Halle Berry shares some beauty tips

 

If you're looking for tips on how to spruce up your African American skin care routine for the summer, who better to turn to than the lovely Halle Berry? The actress recently spoke to Stylelist and told the news source her secrets for looking great in warm weather, even when you are crushed for time.

First, the information provider asked Berry what her five minute beauty routine is. She said that the two things she never leaves the house without are face powder and a little color on the lips, which is a quick way to keep your face fresh. Next, the actress shared the biggest makeup lesson she's learned over the years.

"What I’ve learned is that makeup starts with a good base. You have to find a foundation that completely matches your skin tone, so you don’t have a different color face and body; something that’s light, oil-free and doesn’t feel too heavy. Everything else you can add, like an eye and mouth, but you have to get a good base," Berry said, quoted by the news source.

Marie Claire Magazine also reported on the actress' beauty routine, and said that one of her secrets is that she always exfoliates and rubs pure vitamin C on her African American skin before moisturizing. 

Steel Magnolias will be re-made with an African American cast

 

Deadline Hollywood recently reported that Queen Latifah, Alfre Woodard, Phylicia Rashad, Jill Scott, Adepero Oduye and Condola Rashad will be the cast of a re-make of Steel Magnolias, a classic movie about the bond of sisterhood.

The new version of the movie will appear on the Lifetime channel, according to media reports.

"The caliber of talent associated with this film is astounding and falls in line with our strategy to make Lifetime a first stop for the industry’s best both in front of and behind the camera," said Lifetime’s president and general manager Nancy Dubuc, quoted by the news source.

This means that the ladies may be preparing themselves for the screen with stringent skin care routines. Queen Latifah recently told the lifestyle blog Style Goes Strong that this consists of just scrubbing the skin gently with water and baking soda.

Such a simple routine may not be effective on everyone. For these women, the best African American skin care may help even out the complexion and fade any dark spots on black skin.

 

Octavia Spencer's makeup withstands teary Oscar acceptance speech

 

Perhaps the only thing more captivating than Octavia Spencer's performance in The Help was the emotion and sincerity behind her acceptance speech for the best supporting actress award at the 2012 Oscars - not to mention that her flawless makeup managed to stay put during her teary dedication.

So, what kind of African American skin products was she wearing? Essence magazine spoke with Spencer's makeup artist Valerie Noble on how she achieved the fabulous look.

"We used two different foundations and just blended it. I do the same with the powder - I use one that’s a little bit lighter on the T-zone and darker around the jaw line," said Noble, quoted by the news source.

In order to highlight Spencer's cheekbones, Noble instructed the actress to make a "fish face" before sweeping a dark pink blush on the apples of her cheeks.

Let's not forget about Spencer's gorgeous gown, which the Huffington Post reports was designed by Tadashi Shoji. The sparkly silver gown had a cap sleeve and was ruched at the bodice for a flattering silhouette. 

Esperanza Spalding may single-handedly bring the Afro back

 

Singer and bassist Esperanza Spalding has long been a proponent of natural African American hair, routinely sporting a full kinky-curly 'do. But when she stepped onto the red carpet at the 2012 Oscars, she stunned in a different look which could be described as a modern take on an Afro.

The juxtaposition between her voluminous hair and her sleek, baby blue gown was perhaps one of the more memorable looks from this year's Academy Awards.

To top it all off, Spalding gave a flawless performance of Louis Armstrong's What A Wonderful World during the show's In Memoriam segment.

The singer wisely kept her makeup look simple with a sweep of black liquid eyeliner and raspberry-toned lipstick. She also looks as though she has little more than a sweep of bronzer on her cheekbones to accentuate her mocha complexion.

Ladies looking for a face as flawless as Spalding's may want to look into skin care for black women that contains antioxidant-rich ingredients and hyaluronic acid, which helps gently brighten and even out skin tone. 

How does Kim Kardashian get her glow? With foundation primer

 

Ever wish your brown skin care products could transform you into Kim Kardashian or one of the many other beautiful celebrities that you see on the covers of magazines and on TV? Well, while your makeup may not put you in the magazines, there are certainly tips and tricks you can take from celebs that may help your skin look camera-ready.

According to The Daily Mail, the secret behind Kardashian's glowing skin is foundation primer. The news source published a picture of the star with yellow primer all over her face. This product is used underneath foundation to help even out the color of your skin.

Oprah Magazine offers some tips for how to apply cosmetic primer.

"A light gel or lotion, primer makes foundation go on more evenly and last longer by creating a smooth base for the pigment to adhere to. Massage a pea-size amount onto your face. Let it absorb before you apply foundation," according to the news source.

The information provider also recommends that if you use a concealer, apply it after primer but before foundation. The news source said this is also a good way to conceal black skin dark spots. 

