dubai christmas gift ideas 2018 list

Best Dubai Beauty Holiday Gift Guide For 2018

As we’re nearing the Holidays, it’s the time of year again for gift giving. Whether for family or friends, shopping for gifts can be a very stressful activity. Because it’s the end of the year, expenses are also piling up so choosing the perfect gift within budget can be so challenging!

This is the reason why I will try to make it easier for you! What I did was I selected amazing gifts that are available in Dubai and UAE that will suit any budget.

Kayali Elixir Perfume

AED 450

This is the gift perfect for that special woman in your life. Your mom or mother-in-law will surely be delighted to receive this ultra-addictive scent that blends traditional and western touches. It has a mesmerizing combination of fruity, floral and woody notes which will surely make it worth the splurge.

This is also the type of gift you would like to receive from your husband! So better start dropping those hints now! 

BUY IT HERE.

Chanel Le Vernis Long Lasting Nail Polish  Rouge Essentiel 500

AED 100

There is always at least one person in your life who is difficult to shop for – like maybe your boss or your jetsetter fashionista friend…So, what do you give this person then? Chanel , of course!

And yes, you can get them a gift at Chanel for around 100 Dirhams (USD28 – price will vary). This pop of color this red Chanel Nail Polish brings instant Christmas cheer! Make sure to shop at a Chanel mall outlet so you can have it wrapped in a nice Chanel mini paper bag! There’s nothing more fool-proof than giving a gift wrapped in a classy Chanel paper bag – it doesn’t matter if it’s a very small package. Every woman would love to receive a Chanel, whatever it is!

Buy it in Dubai Mall.

Benefit Cosmetics Confection Cuties Set

AED 99

Your favorite sister will love to receive this wonderful gift! This is a beautiful looking gift set that’s an Online Exclusive at Sephora UAE. At only AED 99, you get a travel-sized trio of Benefit’s bestsellers:

1.5 g Mini Gimme Brow+ Volumizing Eyebrow Gel in Shade 3
7.5 mL Mini The POREfessional Face Primer
4 g Mini Roller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara in Black

BUY IT HERE.

Little MAC Lipstick D for Danger

AED 49

Being tight on budget does not mean sacrificing on quality! This mini matte lipstick is an Online Exclusive from MAC which will only cost you AED 49. I personally recommend this D for Danger Brick Red shade because it suits the holiday season, plus it usually suits most skin tones. This can be a great gift for your teenage nieces or cousins.

This is a great last-minute gift as MAC online offers next day delivery in Dubai  for orders AED 200 and above.

BUY IT HERE.

Maybelline FitMe Matte + Poreless Foundation

AED 50* (Price Varies)

 This foundation uses Perlite technology that will absorb oil and mattify your skin. This is perfect for Dubai weather because it suits all skin types. This is a great gift everyone will love to receive!

BUY IT IN ALL LOCAL DRUGSTORES.  

Sephora Coconut Water Miscellar Cleansing Milk 100 ml

AED 15

At AED 15 Dirhams, this gift is definitely a steal. Every makeup lover will not say NO to a great makeup remover. I chose this gift because the packaging is super pretty. You don’t even need to wrap it, just place a nice ribbon and a card!

Etude House Moistfull Collagen Korean Face Mask Sheet

AED 10

At only AED 10, you can already give the gift of beauty. Maybe you’re attending a Holiday party where you need to give gifts for your colleagues, or maybe you’re looking for an affordable gift for you relatives – then this is a perfect choice. This collagen infused mask is an instant spa experience! Check out my review HERE.

Buy it at Etude House in Dubai Mall.

Give the gift of beauty!

Last but not the least, you can also gift your loved one or yourself an exclusive professional makeup course. I am offering a 25% Holiday Discount if you book and pay in advance before December 25, 2018. This amazing makeup course comprising of 3 sessions will give you the tools to become a makeup pro! CONTACT ME TODAY  to learn more about this special offer!

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The Perfect Huda Beauty Demi Matte Shade for Every Office Situation Plus My Review

Woooohooooh!  I was super excited to finally, finally get the new Huda Beauty Demi Matte Cream  Lipstick  Collection. I went a little bit overboard by getting 11 out of the 15 shades of the Demi Matte but I am not sorry I did. These babies are so worth it.

THE SHADES

I got the Day Slayer , Shero, SheEO, Lady Boss, Bawse, Sheikha, Catwalk Killa, Game Changer, Mogul, Feminist and Bonnie.

They colors are all exceptional and very wearable too. You can definitely wear these lipsticks in your everyday makeup routine or even on that special occasion. Believe me, until now, I am still confused what my favorite shade is because I really do love all of them!

THE FORMULA

They are the bomb! The new creamy formula is amazing. It is not glossy but it still keeps your lips so soft and hydrated.  They are also very comfortable to use and has menthol so when you apply it , it gives a slightly cool and tingling feeling for some time.

