WHAT'S IN MY KIT?

What's in My Kit?

As a professional makeup artist you kinda need to have a little of this, a little of that, some of this...you get where I'm going? You never know what you will need and that need changes when the job changes as well. So that's where your inventory starts and you begin to  build you kit. Si inside my kit there are products that I must have. Let's call them Staples and sometime when I don't have an item that's I depend on and  can feel a bit off my game, but just for a second. So here are a few  products that I MUST have!

1. COTTON TAIL ~ Q-Tips

Q-tips are a must in any one's kit. and there are many types to have and love. I prefer the wood  applicators.  There are sturdier and the tip is packed tight....and they look great on your station.

These cost around $1.75 - $2.25 they also come in longer versions as well...

Nigels' Beauty

2. CONCEALER PALETTE

I really love these empty palette's. There great for all those half empty concealer's that

I just can't throw away. Also amazing for lipsticks. Just label underneath and your set.

NIGEL"S BEAUTY  $6.75/ each

3. MARIO BADESCU~Drying Lotion

Without mentioning names, sometimes the stress of early morning morning calls and lack of sleep and craft service causes talent to have breakouts and in the world HD and the RED CAMERA you want to get it fixed real fast...Thank God for Mario Badescu . It has saved my life a few times...

mario badescu $19.00

4. YOUNGBLOOD~ Mineral Radiance Moisture Tint


This Product is new to me, and I really do like it. I find it to be buildable and smooth. 
it's great for men.  $30.00 Youngblood

TARTE COSMETIC~ Cheek Stain Tints


These are one of my all time favorite must have products. They're great for lips too.
I use these alone or layered with another blush color..... hum, like SMASHBOX Paradise blush with TARTE Tickled. it makes for pretty pretty! 

Two 2 Know: 2 New Products Worthy Of An Indrocuction

NUANCE Flawless Wear Tinted Moisturizer

It seems that Actress Salma Hayak has jumped on the, "I want to be a beauty mover and shaker too". band -wagon. She has created an entire beauty line  including Haircare products. Well , I couldn't
help myself. I went on over to my local CVS, yes, CVS and checked it out. I liked it, Salma, I liked it.
It's an oil free, sheer- coverage moisturizing tinted  moisturizer that's mineral based. i found it to work well on HD as well. It doesn't sit on your face allowing the fine lines to just get filled with product, YUCK!, but rather blends and radiates your skin. I have not checked out the rest of her line , but I will in time. Check it of at your local CVS or on line at CVS $13.99
 Oh and it's super transparent so it looks like your wearing nothing.

images of other products in her new line, NUANCE Salma Hayak @CVS

STILA ~STAY ALL DAY EYE LINER

I love the idea of a eye liner pen, it's the perfect way to get an amazing line and get as graphic as you can, and still  you can still do a natural look by lining right on the upper lash line. Prefect for a clean crisp cat eye. And when they say, "stay All Day", they mean it, i lined the back of my hand around 10;30 am an by 6pm it was still there, mind you I wash my hands religiously during the day too.  It's not waterproof, but water resistant. 

INTRODUCING NEW SHADES:
- Moss 
- Alloy 

Go to STILA to check then out or @SEPHORA

4 In The Bag: Must Have Products From My Set Bag To You

                                         4 In The Bag: 
                 Must have Products From My Set Bag To You

for dry and rough skin Try 

Weleda SKIN FOOD

Dry, rough skin of any age gets indulgent moisture with this intensively nourishing, deeply hydrating cream. It’s a unique, ultra-rich whole-body cream that deeply hydrates, restores and protects your skin. 

Stubborn dryness on your elbows, hands and feet are moisturized and conditioned with the essential fatty acids and vitamin E in our organic sunflower seed oil. Organic pansy is known for its mild antiseptic properties that calm dry irritation. Soothing rosemary leaf extract’s mild antiseptic properties and the anti-inflammatory properties of Biodynamic^® and organic calendula flower extract gently nourish and care for your skin. Deeply moisturized and protected, your skin looks soft and supple with a healthy glow. It’s your recommended daily allowance of radiance, and it’s just what you and your skin are cravin'! I use this on faces as well, heals dry skin from to much sun exposure. I love it! 

$18.00 Target

Jao Hand Refresher™ The first "upscale" antibacterial is an instant disinfectant and aromatherapy boost in one. Jao kills germs and freshens hands with ethyl alcohol (less drying) and our very own blend of antiseptic essential oils: Lavender, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus, Geranium, and Sage. Some antibacterials use a synthetic bacteriostat called Triclosan which is a known marine pollutant and has become controversial for its ability to give rise to bacteria that can become resistant. Alcohol does the job and leaves no residue to foster microbial resistance. Combined with cosmetic moisturizers and the essential oils Jao will not dry out your hands. It'll feel like you just washed with an herbal lavender soap. Jao. It's your portable sink! 