Viola Davis stunned in green at the 2012 Academy Awards

 

The 2012 Academy Awards ceremony recently happened, and, as always, one of the most interesting features of the night was the fashion. International Business Times reports that for the female stars, makeup was almost as important this year as the dresses since cosmetics really can make all the difference.

One actress who stood out was Viola Davis, whose African American skin care products matched her dress perfectly.

"Viola Davis showed off her natural locks at Sunday's Oscars and matched her makeup to her dress. Davis' closely-cropped hair was complemented by large emerald earrings, which matched her emerald Vera Wang gown. Davis' eye makeup went along with this color trend. Matchy-matchy is no longer a fashion 'no,'" stated the news source.

The Root reported that while her dress and makeup were lovely, what really stuck out was the fact that Davis chose to wear her natural hair instead of a wig, a move that most fashion reporters applauded.

Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer share their tips for glowing ethnic skin

Have you been looking for the perfect tool to enhance the efficacy of your favorite African American skin care product? Well, actresses Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer recently shared their favorite beauty secret with HolywoodLife.com.

The ladies both use a tool called the Clarisonic Mia 2, which is an oscillating facial brush, to exfoliate their beautiful dark skin in preparation for the Academy Awards, as both of the beauties have been nominated for an Oscar.

"I love it! My skin feels like newborn baby skin," said Spencer, quoted by the news source. "My pores are shrinking. Love it."

Using a brush may do more than exfoliate the skin, according to WomenFitness.net. The news source reports that the technique may stimulate blood flow and detoxify the body and face. Additionally, brushing the thighs gently has been shown to help reduce the appearance of cellulite.

Ladies who have been putting up with dull complexions may want to try a special skin brush in conjunction with their tried-and-true black skin products.

 

Even stars don't always look perfect

 

It's award season, and stars such as Viola Davis and Octavia Spencer from The Help have been stepping out in fabulous gowns and showing off flawless African American skin. Have you ever wondered how celebrities always seem to have perfect skin? Well, according to celebrity dermatologist  Karyn Grossman, stars run into skin problems just like the rest of us. She recently shared some common skin issues that even celebs can't hide from.

First, Grossman said that some stars, just like the rest of us, forget that it's necessary to wear SPF whenever you're going out.

"While starlets regularly protect and work on their faces, skin-baring dresses often reveal neglected sun-damaged chests, backs and arms," said Grossman, quoted by the news source.

Next, the dermatologist said that many celebrities struggle to get a natural look, and often end up looking overly "Hollywood." She said that many stars are afraid of being immortalized on a "before" and "after" page in the tabloids, so it's important to remember that too much makeup and too many skin care procedures can leave anyone looking cheesy.

Marie Claire magazine also recommends making sure you don't overdo it on makeup, as many stars have done. For example, if you are going to wear a bright red lipstick, don't do that and a smoky eye, you should pick one. 

Top looks from African American stars at the 2012 SAG Awards

 

The 2012 Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards happened recently, with many stars showing up flaunting their best outfits and African American skin care products. While the stars of the 1960s era drama The Help took away multiple awards for acting, they just as easily could have won a few fashion trophies as well with their stunning looks.

Harper's Bazaar reported that Viola Davis, who won the award for lead actress in a drama, looked stunning in Marchesa dress. She paired the outfit with a Judith Lieber clutch and Jimmy Choo shoes.

According to FabSugar.com white dresses were in this year, with both Davis and Zoe Saldana winning "top dressed" spots in their chic white gowns. Octavia Spenser, who also took home an acting award for her role in The Help was seen in a a silver Tadashi Shoj combination with an intricate floral-applique top and wrap skirt.

As for hair, Davis kept it simple, choosing to leave her hair down and with loose waves. Spenser went the opposite route, however, and chose and intricate high bun. Both ladies were considered by many fashion magazines to be among the best dressed of the night. 

Viola Davis goes au natural for Los Angeles Times Magazine

 

Actress Viola Davis has rightfully been in the spotlight since the release of her hit film The Help. Now, people are beginning to pay attention to her for more than her acting abilities, as Los Angeles Times Magazine recently ran a spread that showcases her natural beauty.

Davis appears on the cover with short, natural hair – a far cry from the smooth, bobbed wigs she typically dons on the red carpet.

She told US Magazine that she's "not a glam woman," and that preparing for industry events is actually a bit of a chore for her.

"My biggest fear is that paparazzi with some like lens is going to come in my backyard and see me when I get in my pool!" said Davis, quoted by the news source."That would be very unfortunate!"

When looking at her magazine spread, one has to conclude that the stunning actress is being modest. Her sparse makeup and black, high-fashion wardrobe do far more than flatter her gorgeous African American skin, they make her look like the star she truly is.