Yes, the Demi Matte is creamy but that does not mean that they are not super pigmented like the matte lipsticks. Just one swipe gives you that excellent pop of color.

In applying the lipstick,  you can first contour your lips using a Huda Beauty lip contour pencil. Although the Demi Matte  has a creamy formula, it does NOT bleed so no worries about that. Make sure you don’t use more than one dip.

If you don’t like the sheen finish, you can even blot with a tissue which gives it a slightly matte look but it will not dry out your lips.

MY OWN DEMI MATTE VIDEO SHOOT

For today’s blog, I wanted to show you the fun video I made which I posted on Instagram. I really had fun shooting this video! I was inspired by Huda’s photoshoot so I decided to give you my own take.

What do you think guys? I hope you loved watching that as much as I loved creating it for you!

Now when I was finished editing the video, I thought that not every one of us may be lady bosses in the office but that does not mean you cannot rock the Huda Beauty Demi Matte!

What I did was I created a series of fun photo memes that can hopefully show you that yes, you can definitely wear the Huda Beauty Demi Matte shades, just in every office situation you find yourself into!

I also added  a few lines to show you how each shade is suitable to a different mood or attitude, depending on what you want to rock on that particular day.

 

Shero  is for a woman who  is playful and witty.  She always knows what’s the right thing to say and can make a lot of people laugh at her jokes.

Game Changer  is for a woman who is assertive yet feminine at the same time. Like the  lipstick shade, she can brighten up the room without overpowering.

Feminist is an eye catching pink nude that suits a woman with a sweet disposition , yet she always stands out!

SheEO is a commanding nude brown shade that’s perfect for a woman  who is confident and  practical at the same time. She is not someone you can mess with.

Bonnie is such a candylicious shade for someone who’s bubbly and makes everyone around her feel happy.

Catwalk Killa is a purple shade  for a woman who is  charismatic. Everybody likes her and she can influence people with her positive energy.

Mogul is a shade that suits a sophisticated woman who likes everything classic from music, fashion and makeup looks!

Day Slayer is a versatile nude who is for someone who is the ultimate multi-tasker. She knows how to balance things and gets everything done on deadline!

Sheikha is a deep rose shade that is is for a woman who  is a hopeless  romantic. She loves fairy tales and happy endings!

Lady Boss is a vivid berry shade for the girl who is smart and savvy. She always has the perfect solution whenever an issue comes up.

Bawse is for a fierce independent woman. She knows what she wants and knows what to do to achieve her dreams.

You can purchase the Huda Beauty Demi Matte Cream Lipstick at SEPHORA , SHOPHUDABEAUTY, and CULT BEAUTY

UAE PRICE  105 AED

US PRICE  20 USD

UK PRICE  18 GBP

Disclaimer: All the products I have used are purchased by me and I am not paid to write this post.

Huda Beauty #FauxFilter Review

Huda Beauty #FauxFilter Foundation: Fabulous or Faux Pas?

Here’s a review of the Huda Beauty #FauxFilter Foundation and recommended solutions on the most common complaints found online.

Let’s face it… A lot of us Huda Beauty fans are crazy over the latest products that are coming out from her brand. I still remember the olden days when it was just the gorgeous lashes, then one by one, Huda started releasing one gem after the other. Of course, like every other fan out there, I also get myself these products to use for myself, as well as for my clients.

As a professional makeup artist, I have been exposed to a lot, and I mean a lot of makeup products. That’s why I am still super amazed whenever I discover a new product that manages to win over the old, dependable heavyweight brands. I recently experienced this when Huda Beauty released her Easy Bake Loose Powder. You can read my comparison review HERE and see how Easy Bake managed to beat all the other powders I had.

While filming that  same makeup look, I used the Huda Beauty #FauxFilter Foundation and I actually got several DM’s on Instagram asking me about it. Should they buy this foundation? Is it worth the money? How come there are a lot of negative reviews online?

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Well, first and foremost, I believe that every woman is different. What works for one person wonderfully might fail when it comes to another. There is no one result so you really need to test it out for yourself.

But what I will do in order to help you out is relate my personal experience about this foundation by answering the common problems encountered. These are based on the many times I have used this foundation not only on myself but several of my clients as well.

Hopefully, this will help not only those deciding if they want to buy the product but also those who already bought the foundation and are having a difficult time making it work.

The Top 5 Complaints about the Huda Beauty #FauxFilter Foundation and my pro tips to solve them

Complaint: The consistency is super thick and does not spread on my skin well

I believe that it’s very important to stress that the Huda Beauty #FauxFilter Foundation is a CREAM foundation, and not a liquid foundation. The difference is that the consistency is thicker.

dubai makeup artist
Here’s a comparison of the consistency of #FauxFilter

 

This confuses a lot of women, especially those who are used to liquid foundation because they become unsure how much product to use so they are either putting too much or too little. Based on my experience, one single pump can actually cover your entire face already and just adjust as you go along.

