Nashville Makeup Artist | Amy Lynn Larwig » product review

Get NAKED, the palette that is- Nashville Makeup Artist

Amy Lynn — Tue, 24 Jan 2012 15:56:30 +0000

Every now and then a product is released that pushes me to rethink my own makeup routine. Even the makeup artist can get in a makeup rut at times! The NAKED palette has totally revamped my morning face time. Urban Decay has put together twelve universally flattering neutrals in various textures ranging from glittery to matte. The shades begin with a soft cream and end up with a sultry black, and everything in between. All the shades work well together or on their own and they blend seamlessly. The NAKED palette comes with a fun case complete with inside mirror, eyeshadow brush, and travel size Eyeshadow Primer Potion. It’s nearly impossible to snag this palette since it is in such high demand, so if you see one on Sephora’s shelf or on UrbanDecay.com, grab it quick!

*The NAKED Palette does not come with the 24/7 eye pencil shown, but instead with the Good Karma eye brush

Brands- Nashville Makeup Artist

Amy Lynn — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 18:22:50 +0000

I always like to ask my clients about their normal, everyday makeup routine before I get started making their faces super fab. Majority of the time, the women I work with are used to choosing their products from Target or Walgreens and are easily sold on CoverGirl ads of Taylor Swift. I believe that when you find a product you love, you should stick to it, regardless of where it came from or how much it costs. But I do want to make mention of a few cosmetic lines you may be overlooking.

Tarte- Beauty products that pack a punch, but are still green, safe & healthy. Available online or at Sephora, you won’t be disappointment in their performance for your everyday makeup. Intro product: LipSurgence

Urban Decay- Makeup with spunk. UD has some unique items that will open new doors for your morning routine. Also available online or at Sephora, they are high pigment colors with pizzaz and products that address everyday issues such as eyecolor creasing. Intro product: The Naked Palette. A palette so fantastic, I’m devoting an entire blog post to it next week.

Dior- When you think luxury, you think Dior. These products are amazing quality and prefect for the girl who wants a couture look, even when she’s just going grocery shopping. Found online, at Sephora, or at department stores, this is a brand that oozes lavishness and boasts products that merge beauty and fashion. Intro product: DiorShow mascara

So step out of the Maybelline box ladies and start exploring other lines that may have your next all time fav waiting for you!

The perfect Christmas gift!- Nashville Makeup Artist

Amy Lynn — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 16:16:54 +0000

We all have one of THOSE ladies in our life. The lady who has everything. She’s impossible to buy for because anything she wants, she buys herself. But I can promise you there are a few beauty items that she doesn’t have, or can’t possibly have too many of.

Lip balm- Everyone needs several lip balms. One will either get lost, melt in the car, or run through the washing machine. If you only own one, you are left without protection for your pretty pucker. And with this cold, protection is mandatory. So multiple lip balms are great to stash various places. I love Burt’s Bees Lip Balm. It’s simple, slightly minty, and keeps lips soft. Another favorite is Rosebud Salve in minted rose. A little glossy, with a fresh scent.

Mascara- Considering you switch out mascara every three months, you really can never have a big enough stock. And this year, Sephora has come up with a brilliant gift set to allow for trying several mascaras in 2012. The Sephora Lashstash includes TEN mascaras from various lines so that lovely lady can try them all and pick a favorite!

Glam Sessions- I saved the best for last. Everyone needs a cosmetic revamp now and then. Glam Sessions are one-on-one makeup lessons to teach you how to create the look you’re seeking. We begin a Glam Session by examining the cosmetics you already have and determining if they are the best fit for your needs. We then discuss adding new products that will benefit your personal kit. I teach you step by step how to apply cosmetics in the way best suited for you to achieve your own unique look. You leave your Glam Session with a customized face chart, a cosmetics shopping list, and a new sense of confidence! Time: 1-1.5 hours. Gift certificates are available!

Here are some images from Glam Sessions past. Each person had different makeup goals and each left with a clear understanding of how to achieve them.

To book one for that hard to buy for lady, or for yourself, email info@amylynnlarwig.com or call 615-210-2861.

Happy Holidays Friends!

I’m thankful for…

Amy Lynn — Wed, 23 Nov 2011 18:52:22 +0000

So I know I haven’t blogged in a LONG time. But I’ll spare you the excuses. I thought it’d be nice to share some of my all time favorite products that I am so thankful for!

1- Origins Checks & Balances cleanser. Never has a cleanser been able to zap my oil, hydrate my dry spots, and lick every ounce of makeup off all in one sudsy wash. Plus, it has no scary junk in it. Perfect for all of us “in between” skin types.
2- Coconut Oil. It’s SO WONDERFUL for my legs after a shave. Or right before bed on my hands and feet. I smell delicious, it soaks right in, and it heals so well.
3- My scrubby brush. I don’t even know the technical name for this thing, but it has made my skin brighter and more even because of its gentle exfoliation.
4- Armani Luminous Silk Foundation. I hate to admit I love this so much. I’m a big advocate for natural foundations, but this one has such a beautiful radiant finish, I can’t help but crave it. Gives your skin a healthy glow and covers all the uglies.
5- Urban Decay Naked Palette. So many universal neutral shades! Everything from super nude, so dark & glam. I use it almost daily.

