wax, like staples, thread, or even glass.

You will need the following items to complete a cut:

Molding wax
Spatula
Spirit Gum
A sealing product such as Ben Nye’s Final Seal
Oil
Bruise or Trauma Wheel
Stage Blood or thick blood

Step one – Remove a small amount of wax from the container with a spatula.

Step two – Take the wax and roll it into a snake shape in the length you’d like the cut to be and lay it onto the skin.

Step three – Flatten out the wax and begin to blend the edges out onto the skin.

Step four – Make sure that all the edges are blended as thin as possible so that they look like part of the skin around it and are as smooth as possible.

Step five – You will now use your spatula or molding tool to slice down the middle of the cut.

Step six – Make sure that you pull the edges to the sides to open up the cut so the skin below shows through.

Step seven – Apply oil on the wax to smooth out any rough edges. Blot it dry and apply a sealing product to ensure that the wax will take color and stay together. You may also apply spirit gum around the edges to keep the wax on the skin (You don’t have to use the spirit gum if you don’t want to. It is there to add a extra hold to make the cut longer lasting.).

Step eight – After the seal is dry begin using your Bruise or Trauma Wheel to apply color starting with yellow around the edges.

Step nine – Follow the wheel clockwise from color to color. Make sure you put some red down in the opening of the cut to simulate raw skin or blood.

Step ten – Apply a thicker blood down in the incision. The thick blood will look like the blood is starting to coagulate.

Step 11 – Once the thick blood is in the incision, you can tap a liquid or gel blood around to make it appear like the blood has run all over the cut.

Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Master Instructor, Nail Technician

Fall 2012 Makeup Trends

By: Lisa Johnson, Esthetics Instructor

Just as the seasons change, so do our trends for makeup.  This fall is no exception.  From vampy goth looks to natural fresh skin, this fall is all about the artistic side of makeup.  Some of the looks are bold but don’t forget that the classic looks are timeless and always in style.

Here are a few of the most popular looks for fall 2012:

FACE

Fall faces are in one word “flawless”.  Skin should be natural but polished.  The look is one of less, but still perfection.  It should be slightly contoured, keeping very monochromatic in color.  Fresh skin is in!!! (MUA,  Amber Bowen)

CHEEKS

This fall cheeks are all about a flush of color!  Rosy cheeks are back.  Just a bit of color on the apples of the cheeks, not the regular contoured blush.

EYE SHADOW

Eyes are very exciting for the fall. Can we say, Drama Drama Drama?  Lots of amazing color!  Green, gray, and bright blues are the go to colors.  Multi toned with accents of gold make eye shadow a fun way to spice up a look. (MUA, Evony Wells)

If eye color isn’t your cup of tea, you are in luck!  Smokey browns are just as in style!  Any hue is acceptable from brown to khaki.  The key is to make sure that the color is blurred out to give it that smokey appearance. (MUA, Morgan Black)

EYE LINER

Eyeliner is graphic this fall, bold in shape and in color.  Bright blues, greens, and traditional black are the colors seen most on the runway.  Liner is angled with sharp lines and big exaggerated curves.  It’s all about artistic looks. (MUA, Noelia Boyd, and Morgan Black)

MASCARA

Traditional mascara is always in style.  This fall bright blue and green mascara can also be seen to give a pop of color to even a soft makeup look.

BROWS –

Brows are groomed and tamed.  Using a pencil and shadow to add color makes any brow stand out.  To keep the brows in place it is all about the brow gel. (MUA, Murrell Collins)

LIPS

Lips are a major focal point this fall.  Mulberry, Black Cherry, and Deep Plum are the rage.  This vampire inspired look is beautiful, but don’t forget to add blush so you don’t feel and look washed out.  It’s a powerful look and should only be worn by the daring. (MUA, Murrell Collins)


If the vampy look isn’t your thing, red is always a great substitute.  Matte and glossy reds can make a bold statement without the washed out look you can get from the deep violets. (MUA, Evony Wells)

Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Master Instructor

Brow Building Basics

So…… Let’s talk about eyebrow color. A frequent question I am asked is “What color should I use to fill in my eyebrows?” There are several rules to follow, and then as always in beauty the ways to break them. Let’s break it down by hair color.
Black/darkest brown tones: Filling in eyebrows true black can look amazing if done right (back to that in a moment), but the easiest or most desired option is to use a dark brown color. Choices of application being powder, pencil, or gels (optional). The main thing to look at in the color is that there isn’t much red in the brown.  Reddish browns look very off on the eyebrows.  You are looking for neutral tones, not going to warm or cool in the underlying tonalities. If you decide to go for the black, make sure your color is black-black. If the color is off the brows will look smudgy and grayish, not pretty.
Medium brown w/ or w/out highlights: This type of hair color needs to stick with again neutral brown, this time just a little lighter. Brows tend to look better darker than lighter. They are the face framers; they define the eye, and give expression to the face. Everyone should examine what their eyebrows are doing right now! Avoid the reddish undertone for these brows as well.
Light brown, dark blonde: The key color word for this hair is taupe. Taupe colors are your best friend. Again, lean to the darker side. If they are to light they will look gray and powdery. We are trying to match the darker hair, so highlights are somewhat disregarded.
Light to pale blondes:  Key color here again is taupe. Some blonde colors are to golden or even to red. These could be ok of you are of the strawberry blonde variety or you have put in highlights and/or lowlights of the red or copper family, but they are still a little weak or off for my taste. I still recommend taupe.
Gray/Salt & Pepper: You guessed it, Taupe. By far the most flattering color for gray, salt & pepper or white hair. These again should not be to warm or gray.
Red Head: Now just because you’re red doesn’t mean go all out lipliner red, oh wait, I’ve done that. That’s for later…Seriously though, find a neutral reddish color on the darker side of the hair color. or go with the neutral brown or darker taupe.
Aside from the mentioned above you can go all out with bright color, glitter, or the complete opposite of your hair color ie. Dark hair light brows, light hair dark brows. Whatever you feel comfortable with. Using gel brow color or colored mascaras can slightly alter the color to suit your needs and hold the hair in place.

Viola!!

Beautiful brows

Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics

5 Essential Steps to Becoming a Makeup Artist

By Mikala Ewald

So you want to become a professional makeup artist, but have no idea how to begin? I have compiled a comprehensive list of the steps necessary to become a professional makeup artist.

Step One: Learn Your Craft

Today, education is a key requirement for careers in any and every type of professional environment, and makeup artistry is no exception. Most people probably do not realize the number of skills and the amount of information that is necessary to become a skilled makeup artist—this art form requires much more than just a bag of makeup and some brushes.

In order to succeed as a makeup artist, you must be passionate about your artistry. The makeup artistry industry is very competitive and usually requires ample amounts of your time, energy, and volunteer services while you are just starting out. Before deciding to take your makeup artistry career to the next level, it is important to do your research and decide if you are willing to give your all to succeed in this competitive industry.

Once you have decided to commit to becoming a professional makeup artist, it is time to choose a school. Makeup artist education comes in a variety of forms; you may attend a strictly makeup artistry school, you may choose to get your esthetics license (makeup artistry, skin care and treatments, hair removal), or you might decide to get your cosmetology license which can include training in all of the aforementioned skills as well as hair styling, cutting, and coloring. Before making your final decision, you must research the laws regulating makeup artistry for the state in which you are planning to practice (you may be required to have a license in order to apply products) as well as research different schools extensively in order to choose the one that is the best fit for you. Different types of makeup artistry schools may only target specific areas of the craft, and you need to ensure you will be obtaining all the skills necessary to reach the goals you have set for yourself.

Below, I have provided a list of some vital educational building blocks that all potential makeup artists should look for and consider when choosing a school.

  • Color Theory
  • Contouring
  • Face Shapes and Structures
  • Sanitation
  • Blending
  • Tools of the Trade (brushes and disposables)
  • Product Ingredients
  • Customer Service Skills
  • Marketing
  • Entrepreneurship and Business Operations

Step Two: Build Your Kit

All makeup artists must have a kit that includes all of the tools needed to properly perform the services they offer. Here is a quick list of items that all makeup artists must have in their kit.

