I Have a Confession - I Indoor Tan To Improve My Mood - Scandal!!

Hello Ladies & Gents of LINY

Are you a beach bum sun loving summer addict like I am? I'm sure. I know my Long Island ladies. So with that said, why do we love flocking to the ocean and bearing it all covered in tropical smelling oils? We love it because it makes us happy. The sun is shining and warm, the days are longer and the nights are pretty hot, in a good way. Why is that?

 

Knows as the "sunshine vitamin" Vitamin D plays a major in keeping us healthy.

 

According to the MAYO Clinic, a very credible source; Vitamin D is found in many dietary sources, such as fish, eggs, fortified milk, and cod liver oil. The sun also contributes significantly to the daily production of vitamin D, and as little as 10 minutes of exposure is thought to be enough to prevent deficiencies. Several physical disorders especially ones which are bone related have been proven to be due to lack of Vitamin D. For the below disorders, mental in nature, further studying is required before conclusions can be made. However, research is coming up with interesting findings with the following disorders that can affect our mental condition.

 

Hypertension

"Low levels of vitamin D may play a role in the development of high blood pressure. It has been noted that blood pressure is often elevated under the following conditions: during the winter season, at a further distance from the equator, and in individuals with dark skin pigmentation (all of which are associated with lower production of vitamin D via sunlight)."

 

"Vitamin D." Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 01 Sept. 2012. Web. 28 Jan. 2013.

 

Mood disorders

"Some studies suggest an association between low vitamin D levels in the blood and various mood disorders, including depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and premenstrual syndrome. Also vitamin D supplementation may improve symptoms of depression associated with seasonal affective disorder. Additional research is needed before a conclusion can be made."

 

"Vitamin D." Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 01 Sept. 2012. Web. 28 Jan. 2013.

 

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

"SAD is a form of depression that occurs during the winter months, possibly due to reduced exposure to sunlight. In one study, vitamin D was found to be better than light therapy in the treatment of SAD."

 

"Vitamin D." Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 01 Sept. 2012. Web. 28 Jan. 2013.

 

 

So is the sun good for you? Yes, BUT in moderation. Ten minutes of natural sunlight per day is recommended. What do we do during the winter to chase away our cold weather blues and depressive states if we cannot hop to the Caribbean for a week on the beach? You’re not going to get a dose of Vitamin D sporting your two piece in your backyard on top of a frozen pool so I think the best way to get a dose of the sunshine is to go for a quick tanning session using SPF 20 or higher. I myself tan once a month from October through April. When the summer months arrive I slap on my UVAB sunscreen SPF 30 to protect my skin from dark sun spots and getting that leathery look when I am older. I plan to keep my beautiful skin. Now there are several studies that show that indoor tanning causes cancer, that is proven. However, cutting edge doctors such as Dr. Joe Mercola say the use of tanning beds is safe, of course with moderation. Dr. Oz (Mehmet Oz, MD) disagrees with Dr. Joe Mercola stated the following:

 

"Recently, I had Dr. Joe Mercola on as a guest of the show. His views on alternative medicine are cutting edge – and often very controversial – garnering millions of online followers as well as the scorn of mainstream medicine.

 

During our segment, Dr. Mercola recommended the use of “safe” UVB tanning beds for getting vitamin D. While vitamin D plays a number of major roles in our health and many Americans are deficient in this nutrient, the use of tanning beds is a highly controversial suggestion: The World Health Organization has recommended that no one use a tanning bed for cosmetic purposes, now listed as a “known human carcinogen.” This declaration was also made by the US Department of Health and Human Services, which placed tanning beds in the same cancer-causing category as tobacco.

 

During this same segment, I was intrigued by Dr. Mercola's claims on the therapeutic value of these specific UVB-emitting tanning beds (most tanning beds use only UVA rays, which can cause damage far below the surface of the skin). As a doctor, it is my natural inclination to evaluate and question emerging information in science and medicine – but please do not misconstrue this as me changing my stance on the dangers of indoor tanning.

 

My beliefs are firmly aligned with those of the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD): Research shows that excessive ultraviolet radiation can lead to skin cancer. The bottom line is both UVA and UVB rays cause cancer."

Oz, Mehmet, MD. ""Safe" Tanning Beds? Think Again." The Dr. Oz Show. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Jan. 2013.

 

I am not a doctor but I am also not blind to see that excess tanning naturally or in a bed is dangerous for your health and very bad for your skin. Here on Long Island sun damaged skin is the most common skin concern for women over forty and up. If you go tanning weekly then seek help because I can guarantee you, years will be added as the cumulative effects of sun abuse come to the surface. Take very good care of your outer layer and understand that everything is good in moderation. Who does not enjoy a warm and energizing dose of sunlight once a month to chase away the "Winter Blues"?

