How To look after your Makeup Brushes

BRUSH CLEANSING

The cleansing and storing of your makeup tools is vital to ensure that you are promoting clean skin and safe application of makeup pigments, with precision. Makeup Brushes are able to absorb skin debris, powders, cream and gel based products.  If you give your makeup brushes a deep clean and regular care they will last a long time and prevent you from spending more money to replace them.

As a professional makeup artist, I would suggest buying a professional alcohol anti-bacterial based brush cleanser to get rid of daily bacteria, and residue that will clog the hairs and in time ruin your beautiful makeup tools! If you are a beauty or makeup student or considering embarking on a career in the cosmetics Industry, clean tools and professionally kept equipment will bring a confidence to the the client and keep you prepared for that important booking!

How do I Cleanse My Brushes

When working on photo-sessions, makeover or bridal makeup work, I always like to cleanse my brushes, after each client. Using a gentle shampoo, place the bristles only in the water, if this is maintained after every client application it ensures that you are not cross contaminating or spreading germs to clients. 
When you are cleaning your personal brushes I would recommend a weekly deep clean and daily spritz using the professional brush cleanser for best results. Wash your brushes using gentle manipulation of the hair with your warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly in cool water. Ensure you have removed all the excess water from the bristles by squeezing them over the sink or bowl. 
Place the clean brushes on a dry towel or flat surface and leave them to air dry overnight night. Let them dry naturally, with out any heat, near the ferrule (metal covering over the brush hairs)  this barrel is protecting the hairs. By using hair dryers or hot radiators you will be encouraging softening of the glue that holds the natural brush hairs in place. 

TOP TIPS

Always try and place your brushes similar to the images below. 

Always store your clean brushes with the brush hair facing towards the ceiling, this prevents any damage to their shape.

Use a professional alcohol based product to clean on a regular basis.

Look after your brushes, they are your tools to successful makeup application with every brush stroke.
There are lots of really great brush shampoos and cleansers on the market.
Brushes will need a few hours to dry after using any professional products on them.

Makeup-Brush-Cleaning-cherylhuggins-MUA

The Benefits of Ritual Massage

The Benefit of Massage therapy at home

Moroccan Relaxation Therapy Massage

Many people enjoy the benefits of massage because it produces feelings of comfort and deep relaxation of the muscles. Many studies have proven the benefits of massage include the reductions of stress, muscle pain and tension. 

My most popular form of therapy is the deep tissue massage, blended with shiatsu (finger pressure) massage this allows the therapist to apply rhythmic pressure on specific tight areas especially the neck, head, back and shoulder area. This type of treatment will use much firmer strokes, to target the underlying connective tissue. the traditional Swedish massage can be a much lighter, more soothing treatment with calming stoking movements, delivering more relaxation benefits for the client. Hot Stone massage can be quite beneficial for aching joints, as the stones transfer heat deep into the body.

Using organic and aromatherapy oils fused with ancient therapeutic massage techniques, is one of the best ways to ease the stress and tension of a busy day! 

Ensure that your therapist is fully qualified and carries out a detailed consultation prior to your appointment. This procedure is carried out to ensure, no medical conditions, or allergies contraindicate or prevent treatment. An omission of this stage can put you and your therapist at risk.

Relax and enjoy this comfortable bodywork treatment that promotes the use of carrier oils to lubricate the skin, creating a feeling of well-being and positivity. 

I personally enjoy treating my clients to a combination of Eve Taylor treatment oils with Mandarin, Orange, Thyme, Lavender. This blend of oils collectively aid clients with insomnia, muscle tension, headaches. I always add to the treatment the nourishing blends of the rich Moroccan Shea butter from the luxury Spa brand La Sultane Du Saba to ease any muscle stiffness and aching within the legs, softening the skin and relaxing tired feet.

Ensure a CALM BODY and CALM MIND with Advanced Beauty Services from a professional therapist.

Candles-holistic-massage-cheryl-huggins-therapist

Summer Style Must Have 2016

Alexander McQueen New Fragrance Launch

“The bottle is poem in a glass”

Being a lover of rich and majestic fragrances why not take a journey to satisfy your deepest desires. Enriched with the essences of three night blooming flowers and you have arrived at the perfect Alexander Mcqueen destiny. The sensual, and sublime artistry is pure genius. This will be the brand’s first fragrance release since 2007, when he launched the impressive  ‘MyQueen.’

The House of McQueen has created a bespoke fragrance that is a delight to all of the senses, exclusively for all women who would enjoy a scent that delivers with a symphony of white flowers, Ylang Ylang, Tuberose and Sambac Jasmine.

Available exclusively from Harrods this ‘beguiling and most provocative scent' I am sure that this creation will become a timeless treasure for most women.