The Basics

  • Positive attitude
  • Foundations
  • Concealers
  • Powders
  • Blushes
  • Bronzers
  • Eyeshadows
  • Eyeliners
  • Mascaras
  • Brow shadows or liners
  • Lip liners
  • Lipsticks
  • Lipglosses
  • Lip balms
  • Train case
  • False lashes
  • Lash adhesive
  • Facial cleanser or makeup remover
  • Moisturizers and/or primers
  • Professional makeup brush set
  • Professional brush cleaner
  • Eyelash curler
  • Disposable makeup applicators
  • Makeup sponges/wedges
  • Cotton swabs
  • Tissues/paper towels
  • Headbands or hair clips
  • Cape to protect clothing
  • Makeup palette
  • Palette knife and/or spatulas
  • Tweezers
  • Cuticle scissors
  • Gum or mints
  • Business cards

The Extras

  • Theatrical/Special FX makeup items (bruise wheels, fake blood, liquid latex, wigs, etc.)
  • Airbrush makeup and gun
  • Folding director’s chair
  • Props (feathers, sequins, glitter, jewels)

Step Three: Perfect Your Skills

Becoming a talented makeup artist requires many hours of practice, practice, practice! Experiment on yourself and others in order to determine what works together and what does not. You will want to practice multiple makeup looks on a variety of face shapes and skin tones so that you will be prepared for anything.

Offer to do free makeup applications for those who volunteer to let you practice different makeup looks on them. Make yourself available to other makeup artists, and ask if you can apprentice for them; offer to clean their brushes, prepare their work area, bring them coffee, hand them their brushes as they are needed, assist with the makeup application, etc. Working with other artists in the form of an apprenticeship will allow you to pick up tips, tricks, and techniques, as well as know what is expected from you as a professional makeup artist. Continue researching the field of makeup artistry by consulting books written by makeup artists, looking for tutorials online (YouTube is a great resource), and continue studying and improving the basic building blocks you learned while in school. During this time you may have to do a lot of work for free, but in addition to the invaluable experience you will gain, you may also receive photos that you may use to begin putting together a portfolio of your work.

Step Four: Choose Your Niche

The field of makeup artistry offers a variety of career choices. During steps one and three it will be important for you to try to get experience in all areas of makeup artistry to aid in your search of what area you will specialize. You will want to find your strengths and weaknesses in order to pinpoint the career that is best for you. I have compiled a list of career options for makeup artists to help you make the choice that is best for you.

  • Freelance makeup artist (may specialize in any of the following)
  • Weddings
  • Photography
  • Print (advertisements, magazine shoots, etc.)
  • Televisions
  • Films
  • Special FX
  • Makeovers and makeup lessons
  • Cosmetics counter (retail makeup artist)
  • Theatre makeup artist
  • Camouflage and corrective makeup artist for a dermatologist or plastics surgeon
  • Salon or spa makeup artist (with appropriate license)
  • Fashion (runway) makeup artist
  • Proms and special events
  • Makeup artist for cosmetics brands/product educator

Step Five: Market Yourself

Once you have fully developed your skills and completed steps one through four, the most important thing you can do for your makeup artistry career is market your skills and services. You should be prepared to promote your makeup artistry at all times by always keeping your resume, business cards, and portfolio nearby.

Have some business cards printed with your name and/or logo in addition to some photos of your makeup work. Hand out your business cards to everyone you meet, particularly those who suggest they are interested in what you do. Distribute your business cards to local businesses who may come in contact with potential clients (e.g. if you do wedding makeup, leave your cards at a wedding dress boutique). Ensure that your business cards always have your most current contact information whether it be your phone number or email address…you want to be sure anyone interested is able to contact you easily.

Always keep a well developed resume with you as you never know when a career opportunity may arise. On your resume you will want to include a list of any and all makeup artistry education you have received along with a list of your experience and events for which you have done makeup. Update your resume regularly so that you are always handing out your most current and inclusive list of achievements.