This hand Sanitizer is the staple for most makeup artist i know, I have it in every set back , on my station and on the counter at home in the bathroom. it does the job well, less drying and smells like heaven!

$7 - $16 jao

TWEEZERMAN NAIL FILES

12 mini nail files in a convenient and stylish matchbox sized case to fit in your purse, pocket or gym bag. Each file has two distinct filing surfaces for shaping and smoothing. Nail files stay clean and protected in a matching print box. Use all of them or share with your friends. A nail file is a great thing to keep in your set bag, i am asked at least 2 to 3 times a week by an actress who just snagged a nail, broke a nail or is just wanting to pass the time on set doing something mindless. These little gems are perfect and there cheap! $4.00 TWEEZERMAN

On The Spot
For quick corrections and eye makeup removal, 24 soft cotton tips are individually filled with a pre-measured amount of gentle, skin-conditioning solution to provide easy, goof-proof removal of eye makeup. The alcohol-free formula also contains aloe vera and vitamin E for sensitive eyes.

OK who ever came up with this idea is a genius, i meant it , these amazing swabs have been a life saver for me and my talent both, great for a under eye wipe down after a long period of time on set. great! sephora

HAVE YOU MET TATA YET?

REGENERATING CLEANSER TATA HARPER This gentle non-foaming cleanser freshens the skin's appearance as it cleans, but without  drying it out. Key Benefits: Helps remove daily dead cell build up. Deeply cleans pores. Brightens complexion. Proivides suppleness. This product is fragranced from 100% Clinical Grade Essential Oils. $100.00 (i know its rather pricey but so worht the money for rebuliding great skin) Check out more at: TATA HARPER.COM

3 IN THE BAG: MUST HAVES!

3 In The Bag: Three Products you must meet!

GERANIUM LEAF BODY BALM AESOP Geranium Leaf Body Balm is a rich hydrating body balm designed for everyday use. Effective Geranium and Citrus extracts are boosted with skin-nourishing Carrot and Aloe Vera. The blend of geranium and citrus extracts in Geranium Leaf Body Balm is seductive and deeply invigorating. Together with Geranium Leaf Body Cleanser, Geranium Leaf Body Balm delivers an exhilarating sensory hit. This is perhaps the most appropriate all-year formulation, suitable for most skin types. This non-greasy product is ideal for all skin types and is particularly suited to those with sensitive skin. Testing on a small patch of skin is recommended to ensure compatibility. Applied daily this balm will hydrate and protect skin across all climates, and deliver particular relief from seasonal skin dryness, air-conditioned environments and long-distance air travel. $29.50 @spacenk Mykie;s Note: Adore this, its amazing smooth and my skin loves it.  Great for skin protection during times in the wind. BLOTTING PAPERS 30 SHEETS TATCHA Removes excess oil and sweat without disturbing makeup or stealing moisture from the skin.  A powder and primer alternative that improves the wear of makeup. 30 sheets. $12.00 each @spacenk TWEEZERS LAURA MERCIER Uniquely slanted tweezers with an ergonomic grip that is not only durable, but also easy to use. Like most tweezer they are self explanatory. But these are my must haves! I own three pair so i am never in despair. easy to hold and maneuver! you will love them. $25.00                          Laura Mercier

3 Skin-Tastic Moisturizers

SKIN-TASTIC!:  3 Moisturizers to introduce your face too!

1. CREME UNIVERSELLE

EVE LOM

This rich mixture of wholesome and natural oils simply loves dry, mature and atrophic skins. Perfect for dry skin patches on arms, legs and feet. Can also be used as a massage cream or to help to prevent stretch marks. Apply as an intensive moisturiser after sun bathing or swimming.Wheat germ, sesame and Castor oils soften and soothe the complexion.
Cocoa butter and avocado oil help to condition the skin.
Great for protecting skin during a flight or as a barrier cream before swimming.
This is great for all skin types, safe for pregnancy as it contains no essential  oils.

 Good To Know: Helps prevent stretch marks during pregnancy.

