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Who gets ready before they work out? (Some of you are raising your hand.. you know it!) Here are 3 super easy hair tutorials that make you LOOK like you took some time to get ready, but didnt! Win win! hurray.

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Enjoy the video & lemme know if you have any questions!!!
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pin me!! 

QUESTION 

I know that there are eyelashes that are made with "real hair" (vs. synthetic), BUT when it comes to the glue... I noticed that most, if not all, contain formaldehyde or some other variation of a similar chemical.

OK, so: what brand/kind of eyelashes do you recommend. And what eyelash glue do you recommend. And where can we find them? :)  Nancy Ashmoz

ANSWER 

Your question is an excellent one and something we had to find as professional makeup artists, because we do have to apply falsies on set quite often.

You're right that most eyelash glues contain formaldehyde, so when we saw in trade pubs about a year ago that a Japanese company had applied for a patent on a formaldehyde free lash glue we were excited that it was the beginning of a trend.

But in our line of work, we don't have time to wait for product development and needed something now....so what were we to do???

We hunted down the safest glue we could find, and what we came up with was the following set from Urban Decay.  We don't have any affiliation with them, but are sharing an honest opinion of what we've found as the safest option for false eyelash glue.

We contacted Urban Decay to learn more about their product and formulation and the one thing we really liked was that their glue is latex free.  That's a huge plus, especially when someone can develop a sudden allergic reaction to latex, which can be very serious. We'd feel awful about harming anyone (and we'd probably never work again either if people's eyes swelled shut after we did their makeup!)

As for the ingredients in their glue, they only use 2 ingredients: Acrylate Copolymer and Water.  That's it.  All the data we reviewed on acrylate copolymer seems to check out as safe for use in cosmetics.  So we applaud Urban Decay for that.

You mentioned synthetic or "real" hair, and one thing we see as another plus is that their lashes are cruelty free, which means they are synthetic.  We actually really like the look, feel and performance of their lashes.

So what don't we like about this product? 

The one thing we don't like is that you can only get their glue in a tiny tube that comes with a pair of lashes--ugh.  That's frustrating...and we asked them if that would be changing, they replied that it wasn't in the works.  :(  So, big bummer on that.  We do like the lashes, but don't like being forced to buy them when all we might need is the glue.

Another thing we need to add is that we can't endorse Urban Decay's entire line, so be sure to watch their ingredient decks closely.

TO PURCHASE

Video EASY STEPS TO APPLY FALSE LASHES

We'd love to hear your comments, feedback and how well you like them if you try them or end up trying them!

xox

Laurie & Tiffany

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LINK in this video:

Andalou Organics Hair Spray: http://bit.ly/HtBrEZ

Music in this video:
The Mollies, "I'm Sorry But This is a Love Song"
www.molliesmusic.com
www.myspace.com/themolliesmusic
www.facebook.com/TheMollies

We've seen all kinds of posts and videos on how to block out the brows, and some are a little scary.  This is a tried and true method that's been used by professional makeup artists for years.  And we like that we can use safe products to make it happen!  

We've had a lot of questions from viewers who have seen other methods and had a hard time making them work.  So I'll explain our perspective on each of the following methods and how well we think they work and why we favor the soap scum version which we show in the video:

MOST COMMON WAYS TO PROFESSIONALLY BLOCK OUT THE BROWS

1.  SOAP SCUM 

This is the method we demonstrate in this video and we think it's the safest, simplest and most effective way to block out the brows completely.  As you'll see in the video, layering it in thin layers is one of the tricks to making this technique look amazing every time.    We also layer it with morticians wax, which can be purchased at a theatrical supply store or online, and is very cheap.  Again, it just takes thin layers.  We don't recommend mustache wax or molding wax, because they don't blend in as well.  I think the secret to morticians wax is that it is a very pliable wax that melts slightly at body temperature, making it blend into the skin beautifully.

2.  SPIRIT GUM

We don't have a problem with spirit gum as it is a natural adhesive, which comes from tree sap.  It can be used in layering, but is harder to get off, a lot messier, and we've heard from actors who have had bad experiences with makeup artists getting it in their eyes, either during application or removal.  That's a little scary.  So overall, we feel it is an okay option, but needs to be administered really carefully and once you've used the soap scum method it just really doesn't seem necessary at all.

3.  LATEX

This method is our least favorite because of the potential problems with latex.  We've seen some actors swell up instantly with latex application because of an allergic reaction.  Most people don't know if they are allergic to it until after a bad reaction, so theres always a concern.  You can smell the strong ammonia in latex as soon as you open a container because the ammonia content in the formulation is so high.  Another concern with latex on the brows, is that if a good barrier isn't laid down first, it will literally rip the brow hair right off.  And yes, we've heard horror stories from actors who have had that happen.  So for those reasons, we avoid this method completely.