From the day you start your makeup artistry education and career, you should begin keeping a portfolio of your makeup artistry. Work in conjunction with photographers and brides in order to obtain professional photos of your work for free or at reduced costs. Having photos of your work will help promote your skills and show potential customers your capabilities as a makeup artist. Including both before and after pictures demonstrates to your potential clients your exceptional talent. Before and after photos demonstrate a complete makeover/transformation, and prove that you have the necessary skills required of a makeup artist.

Now that you have obtained all the information necessary to become a professional makeup artist, it’s time to go out, choose your school, and get started! Good luck!

Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics

If you can confess these words… I AM A BEAUTY JUNKIE

Then you will be very excited about my latest research venture. I tend to get stuck on a subject and research it to pieces. That sometimes includes emailing/calling or some may imply harassing a company to obtain information. I came across these “Beauty Sampling” or “Makeup of the Month” type programs that excited me to no end, so of course I needed to know who is the best . My research has led to the compiled list I will add shortly, as well as taking a turn into free sampling you can obtain from various companies. There were many other options that I came across besides the ones in the list including Indi companies, very specialized programs, and ones that are awesome but tormenting by not being available in the U.S. Generally the company has you fill out a questionnaire about yourself so that they can send a more customized selection for you. Most are monthly subscriptions or with options to skip a month, send as a gift or buy 3, 6 or 12months at a discount. Yeah!! I know

Here is what I came up with.

Good Reviews

  • Beauty Fix: Sent out quarterly $50
  • Beauty Army: Choose 6 deluxe samples from site $12
  • Birch Box: Seems to be the most popular $10
  • Pop Sugar: Newer program, full size products+bag $35
  • Glossy Box: 5 Travel sized products $21
  • Sample Society: Teamed with Allure(free sub. with membership) $15
  • Beauty Box 5: 4-5 deluxe samples monthly $12

Bad Reviews

  • Makeup Monthly $30
  • MyGlam $10

Natural Eco Friendly Boxes

  • Kara’s Way: $15
  • The Natural Beauty Box: $20
  • Eco Emi: $15
  • Blissmo: $19

Miscellaneous

  • The Love Club: Indi Box, variety of stuff(beauty, hair, music etc.)$12
  • Klutch Club: $18
  • Julep: Nail products $20
  • My Shade of Brown: Darker skintone specific products $10

Fabulous out of Country Boxes

  • Glymm: Canada only $12
  • Lust Have It: Australia, but opt. $10 extra to U.S. $15
  • She Said Beauty: UK only $14 roughly

Review Sites

  • Subscriptionboxes.com
  • Budget Friendly (youtube)

Free Sample Sites

  • My Abigail100(youtube)
  • Myfreeproductsamples.com
  • Beauty sage.com: Sample Box $5
  • Mysavings.com

Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics

Dirt. Oil. Makeup.

By Mikala Ewald

Dirt, oil, and makeup are just a few of the many elements our skin comes in contact with throughout the day. These elements clog pores and cause breakouts.

As an esthetician, I often talk with people about their skin care regimens, and it’s surprising to me how many people don’t know how or don’t bother to properly cleanse their skin. For healthy skin, it is imperative that you first remove the dirt, oil, and makeup from the skin and follow by actually cleansing the skin.

So, if you do nothing else in your skin care regimen, at least take the time to properly cleanse the skin. Start by removing all makeup with a gentle makeup remover. If you skip this step, when you apply cleanser to the skin you will just be removing makeup, not actually cleansing the skin. You must remove the makeup and cleanse the skin in order to maintain healthy skin.

Then, to thoroughly cleanse the skin use a gentle cleanser that is appropriate for your skin type. Apply the cleanser to damp skin, and massage it in for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

Lastly, rinse the cleanser from the skin with warm water. Be sure to completely remove all cleanser residue, as improper removal can also cause breakouts.

It’s best to follow up with a toner and a moisturizer. You should follow this simple routine every morning and every night.

Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics

Color Theory

Color is a word that can spark many emotions.  It can affect our emotions, our ability to think, our ability to study or relax, and it can even stimulate or repress our appetite.  Color is a powerful thing in our lives.  But how many people really remember what colors represent or even how we get the colors we see every day?

We are going to take it back to elementary school art class.  Do you remember anything about the color wheel?  For some of us it may have been awhile since we have looked at the color wheel, but don’t worry today we will refresh our memories on a little color theory!

We will start from the beginning.  In the beginning there were three colors. These three colors are called the primary colors.  All color we see originates from these three colors.  They are red, yellow, and blue.  You can’t have any other colors without these three. They are the most important on the wheel.

Next on our color wheel is the secondary colors.  There are also three of these.  Secondary colors are made from two primary colors that are mixed together.  These colors are green, orange, and violet.  For example you know that yellow and blue mixed together in equal parts make green.


The last category is tertiary colors.  There are 6 of these colors.  They are made when one primary and one secondary color are mixed together in equal parts. These colors are red-orange, yellow-orange, blue-green, yellow-green, red-violet, and blue-violet.  The name says exactly what is mixed together.  To make red-orange you take equal parts of red and orange together.

Now that we are refreshed with the color wheel, let’s talk about a few words that you hear when people talk about color.

Complementary color- These colors are direct opposite on the color wheel (red and green; yellow and violet; orange and blue).  For example green and red are direct complements.  These colors tend to go well together and both colors can make an impact when wearing them.  Complementary colors cause each other to be the brightest they will ever appear when they are side by side. When layered on top of each other in equal parts, complementary colors neutralize or cancel each other out.

Monochromatic – Means one color.  It can include all that single color’s value, including tint, tone, and shade.  For example the darkest brown to the lightest beige.

Tint – tint is adding white to dilute a color

Shade- shade is adding black to lower or darken a color

Color can also have symbolism.  Each color can invoke feelings and can make someone that comes in contact with that color change their mood.  Here are a few colors and what they have grown to mean.

•          White – purity, innocence, peace

•          Black – sophistication, gloom, mystery

•          Gray – maturity, modesty, dignity

•          Red – love, passion, vigor

•          Yellow – youth, hope, and intellect

•          Blue – harmony, honor, dignity

•          Orange – danger, daring, energy

•          Green – nature, faith, stability

•          Purple – royalty, drama, wisdom

•          Brown – sensitivity and dependability

So why are we talking about color theory on a beauty blog? Knowing color theory is a vital tool for makeup artists, hair stylists and even fashion designers/stylists. Finding the right colors for your clients can make all the difference in the final look.

It is important to use colors that spark positive emotional responses for your client. For example, if your client hates the color yellow and thinks it looks bad on them, would it be a good idea to put yellow eyeshadow on them? Probably not. Just the eyeshadow color alone could cause the client to dislike the entire makeup application.

Also, using the color wheel properly can help enhance positive features and diminish negative features. Take the complementary colors for instance: if my client has blue eyes and I want them to be the focal point of the face, applying orange or an orange-based eyeshadow will cause the eyes to pop since orange and blue are complementary colors. On the other hand, applying a green concealer over a red blemish will neutralize or cancel out the red tone of the blemish making it easier to hide.

Next time you’re applying your makeup, think about the color wheel in order to ensure a successful, put-together makeup application.

Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Master Instructor

DIY: Lip Balm

Have you ever had a lip balm that you absolutely love, but are almost out and can’t find any more of it? I’ll show you how to make your own lip balm with simple ingredients from home.

You’ll need:
A small container with a lid
Petroleum Jelly
A large spoon/ladle
A wooden stick for stirring
An eyeshadow, pigment, or lipstick (to tint your lip balm, so choose a color you love)
You may also add:
Glitter
Peppermint or menthol for a tingling/plumping effect
Essential oils for scent

First, combine in the ladle enough petroleum jelly to fill your small container (usually a spoonful) with the eyeshadow, pigment or lipstick you chose for color. If you chose a pressed eyeshadow, use a spatula to scrape the shadow into a loose powder before mixing it with the petroleum jelly. If you chose lipstick, cut off the tip of your lipstick—you won’t need the entire tube. Get creative! Feel free to combine colors to make your own custom shade of lip balm.