DIVINE and OPULENT I LOVE IT!

Why not Indulge in a parfum that is ultimately stylish, and indeed elegantly lavish. Priced at around £285 for the sought after elixir, adorned with gold leaves, this exclusive fragrance will hold prime position on most A-list vanity dressing tables.

McQueen Parfum campaignPhotography Paolo Roversi

The making of the elegant McQueen Parfum window revealing the artistry at the flagship stores at the Old Bond Street and Harrods.

Display by Shona Heath.

A Day in the Life of a Makeup Artiste

Dear Diary

My typical morning starts at 6.30 am, saying my daily affirmations, checking Instagram and Twitter, then cleansing my inner temple with a refreshing hot water with lemon, a sprinkle of turmeric. This peppery plant is traditionally used in Chinese and Indian medicines, I also include a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar that aides healthy glowing skin.

My mother also drinks this booster daily, the hot lemon water is also a great cleansing detox for the whole body system and is claimed to have significant health benefits! Once all family commitments have been duly sorted, I begin my five minute skincare and makeup routine, (natural organic oil, create my brow arch, and add the all important lipstick) once completed, I'm ready to breathe life into my hectic administration day. 

Each day usually consists of returning emails, treatment bookings, networking, makeup shopping, teaching makeup and Blogging! 

My talent as a Makeup Specialist has allowed me to be passionately creative. Now that I've created my blog to share my makeup and beauty knowledge with you, I am truly excited at growing the Makeup Masterclasses for all levels of skill and experience. I thank you all so much for your continued support. I love the additional bonus of meeting new Bridal ladies, and makeup clients who are in need of guidance or lessons in application and skincare techniques that are creative and anti-ageing.

I am fortunate to have had experts in the field of cosmetics and professional tutors in the UK, and Paris they have given me the motivation to embark on this great journey.

After enrolling on a fantastic 6 week business course with the inspirational Jane Knight founder of Successful Mums at the Orpington1st business training Centre in Kent, I am so excited to bring my Makeup and Beauty services to you wherever you are 1 makeup brush and smokey eye at a time!

"Enjoy your special day, and I hope that your morning routine, gives you that kick start you need to walk the sometimes difficult path, taking positive and firm steps to make that important walk along our personal journey every day."

Makeup Guru Pat McGrath Skin Fetish RULES!

✨Pat McGrath Skin Fetish 003 First Impressions + Swatches ✨

International Makeup Artiste Pat McGrath has launched her skin transforming makeup kit to rapturous applause and outstanding reviews.

Her Skin Fetish SOLD OUT within hours and Pat took to her Twitter feed! The innovative hilighting shimmer from  the Legendary Makeup Artiste Lab's is available from 26th April online at Pat McGrath.com

With a sweep of  the dual ended stick or the glorious Japanese style blending brush, (that comes with the kits) you can imitate the famous Makeup Artiste. Copy her talented imaginative style that has made this Guru artistic shining her true visionary, on many catwalk's across the Globe.

I am a huge fan of Pat McGrath, and I have followed with keen interest her professionalism, and  supreme dedication to her craft. Pat is constantly in demand, her illuminating muse and models when dipped in the inspirational artiste creamy illuminating light, dominated the fashion pages of every magazine..

For us mere mortals to use the makeup bag of skin fetish tricks from this Legend is simply heavenly.

A mere dusting of one of the most amazing illuminating powders, will transform your skin to a radiance not seen before.

Artistry will never be the same again, Beg Steal or Borrow (Ask First!)  
Grab your Pat McGrath Skin Fetish 003 as soon as possible!  The product on every fashionista's Lust List the 'Must Have' beauty product for 2016.

Take a look as Blogger Junie gives us her first impressions of Pat McGrath Skin Fetish 003.
Let me know what you think..I personally cannot wait to start using her amazing hi-lighting product. 

How to get the most from your Wedding Makeup Trial

Bridal Makeup 

Do I need to have a makeup trial?

The makeup trial is to allow you to create your vision, and verbally convey your desired look to your team of beauty and makeup professionals for your special Wedding day. Getting your idea and wishes to a team of professionals can be very daunting. I will give you a few professional tips to ease stress, and assist in creating a bespoke flawless makeup for your special day. To ensure you get the best from your makeup application I will always divulge a few professional tips and beauty secrets.

Consultation

This is an important part of your Wedding makeup journey, prior to the trial you should have a date booked with the makeup artiste. This can take place as early as 6 months or 3-4 weeks before the Wedding date. A makeup artiste that has been recommended or has a portfolio of previous work is usually customary. Upon meeting your chosen artiste do feel free to share your vision for your special day, take into consideration any advice, for your best features and suggest several images or ideas for your desired look, and makeup or wedding theme. 