There are so many products that I am thankful for, of course, but listing them all would take all day. And I have collard greens to cook! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

What’s In My Beach (makeup) Bag- Nashville Makeup Artist

Amy Lynn — Wed, 24 Aug 2011 14:00:30 +0000

This week I am heading to the beach for some seriously needed vacation time! But being at the beach means some crucial changes in my makeup routine. Here are my must haves for staying fresh on summer vacay.

1- Sunscreen. Duh. I use Alba Fragrance Free sunblock. It’s a natural product sure to keep the sun’s harmful rays at bay, without the worry of harsh chemicals.

2- ELF waterproof mascara. It’s pretty rare that we need waterproof mascara. But the beach is one of those times when it’s mandatory. Just don’t worry about spending a ton of money on it, since after your vacay you’ll probably chuck it anyway. You just need enough to coat your lashes, without looking overly glammed.

3- Make Up For Ever Aqua Cream. This eye color is ideal for those beachy nights, sitting on a restaurant deck with a cocktail. It gives you a bit of waterproof shimmery color that is virtually unmovable. I like #13 Warm Beige for day time and #2 Steel for night.

4- Cheek color is totally optional on the beach. Your skin should have a natural flush, so for some it may be overkill. But for others who can’t live without something gracing their apples, try Tarte Matte Waterproof Mineral Powder Bronzer. It gives a sunshiney glow, without the chunky sparkles found in many other bronzers. And, it’s waterproof!

5- Josie Maran Magic Marker Lip & Cheek Stain. A pop of color that doesn’t budge. Just make sure there is no dry skin on your lips before applying.

6- Beach hat and towel. I make sure to wear my big floppy hat to protect my face, and to look super cute. An extra hand towel is also handy to cover my face when I’m lying down and the hat is too large for comfort.

7- Kevin Murphy Hair Resort. Looking for perfect beach hair? This is it. Just scrunch it in when your hair is damp and viola! instant waves and a strong hold. No stringy mess here. And no need for hot tools. It also comes in a spray.

8- Extra ponytail holders. When a big wave sends you tumbling, you don’t want to be left with your hair all over the place. Bring some extra holders for a quick side braid when the water gets rough.

9- I really believe in letting your skin breathe when you are out on the beach with no foundations or powders. But if you do have a pesky zit pop up that absolutely cannot be seen in public, Makeup Forever Full Cover is a waterproof concealer that will hide that baby all day. Ideally though, you’ll let the clean air and salt water use its healing properties on your skin instead of trying to cover it up.

10- Water. Please stay hydrated! Heat stroke = not cute. So no matter how glamorous you look, the minute you get over heated, so amount of makeup will bring you back. So drink up!

I plan to return refreshed and full of sunshine! See you next week!

Summa Time!- Nashville Makeup Artist

Amy Lynn — Tue, 24 May 2011 21:46:46 +0000

Well, the weather is definitely starting to warm up! And that means it’s time to revamp your cosmetic bag! There are some key things to keep in mind when warming your face up for summer.

1- Make sure your foundation still matches. A white winter face on a tan body is not cute. You could also switch to a tinted moisturizer to cut back on the heaviness and let that pretty skin show through. Try Laura Mercier’s oil free tinted moisturizer.

2- Work with products that blend into the skin. As you sweat, you don’t want loose powders sliding down your face. Creams tend to have a second skin look and hold a lot more solidly. Makeup Forever’s HD blush is phenomenal. Try Mandarin or Coral for a fresh cheek. For eyes, use Aqua Cream by Makeup Forever for a long lasting, waterproof pop of color.

3- Use a good exfoliator to get all the winter time gunk off. I love Origins Modern Friction.

4- SPF!!!!! Protect that pretty skin EVERY time you are out in the sun. No excuses! Try Kiss My Face Face Factor.

Enjoy the summer!

The Makeup Show Recap- Nashville Makeup Artist

Amy Lynn — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 23:48:11 +0000

This past weekend I had the opportunity to attend The Makeup Show LA. This show is a trade show, complete with workshops and seminars specifically for makeup artists. It was definitely a jam-packed experience, so I’ll just recap a few highlights.
Obviously, the stars of the show were all the various product vendors. Any girl would have been in heaven with the abundance of colors and sparklies in that room. But there were some vendors that really stood out for me. Of course, there are my old favorites, Makeup Forever and Smashbox. Their products never fail me and I definitely spent a lot of time at their booths stocking up on their superstar items such as Smashbox’s Halo Powder and MUFE’s HD foundation. Some vendors I had not been introduced to before the show also impressed me. Bdellium brushes really stole my heart. Soft bristles, solid handles, and cruelty free! LA based Nigel’s Beauty Emporium also had a fantastic deal on eyelashes. And we all know what a fan I am of lashes!

The seminars were incredibly information and entertaining. In Lori Taylor’s “California Gold” seminar, she demoed some of Smashbox’s bronzing products and created a fantastic golden look. MUFE’s “HD for All” showed off their HD line, and explained the technology behind the products. And of course Michael Devellis did a wonderful job in “Marketing Your Career Now” of talking through some do’s and don’t of online marketing.