4.  GLUE STICK

This is a new method that appears all over youtube, but we've never seen it used in a professional makeup trailer.  One thing that happens to MU artists all the time is either the director throws something at us or for some reason we have to invent something on the spot... a glue stick seems like one of those make-shift ideas that someone came up with in desperation.  Sometimes those inventions out of desperation are the best, but, unfortunately, we don't think this is one of those cases.  We actually tried it on a makeup to see how well it worked.  We liked the idea that it was non-toxic, but when it came to performance we weren't impressed at all.  It is actually too tacky and doesn't dry or change in tackiness, making it hard to smooth and layer.  It actually was way too thick. By comparison, with soap scum, as you keep working it (like in the video) it starts drying and thickening so you can smooth it down flat...but with a gluestick, it just added bulk, so the brows were hard to visibly erase and too gooey to cover well.  So our vote for this option is a big thumbs down.

Enjoy and please let us know if you'd like to see the makeup tutorial for the look in this video!  In the mean time, stay safe!  :)    

xox 

Laurie

My daughter and I have severe dry scalp. We have been to the dermatologist with no results. We have been using DermOrganics Shampoo and Masque. Added Flax seed and Omega oil to our diet. We have even used Teatree and Olive oil as a treatment directly on our scalps. Our hair is healthier and looks great however we are still suffering from dry and flaky scalp and I mean dry, itchy and irritated to the point of sores. Any other suggestions? My daughter is 12 and going to Middle school this year and would love to get some relief for her that wont pump her growing body full of chemicals... 
P.S. We love logging in and following Natures Knockout. Thank You!
Sue and Lala

Thanks so much, and it sounds like you're doing a lot of things right.  We may be able to give you a few more suggestions, but if there is a medical condition, you may need to see another doctor for another opinion.

That said, here are our thoughts..

The scalp needs moisture, and we feel there are a couple of different ways to approach that, through the body and through direct application to the scalp.

Hydrating from the inside-out  :)

Chances are the entire body would benefit from more moisture.   The first thing everyone will recommend is drinking more water.  We agree, but also feel that water itself can be drying, so in order to get the most benefit, we add the healthy fats to our diet every time we eat (avocados, extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, flaxseed oil)...  but that's still not enough.  We also make sure that the bulk of our diet includes lots of organic fruits and vegetables.  They will help tremendously to hydrate the body internally as well.

Make sure to add additional vitamin E to the diet.

Take Omega 3 fatty acids daily

Take additional Black Current Oil (or tablets) daily

Are you dehydrating your body? :(

Another thing some people over look are the things that they may be doing to dehydrate the body....caffeine, alcohol, and chemicals are big offenders.  They have been shown to dehydrate everything, including the brain and should be eliminated from the diet as soon as possible.  While you're at it, eliminating chemicals from the diet in general can help a great deal in nutrient and moisture absorption.

Since water is dehydrating, avoid swimming, unless using a swim cap (not cute, we know, but...we're talking about how to avoid dehydrating the body, right? :)

Also washing the hair too often can be a culprit in dehydration, so try skipping an extra day or two and see if that makes a difference.

Also, environmental factors can play a huge roll in the health of the scalp and hair.  If you live in a dry climate, it's important to protect yourself from the elements as much as possible.  Wearing hats with a sunscreen protection is very helpful.  I wear hats every time I know I'll be out in the sun and there are some pretty cute ones out there (yay!)  But it seriously can make a difference.

If you're in a dry climate, adding a humidifier to your home or bedroom can help a greta deal too.

Another thing--is your water hard?  You'd be surprised what a difference a water softener can add to helping maintain the moisture in the hair.

Here's an excellent tip that Leah Nyenhuis wrote when I posted this on our facebook page,  "I just put a water filter attachment to my shower head and have noticed significant improvement to my itchy scalp!"

And of course, lay off on heat to the scalp and hair, especially blow drying :(  Yeah, bummer, but it's true and will make a big difference.  If you need to blow dry the hair on occasion, make sure to not direct heat onto the scalp.  Also use a safe heat protectant prior to applying any heat.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Extra Virgin Olive oil is a wonderful conditioner for the hair and body--from the inside and outside.  Make sure it's a part of your diet every day.  For the hair specifically, it conditions it and adds shine, and we'll share some tips on how to apply it topically as well for amazing hydration, shine, and conditioning.

Hydrating from the outside-in :)

Massage extra virgin olive oil into your scalp and hair and cover with a shower cap (the monounsaturated fatty acids will help protect the hair and scalp, making hair more shiny, while nourishing hair and scalp at the same time) leave it in for up to a couple of hours and then wash with a safe shampoo (of course!)   Psssst, while we're here, check out our  I-spy and chemical spy sections of our website to help understand why this is so important.  But in a nutshell, make sure your shampoo has no sulphates, or fragrances, which are especially drying.

Other highly effective conditioners that could be added to the above olive oil treatment:

Treatment cream - this one is particularly good for the itching and sores

Shea Butter

Vitamin E

Jojoba Oil

Coconut oil

Other Deep Conditioners we like:

Treatment Conditioner

Wellness Conditioner

Treatment Conditioner for dry damaged hair

ONE MORE TIP

After conditioning, rinsing and towel drying hair, you can spritz pure aloe vera juice (no sugar of course :)  onto the scalp as a leave on conditioner.  It can be purchased at a health food store and poured into a spritz container.

