POPSUGAR Beauty

Disney Fans Will Flip For This Makeup Artist's Incredible Transformations

Brinton Parker — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 02:25:03 -0700

You might think that face paint transformations are only for Halloween, but Instagram makeup guru Saraswati, aka QueenOfLuna, proves that intense makeovers are worthy of attempting any time of year. From Disney princesses to iconic comic book villains, the amateur artist's cosmetic undertakings and creative use of hijab seem to transform her into a living, breathing cartoon. Read on for some of her most incredible makeup masterpieces, then follow her on Instagram for even more beauty goodness!

Surprise! Tarte Just Dropped Its Gorgeous New Holiday Collection Early

Kristina Rodulfo — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 02:20:04 -0700

Tarte pulled a bit of a sneak attack on us all when it debuted its holiday 2017 collection, Tarte Delight, early on Sept. 1. We already got an exclusive peek at the highly anticipated Blush Book Volume III among the launches, but with more than 20 new arrivals, there is so much more goodness where that came from. The news broke on Instagram, where it was also announced that there will be free shipping on all orders through Sept.5 at 3 a.m. ET. So in case you didn't have any plans for the long holiday weekend, you better add makeup shopping to your list.

The packaging on all the limited-edition pieces is stunning, with gold accents, vibrant Moroccan prints, festive glitter, and rhinestones. There is a slight mystical seafaring theme with product names like Mermaid Kisses, Buried Treasure, and Treasured Tools. One standout is a brand-new eye shadow palette ($36) that boasts a gorgeous collection of bronzes, browns, pearls, and a crimson shade, all perfect for Fall.

Read on for more of the holiday loot ahead.

They're Here! 13 Editor-Approved Liquid Lipsticks You Need For Fall

Macy Cate Williams — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 02:10:04 -0700

The fastest way to transform your beauty look from Summer to Fall is by swiping on a liquid lipstick. Many formulas have excellent staying power and boldly pop on your pout. Whether you're looking for a warm nude or a vampy burgundy, we rounded up our favorite options for you to choose from. Not only will these lipsticks make a statement, but they will take your autumnal look to the next level. Stock up on a few right now!

This Is What Huda Beauty's Faux Filter Foundation Looks Like on Every Skintone

Alaina Demopoulos — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 02:00:06 -0700

After two years of testing, color-matching, and teases, Huda Kattan has finally released her Faux Filter Foundation. It's not hyperbole to say that the launch was met with smashing success - just take a look at Sephora shelves, where nine of Faux Filter's 30 foundations sold out in less than a week.

Since inclusivity was a big goal of Huda's from the get-go, the #FauxFilter hashtag on Instagram is quickly becoming a beautifully diverse place where makeup enthusiasts go to share their shades, tips, and feelings about the matte, full-coverage (and we mean FULL) formula.

Want in on this feel-good celebration of flawless skin? Read on to see every single shade of Huda Beauty's Faux Filter Foundation ($40) - and then send Sephora prayer hands in hopes that the store restocks the sold-out hues.

50 Dreamy Rainbow Balayage Ideas to Inspire Your Next Dye Job

Emily Orofino — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:45:06 -0700

After salons introduced us to the balayage dye method, we never looked back. The technique - which consists of actually painting color onto hair - is the most low-maintenance way to achieve sun-kissed strands. Because the style doesn't result in harsh lines of demarcation (like classic highlights might), color fades evenly as your hair grows out.

That means that if you're looking to join Team Unicorn, balayage should definitely be in your rainbow hair arsenal. We've rounded up 50 of our favorite dye jobs that are the perfect marriage of balayage and rich, vibrant hues. Read on to see some inspirational and colorful coifs . . . arranged in ROYGBIV order, of course.

This Model Was Ignored Backstage at Fashion Week Because of Her Natural Hair

Alaina Demopoulos — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:40:03 -0700

A post shared by Londone (@londonemyers) on Sep 29, 2017 at 7:03am PDT

While there were some memorable inclusive moments during New York Fashion Week Spring 2018 (have you heard about Fenty Beauty's 40 shades of foundation yet?), one model got real about how far the industry still has to go. Londone Myers, who has walked for Dior, Chloé, and Louis Vuitton, posted a time-lapse video on Instagram that documents her being ignored by hairstylists.

While white models behind her were being ushered in and out of makeup chairs, Londone sat wearing headphones while waiting to be prepped for the catwalk. In her impassioned caption, Londone wrote, "I don't need special treatment from anyone. What I need is for hairstylists to learn how to do black hair. I'm so tired of people avoiding doing my hair at shows. How dare you try to send me down the runway with a linty busted afro."