BE SPECIFIC and remember its your Special DAY!

Let your artiste know if you want natural, smokey, additional lashes and include your personal details of hair colour, eye colour and skin tones. do not forget to include any additional details if have any specific concerns or makeup dislikes, and allergies prior to your meeting. Use photos of you with makeup on if they are available. This will give your artiste the insight to the desired look you would like to see, and can remove the chance for mistakes to be made. ( include your best, beautiful features)

Trial 

The trial should be an exciting, informal introduction to your artiste and include a practical application for you to see your Bridal vision. You should be comfortable to request any changes, making sure that you achieve your flawless look. I always advise my brides to bring images from 'Pintrest' or recommend they use 'Magazine Tearouts' of preferred looks. Within the trial include future details of any Beauty treatments that maybe booked prior to the big day. (Spray tan's, facials, brow shape, hair colouring)

Makeup Shopping

Cheryl Huggins Bridal services offers additional consultation service for Brides including additional Skincare and Makeup products, on the weeks prior to the Wedding for you or your Bridal Party. This bespoke service can be booked by appointment. The additional Bridal service can assist you when shopping for those signature key makeup and beauty items for your Wedding Day, honeymoon and future special occasions. This shopping experience will allow you to try, new brands, view cosmetic trends, and help you to avoid expensive shopping mistakes, allowing you to gain a beautiful makeup kit, ensuring you are 'Camera Ready' for your Wedding Day.

Charlotte Tilbury Creates Celebrity 'HOT LIPS' LIPSTICKS

"Lipstick is Powerful" Charlotte Tilbury

Charlotte Tilbury has created an extensive makeup range that is suitable for any Red Carpet entrance or special occasion. After trying her silk micro-finish powder 'Air Brush Flawless Finish' on my Bridal clients, I was obsessed and hooked! Charlotte’s anti-age product, the visionary 'Wonderglow' is another of her must have products, that immediately transforms your makeup application, delivering the perfect fix for dull tired skins. A must have product in your makeup kit.

This Makeup Guru, Mother, Mascara and high heel addict is notorious for her Hollywood glamour products, that ultimately captures the individuality of her clients.
Kim Kardashian West, Cindy Crawford, are a few of her most famous friends who have worked on her latest HOT LIPS Project that supports female survivors of conflict.

#LIPSTICKCONFIDENCE

The colour choice is very impressive indeed, my favourite shades include the palest nude, from Kim KW, the prettiest fuchsia pink, from Poppy and not forgetting the luscious rich berry shade, Hels Bells from Helena Bonham Carter.

The Hot Lips lipsticks will be available at selected stores  in the US and Fashionista’s in the UK will be able to get your manicured hands on this new line of 12 shades early this Summer! The Women for Women International Charity is exclusively devoted to improving women’s health on a global level and were delighted with the Tilbury collaboration. A beautiful range of customised lipsticks that can be attributed to female empowerment, embracing all women who have witnessed or been affected by after War trauma. 

£1 will be donated from every lipstick sale, within the first 2 months of the Charlotte Tilbury Hot Lips Launch, keep watching for more news on this FAB lipstick line!

Beauty aboard The Sunborn Yacht Spa

                                           Elemis Luxury for Professional Beauty 

The reawakening power of aromatherapy essential oils, have created a distinctly heavenly aroma, with lashings of decadent style. This exceptional Spa brings serene glamour aboard the elegant Sunborn Yacht Spa complete with bespoke holistic treatments. The exquisite Elemis Spa Therapy offers clients a tranquil sanctuary aboard the moored, cream paneled, Yacht. There are 2 Spa Rooms that offer a delightful combination of Elemis products and treatments to awaken your senses in a comfortable yet innovative hotel setting.  

Sunborn Yacht at Professional Beauty 2016

Photo credit Elemis UK
 Sunborn Spa
      London Western Gateway Royal Victoria Dock

How St Tropez create a Tanning Experience

St. Tropez Deliver Flawless Self Tanning

The No.1 tanning brand St Tropez continues to revolutionize and transform your ultimate tanning experience with the launch of the world's first ever self tan treatment and retail range. The new range exclusively contains the new 'Aromaguard' fragrance technology. It works in harmony with the skin and eliminates the tell tale self tan aroma, leaving a subtle and refreshing fragrance that is unique to each skin.

Capturing the attention of the large crowd on the live stage, was the St Tropez Tan Expert, Jules Von Hep. He expertly demonstrated the flawless benefits of this unique and historic range on his stunning model Alison Parson. I was amazed at the color wardrobe available and pleased that the Brand provides a perfect selection for every skin tone, bringing tanning lovers a safe tanning range from the lightest of skin tone to darkest of exotic bronzes!  