 

Matthew Ambrosio

Professional Makeup Artist, Columnist & Beauty Educator

Q&A Bride Beauty Basics - What Every Bride Should Know

Hello Sparkling Gems,

Many of you will be celebrating your special day in 2013 and congratulations to you.  As a former Man of Honor for two close friends and a professional makeup artist I know it is not an easy day. Working with brides on a daily basis and spending up to two hours with them on the actual wedding day getting ready, I know how it improtant it is that everything goes smoothly and the bride is smiling.  So allow me to share with you some helpful tips when it comes to choosing who to perform the ritual of bridal beautification for you.  Remember, this is one of the most important and memorable days of your life.

Your Question:  Where do I start?

Answer: 

In the world of beauty "word of mouth" is invaluable.  Beauty professionals rely on their past work to get future work.  Ask friends and family who were recently married who they chose for hair and makeup and why.  Everyone knows someone who got married, it will not be difficult to get at least a few names and numbers to start with.  This is where the trial becomes very important.

*Word of Advice:  Be wary of referrals because they are family members or best friends of people within the bridal party.  When it comes down to it, this is business and it has the potential to become awkward if satisfaction is not met on either side.  Also, just because they are a best friend or family does not mean they are great or even good.  If they are insulted you did not choose them that is their problem not yours and you should not feel guilty for knowing what you want. 

Your Question:  Should I do a trial?

YES.  The trial provides the bride with ability to decide if the makeup artist or hair stylist has met her expectations as a professional and as an artist.  In addition, the trials provides the opportunity to become more familiar with the brides face, hair, likes and dislikes, allergies to certain products or ingredients and it is also a great time to bond and get to know each other.  Think of it this way, did the beauty professional listen to you, meet your expectations of desired looks, give you confidence, and would you want to spend the day of your wedding getting ready with this person?

*Word of Advice:  Before you trial research your makeup artist.  Ask them for a website and/or referrals from other brides.  Also check out wedding websites where they would have reviews or even Google their names.  Trials can cost between $75 to $150 for either hair or makeup and you want to avoid having more than one, so be sure you are trialing with a professional.

Your Question:  Should I cover my tattoo and how?

Answer:

As a tattoo concealing expert I am confronted with this question at trial often.  The answer is simple. It is up to you, the bride and no one else.  Mothers, friends and family need to step aside.  Some brides have tattoos with very special meanings and feel strongly about them while others love their tattoos but do not want them to appear in wedding photos.  Editing is possible however very expensive.  However, there are professionals who can cover tattoos and make them completely disappear, transfer resistant and give a natural looking coverage appearance.

Word of Advice:  If you cannot find an artist who has both expertise it is fine to have more than one makeup artist at a time.  One to do your face and another to cover your tattoo, I have worked side by side with other artists, I was hired last minute because the bride decided she wanted her tattoo covered and her current artist could not. 

Your Question:  What do you think about airbrushing?

Answer: 

Airbrushing is an excuse to charge people more money for makeup for less work and effort.  There are several other ways to create a flawless complexion and if your makeup artist ONLY airbrushes, move on.  Airbrush makeup can also be sticky and not wear well.  I prefer the classic method of brushes and hands to apply makeup.  It does take longer to apply and more expertise however the pay off is invaluable.

Word of Advice:  If a pro artist insists the use of airbrush, ask them why it is better than the traditional way.  What are the benefits of airbrushing in comparison to brushes and hands for YOU?  Do not tell me it is more hygienic because that is a matter of washing your hands before working.

Question:  Should I get anything in writing?

Answer:  YES.  When you speak with your potential beauty pro to schedule a meeting for trial you should be able to provide him or her with the total number of bridal party members requiring makeup and hair so the beauty pro can compose a wedding makeup agreement which discloses all the important details from location to wedding date to trial and wedding day pricing and it should be emailed to you before the trial date for your review.  Always get everything in writing, it protects both parties.

Word of Advice:  Some beauty pros will require a deposit of 10-30% and sometimes more.  Especially if it is a destination wedding or very large party and the beauty pro has a packed schedule.


I wish you all the best in 2013 and a beautiful year.

Makeup Artistry seen in all photos by Matthew Ambrosio

Matthew Ambrosio
Pro MUA, Columnist & Beauty Educator

The Beauty of Giving the Gift of Beauty

Hello GEM Magazine LI readers,

My reading population has increased exponentially
and I thank every from the US and of course the
international readers from Kenya to India to the
Netherlands.  Beauty is as always a universal
language.  Do not forget to visit www.gemmagazineli.com
under beauty to read my educational articles in current
and past editions.