Londone told Teen Vogue that she usually does her hair before arriving at a show, due to similar past experiences backstage. However, on the day the video was taken, she did not. "I just showed up without anything on hand like everyone else," she said.

She wasn't the only black model to be ignored, either. But unlike Londone, the other women with natural hair spoke French, which helped them get assistance. Londone said she "simply asked around the room for who did black hair multiple times and was cast aside."

Finally, she was put in a chair, but the hairstylist ended up leaving lint in her hair. Londone said that due to the discrimination, the hairstylist left her and the other black women looking "unpolished."

A post shared by Londone (@londonemyers) on Sep 21, 2017 at 2:30pm PDT

In the days since Londone's post, many models and fashion industry insiders are having an open dialogue about the situation. Melanie Smith, who also walked at Paris Fashion Week, wrote, "Had to style [my hair] myself 80% of the time... so sad." Another model named Dominique Brannon added, "I come to most shows with my hair already done (by me) because I know they won't even groom it. It's sad that we get neglected because our hair grows up instead of down like our counterparts."

Rather than attacking hairstylists or the fashion industry, Londone is using her platform to call for change. As she told Teen Vogue, "Some of these hairstylists have never had the chance to work with our hair. You can always tell when they're feeling through it haphazardly."

Along with better educating hairstylists on how to work with natural hair, another solution would be for events to hire more people of color to style models. As Londone's post garners buzz, we hope fashion insiders will take action toward providing a more inclusive environment backstage.

This Easy DIY Proves Anyone Can Do Pin Curls Like a Pro

Lauren Levinson — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:35:04 -0700

While I adore my curling iron (and wouldn't go on a vacation without it!), there is something to be said for being able to travel light. That's why pin curls are such an awesome solution. All you need is a bit of hair balm to create hold, bobby pins, and a blow dryer (though you can also just rely on the air and time, if needed). How easy and minimal is that?

If this technique seems intimidating, then don't worry. Hair pro Gina Schiappacasse of Hairstory, a cool downtown members-only salon, has broken down the steps in this easy tutorial. The result: those messy-sexy beach waves you crave. Keep reading, and prepare to be floored by how simple it is to do.

1 Woman Transforms Into 3 Tim Burton Characters in Less Than 2 Minutes

Emily Orofino — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:35:03 -0700

One Woman, Three Tim Burton Movie Characters
Posted by Top Knot on Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Growing up, our favorite Halloween pastime (other than gorging on candy, of course) was watching Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas. This movie is the perfect hybrid of horrifying, hilarious, and heartwarming. We found ourselves enraptured by the wicked wonderland of Halloweentown, wishing we could somehow transport ourselves there. Now that we're adults, we've realized that the best way to visit one of Burton's worlds is through cosmetics.

One makeup artist transformed a woman into three of Burton's most well-recognized and beloved characters: Lydia from Beetlejuice, Sally from The Nightmare Before Christmas, and Emily from Corpse Bride. Though Sally and Emily are cartoons, their wigs, colorful contouring, and painted-on stitches make the costumes incredibly lifelike. Pair your favorite look with the perfect accessory (perhaps the Handbook For the Recently Deceased?) and prepare to win the prize for best dressed at all the parties you head to this weekend.

What's the Real Deal With Hydroquinone?

Nykia Spradley — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:30:05 -0700

Hydroquinone has become pretty controversial in the beauty world. One minute, it's the miracle ingredient for clearing up dark spots, and the next, it's supposedly carcinogenic. It's hard for anything to be deemed trustworthy and effective once labeled as a cancer causer. Yet, through all the fuss, experts have maintained that hydroquinone remains the gold standard for erasing hyperpigmentation and age spots. So in all that toxic talk, what's the truth? We asked three experts to weigh in.

Why all the fuss?

"Much of this controversy stems from its ban in South Africa due to side effects," explained Sejal Shah, NYC cosmetic dermatologist and founder of SmarterSkin Dermatology. "Subsequently, other countries banned hydroquinone. It turns out that the questionable products in South Africa contained mercury and other contaminants, which more likely account for side effects being seen."

Dr. Shah further explained that there have been reports of hydroquinone causing cancer in mice when administered in high doses orally, but there are no studies to date showing that this happens in humans and with a topical application. "When properly formulated and used, hydroquinone can be extremely safe and effective, and we have numerous studies confirming this," Shah added.

Does it bleach skin?

Rachel Roff, a medical esthetician and founder of Urban Skin Rx, quickly squashed this myth. "When used within a safe strength, hydroquinone doesn't bleach someone's natural skin tone. It evens out the skin," Roff said. While it may not be proven to cause cancer, if used incorrectly, it can leave skin vulnerable to excessive sun exposure, which could mean a higher risk of skin cancer and sunburn.