But the highlight of the weekend for me was meeting some of the makeup artists who truly inspire my work. Sharon Gault, who has worked with Uma Thurman & Madonna to name only a smidgen of her celebrity clientele, passed out plenty of hugs and encouraging words. James Vincent, producer of the show and incredible editorial/fashion makeup artist was around the whole weekend for questions. But I was lucky enough to meet the master himself: Billy b. * swoon * When I caught a glimpse of him, my knees went weak and the butterflies were creating a tornado in my gut. Billy b is currently Lady GaGa’s makeup artist. He has worked with Cindy Crawford, Keri Hilson, Sharon Stone, and so many other big names. Each look he creates is breathtaking and he is absolutely a genius. After about an hour of chickening out when attempting to introduce myself, I finally mustered up the courage and did, through a shaky voice. He was such a doll and I was so honored to be able to tell him how much I admire his work.

(Here is my creeper picture I snuck of Billy b. He’s the one in the glasses.)
The Makeup Show was excellent and I am so excited to bring home new tricks and ideas for future work. So brace yourselves for some pretty electrifying new work from this girl.

CoverBlend Review- Nashville Makeup Artist

Amy Lynn — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 18:20:29 +0000

I recently had the privilege to try some CoverBlend products out, thanks to my new friend, Michelle at The Neostrata Company. I quite enjoyed them and have integrated some into my personal routine.

Exxuviance Skin Caring Foundation- This foundation is very light. I didn’t care for it because it felt slightly watery. But it would work well for someone looking for a lighter liquid. It’s anti-aging and has an SPF 15!

CoverBlend Concealing Treatment Makeup- Nice coverage, but definitely not for the faint of heart. This stuff is heavier and for those who want to hide their imperfections. Has good staying power as well. And SPF 20!

CoverBlend Multi-Function Concealer- This was my fav. It has nice day to day coverage and is versatile. I’m used to using 2 concealers: one for eyes, one for zits. This one works well for both. It stays put and covers really well. I’m using it daily!

Summer Time Beauty- Nashville Makeup Artist

Amy Lynn — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 14:19:10 +0000

I spent a day at the beach last weekend and while there, was watching all the bikini clad girls laying out on their towels, lathering on sunscreen every half hour or so. I was doing the same and occasionally stepping knee deep into the water. It was an absolutely perfect beach day, with a cool breeze and right at 85 degrees. Beachy waves in hair, SPF on face, and aqua colored toes in sand. But not all summer days are so perfect. Here in Nashville, we can expect temperatures in the upper 90s during parts of the summer. So how is a girl supposed to maintain a perfectly summer look, in blasting heat and humidity?

Tip #1- forget the foundation. Your lovely full coverage matte foundation is no match for the 100 degree heat index. Unless you are doing constant touchups, it is going to get shiny and heavy pretty quickly. Besides, a heavy foundation just doesn’t say “summer”. Try a tinted moisturizer, such as Laura Mercier Oil Free Tinted Moisturizer. Apply with a brush or finger tips. Not wanting to purchase a new product? Mix a drop of your normal foundation with your moisturizer and BLEND.

Tip #2- lip stain. You want your lips to have a hint of color, not a full matte lipstick. Lipstick is too heavy for summer and will not wear well with all that watermelon you’ll be eating. Try Tarte Natural Lip Stain. it has Sephora’s Natural Seal and comes in so many juicy colors.

Tip #3- waterproof mascara. I think this goes without explanation. Raccoon eyes are NOT cute. Even a cheap mascara like ELF Mascara Duo will get you through the summer smudge free.

Tip #4- cheeks. How gross is it to see pink streaky blush after you’ve been sweating at a cookout? Ugh. Try a cheek stain or cream blush. Just a small dab on the apples and blend up and out. Maybelline Dream Mousse Blush is a good try. If you want to indulge a bit, go for Make Up For Ever’s HD Microfinish Blush: GREAT COLORS.

Keep things weightless and your summer look will carry you through until Labor Day. And remember your SPF!

Mario Badescu Review- Nashville Makeup Artist

Amy Lynn — Sun, 13 Jun 2010 21:40:54 +0000

Ok, so this is the final review in the series. That was a lot of goodies to go through!

Oil Free Moisturizer SPF 17- I like that it has an SPF. It feels light and goes under makeup well. Soaks into my skin with no residue. But this moisturizer has parabens in it, which is a no-no for me.

Control Moisturizer for Oily Skin- This one blended very well into my skin, but left a funny film on top, which would flake off if I touched it. It didn’t do much for oil control, honestly. It was a nice moisturizer, but has parabens also. Yuck!

Ceramide Eye Cream- It’s hard to review eye creams, because I feel like they take time to really work. This one is a goopy green, but is soft going on. Did make a slight difference in puffiness on my tired mornings. It does make my eyeliner smudge a bit, since it’s so moisturizing. It’s got the parabens too though.

So that is my review of all the Mario Badescu products that came in my free skin care packet! So go get some to try!