In terms of applying it easily on the skin, you need to prep your skin well with a primer or moisturizer in order for the product to smoothly glide into your skin. Use a primer suitable for your skin type. If this still does not work, you can use a moisturizer to mix with the foundation to make application easier for you. Be warned not to use something like Farsali, because in my personal experience, the foundation starts coming off.

What happens when blending with Farsali

Complaint: It leaves dry patches, settles on fine line and does not blur the pores 

This problem is not exclusive on the #FauxFilter. I find that this problem occurs when using a cream foundation if the skin is not well exfoliated and moisturized. This is the reason why women with dry skin don’t like the #FauxFilter because they will surely face this problem especially if they do not take the time to really exfoliate and moisturize.

Another reason that can cause this problem is incorrect application techniques. If you have textured skin, fine lines and large pores, use a brush or sponge to pat product into your skin and blend carefully, instead of gliding the product into your skin. If you suffer from extra dry skin or flakiness, avoid harshly buffing the foundation in a circular motion.

Use proper tools and don’t buff heavily for textured skin.

Complaint: It looks cakey and heavy on the skin

The #FauxFilter is highly pigmented and gives you full coverage. These are two features that I actually love about this product. But this also means that in using the product, you don’t need too much in order to fully cover your face. Again, this is a cream foundation so if you put too much product, for sure it will look cakey.

In using this product, don’t compare it to other liquid foundation you have. Just start with a single pump and you will see that it is enough for full coverage. You can always build up and add more, but it’s harder to scale down when you already put too much.

As suggested you can also mix with a moisturizer so it will be lighter in terms of finish

Mixing with a moisturizer gives it a dewy finish

Complaint: It stays wet on the skin

Again, this problem will occur if you are putting too much product on your face. Another reason is if you have super oily skin and put too much primer or moisturizer before putting on the foundation. Also, just wait a few minutes as it will dry off after some time.

Even though this foundation is supposed to be matte, it is always smart to set this foundation with a loose powder like the Easy Bake to make sure it stays on your face. This is especially important if you live in humid or warm weather countries.

Complaint: It oxidizes after two or three hours

Oxidizing of makeup is a common problem especially for people with oily skin. Oxidation occurs as the product reacts with your skin’s natural oils and the weather. This can cause makeup to look darker on your skin after a few hours.

One easy solution is to use a primer so that you have a layer between the foundation and your skin. This will form as a barrier to avoid oxidation. Make sure to use a primer that suits your skin type!

Another additional tip is also to set with a loose powder and then use a blotting tissue to keep the oils away.

MY FINAL THOUGHTS

The first time I tested the Huda Beauty #FauxFilter I also thought at first that I will not like it. However, after using it for a few times, I started to appreciate how great it is.

I recommend this foundation as a FABULOUS product to use if you are planning to be photographed – like photo shoots or if you will be under a lot of lights. The full coverage is really incomparable.

If you are not someone who goes out with full coverage makeup every day, then I do not recommend this as a daily makeup.  It’s more of a special occasion makeup that you want to use when you really have a lot of time to prep your skin

If you don’t like heavy or full matte coverage, then this is not for you.

Because of its formula, I have to say that it can be difficult for some women especially beginners to become comfortable in using this product as it does not act the same way as a normal liquid foundation.If you’re a makeup newbie, I have to warn you that you may need practice before nailing the right amount to use and the right way to apply this product to maximize its best qualities.

If you already have the product and are struggling with it, follow my advice above and hopefully you will start enjoying it more.  I will also be happy to help you out by offering my one-on-one makeup lessons which you can avail by CONTACTING ME HERE.

In my private makeup classes,  I will be able to help you choose the right products as well as teach you how to maximize these products to make you look the best version of yourself.

Again, everyone is different so what may be fabulous for you may be a faux pas for others, but do not stress because makeup is supposed to be beautiful for you to enjoy!

Why the Huda Beauty Easy Bake is the Dubai’s Must-Have Summer Beauty Product

The latest makeup creation from Huda Boss herself is the hottest summer beauty product every Dubai gal must get! Inspired by yummy dessert flavors, the Huda Beauty Easy Bake is a luxurious loose powder that aims to give you that airbrushed finish.

Of course, I had to battle the online crowd and add this to my Sephora shopping cart. At 174 AED, you may think that it’s expensive, but once you try it, I’m sure you’ll start to wonder how you’ve ever survived Dubai summer without this!

Dubai Makeup Artist Huda Beauty Easy Bake

Here are the reasons why!