The festive holidays are upon us and I want to wish everyone a happy and fun filled season.  If you are one of those individuals like me who love giving more than the receiving you will appreciate this post.  In the beauty world many individuals use their talents and services to give back to the community.  One such professional and fashionista who I feel is more appropriatly referred to as an "Angel on Earth" is Eva Pappas, owner of Eva of Sayville fashion boutique.  Eva is blessed with the ability to pick the perfect dress for every woman who walks into her urban style spacious and trendy space.  However her passion for fashion inspires Eva to go a step further with her charitable organization, "The Cinderella Project".  The first time I visited Eva in her boutique I experienced the incredible beauty of this project and its simple purpose, to give the gift of healing beauty.

Eva Pappas of Sayville, NY has been chosen to be a "Lady of Inspiration, Recognizing Angels on Earth in the Form of Everyday Women" by www.BeautyBLESS.com, online "indie" brand cosmetics boutique, provider of trendy couture cosmetics on behalf of myself, Founder of BeautyBLESS LLC.

If you wish to read about my beautiful experience of spotting Eva's angel wings first hand I encourage everyone to follow this link below to read a heart warming short story about the beauty of giving the gift of beauty and see photos of this amazing lady who I believe deserves recognition for her good deeds which change the lives women on a daily basis, click  the link below. 

www.ladyofinspiration.com


There are many ways to give, would love to hear more about other examples of giving back, in any world or industry.  As a former banking professional I know many corporate worlds had several opportunities to give back during the holiday season.  Would love to hear all your inspirational stories.  In addition, if you feel that you know a Lady of Inspiration yourself I would love to hear more.


With love and warm holiday wishes,

Matthew Ambrosio
Beauty Educator & Professional Makeup Artist
www.BeautyBLESS.com

 

Attention GEM Beauties, Thank You - You Must Read, Please - I said the magic word.

GEM Magazine Long Island Beauty Blog is on fire!  Red hot like a sexy red lipstick.  Thank you to everyone for reading my blog and I want to wish everyone a happy and fun holiday season and remember, the true definition of beauty is "Balance" not too much or too little but just enough to wake that inner beauty inside you and "Enhancing" what you already have.  I want to be able to see that beautiful face not the makeup.

If your looking for something spicy this holiday to turn up the heat yourself check out a few shots of my latest Fall Winter/Fashion Beauty meet Fashion shoot.  Makeup/Production by yours truly. 

Red lip to boring for you?  Throw some gold on top.  Want the eyes to pop and be sultry?  Focus more on the definition on the lash line as opposed to vibrant eyelid shades.  You will get a clean "classic" Hollywood glamour 1940's look.

Production/Makeup:  Matthew Ambrosio
Model:  Roseanne Ludwigson
Photography:  Tony Ambrosio
Fashion Styling/Wardrobe:  The one and only, most amazing stylist, Eva Pappas www.evaofsayville.com
I stopped by her boutique today and ladies, and it was one of those rare moments I say, dam, girl are so lucky with their fashion options.  That is how stunning and classy her stuff is. 

With Love,
 
Matthew Ambrosio
Long Island Beauty Educator
Owner BeautyBLESS.com
Pro MUA

 

Cosmetic Cannibalism - Big Fish Eating Little Fish & What It Means to You, the Consumer and Your Skin.

Hello GEMS,

I have close ties in the cosmetic/beauty world and usually I am in the know pretty quickly.  Recently, a close friend and multi Emmy award winning makeup artist notified me of yet another cosmetic conglomerate eating up a private brand. 

"Yesterday L'Oreal announced in Paris that it has signed an agreement with private equity firm Castanea Partners to acquire Urban Decay Cosmetics.

So, another indie cosmetic company is being swallowed up by a cosmetic giant...thoughts?" 
KJB

How many of you are already aware of the this happening in the past with other brands?  I can name several and it is surprising to me how many consumers are not aware of the changes within the brands they stand by and are loyal to.  I do not think they want you to know.  So let us talk about some examples and why it matters so much to us, as consumers of retail beauty products.

MAC, in 1996/97 a major portion of the brand was purchased by Estee Lauder for over 200 million.  Small brands need help because they grow to big for their bridges and need help with distribution.  Slowly the brand lost the characteristics that made it unique such as original colors and being a brand that was a GO TO for women of color.  Several makeup professionals and consumers have had to find a new brand because the quality of ingredients was reduced and pigment/color was diluted leaving wearers dissatisfied. or just settling because there were not other options.  The purpose of the formula changes, post buy out, was to widen profit margins for Lauder.  You cannot blame them, after all this is a business so they are just doing what they are supposed to, increase shareholders wealth.