Next, warm the ladle over a flame to melt down the petroleum jelly and lipstick so you are able to stir them together. Once the ingredients have liquefied, add in your glitter and/or essential oils. Stir all ingredients until they are evenly distributed.

Finally, turn off the heat and pour the mixture into the small container. Place it in the refrigerator for about an hour so it can cool and harden. Now you’re ready to enjoy your homemade lip balm!

Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology, Esthetics, Master Instructor

Makeup Trends from “The Hunger Games”

By now everyone has heard about the release of the blockbuster movie “The Hunger Games”.  What you may not realize is that movies like this set the trends we see in our makeup and hair every season. This movie has definitely inspired many of the trends we are seeing this Spring season.

For those of you that have not seen this movie or read the books, I will tell you a bit about how the movie has influenced the makeup and hair fun for this Spring.  In the movie the people that live in the Capital have amazing hair, makeup, and fashion in various bold colors. This is true for this Spring season for our makeup and hair.  Bold pops of color and bright lips or eyes are the common ways we are seeing this movie’s influence in how we wear our own makeup.

In keeping the the trends of Spring Season, the Clary Sage College Makeup Artistry students did a “Hunger Games” inspired photo shoot where they looked at characters from the movie and used them to inspire makeup and hair for their model.

Makeup and Hair by Maria Tecocoatzi, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Maria Tecocoatzi, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Ciera Horse, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Ciera Horse, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Cassandra Butler, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College.

Makeup and Hair by Cassandra Butler, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College.

Makeup and Hair by Jennifer Nelson, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Jennifer Nelson, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Stephanie Russell, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Stephanie Russell, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Girl on Fire Makeup by Cheyney Taylor, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

"Girl on Fire" Makeup by Cheyney Taylor, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Carly Migl, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Carly Migl, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Elizabeth Dodson, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Elizabeth Dodson, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Dominique Jordan, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Dominique Jordan, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Roxanne Leon, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Roxanne Leon, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Elizabeth Ashlock, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Elizabeth Ashlock, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Kade Beals, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Kade Beals, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Allena Williams, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Makeup and Hair by Allena Williams, Makeup Artistry Student at Clary Sage College

Associate of Occupational Science in Cosmetology, Cosmetology

Can You Be Addicted To Lip Balm?

By April Genshaw, Master Instructor

I’ve come across this question several times over the years, and have fully declared that I myself would attest to being addicted. At the age of 18 I lost my lip balm at a friends house one night  and actually asked  a gas station attendant if he could cover what I was short so that I could buy a new one. Now that is desperation!

Symptoms could include:
*applying heavy layers of balm before bed
*buying multiply tubes at a time; i.e. hoarding different types in your purse or car
*applying multiple times a day (something must always be covering the lip)
*having a tube in pretty much every room of your house

If any of these describe you, you aren’t alone.There is even a website www.lipbalmanonymous.com
In all seriousness there is science behind this addiction. Lets make this simple…….

Lips are Skin. Skin is complex and has layers. The top layer (stratum corneum) is mostly dead/dehydrated cells. As they die they should naturally flake away. When the cells flake away they send a signal to a deeper layer that will produce new plump cells (basal layer). This process is referred to as cellular turnover, which also slows down as you age. When you use lip balm or lip products it locks in moisture creating a barrier. The lips stay hydrated, but since not as many cells are sloughing away, the basal cell doesn’t get the signal for new cells.

Now, when the balm isn’t present, and the lips are exposed, they suddenly are dried out. The basal layer then is in overdrive trying to catch up. But then…. your lips are dry, so of course, more lip balm! The basal layers gets the “Never mind we’re fine signal” and it’s a cycle. We have trained our lips to rely on this hydrating protective barrier. Decide for yourself if you’re addicted or wanting to continue with your addiction. I personally will continue. I just love the feeling of lip balm/lipstick or lipgloss.  It just makes me Happy! We all have those double lipgloss days.