..::BeautiLicious::..

Today's focus: Lips!

I can't speak for everyone but I know that often times I don't pay as much attention to my lips as I should.

Of course I apply moisturizer before going out - but they've gone weeks w.o. exfoliation.

NO BUENO!

Just as our skin needs daily exfoliation, primarily for the removal of dead skin cells - Do keep in mind that your lips need the same exact treatment. ..Especially seeing as though it is seen by EVERYONE that you come in contact with. [I always look at a person's lips - so the nerve of me for putting this off] lol.

How does one know when exfoliation is needed?

Well for one, your lip gloss won't last as long as it usually does. The dead skin - which will more than likely be dry is sucking up all of the moisture.

The Trick?!

Pour a little bit of sugar into your hand - Grab your tooth brush, wet it and coat the bristles w. sugar. Once you've done this, gently scrub both lips w. the sugar.

After you've used up all of the sugar, rinse your brush and then add toothpaste as if you were going to brush your teeth - of course instead of your teeth - you're going to brush your lips.

BRUSH GENTLY!!

The dead skin will soften and tear and if you brush too hard the fresh layer underneath will tear and your lips will be sore. [speaking from experience]

Once you're done scrubbing - rinse and pat dry.

You will definitely notice and feel the difference.

Apply Gloss and Go! :-*

-xoxo

Click-Flash!

Curious as to how celebs manage to take great pics?!

Here are a few tips provided by Cosmopolitan.com and Davis Factor [celebrity fashion photographer] on how to take a smoking hot shot!

• First off, you want to Pay attention to lighting! Standing behind the sun or away from overhead lights will prevent shadows from appearing on your face, particularly underneath the eyes. ..And make sure to tilt your head just a smidgen to minimize any casts.
• Secondly, Stand Tall! [and look thin]. If you stand up straight and turn slightly to the side so that one shoulder is a bit closer to the camera, you'll appear taller and leaner. [that's always a plus - no?]

This next tip is great for us ladies w. height who have shorter friends :)

• More than likely when your picture is being taken by someone shorter than you - the lens will be below your eye level, therefore creating an extra chin :-\. To avoid this - simply project your chin out a lil more than you normally would.

Now, I have oily skin - which is both great and horrible lol.

• When it comes to taking pictures - Remember! you want to be glowy - NOT greasy. If you too have oily skin - applying a makeup primer under your foundation will keep your complexion matte. & this is great since the flash of the camera amplifies any shine that you have on your face.

And lastly...

• Widen your eyes and say Cheese! ...wide eyes [not bulging out of their sockets wide lol] are very attractive as well as a very natural, relaxed and bright smile. Practicing your smile in the mirror may sound a bit weird but it works. - you should see before we do, what works and what doesn't. lol.

I hope these are helpful :)

-xoxo