"As a general known fact, side effects of skin bleaching, regardless of product or ingredient, include skin irritation and sun sensitivity," dermatologist Dendy Engelman said. There's also a condition called ochronosis, where the skin darkens. This reaction is mainly associated with high concentrations of hydroquinone that has been used for prolonged periods of time.

When do you need hydroquinone?

The main purpose of hydroquinone in skin care is as a lightening agent. "Skin lightening is performed for a variety of reasons, including sun damage. Melanin (aka pigment) is produced by skin cells called melanocytes, and various topical creams are used to reduce the amount of pigment that is produced to brighten the skin," Engelman said. These include hydroquinone, which is the most common, botanical extracts, and antioxidants.

How do you use it safely?

A hydroquinone regimen should be used for no more than three to four months at a time, followed by a minimum of two months off. After the two months, if hyperpigmentation is still an issue, you can return to using hydroquinone for another three- to four-month period.

What if you just can't get behind hydroquinone?

While the experts agree that nothing works on dark spots quite as fast as hydroquinone does, there are ingredients that are just as effective. It may take longer to see results, but natural solutions like kojic acid, alpha arbutin, niacinamide, and vitamin C can help even out your skin. Something like SkinMedica Lytera 2.0, a pigment-correcting serum that is retinol- and hydroquinone-free, balances the skin's melanin production and resists triggers that cause discoloration.

22 Rhinestone Skulls That Will Add Some Sparkle to Your Spook

Tori Crowther — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:25:02 -0700

Skeletons are always a winner at Halloween, but if you're a dedicated beauty junkie who loves the spooky season, you've probably done regular skeletons more than once already. So why not take the "extra" routine this year and go as a rhinestone skeleton instead?

These bedazzled skeleton looks are anything but average and are perfect for those looking for a real challenge. Read on to get extra inspired this Halloween and turn into a dazzling diva skull in no time.

This Is Exactly When the Too Faced Metallic Chocolate Palette Is Coming to Sephora and Ulta

Lauren Levinson — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:20:05 -0700

OMG! The Chocolate Gold Metallic/Matte shadow palette will be pre-launching before Christmas at your local @ultabeauty & ulta.com on 12/3 and @sephora & sephora.com on 12/11 🍫🥇It's a Christmas Miracle! Thanks SANTA 🎅🏻 #toofaced #ChocolateGold #InfusedWithRealGold

A post shared by Jerrod Blandino (@jerrodblandino) on Oct 23, 2017 at 12:04pm PDT

We know Too Faced founder Jerrod Blandino loves his glitter, so it's surprising he hadn't launched a sparkly version of his brand's Chocolate Palette until 2017. The good news it it's definitely happening, we know what it looks like, and we even know when and where you can buy it.

Jerrod teased the delicious palette on Instagram, sharing a close-up video of the vibrant, shimmery shades. We spy a gorgeous purple called Living Lavish and lots of warm metallics, including Dripping in Diamonds (champagne), Gold Dipped (yellow gold), and Famous (silvery white). There are also creamy mattes to compliment the brighter shades. We also know the formulas are infused with real gold - so luxurious!

The best news is we don't have to guess where this spangly baby will be sold. Jerrod revealed the eye shadow palette will be prelaunching "before Christmas" at Ulta stores and Ulta.com on Dec. 3 and at Sephora stores and Sephora.com on Dec. 11.

"It's a Christmas Miracle! Thanks SANTA 🎅🏻," he joked. But actually!

Forget Pumpkin Spice - These Brows Are Pumpkin and Spikes!

Tori Crowther — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:20:04 -0700

A post shared by Amy Huisman (@amythedutchess) on Oct 9, 2017 at 6:43am PDT

Guess what? Beauty junkies are still messing with their brows - and we're still here for it.

Up next in the world of the bold brow trends are spiky brows, and you might be surprised by how much this look fits your Halloween aesthetic. Like a few other trends, this one is also Huda-approved, and we think these brows are the perfect balance of chic and aggressive.

Amy Huisman is the artist behind the slightly threatening brows. She posted her creation with the caption, "When you don't want people to touch your brows." Don't worry, Amy - we don't think anyone will dare to touch those beasts.

If you want to take a tip from Amy, you can hit up your local craft store for the spikes ($10). Amy used Duo Lash Adhesive ($5) to keep the fierce look in place.