Available in 8 shades

Dubai Makeup Artist Huda Beauty Easy Bake

Unlike other loose powders that are only available in a few shades, Huda included 8 different shades. This really takes into account the diversity of women’s skin color, especially here in Dubai where you can find more than a hundred nationalities!

Sugar Cookie, Cupcake, Pound Cake, Banana Bread, Blondie, Kunafa, Cinnamon Bun and Coffee Cake are the 8 shades that can suitably complement different skin tones and foundation shades.

I love the inclusion of the Middle Eastern dessert Kunafa but it was a bit too dark for me so I personally got the Banana Bread which has a yellowish, golden undertone.

Matte-finish

Dubai Makeup Artist Huda Beauty Easy Bake

If you’ve spent even a few weeks under the Dubai summer sun, then you can understand that sometimes even the most hardworking matte foundation can crack under the extreme heat. Without the use of setting powders, your face can look cakey and even greasy.

The Huda Beauty Easy Bake gives you a  matte finish but still has that skin-looking luminous effect,  so there’s no fear of looking oilier in the process. Huda understands that when we mean matte, we still want to look natural.

Super Fine Texture

Dubai Makeup Artist Huda Beauty Easy Bake

The super fine and creamy texture of the Huda Beauty Easy Bake locks in your foundation or concealer. It is also pigmented so it minimizes the appearance of pores. You will definitely look airbrushed by using this.

Long-Lasting

Dubai Makeup Artist Huda Beauty Easy Bake

The Easy Bake is said to last for up to 10 hours, fade proof. Being a Dubai mainstay herself, I’m super sure Huda took into account Dubai’s 45 C degree weather to keep you shine free!

I have tested it for 7 Hours straight outside in the Dubai weather, I can say that it does hold quite well. I even applied it while in the car! After 7 hours, it was a success, still smooth , shine free and no lines or cracks!

Compact Packaging

Dubai Makeup Artist Huda Beauty Easy Bake

Unlike other bulky loose powders, the packaging of the Huda Beauty Easy Bake is so compact. The rectangular packaging makes it easier to fit into any makeup case. It is travel friendly so you can have it on the go if ever you need to do make up in the car.

Bake time!

Dubai Makeup Artist Huda Beauty Easy Bake

The Huda Beauty Easy Bake is available online on Sephora but stocks are almost out. As of writing only the 3 darkest shades are available for online ordering so you better get your shopping cart ready for the restock!

Meanwhile, I thought it would be fun to include an edible #EasyBake Banana Bread Recipe that you can actually eat and bake yourself!

WARNING: The recipe below is designed for actual baking and eating, not for your face!

Dubai Banana Bread Recipe

Farah’s Easy Bake Banana Bread Recipe

4 Super ripe bananas (almost black)

1 cup sugar

2 cups all-purpose flour

2 tsp cinnamon powder

½ tsp salt

1 tsp baking soda

3 eggs

½ cup vegetable oil

¼ cup water

Mash the bananas and set aside.

Combine the sugar, flour, cinnamon, salt and baking soda in a bowl.

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and add the vegetable oil, and water. Slowly combine the flour mixture and the mashed bananas and mix well.

Place on a bread loaf pan and bake on a preheated oven (190 degrees Celsius) for 30-40 minutes or until toothpick comes clean in the middle.

EAT AND ENJOY!

dubai makeup artist

The Dubai Drugstore Dilemma: The Top 3 Things to Consider when Buying Drugstore Makeup

As a professional makeup artist and hair stylist, I only use high-end products for my clients. I purchase the designer brands as well as the most-sought after products in the market: Chanel, Giorgio Armani, Makeup Forever, Nars, Huda Beauty, Anastasia Beverly Hills, Fenty Beauty, Tarte, Morphe and many more. Basically, you name it, I do have it.

I do this because as someone who specializes in wedding makeup, I feel that my brides deserve the best and I only want to deliver the best.

However, when I started my blog and my social media pages, I usually get questions about my opinion on drugstore makeup products. I actually use some drug store products myself as I found that there are few products which are just too good to pass up. In my next posts, I will review some drugstore makeup products due to popular demand.

But for now, let me tell you some advice on what you should consider when buying drugstore makeup products.

dubai makeup artist

BUDGET

The expensive amount of high-end makeup can be very frustrating. Especially if you want to buy a whole set, the designer brands can be a budget buster.

Drugstore makeup brands are really affordable so it is great for beginners, plus, the attractive price can encourage you to experiment and explore more makeup looks. If you are not satisfied with the product, you also won’t be that devastated for spending.

dubai makeup artist

PURPOSE

If you are using makeup for everyday wear, then drugstore makeup is also a good option. I know women who use drugstore makeup on weekdays and reserve their high-end products for special occasions. For daily natural looks, drugstore makeup will work just fine. You would just need to make sure you retouch on your lunch break and coffee break as these are not as pigmented and long-wearing.

