Friday, March 16, 2007

Drugstore Vs. Designer

Is expensive makeup worth it? I think the best answer that I can provide through years of working with practically every product manufactured is that: it depends.

Alright, if you want me to be less vague, I would have to say that in general, makeup is like most things in life- you get what you pay for. In my experience, designer and high end makeup have more "substance," and work better. In general, designer makeup is more pigmented and have better blendability and texture. These are qualities that would be important for anyone, but especially for Asians; high pigmentations and blendability is imperative for us because oftentimes the yellow cast in our skin can look very sallow, especially in photographs or direct sunlight- higher pigmented foundation or blush be used to counteract that more effectively. Another issue is of the eye area, where most Asians have minimal surface and shape to work with. Therefore, blendability and texture in eye shadows are very important so the results do not look caked on or chalky, as many lower end makeup products can cause.

At the end of the day though, generalizations are sometimes bullshit( like I'm Asian but I'm into makeup and not med school!), and individual discretion should be used. Every once in awhile, I am blown away by drugstore items, but let it be known that if you want to be on the safe side, do keep in mind that you do get what you pay for.


The First Entry


This is the first entry on my Asian Makeup Tips blog, a blog I created because of the huge lack of knowledge on makeup and beauty related information for Asian women. At the start of my makeup training, I was frustrated because in class there were so many books, tips, and makeup strategies that completely ignored the uniqueness and beauty of Asian faces, and many techniques and products that simply did not work on Asians. I was forced to figure out things by myself.

This blog will be a collection of the valuable ideas and tips I have learned through much hard work and above all~ lots of trial and error!

I love to make people feel beautiful in general, but this blog will be focused towards Asian beauty, although readers of all races are welcome, and I will always try my best to be helpful. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment- I am always happy to share what I know and be of help.

If you are interested in hiring me as a makeup artist, please note that I will generally need at least 30 days advanced notice to schedule an appointment. I am constantly traveling due to the nature of the work, and will likely need to make advanced travel plans. My rates for appointments within Manhattan is $150 per hour, bridal trial (test run) is $200. Outside of Manhattan, add the cost of travel and lodging. Extended projects or events, please email for a quote. For booking, email asianmakeuptips@gmail.com.