 

Former model shares beauty secrets

Few people know more about beauty than models, who spend most of the careers dedicated to looking their best. Recently, the Huffington Post interviewed Peggy Dillard Toone, the second African American model to ever be on the cover of Vogue, and founder of Turning Heads Salon in Harlem, New York City, which helped create the first natural black hair care curriculum for licensing in New York State. The model turned African American hair care pioneer discussed what beauty means to her.

According to Toone, she saw beauty everywhere she looked growing up, and her family used to use the natural ingredients found in their backyard such as red clay for skin care purposes. As she got older, she felt there was a need for a beauty salon that would encourage African American women to make the move from chemical to natural hair.

Next, the Post asked her to describe her beauty rituals.

"Take time with yourself. My philosophy is to incorporate the elements into a beauty regimen. Drink enough water, breath enough air, walk on the earth and get enough sun, or heat. My favorite rituals always involve water. I love baths for spiritual and physical purposes," said Toone, quoted by the news source.

Today, the website for Turning Heads Salon states that it now includes a day spa, making it Harlem's only full service salon and spa. 

Makeup artists offer tips to get Beyonce's look

Recently, Beyonce appeared on 20/20 looking absolutely fabulous. US Magazine spoke to Mally Roncal, the makeup artist who worked on Beyonce before the show, and she offered some tips for how to use your African American skin care product to get the same look. 

First, Roncal said she used a combination of colors to highlight Beyonce's skin tone. She combined tan and medium concealer shades to enhance the performer's brow bone and the center of her nose.

"Next, she applied a liquid foundation, set with a powder foundation. Using a shaping powder, she contoured the hollows of Beyonce's cheeks, temples and jawline to enhance her natural bone structure," according to the news source.

Back when Beyonce's hit movie Dreamgirls came out, Glamour magazine spoke to makeup artists who worked on the film for some more tips for how to look like the star. They suggested using brown and sliver eye shadows and a lot of concealer under the eyes to keep bags from distracting from a dramatic look.  

Salma Hayek stays beautiful without surgery

Hispanic actress Salma Hayek is known for her curves and flawless complexion. While many people many believe that it takes many painful procedures to get her looking that way, they may be surprised to learn that she has never had cosmetic surgery. 

Hayek spoke to Latina magazine about the importance of proper skin care and how making your skin a priority can save you from having to go under the knife.

"When I was 16, I looked 19. When I was 19, I looked 25. But I got stuck on 25 – thank God! – until I was 35. So that was good. But it’s also important to take care of your skin because if you’re not careful, one day you’ll wake up and a spider will have taken over your face and you’ll be full of lines,” Hayek told the news provider.

She also mentioned that she's afraid of Botox, and would prefer sticking to creams and cosmetics for now.

The National Institutes of Health reports that the side effects of Botox include pain at the injection site, flu-like symptoms and an upset stomach. Ethnic women looking to avoid experiencing these effects should consider sticking to the number of skin care products for black skin that are available to help them look younger.

 

Want the celebrity look? It doesn't take a fortune to achieve

Most women would love to get the flawless look that celebrities seem to achieve so easily. For African American women, there are many black skin care products that can help you get the high-cost look without spending a fortune. Recently, Parade magazine offered tips on how to look like you're famous while sticking to a budget.

First, the news provider suggested using a bold lipstick. Bright red colors can make you stand out, and when you find the bright color that works for you, a glamorous look becomes effortless. Next, Parade recommended filling out the eyebrows to make the eyes pop without the need for expensive makeup.

"To achieve this look, go a few shades darker than your original eyebrow color. For example, if you're blonde, don't go for a black brow. Stick with the same color family," said the news source.

Marie Claire magazine states that the best way to get the celebrity look is to create a "smoky eye." The periodical said to first apply a cream concealer to the eye, then use an eyeliner to trace the top lid from the inner corner to the outer. Then use eye shadow all over the lid and slightly past the outer corner to get the sultry look. 

The Help talks about the struggle of African American women

This month the movie The Help will premiere in theatres across the country. According to the Detroit Free Press, the movie details the struggles of African American maids during the 1950s and 60s. 

"These women focused on their children, supported their education and the civil rights movement that brought about change and possibilities. They were the humble, foot soldiers of a revolution, whose spiritual strength transformed a nation," said Melba Joyce Boyd, chairperson of Wayne State University's Department of Africana Studies, quoted by the news provider.

The official website for the movie says it will focus on the connection between the women as well as the courage it took for them to speak out against the mistreatment they were suffering at the hands of their employers.

The Help is about having the confidence to face adversity and stand up for what an individual believes in. We've come a long way since the years that the film is set in, and now African American skin care products offer ethnic women products that celebrate their skin tone and inspire confidence for all the strong women out there.  