For special occasions like weddings and parties where you need your make up to stay for hours, I would recommend to use high-end makeup because of the higher quality ingredients. However, even Beyonce wore drugstore makeup products during her recent Coachella concert so this is also possible to use with the correct application. And that brings me to my last and most important point…

dubai makeup artist

APPLICATION TECHNIQUE

I am a firm believer that even if you have the most expensive and luxurious makeup product, if you do not know the correct techniques to apply it properly to highlight your features, then you are waisting your time and money.

Watching YouTube Tutorials can help but remember that each one of us has a unique face shape, complexion and skin type. Therefore you will not get the same result if you do not know how to personalize the application.

For example, you may be wondering why your makeup foundation looks cakey when you followed the tutorial and instructions step by step. Well, what you may not know is that the type of brush or sponge you use makes a difference depending on your skin type!

Another problem will be doing proper application in consideration to the weather. Drug-store makeup are less long-lasting, therefore you must know how to apply properly to get maximum results and not have your makeup melt while you’re still in the parking lot!

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

What I recommend is that you should find more effective ways to learn how to properly apply makeup, especially when using drugstore products. Seek the help of professional makeup artists like me.

I offer my clients different ways. You can avail of my Dubai Beauty Shopping Tour which cost $100 dollars. You may be wondering why you should spend money for my guidance when you’re trying to actually save by buying drugstore products? Well let me tell you that spending this minimal amount will actually save you a huge amount of money in the future! How?

Imagine that you’re buying makeup now without real knowledge if that makeup is working for you and you are continuously frustrated with the results. Whether it’s high-end or drug store makeup you’re buying, this is still money WASTED on products you are not sure is helping you. What I can do is actually take you on a guided shopping trip to the best beauty stores. I work with your budget and advice you what and where to buy. I can even give you my privileged discount at some of the best stores, so you can get designer makeup at drugstore prices!

During the shopping trip, I will impart my tips and techniques on how you can use this product.

Another option for those who want to level up their skills is my 3-day makeup course. Each session will last two hours and will teach you different look application. You can choose the schedule you want and can even be done in your home. This 3-day workshop also comes with a FREE Dubai beauty shopping tour.

So why don’t you CONTACT ME today and let me help you be the best version of yourself!

dubai makeup artist

Are You One Of These 5 Women Who Need To Attend A Makeup Class?

Makeup has become a big part of every woman’s personal care routine. Even those who are not cosmetic lovers use pressed powder, lipstick or blush. Even as young girls, we play with our mom’s makeup and a lot of us dream of owning our own makeup kit as we grow older.

For me, makeup is an art and a confidence booster. I do not consider it as a mask, rather, I believe that it is an enhancement tool that brings out the best in every woman.

It gives us women a good hearted feeling, making us ready to face the world. This is why I think that it is also important for a woman like you to learn correct application techniques. This is to ensure that you are able to use makeup the best way possible, highlighting your best features instead of hiding them.

So, are you one of these women who needs a lesson from a professional Dubai makeup artist like me?

dubai makeup artist

1. The Career Woman

The career woman needs to learn makeup techniques that can make her look more self-confident, exude power yet still look relaxed in the corporate world. If you are in a working environment, I can teach you appropriate office – friendly looks that can still make an impact.

dubai makeup artist

2. The Stay-At-Home Mom

Being a housewife is not an excuse to let go and not take care of yourself. Learning correct application procedures can save moms like you a lot of time in your hectic schedule, so you can look beautiful in a flash.

dubai makeup artist

3. The Student

Younger women are more experimental and love following Instagram makeup trends. However, if you are one of these ladies, to be able to effectively pull off these trendy looks, you need to learn the makeup fundamentals first.

dubai makeup artist

4. The Public Personality

If your job requires you to always be under the public eye, it’s a good idea to learn how to put makeup yourself. This way, you know what to do in case of emergencies.

dubai makeup artist

5. The Budding  Makeup Artist

If you are interested in becoming a makeup artist by profession, it is a great option to book a personal makeup course where you can totally relax and not be intimidated. You can ask all the questions you want, and I will even impart some industry inside tips that will help you jumpstart your career.

With various YouTube tutorials, Instagram videos and blogs available online that offer advice on makeup application, you may be wondering why I still believe that every woman should still invest in herself and attend in a makeup session given by a professional.

The difference with a tutorial is that usually, the speaker on the video is more focused on showing how she achieved a certain look, listing down the products she likes best, and concentrated on looking her best on the video to attract more viewers.

On the other hand, a professional makeup artist like me is more focused on YOU. In my classes, I focus on my clients. If you are my client and you are learning from me then you are the star, not me. I teach you how to create the perfect look so you can become the best version of yourself.

Book a session today and take advantage of my limited time special offer.