SMASHBOX, recently they were purchased by Estee Lauder for approximately 300 million.  As of yet I am able to say that the ingredients and the products have not been compromised and I am happy to say that.  The owners of Smashbox would not sell to Lauder unless they signed an agreement that they would not change the formulas.  So it did work in SBX's and the creator has been able to retain his soul and his integrity. Go on EL's website and take a look at their list of brands.

BARE MINERALS, cannot say much for this brand except that Leslie Blodgett is a GENIUS at marketing.  So much so she has people who use BE selling it to each other in stores.  Now, why is she a genius?  She got women to make their makeup regime more difficult and messy and made them pay for it.  Leslie, where are you, I need you to convince the Feds to pay off all of our school loans. 
First, are you oily or very young?  No, then why are you wearing a powder?  Second, pressed mineral powders can be found anywhere, need a good one look at Studio Gear in ULTA, it is more portable and less messy AND you get better coverage.  So then why use loose powder?  In fact, BE agreed with this notion, so they have come out with their own line of PRESSED powders.  I thought LOOSE was the best, LESLIE.  They were purchased by Shiseido a great and well known skin care brand.  Smart purchase because they will continue to reap the profits of the incredible marketing campaigns which Leslie still manages. 
All I need to tell you is to read the "ingredients" and ask any associate about BE at a retail beauty store like Sephora or Ulta and ask them to tell you the truth and not what they are mandated to tell you to make sales goals for top selling brands like BE, MUFE, Laura Mercier, etc.  Even now so I am sure me talking about it is going to trigger some purchases.  There are brands struggling that offer the SAME product of incredibly better quality and has multiple uses and high grade minerals without talc however they do not have multi million dollar marketing budgets so you will never find out about them.   

So why should you care about this topic?  It is just makeup right?  Wrong, the items we purchase to adorn our faces are going directly on or around our skin, lips and eyes and ultimately into our blood stream.  In addition, you are being entranced by fancy packaging and delivery pumps.  I think it is worth a question or a little research before you spend your hard earned money on a product that has between a 50% to a 500% profit margin.

Check it out before you buy my beautiful ladies, we deserve the best.

So beauty consumers, what are your thoughts??

Matthew
LI Beauty Educator

Go Economic This Holiday Season - Give yourself the gift of savings thanks to Retail Beauty.

Good Morning LI Beauties,
 
I think we can all agree that this "upcoming" holiday season, and yes I say upcoming even though we are already seeing PRE-holiday movie marathons and christmas ornaments in stores, that most of us need to save money.  Well you are all in luck because the retail environment agrees as well, especially in cosmetics and I have witnessed first hand.
 
Here is the scoop so far.  Retail beauty has moved up the holiday gifts and promotions into October, so that means that all the stuff you normally buy after thanksgiving is available now and at the same prices minus the crowds.  Where do you ask?  Ulta and Sephora are both offering incredible gift sets, kits and holiday blockbusters to all who shop.  Retail rewards members receive even more perks so be sure to sign up for the stores FREE frequent shoppers programs.
 
My dear friend and national artist/spokesperson, Dean from Lorac is offering an incredible deal for anyone who loves silky, high qualilty natural eye shadow palettes in a set of 4.
 
 
NEW Lorac Sweet Temptations Eyeshadow Collection  $36.00 - Break this into 4 GIFTS - BEST DEAL THIS SEASON SO FAR!

 

Sweet Temptations Eyeshadow Collection Contains:

 

• Indulge In White Chocolate - Dramatic Eye Shadow Palette
• Satisfying Toffee Crunch - Natural Eye Shadow Palette
• Tease Me Truffles - Plum Eye Shadow Palette
• Tantalizing Dark Chocolate - Bronze Eye Shadow Palette   

 
 
 
For The Love Of Lipgloss 15-Piece Maracuja Lipgloss Collector's Set $32 ($7 Less Than Last Year!)
 
Break them into three gifts or combine with a Lorac palette above to create an eye/lip set!
 
A limited-edition exclusive "baby, it's bold outside" collector's set of 15 maracuja lip glosses by Tarte. Each gorgeous shade is packaged in 3 individual boxes to take the guess work out of gift-giving.  Plus they are healthy lip treatments to boot!