Makeup tips from Tyra Banks

In recent years, Tyra Banks has become well known for her successful television shows. Long before that however, she was noticed for her beauty and poise on the runway and has been a household name since the 90s.

Recently, the star shared some of her beauty tips with BET. Her first piece of advice was to be very careful with applying foundation to keep it from looking to powdery. Banks recommended applying foundation, then taking a damp washcloth and using it to pat the face to absorb excess powder.

“Throughout the day, don’t keep putting powder on top of a greasy face. First, take a tissue and dab it all over your face, then powder your face," Banks told BET.

Along with being a style and television guru, Banks' biography on her official website mentions that she is also a successful businesswoman who runs her own film and television production company.

Women who want to have Tyra Banks' confidence as they pursue their own careers should consider using skin care products for black skin that bring out the natural beauty of African American skin.

Do films ignore African American beauty?

Naturally beautiful African American actress Viola Davis has received attention for her talent as well as her looks. Davis shines on the cover of this month's Essence magazine, where she talks about her recent success in films as well as the struggles African American women face.

“As black women, we’re always given these seemingly devastating experiences - experiences that could absolutely break us. But what the caterpillar calls the end of the world, the master calls the butterfly," Davis told the news provider.

Her latest role is in the movie The Help, where she portrays a maid in the 1960s. The website Indie Wire raised the question this week - do black actresses have to make themselves look ugly to get serious film roles?

The website raised concern over the fact that the lovely Davis was forced to look plain and matronly for her role, a theme that seems to happen often in films with African American women in them. Another example Indie Wire gave was actress Taraji P. Henson in Hustle and Flow and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Henson was made to look haggard and older in both of the dramatic films.

In the end, people have to decide for themselves if this theory is true and if action should be taken against it. African American women should never have to hide their looks, and skin care products for black skin can help give black women the confidence to let their true beauty shine.

Broadway actress Jane White exuded confidence in her own skin

The New York Times recently ran a profile on Jane White, an African American theatre actress who overcame adversity to become a successful performer. The daughter of a civil rights activist, White experienced racism due to the color and tone of her skin.

“I’ve just always been too ‘white’ to be ‘black’ and too ‘black’ to be ‘white,’ which, you know, gets to you after a while, particularly when the roles keep passing you by,” said White, quoted by the news source.

White didn't let these obstacles hold her down, and over the years she proved herself to be an incredible talent. She eventually learned to embrace the color of her skin, and refused to allow directors or producers disguise her as a race that she was not.

Playbill reported that in 1979 White starred in her own one-woman show, where she discussed her struggles and the importance of being confident in herself. The actress passed away on July 24th at the age of 88 after years of entertaining audiences.

Ethnic women looking to feel as confident in their skin as White should consider using skin care products for black skin to give their appearance a healthy glow.

Rihanna named woman of the year

Rihanna has perfected the art of looking great while performing as well as on the red carpet. The singer was recently named woman of the year in Italian Vouge for her talent and charity work.

The website NZCity reports that the singer was also recognized for her ability to overcome adversity in her personal life. Between the drama with her ex-boyfriend Chris Brown to her father's drug addiction, Rihanna has had to struggle to maintain a positive attitude, which she does with grace and poise.

“Independent, energetic, the young Robyn Rihanna Fenty (only 23) is our woman of the year and not just by virtue of numbers and figures but also, and foremost, for her kind and fighting spirit. The same spirit that brought her from Barbados to the top of the music charts achieving a career which she has forged and mastered completely by herself." The magazine was quoted as saying,

The singer recently told Glamour magazine that she loves a challenge, and is never afraid to tackle adversity in her career or personal life. African American women who want to achieve Rihanna's look should consider trying skin care products for black skin.

Confident actress Sophia Vergara flaunts her curves

Hispanic actress Sophia Vergara has been gaining a lot of attention lately for her curves, and that's fine with her. The Modern Family star spoke to People magazine about being a sexy symbol and why she's proud of being known for her body.

The 39-year-old says that her looks have helped her career, and she's happy to be recognized for all of the hard work she has done to keep herself healthy and in shape. She told People that she lives by the age-old old motto if you've got it, flaunt it.

Vergara also described her beauty routine to the magazine, and explained that she believes in the importance of skin care.

"Everything in moderation – not too much food, not too much exercise," she explains. "And, of course, wearing sun block, doing the things your dermatologist tells you to do – that helps with the aging process."

The National Institutes of Health reports that sunlight is a major cause of skin again and recommends using sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Ethnic Women who want to protect their skin should consider using African American ethnic skin care products with SPF so they can keep their skin healthy and maybe gain some Vergara's confidence along the way.