Fantastic news for all ladies who cannot live without their perfect summer glow!

 St Tropez 2016 Tanning Range

St Tropez Tan Expert Jules Von Hep, pictured on right with stunning tanning model

Photo Credit: Cheryl Huggins MUA

How to get Botox look without the Needle with 3D SKIN MED

                                                                
      "Its the Ultimate answer to Botox without the needle"   Johnathan Cheban

3D SKIN MED Anti-Age  UK Launch  
3D Skinmed teamed up with International PR Celebrity Guru Johnathan Cheban, and launched their latest technology in high intensity treatments, at the 2016 Professional Beauty Show in London.

Global Celebrity, and the world's most famous BFF, Johnathan Cheban was instantly the perfect US Ambassador to launch the latest and most effective skin regeneration treatment. This new No surgery, No needles, tightening procedure from aesthetic specialists, is highly successful due to its fundamentally unique multi-technology platform.

3D Skinmed is the sought after non-surgical facial by A-List celebrities, and clients are constantly in the headlines, praising the results of The Lift, Tighten and Hydrating 1 hour treatment. This is the latest clinically proven technology that uses High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU).  
As an alternative treatment to surgery, and fan's who dislike the use of needles, this solution is perfectly aimed for specific clients who require a natural looking anti-ageing therapy, combined with the ultimate cutting edge innovative, multi technology clinical platform.

Following the success of the 3D Lipo, this treatment utilizes the technology for face lifting and improving the appearance of lines and wrinkles in bespoke sessions. These amazing technologies can be used individually to target specific areas or combined and layered in a prescriptive way to suit each client.

The 3D SkinMed Launch has been a huge success, UK TV personality and celebrity Dawn Ward who is currently in the hit ITVBe, Real Housewives of Cheshire, has been chosen as the UK Ambassador of 3D SkinMed. Apprentice star Leah Totten, Salon Owner Amy Childs and the girl about TOWIE Gemma Collins are also fan's and advocates of this innovative technology. 

Photo-courtesy/credit-3D-Skin-Med

My Day at Professional Beauty London 28th -29th February

My Day at Professional Beauty 2016

London's International convention Centre 'ExCel' played host to 800 brands this year, at the largest Professional Beauty exhibition in Europe. I traveled with Beauty blogger Little Miss Sing Song from Kent to explore the latest innovations, and evolving Skincare and Beauty techniques from around the Globe.

I was really looking forward to reviewing many of the exciting new beauty product launches and visiting a few educational seminars.

As a Professional Makeup Artiste and Beauty Therapist, we are constantly searching for amazing brands and innovative products for clients. Professional Beauty is a one 'stop shop' for students, lecturers, retailers and distributors. This 2 day London Beauty seminar created fevered excitement on social media with therapists and attendees tweeting and posting several weeks before the Event. This same energy and excitement was also present in the vast competition halls, creating a buzz at all of the Educational seminars.

I was surprised at the vast array of International treatments, and IT Technology for Salons and Spa's from high performance Global companies. I stopped at the cutting edge Glitter nails, Mink Lash Bars, Immaculate Teeth whitening, and a throng of willing creative massage therapists. I was aware of the huge line of students, firmly positioned at the Counter of UK the favourite blogger's brand. Many therapists were not to be able to shop view or purchase at NYX due to the 60 minute queue. I left the hardcore makeup and nail students to continue in their retail quest. 

I was more than happy to find a more sedate relaxation area, with spiritually awakening Spa Therapies to soothe my back, neck and shoulders. Hurrah, No gimmicky therapies! Gone are the 'Fish Pedicure' or 'BeJazzling' Brazilian styled ladies garden this year! I loved the Brow Bars and innovative makeup glitters for the body, lips and eyes..Simply DIVINE.

The products, and Celebrity endorsed brands were a huge influence, especially on the large spray tanning stages. The St.Tropez seminar was excellent, with a flawless display that created a Summer Glow that was streak free with none of the familiar tanning fragrance. I was most impressed at the 'ShopnDrop' station, where those laden with recently purchased goodies could unload, shop and go onto more stands 'Hands free', an excellent idea and a Beauty blogger's dream!

On arriving at London ExCel, I spied the Award winning UK Celebrity hair stylist Derek Murray, and Charlie Kerr who were also attending Salon London at ExCel. Desmond invited us to visit The Professional Hair Show to view his hair demonstration, on the Live Stage.

I finished my day in the Press room enjoying a glass of Bubbly...and enjoyed the delights of a vibrating Foot Fetiche pedicure, check out the review!

Celebrity Stylist Desmond Murray

                                                        Photo Credit Professional Beauty