Key Ingredients: COCOA BUTTER - Softens and conditions the skin. WHEATGERM OIL - Protects, nourishes and softens the skin. AVOCADO OIL - Softens and conditions. SESAME OIL - Soothes, softens, and helps skin retain its natural moisture. HYDROGENATED CASTOR OIL - Conditions, soothes and helps skin retain moisture.$40.00 SpachNK 2. BULGARIAN LAVENDER BODY OIL TAMMY FENDER This incredible aromatic beauty staple is a must-have favorite, delivering nourished, supple and hydrated skin. The beautifying, rejuvenating, calming and soothing properties of Bulgarian Lavender blended with a synergy of nature's finest nutrient oils seep deep into the skin; nourishing, protecting and increasing the flow ofoxygen to the cells this is heaven in a pump bottle, absolutely adore the scent and the feel of my skin after i use this.$65.00 {rather high cost but so worth it} Space Nk What it does for you? Calms , smoothes cital Qi energy hydrates thirsty skin inproves suppleness, and tone filtters 25% of uv rays sooyhes nervous system so what's in it? Rose Hip Seed Oil: notable for its high content of Vitamin C, citrus bioflavonoid and a healthy spectrum of essential fatty acids, recommended for strengthening the collagen of the skin in order to reduce scarring, heal burns and promote regeneration of skin cells. Maintains the elasticity of the skin and supports the integrityof the cell membrane, reduces wrinkles and maintains skin texture. Bulgarian Lavender:balancing and anti-inflammatory; regenerates healthy new skin cells, soothes acne, promotes cell growth to minimize scaring and regulates sebum production. Healing, cleansing and detoxifying; provides cells with new energy, gentle antiseptic for acne, burns, scars and open wound  3.NEW!!! SEPHORA COLLECTION Instant Moisturizer This is an intensive moisturizer, radiance booster and a wrinkle fighter all in one. it has a light, non- greasy texture that gives skin a subtle glow and helps to  prevents signs of aging. {love that!}  It's formulated with HydroSenn+, a natural  ingredient proven to deliver immediate and long lasting hydration. It also has light  reflecting pigments that will give skin an instant glow while the antioxidants help stop future signs of aging. HydroSenn+ is a plant -derived source that leaves the skin feeling soft and smooth. Its great for all skin types , non-comedogenic and has no mineral oil. Delish kissed for your skin! love this and its cheap $20.00 only at SEPHORA

MY TOP 5 DRUGSTORE MOSITURIZERS!

THE BEST CHEAP DRUGSTORE MOISTURIZERS

Some Celebrities and those with endless cash flow , swear but the uber expensive  high end moisturizers out there on the market, like La Mer for example. $$$ and to be honest it's not even La Mer anymore, but Este Lauder who bought the company some years back.  And let's face it, even they didn't buy it, it was most likely gifted to them, so in that case how do we, the regular folk supposed to battle  our dry, red patched and all out skin issues? Well i have created a list of my favorite products that I like to use to battle the zone that is my own face and the faces of others i work on.  You don't have to spend your retirement fund on pricey moisturizers to keep your skin looking healthy and happy.  Don't get me wrong I love some ubber fancy ones two, but when I am spending my own money I have to  consider the products that are best for my skin and my wallet.

1. CETAPHIL MOISTURIZING LOTION

I love, love this product It sits on my makeup station everyday. And when People use it they always comment, wow, I forgot about this. It's designed  to treat chronically dry skin, very Highly recommended by dermatologists for those with sensitive skin. It's Petroleum-free which is awesome and it won't clog your pores and its free from all fragrance, lanolin & Parabens.

* take note that this product is not good for sun protection, the basic formula doesn't contain any sunscreen.

2. NEUTRAGENA HAELTHY SKIN ANTI-WRINKLE CREAM

This is an ALLURE MAGAZINE beauty winner for many years and  this one contains Retinol in a formula that's is generally tolerated by even the one's of us that have sensitive skin.

Best know for wrinkle reduction * again please note this product does not contain sunscreen

3. AVEENO ULTRA-CALMING DAILY MOISTURIZER SPF15

I love Aveeno, this is great for the reduction of redness, i use this for heat races and such and its amazing! Aveeno is infused with anti- inflammatory ingredients, this product has been proven to reduce redness like that associated with Rosacea. yup! and it's oil free, lightweight and contains Spf 15  and its amazing along with makeup. 

4. OLAY COMPLETE ALL DAY MOISTURE LOTION SPF 15

This is great for everyday moisture , contains antioxidant vitamin E and broad spectrum sun protection, it's 100% oil and PABA-free. It comes in many formula's to fir your skin needs, oily, sensitive? check it out there's  on for every issue. It's also a great base for makeup, works an sits well under foundations.

* those with very dry skin, the lightweight formula may not be enough to tackle really dry areas.