 

 

 

 

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Dubai Ladies, Here’s Every Makeup Look to Suit Your Summer Travel

In This Blog: Free Downloadable Product List for Every Look!

Summer is here and a lot of Dubai residents are planning their vacation trips to escape the desert heat. With social media like Instagram and Facebook, it’s so much more essential to look our best when taking that #travelselfie! After all,  great photographs create beautiful, unforgettable memories.

So Dubai ladies, for this week’s blog, I thought to share some makeup look suggestions depending on your travel itinerary! Each recommended look comes with a FREE downloadable PDF shopping list so you will not second-guess what to bring and you don’t need to bring a lot of products.

If still in doubt, don’t worry because I do offer my personalized Dubai Beauty Shopping Tour where I can help you shop for products that will suit you best and not waste time & money.

dubai makeup artist

City Sightseeing Tours

If you’re planning to go on a city sightseeing tour like Istanbul, Paris, or Kuala Lumpur…then I recommend going with an elegant, sophisticated look to match the metropolis vibe.

Keep your look stylish and uncomplicated with flawless skin makeup and a classy red lip. Use a heavy duty concealer and foundation to keep your face impeccable. I recommend using a long-lasting  liquid lipstick, like the Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint, so you wouldn’t need to worry about retouching, and just enjoy the sights.

To achieve this look, download here.

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Beach Getaway

Going on a tropical beach vacation is one of the favorites of Dubai residents. I understand that when you are at the beach, you can feel confused about what type of makeup look to do. It can be inconvenient to bring a lot of makeup products and do a full face makeup but still, you don’t want to look like a drowned rat in your beach photos.

One lovely makeup look I recommend is going for the sun-kissed summer glow by using shimmer. You can achieve this with my Coral Obsessions look which you can download here . I love it coz this look reminds me of  pink and orange beach sunsets!

The great thing about this is I used one product, the Huda Beauty Coral Obsessions mini-palette for my eyes as eyeshadow, on my cheeks as highlighter and on my lips as added shimmer. This can save you a lot of space in your travel case, and also help you achieve that sunset-inspired look.

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Nature Trippin’

If you’re going on a mountain hike or a safari, I recommend going for a more natural, classic glow like this look which you can download here.

My favorite part of this look is the Anastasia Beverly Hills So Hollywood Highlighter which can perfectly glimmer in the outdoors sun! The look itself is very simple but for sure, you will get that natural glow in your photos.

dubai makeup artist

Cruise Away

Planning to spend your vacation onboard a cruise ship? This is also a great travel option especially for a lot of older couples who prefer the laid-back relaxation this kind of trip offers.

Cruise ships often offers different variety of activities. You can lounge by the pool, enjoy the chic restaurants and entertainment onboard, or go on walking tours in the island stopovers.  What I recommend then is going for a versatile look that can work for different occasions like this Gemstone Obsessions makeup look.

I chose a nude lip color to complement the emerald eye shadow which kept the look unique but still tasteful. You can find the product list download here.

dubai makeup artist

Family Fun

Family vacations with the little ones are always enjoyable! The travel usually involves theme parks like Disneyland, carnivals, or children parks.

For going to these places, let out the kid inside of you by experimenting with color. Don’t worry, using colorful makeup can work without making you look like a confused unicorn.

There is a way to still look playful yet mature. In this look you can download here, you will see how I combined together VERY colorful products like the Etude House Wonder Fun Park, Play 101 sticks and the Fenty Beauty Trophy Wife highlighter.

Before You Board!

Travelling is such a fun experience especially when you’re with your loved ones. Looking your best should not add to your worries so make sure you pre-plan the makeup products you need to bring and learn how to apply your own makeup efficiently. The good news is, I do offer exclusive makeup lessons to my VIP followers. The lessons include learning how to smartly use products and apply makeup competently so the next time you’re on your trip, you will look flawless and amazing! CONTACT ME to learn more about how you can partake in the VIP MAKEUP COURSE!

And if YOU ARE TRAVELING to Dubai very soon and need a personal consultation session , I can help you find the best deals on makeup and beauty products in the city with my Dubai Beauty Shopping Tour! No need to waste precious vacation time and money because I will make it so much easier for you!

Safe & Lovely travels!

FARAH MAKEUP AND HAIR DUBAI MAKEUP ARTIST

Shocking! This Dubai makeup artist tried these 2 skin care products and got unbelievable results in only 90 days.

Full Review of Hylamide Booster C25 and The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5%+EGCG

NOTE: This is NOT a sponsored post. I bought products on my own and sharing my own experience.

Before I became obsessed with makeup products, I have always been a skincare fanatic. I would always research the most effective way to achieve great skin while battling with  the UAE weather. I feel that the combination of Dubai’s extreme heat, super cold AC, sandstorms and work stress really takeS its toll on my skin so I need products that are really effective.