A post shared by Amy Huisman (@amythedutchess) on Oct 10, 2017 at 2:26am PDT

23 Game of Thrones Braid Tutorials So Good, They'd Make the Khaleesi Jealous

Brinton Parker — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:15:12 -0700

It seems like practically everyone on Game of Thrones has good hair - hell, even Jon Snow and Jaime Lannister have enviable locks. Out of the countless gorgeous hairstyles that make an appearance on the dramatic fantasy show, the most impressive are the braids. So many braids. You don't need a King's Landing handmaiden to achieve the plaited looks from GOT, either; thanks to the many braid aficionados on YouTube, it's easy to learn how to steal Sansa Stark and Daenerys Targaryen's signature looks.

We've rounded up all the best Game of Thrones braid tutorials out there, so you can start looking like the khaleesi you are inside. Which one will you try first?

Check out more GOT braids here!

25 Holiday-Scented Beauty Products That Will Make You Hungry Just Reading This

Kristin Granero — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:15:03 -0700

It's the moment all basic ladies have been waiting for: the moment we put away the tropical scents and dive head first into Fall (also known as the gateway to all things holiday). No amount of pumpkin spice proves too much as we attempt to turn our own houses into apple- and plum-scented enchanted forests.

We're getting intoxicated just writing about it, which is why we're excited to present to you a comprehensive gallery of all the holiday-scented hair, skin, and body products we could get our hands on.

From cider-drunk hand soaps to creamy, vanilla-drenched body lotions (and plenty of pine- and spruce-trimmed candles in between), read on for 25 products that will support your festive spirit from Fall harvest to New Year's, and sneak peek more holiday 2017 beauty offerings here.

25 Fall Makeup Ideas You Need to Steal NOW From Instagram

Lauren Levinson — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:05:07 -0700

Enjoy your "Summer glow," beauty queens! Because before you know it, there will be a #PSL in your vampy manicured nails, and yes, Fall will be here. Listen, we know why you love Fall - the matte skin, the humidity-free hair, cozy candles, and brooding makeup colors that speak to your dark soul. So why not pull out a dark lip color this month or try out an autumnal eye makeup look? To help you get inspired, we rounded up the fiercest Fall beauty looks, already trending on Instagram!

The Right Way to Completely Cover Your Body in Paint For Halloween

Jessica Cruel — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 01:00:05 -0700

Halloween is a holiday for makeup-lovers, and true cosmetic junkies will not be restricted to just the face. Oh no, we want costumes that require head-to-toe creativity. With a canvas as large as the human body, there are a few things you need to know before you pull out the paint. Make Up For Ever director of artistry and education for North America, Lijha Stewart, broke down all the body makeup basics. This is the year you finally go for the full-body blue Mystique costume from X-Men and dominate the local costume contest.

100 Real-Girl Tiny Tattoo Ideas For Your First Ink

Macy Cate Williams — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 00:55:03 -0700

If you're a little nervous about a permanent stamp, the best way to start is with something small. We can tell you firsthand that tattoo removal is no easy feat. Luckily, we have endless inspiration of real-girl tattoos that will leave you feeling less anxious about expressing something on your skin. Whether you're looking for a mark with meaning or just a fun design, keep reading to check out all of these teeny-tiny tattoo ideas.

- Additional reporting by Marina Liao

These 10 Eyeliners Are Makeup Artist Approved and Perfect For Blue Eyes

Nicole Moleti — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 00:25:03 -0700

Eyeliner was invented to accentuate and bring focus to the wearer's eye color. When that eye color is blue, the right liner can make things truly pop. If you're a blue-eyed makeup wearer, browns and golds are your most obvious choice, as warmer tones make cool ones appear brighter. Although smoky eyes don't work for everyone, if drama is what you are after, blacks and smoky grays rimmed in the waterline will offer the most contrast. Colored liner on blue eyes often works, too, as blues and plums give a softer, less severe look while complementing the different tones of the eyes.

I'm a makeup artist, and when I have a blue-eyed client who lets me craft a look of my choice, I love to create one that will make her eyes look crystal clear and piercing. Here are my top 10 favorite liners.

The 10 Best Products For Making Your Blue Eyes Sparkle

Wendy Gould — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 00:05:03 -0700

Hello, you magnificent, blue-eyed beauty! If you're looking for some tips and tricks for how to make your blue eyes pop, you've landed in the right corner of the internet. After consulting with celebrity makeup artists, we're sharing the best hacks for blue eyes and also throwing out some product recommendations that are worthy of being added to your current stash. Let's just say that you should prepare yourself for an onslaught of eye-dulation.

If You Love Snapchat, You Need to Try These Filter-Inspired Looks For Halloween

Emily Orofino — Mon, 30 Oct 2017 00:00:05 -0700

When we're having a stressful day, we admittedly enjoy relieving tension by opening up Snapchat and playing with the filters. Because so many of them were inspired by makeup artists, they make us both look and feel glamorous instead of overwhelmed.