5. CeraVe MOISTURIZING CREAM

Amazing for those of you with sensitive dry skin. This contains ceramides and cholesterol to help

rebuild your skin barrier. It;s very light weight, yet very moisturizing, the formula that won't irratate sensitive skin or leave your face feeling greasy.

*   not good if your sensitive to Parabens or those looking for antioxidants or sunscreens. sorry!

And guess where you can buy all these amazing goodies? at your local drugstore. I love a drugstores beauty section, it's like going to Toy's R Us to me. you can find some amazing things with out having to spend some much money on a moisturizer that you wont even use cause it cost you so much money that you just display it in your bathroom for your guest to see.  

cheers! mykie Xoxo

6 IN THE BAG: Products That Live In My Set Bag

 6 IN THE BAG: Products That Live In My Set Bag 

This Is actually alot cleaner than normal!

As a Pro makeup artist working in the biz, you have to carry a set bag while on set. It's filled with everything from , Q-tips, Puffs, Lipstick Palettes, Brushes, Lotion, lip balm, dental floss and yes, even sanitary napkins of some sort. Basically everything, you'll need to be prepared for what ever is needed.
Some on my set bags vary as well, say if i am working as a personal, well, i will have what's need for that particular person, example, I work with The Lovely Brooke Burns,   my set bag for her is much smaller, must haves are, Breathe Strips, Smashbox Baby Pout Lip gloss, MAC C4 compact,  and  hand wipes, oh, and  lavender hand sanitizer, she's easy. but you get the idea.  As a whole there are a few things I MUST Have in my set bag and there's good reasons for them too. So I thought it would be fun to share them you you all and if you can take anything from it, great!  Everyone has what works for them and it's fun to learn and get ideas from other too.

1. YON-KA PARIS  ULTRA PROTECTION SPF 25
I love YON-KA products. I was turned on to them while working with Brooke Burns on  HAIR BATTLE, They hooked us up and It have been a constant in my kit and set bag at all times.  This anti- radical cream  guards against UV damage and premature signs of aging , ugh! who wants that right? Also it protects sensitive skin  and prevents age spots caused with sun damage. That aside, I like it cause it's makeup compatible. it works well with most makeup from what I have  seen and it's easy to re-apply during the day ~not only as a SPF, but to moisturize too. $53.00


Here's a TIP: i have been know to use this cream  to re-boost under they eyes and smooth out the crinkles and lines that sometime appear after long wear.
@nordtroms


what's in it:
Natural sun filters - protection from UVA, UVB and IR - allantoin, sunflower oil, vitamin E, fruit extracts and the 5 Quintessence E.O. (Lavender, cypress, rosemary, thyme and geranium)


2. CLEAN & CLEAR Oil Absorbing Sheets

 Honestly I really didn't like the idea of these types of oil papers, 

i thought them to be kinda unsanitary actually, I mean, i don't want all your grease one me. But While working on FX Channel THE LEAGUE,  makeup artist Erin Good who was using  on the cast of  five men ,who where a oily bunch. So i tried them, and I  liked, very much.  It Instantly soaks up the excess oil and removes shine from your face and will not smudge makeup. and the difference  between other blot papers, these will not leave powder residue like some do. $5.00  @TARGET

3. SKIN MD NATURAL OK, needed a clean, fragrant free moisturizer, ran into CVS and found this, That was 2 years ago and it's one of the first things i  buy while prepping a new show.  So non greasy and absorbs fast. It's a new concept in skin care, Shielding Lotion,  it forms a protective barrier on the skin and keeps out irritants and chemicals. Also allows the natural oils and moisture to remain in the skin,to help heal the  skin better.  with in a few days your skin Will feel the effects of regeneration of skin moisture levels. CVS

4. MAKEUP FOR EVER ~ HIGH DEFINITION POWDER


This Little jar of 100% silica powder is the best thing since Dr.Pepper, really! What this is, is a universal translucent finishing powder  that you dust over foundation or can wear alone.
It softens the appearance of imperfections and  evens out the complexion for a glowing radiant look, Blah Blah! it's great for all skin types, i mean any one's and you need use the littlest bit to achieve what you need. 