At the same time, it’s very important to discover products that will actually be able to cure these issues without emptying our bank accounts.farah makeup and hair dubai makeup artist

SEARCHING FOR THE RIGHT PRODUCT

I was searching for serums that will improve my skin texture and tone, plus lighten my dark circles in my eye area. After very careful research I found two products from TheOrdinary.com website. The first one is Hylamide Booster C25 (USD 45 for 30 ml) and the second one is The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG (USD10.70 for 30ml). 

IMPORTANT SHOPPING TIP: Depending on your location, the cost of these two products may vary. In the US, the price is much cheaper, but international price  (applicable to UAE) is what I indicated above.
THE PROMISE

The Hylamide Booster C25 promises to offer a fast-tracked approach to a visibly radiant, healthy-looking skin tone. While the Caffeine Solution is meant to reduce dark circles in the eye area.

PURCHASE AND DELIVERY

I was not familiar with these products prior to researching them but one good point is that the products are very affordable compared to other serums available in the market. I purchased both products from the website because they deliver worldwide. The transaction was smooth and I received the product on my doorstep in 6 days.

HOW TO USE

I used the Caffeine Solution daily, morning and night. I used one drop of the solution for each eye area. When I applied the solution, I felt a slight cooling sensation on my skin.

For the Hylamide Booster, I use it morning and night, at least four times a week. During the first few days of usage my skin felt dry so I had to alternate the days of using it. I already have dry skin so I make sure to put on moisturizer after putting on the serum. But eventually, my skin got better and with the help of a moisturizer, my skin was able to adapt to the product. I also used a very mild exfoliating product as to not stress my skin.

THE RESULTS

Even if both products had really raving reviews, my expectations were not very high because as they say you have to try it to believe it. But after only  2 months, I was surprised to see remarkable results. Then, after 3 months (or 90 days) from my first use, the results are really unbelievable.

My skin has visibly improved. My skin texture is more plump looking and my skin tone looks more even-colored.  The fine laugh lines on my face were reduced, you can barely see them now.

farah akeup and hair dubai makeup artist

But the most amazing result is the improvement in the dark pigmentation in my eye area. After only 3 months, the dark areas lightened dramatically. Before, I had to use tons of color correcting concealers to even out these dark circles but now, this problem area is almost gone.The overall effect of my skin also looks less stressed and has developed a natural pinkish glow like that of a baby.

In a nutshell:  

 

WHAT

Hylamide Booster C25, 30ml Vitamin C Booster The Ordinary Caffeine Solution 5% + EGCG, 30 ml
WHO

 

Those who want to reduce skin dullness, fine lines, texture issues and uneven skin tone Those who want to lighten dark eye areas and circles
WHEN Daily /4 times a week

AM & PM

Daily

AM & PM

WHERE Made in Canada. Available in theordinary.com and ships worldwide.

PRICE WILL VARY DEPENDING ON COUNTRY OF DELIVERY.

WHY Dramatic results in just 90 days in affordable price. No need for expensive cosmetic surgery.

 

The Good and The Bad: Fenty Beauty Stunna Lip Paint – Uncensored

The red lipstick is probably the most iconic makeup product ever. It is a classic shade that is very popular across the globe. Since superstar Rihanna released red lipsticks in the past (the sold-out RiRi Woo and VivaGlam for MAC), it is not surprising then that she also launched a red liquid lipstick for her own Fenty Beauty Line, the Stunna Lip Paint in ‘Uncensored’.

So as promised I am giving you my honest, unbiased thoughts about this glamazing red lip paint, both the good and the bad!

The Good – Stunning Red Shade

Rihanna promised that this shade is a universal red that will be flattering to any skin tone. And oh girl, yes it does! I have tried this product on different women with totally diverse skin color and it did not disappoint. The redness is indeed stunning and very eye catching.

The Bad – Difficult To Apply

The applicator can be tricky for a lot of people because the shape is unlike the angled ones we are used to. The applicator tip is more of a ball shape so if you don’t really have a very full, pouty lip, it can be really challenging. You would probably need to use a thinner lip brush for a more even application.

 

The Good – Pigmented Yet Weightless

It will not take you a lot of layers to achieve the shade as advertised. The formula is very pigmented so a single stroke is enough to turn any lip color into an opaque red lip. The liquid paint dries after about a minute and it does not feel heavy as expected with other pigmented lipsticks.

 The Bad – It Can Turn Messy If You Have An Unsteady Hand

The liquid formula is watery, which means even if you have a very steady hand, you need a lot of practice to make sure you apply this cleanly on your lips without using a lip liner pencil. Because it is pigmented, if you are not experienced enough, you can end up having messy, red streaks around your mouth. So, make sure you have cotton buds, wet wipes, and concealers for that perfect pout.

 

The Good – Longwearing

This lip paint is very longwearing. It is not the type of lipstick that will fade after a couple of hours. It will stay on your lip and will stay the same shade when you first apply it.