OOPS, I LIED--I GUESS THERE IS ONE MORE TIP I HAVE TO SHARE!

OKAY, I will make this one quick, I promise, but this is really important.  Since your scalp is causing you so much frustration, this is super important.  We talked about not washing it as much, but the other thing is to remember the importance of protecting the scalp from the drying effects of water.  So each time you immerse it in water, make sure to coat it with a protective oil (like I mentioned above) before applying any water.  This will act as a barrier and help protect the delicate skin.

Whew, okay, this time we are done.  We've covered a lot of territory, but you should be able to find some things that can make a big difference for you.  Keep us posted, we'd love to hear what works for you and especially what works well!

xox

Laurie

Who doesnt love a snazzy braid? gets ya out the door in minutes & looks impossible... yet its so easy! mwahah.. our favorite looks to do!

So "The hunger Games" has some nifty braids we thought we help recreate! Cant french braid? no fear.. theres also an alternative! Enjoy & please share!

GO TO VIDEO TUTORIAL HERE

LIKE IT? Pin It!!! 

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Not sure which natural products will work on your hair with this look?

Try these......

This natural hair paste will go GREAT with curly OR straight!.

For Curly hair

For straight hair
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For kids

Too Short of hair for this look? Go here!

And if/when you do this look on yourself, we'd love to see!  Tweet or tag us!!  

xo

Tiffany

We kind of pride ourselves on being positive--well, for trying anyway.  

So that said, in the industry we work in, we see lots of no no's, and we always like to take a positive approach, but how do you do that when you start with a title that say's "no no" right off the bat?  ugh.  

Well, actually, when we thought it through and rationalized the heck out if it, we decided that by pointing out the "no no's" (that we have actually seen) we can enlighten and inspire you to do better!  So this is a terribly positive video if you really think it through long and hard enough.

xox

Laurie & Tiffany

Enjoy and share it with anyone who cares--we are on the road to doing better--YAY!  

Adele Someone Like You - Hair (get the look, one way or another! :)

After getting several requests for the hair on Adele in "Someone Like You", Tiffany and I watched the video (loved it of course!) and both had different takes on how to get her look.

That's not uncommon for different stylists to have different approaches to get the same look, but in this case, the lighting was dim, and it was shot in black and white, so it showed very little detail.

 So we laughed at how different our perspectives were, and thought, what the heck :) let's do both!  

So, Tiff's is an awesome wear and go style and mine is more elegant and sleek--in fact mine is almost a little 60's retro, but both are super stylish and totally different twists.  So whatever you are in the mood for, we think we've hit it :)  And we think you'll like them both!

So, here is LAURIE'S ADELE "SOMEONE LIKE YOU" LOOK

And here is TIFFANY'S ADELE "SOMEONE LIKE YOU" HAIR 

"Bump it Naturally" Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xckbhgL1e2Y
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Natural Hairspray: http://bit.ly/zBcEev

Music in this video:
The Mollies, "One To Ten"
www.molliesmusic.com
www.myspace.com/themolliesmusic
www.facebook.com/TheMollies

For lyrics lovers
"Someone Like You" Adele

I heard that you're settled down
That you found a girl and you're married now.
I heard that your dreams came true.
Guess she gave you things I didn't give to you.

Old friend, why are you so shy?
Ain't like you to hold back or hide from the light.

I hate to turn up out of the blue uninvited
But I couldn't stay away, I couldn't fight it.
I had hoped you'd see my face and that you'd be reminded
That for me it isn't over.

Never mind, I'll find someone like you
I wish nothing but the best for you too
Don't forget me, I beg
I remember you said,
"Sometimes it lasts in love but sometimes it hurts instead,
Sometimes it lasts in love but sometimes it hurts instead, "
Yeah

You know how the time flies
Only yesterday was the time of our lives
We were born and raised
In a summer haze
Bound by the surprise of our glory days

I hate to turn up out of the blue uninvited
But I couldn't stay away, I couldn't fight it.
I'd hoped you'd see my face and that you'd be reminded
That for me it isn't over.

Never mind, I'll find someone like you
I wish nothing but the best for you too
Don't forget me, I beg
I remember you said,
"Sometimes it lasts in love but sometimes it hurts instead."
Yeah

Nothing compares
No worries or cares
Regrets and mistakes
They are memories made.
Who would have known how bittersweet this would taste?

Never mind, I'll find someone like you
I wish nothing but the best for you
Don't forget me, I beg
I remember you said,
"Sometimes it lasts in love but sometimes it hurts instead."

Never mind, I'll find someone like you
I wish nothing but the best for you too
Don't forget me, I beg
I remember you said,
"Sometimes it lasts in love but sometimes it hurts instead,
Sometimes it lasts in love but sometimes it hurts instead."
Yeah

PLEASE tweet or tag us with pictures of you trying these looks--we love seeing them (and sharing them if you like :)  

xox

Laurie