I love this powder it was like a whole new world opened up for me in the makeup world. i keep on in every ones bag and one in my pocket just in case I am in a pinch. LOVE LOVE LOVE it! $30.00 comes smaller for $15.00
@Sephora & MAKEUP FOR EVER

5. Aquaphor is a life saver in so many ways, I can thank Teri Polo for turning me on to this, we where shooting in the dry desert during July and wow, was the skin and lips on that set dry, i mean crack city and this healed every chapped lip in days. This is always on me at all times, its come in handy for its other purposes, i mean its for babies right? and whats good for baby skin it great for ours.  I mostly use Aquphor for chapped and dry faces, I can apply some during last looks a hit it with a bit of powder, it may not last that long , but for that scene its awesome. Great for  dry, flaky skin  around the nostrils.$6.00 everywhere! TARGET

6. SMASHBOX LIP PALETTE

It's a must have for me.  A really great lip palette is one that has a wide range of  shades that just in case you need to pop on some color your ready to fill any ones needs, and its come in handy  when other's makeup artist go MIA, i just had that happened and stepped in, and your glad your prepared right? I love My SMASHBOX  Lip Palette,  but any palette that you like will do. I have even  used it to pop cheeks too!

NEW PRODUCT ALERT!! Get That Luxury Shave with WHISH

LUXURY SHAVE PRODUCTS FOR WOMEN, WHAT MORE COULD YOU WHISH FOR?

 I came across this amazing new line of  Luxury Shave Products for Women called WHISH I thought it was very cute and when i read what it claims to do, I thought, This might be a great gift, so I wrapped it up and off I went. Well, The holidays have come and gone and I just  told by the person i gifted  WHISH too, that they love it!  So Here I am sharing it with you all. Check out Whish"s story, and try it out.

The STORY:

Jesse Werner has always had very sensitive skin, ingrown hairs, razor bumps & burns that where a part of everyday  shaving. After trying endless  products and prescription creams, he found a solution to his dilemma, A European cream with out the harsh drying chemically foam.
Jesse's wife after ruining out of her own shave cream asked to use his.  After  lathering it on  with his shave brush and set to shave to find in her words, the best shave of her life,   her only comment was,"Whish I Had Something that worked so well, without leaving me smelling like an old English guy."

Well you get the story, their created this new line and it's a huge success. Check out there web site for more info!
Have shaving!
mykie xoxo

This thick whip provides a close, moisturizing shave with no drying foam. Its natural ingredients 

leave your skin soft, smooth, and pampered. Welcome to a gentle new world.

Dreaming of the fountain of youth? The pomegranate seems like a magical fruit and its 

rejuvenating properties make Pomegranate Shave Crave a revitalizing treat. 

Consider it your lucky charm.

Pomegranate Shave Crave is made in the USA with Earth friendly packaging and ingredients.

 Tested on us, not animals™.

our formula: moisturizes – natural squalene, organic shea butter. soothes – organic green tea, organic shea butter. nourishes – organic jojoba seed oil.

Shave Crave Pump  $24.00 shave Crave Jar $32.00

We’ve conjured up a powerfully moisturizing alternative to the typical drying body wash by filling ours  with deliciously organic and softening ingredients. It's perfectly lovely lathered up in the shower and  surprisingly sumptuous for a long soak in the bath.  All Three Whishes products contain Organic Aloe, Organic Raspberry Butter, and Organic Shea Butter,  enhancing life’s little desires three at a time. Enjoy lemongrass for soothing muscles and toning skin. Lemongrass Three Whishes Body Wash is made in the USA with Earth friendly packaging and ingredients.  Tested on us, not animals™. moisturizes – organic shea butter, organic raspberry butter, and organic aloe. cleanses – a unique combination of wheat, sugar, and corn derived ingredients. soothes – organic cucumber, organic marigold. $22.00 Extremely dry skin needs an extremely efficient solution and our scrumptious sugar  scrub works like a charm. With an amazingly effective trio of exfoliants and a  triple dose of moisturizers your dull, dry skin will be polished to nourished perfection  in no time. Who knew beautifying could be so yummy? All Three Whishes products contain Organic Aloe, Organic Raspberry Butter,  and Organic Shea Butter, enhancing life’s little desires three at a time.  Indulge in almond for its effects as an especially super moisturizer. Almond Sugar Scrub is made in the USA with Earth friendly packaging and ingredients.  Tested on us, not animals™.  $38.00 our formula: exfoliates – brown sugar, raspberry seed, bamboo powder, organic sugar cane. moisturizes – organic shea butter, organic raspberry butter, organic aloe. renews – vitamin E extract, organic avocado oil. WHERE TO SHOP FOR WHISH BEAUTY COLLECTION APOTHECARY 7862 Burnery Ave.  Van Nuys, CA 91405 www.beautycollection.com KITSON 116 N. Robertson Blvd. Suite C. Los Angeles, ca 90048 www.shopkitson.com STUDIO at FRED SEGAL 500Broadway Santa Monica, Ca 90401 WHISH  www.whishbody.com