You can also use the app as a resource for your Halloween costume. Many of your favorite YouTube stars have created tutorials based on the funky filters that are fun and easy to re-create. Should you end up going this route this October, don't forget to Snap your finished look! Adding another filter on top is bound to make your costume appear really wild.

3 Unexpected Ways to Be Wonder Woman For Halloween: Zombie, Cyborg, and Pop Art

Sarah Siegel — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 23:50:03 -0700

When Gal Gadot put Wonder Woman on the big screen, we knew women everywhere would want to emulate the DC heroine for Halloween. If you're set on being the Amazonian princess this Halloween but don't want to look like every other girl at the party, we've come up with some original takes on her style.

With the help of MAC Senior Artist Regan Rabanal, costumes from Spirit Halloween, and hair done by DryBar, we've created three makeup iterations that will astonish your friends with your creativity and super (Halloween) powers. You can create a glam-scary costume by imagining Wonder Woman during the zombie apocalypse, dress as the heroine in a metallic-hued cyborg fashion (swearing to protect humans from the robot uprising), or go old school and create the comic-book version of the star-studded lady.

Keep reading to find out how you can dress as the iconic heroine this year while still having the most unique costume of all your friends.

This $2 Wet n Wild Product Will Easily Give You an Awesome Mermaid Costume

Sarah Siegel — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 23:10:03 -0700

Halloween enthusiasts, you're about to save a boatload of money. Wet n Wild debuted a ton of new products this year, allowing the costume-inclined to truly express themselves without going broke in the process. Among the rainbow of new and affordable products are lipsticks, glitter, and even body crayons. But the true jewels from the new collection are the unique stick-on stencils and cream palettes, perfect for enhancing any spooky ensemble.

The Most Popular Concealer on Pinterest Is Only $5

Alaina Demopoulos — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 20:00:07 -0700

I truly pity anyone who has ever seen me pre-under-eye concealer. Like many people, the skin directly beneath my peepers is a problem area, made presentable only by slathering on copious amounts of cover-up. While I've always reached for a high-end tube, according to Pinterest, the best one out there actually costs less than the happy hour drink that's often the culprit of dark circles in the first place.

As Byrdie reported, NYX Hi Definition Photo Concealer ($5) currently holds the title of the No. 1 trending concealer on Pinterest.

The formula comes in 21 shades, including lavender to combat pale spots, green to hide redness, and yellow to brighten up dark spots. Fans of the cover-up praise it for being full-coverage yet malleable enough to apply just using fingertips.

If you believe one Ulta review, it also lasts for literal days. "I accidentally wore this to bed after a long day and night out," one Ulta customer wrote. "When I woke up, it was STILL perfect after 20 hours." Yikes, but thanks for finding that out for us.

As a perennially tired girl who just coughed up most of her money on rent, needless to say I'll be scooping up one of these puppies during my next Ulta haul.

Let Out Your Inner Beast With This Terrifying Tiger DIY

Emily Orofino — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 19:30:05 -0700

A cat is a classic choice for a Halloween costume, but why be a household pet when you could be a ferocious beast? With just an eye shadow palette and two inexpensive face paints, YouTube user Sheling Beauty transformed into a beautiful (and terrifying!) tiger.

This isn't the carnival face paint that you remember from your childhood. Sheling used a paintbrush to carefully detail tiny strokes across her face, making her skin actually look like fur. She even glued a few bristles from an old blush brush onto her upper lip with lash adhesive to create whiskers. While you could pair this makeup with a full tiger costume (ears, tail, and all), we think it's just as striking on its own.

Kris Jenner and Her New Platinum Hair Just Inspired 2017's Best Meme

Kelsey Garcia — Sun, 29 Oct 2017 19:15:09 -0700

A week before Halloween, Kris Jenner took a break from her busy schedule to break the internet with quite possibly the best reaction meme we've seen this year. On Oct. 23, Kim Kardashian shared a picture of her mom reclined on a sofa - martini in hand - while wearing a floral suit, a fur stole, and brick-red accessories. Oh, and she's wearing a platinum blond wig. "Caption this," Kim wrote.

The over-the-top image is particularly shocking because it's the first time Kris has been seen without her signature black hair. It's funny because the platinum wig closely resembles Kim's icy new color and Kris has been criticized for copying her daughter in the past.

Alas, it is indeed just a wig: Kris was photographed out that same evening in New York City with her usual hair color. This singular, already iconic picture, however, provides all of the meme and Halloween costume inspiration we need.