 

 

 

 

 

                ONLINE ONLY! NYX Nude On Nude Cosmetic Palette $24.99

 

Do not want to drop $50 big ones for the Urban Decay Naked Palettes?  No problem, get the NYX version at half the price and get more eye colors as well as a set of lip colors to go along as well.  In all truth there is not much difference and I prefer NYX professionally over Urband Decay any day.  We all know it comes from the same place but you choose, value or packaging?

 

NYX Nude on Nude set is a classy medley of 20 neutral eye shadows and 10 vibrant lip colors that work for every skin tone and every occasion. This makeup palette comes with a mirror and 2 applicators for your lips and eyes, making it perfectly portable.

 

 

 

 

 

 All these items can be found at your local ULTA retail beauty store or online and the moment are plentiful in stock however shoppers are aware and scooping them up and once they are done they are done till next year.  In addition, ULTA offers free shipping, $10 off promotions with orders over $60 and free samples with each order.  Take advantage now or go into your local ULTA (NYX Exclusive Only) or Sephora and check them out.

 

 





 

 

INTERVIEW: How To "Get the Job" Look

After consulting with some HR managers and business associates I have come to find that even before the interview begins, it can turn sour.  Have you ever had an incredible interview and not gotten the job or at least a call back?  There is a very good chance it was because of your appearance.  I myself have been turned down for jobs because I was not wearing a "name" brand suit. 

They can "shove it" and it was their loss.

I want to just throw a few items out there for you all to take in and consider next time you are on an interview.  I want you to think of the interview process as a first impression strategy.  We do not want to just barge in and blow them away we want to perform a covert operation and then let them have it.  One way of doing this is having a buttoned down appearance and giving them that professional WOW factor appearance.  Note, they do not expect this when you come into work everyday.  In an interview you are judged by not only your experience and skills but the way you make your first impression and present yourself.  So enough business chatter, let us talk beauty.

• Tattoos:  They need to be covered.  Many large corporations such as banks, insurance companies, marketing firms and even restaurant chains do not allow tattoos to show.   If you can hide your tattoos comfortably using clothing make sure you do it.  If they are on your hands, wrist, neck or any other area difficult to cover with clothing you will need to use makeup.  There are a few products out there that can cover and they are not very main stream so do not walk into a retail beauty environment expecting a miracle.  However, it is possible so there are no excuses.  I myself have a few techniques and have mastered the art so I am here for you ladies that need it.  See below.

 

• Complexion:  Clear and healthy skin represents energy and professionalism.  Be sure to wear the appropriate coverage for your skin concern needs.  If you have minor skin concerns such as a pimple hear or there, a concealer and tinted moisturizer will work great.  If you have moderate to major skin concerns such as hyper-pigmentation or surface redness you may need medium to full coverage, that does not mean you will have to look "heavy".  Add a touch of your favorite blush color on the cheeks to give you a rosy glow.

 

• Eyes:  Nude and natural with a thin line of black or brown pencil and some mascara.  Avoid using mascara on the bottom lash line as it is more appropriate for evening and more formal occasions, not professional attire and it can deepen the appearance of the eyes which you do not want for everyday.  Important note, stay away from shimmer and sparkles and no contour/dark color necessary.  We want bright ready to work eyes!!

• Lips:  Try to match the color of your lips to a lipstick as close as you possibly can.  The more natural the lip the softer and more professional your appearance and you look still look incredible and your lips fully defined.

 

• Hair, I am not an expert but I know the Diana Ross or Lady Gaga look is not a good idea.  A french twist or pony tail would work fine.  Keep the hair out of your face so they see that eager, flawless and naturally beautiful face. 

 

That is the key.  The more natural you look when wearing makeup the better.  As I always say, it is about balance.  That is what beauty really is, all things working harmoniously

together to create one stunning appearance.

A little side not from my business background: 

Have a written list of questions ready to go and research the company online and learn the history.  Ask away as it is an impressive action to show them you are serious and you want to grow with them.  You are an investment to them so the last thing they want is turnover because it is costly and time consuming to recruit.

Questions you can ask are:

1. What type of benefit package does the organization offer and furthermore if you are living with your significant other do they offer domestic partnership benefits?
2. Does the company offer a retirement savings program?
3. Does the company offer any community volunteering or networking opportunities to meet and mingle with fellow co-workers? 
4. What are the opportunities for upward growth and what programs are available to help you get there?

If you have any questions I am always here for you.  I understand this process well as a product of the poor economic environment and being let go from my two jobs where I was fully vested, twice now.

Love,

Matthew Ambrosio
LI Beauty Educator, Professional MUA & MBA Graduate