The Bad – Not Transfer-Proof

One of the major problems of this lipstick for me is that it is not transfer-proof. Meaning, even though the color does not fade from your lips, the lipstick still transfers into everything your lips touch –teeth, food, clothes, your child’s cheek…everything!

 

Conclusion:

For me the amazing red color of the Fenty Beauty Uncensored Stunna Lip Paint overshadows all its weaknesses because it’s not every day when you find that super perfect red that will turn any look into a glamorous one.

I would recommend this product for more experienced makeup lovers who can handle practiced application. I feel that beginners may find it frustrating to apply. I would also not recommend this for everyday wear or if you are going to have to eat and drink regularly because as I said, it transfers everywhere.

But this red lip paint totally looks amazing on wedding photos, fashion shoots, and red-carpet events – no wonder RiRi loves this product!  

The Fenty Beauty  Stunna Lip Paint is  available at

UAE: AED 126  at Sephora

USA:  USD 24 at FentyBeauty

I am not in any way sponsored or associated with the stores listed above, but had a personal shopping experience with them. All reviews and opinions are my own and all products are bought and paid for by myself, unless otherwise specified. 

farah makeup and hair dubai

Yes, this is the highlighter that will give every bride that amazing wedding glow!

Every bride wants to walk down the aisle looking radiant and glowing on her special day. As a professional makeup artist in Dubai who specializes in weddings, I have experienced working in weddings for different nationalities – Indian weddings, European weddings, Arabic weddings and South East Asian weddings, among others.

Although the preferences of the brides’ makeup styles differ, the single similarity is that each one of them wants to have that incredible glow that will make everyone, especially their groom, say ‘Wow!’.

The key to achieve this glow is through expertly applied skin makeup that will project a flawless finish, and of course, using a highlighter to accentuate the bride’s features. There are thousands of highlight products in the market but when using highlighters for brides, a true professional is very careful to make sure that the bride will still look naturally glowing. The highlight cannot be too over the top that she will look like she’s going to a nightclub instead of her wedding.

Amrezy Highlighter Photo

This is why the recent release of the Anastasia Beverly Hills x Amrezy Highlighter got me so excited that I immediately bought it and tried it out! It’s a product collaboration between Anastasia and beauty influencer, the highlight queen herself, @amrezy.

 

I was a bit worried at the beginning because I thought the creamy/gel formula will be over pigmented and might not blend well, however, I was surprised when the product touched my skin. It looked translucent, subtle, but eye-catching at the same time!

The color is champagne gold and it is universal so it will surely look good on different skin tones.

 

 

If you’ve been following me, I am very practical so I am a fan of products that are hard-working and versatile.

The Amrezy highlighter is exactly that. A single layer application will give that illuminating glow that is suitable even for everyday use, but you can definitely layer it on for special occasions like weddings and events. But even if it is layered on, it will still look very natural and luminous so you don’t have to worry about looking too glittery.

Amrezy Highlighter Photo

I am so happy with this highlighter and I definitely recommend it for everyone especially for brides wanting to have that spectacular radiance!

If you’re a bride or a bachelorette looking for a Dubai makeup artist who will give you that special glow, then get in touch with me and let’s have a chat about you’re your special event!  I am so excited to be a part of your amazing journey!

The Anastasia Beverly Hills x Amrezy Highlighter is available in:

UAE: AED 159 at Sephora, AED 151 Boutiqaat 

USA:  USD 28 at Sephora

PAKISTAN: RS 5,200 at Indelath, Rs 4,800 at The Vault 

I am not in any way sponsored or associated with the stores listed above, but had a personal shopping experience with them. All reviews and opinions are my own and all products are bought and paid for by myself, unless otherwise specified. 

 

5 Reasons Why Every Girl in Dubai Should Own the Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Eyeshadow Palette

The Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Eyeshadow Palette is undeniably one of the most talked about makeup products in 2018. So, when it became available in the UAE, I happily shelled out AED 242 to get my hands on this gem from @boutiqaat. Being a Dubai Makeup Artist, I felt that it is essential for me to have the latest, high quality products for my clients.  But even if you are not a professional, I truly believe that this versatile, hardworking palette is a makeup must-have every girl in Dubai should own. I listed down 5 reasons why.

  1. You’ll get 14 gorgeous shades in one palette

Yes, you heard me right! 14 shades! There are 9 ultra-matte shades and 5 metallic/shimmery shades included. While it is not cheap, I feel that you’re getting your money’s worth with this one. At first look, a makeup connoisseur may easily dismiss this palette as just another neutral collection but once you start using the different shades, you’ll be amazed at how each color is independently different yet can easily be blended with the other shades in the palette.

Are the shades revolutionary? No? Have you seen these shades before? Probably. Should you still buy the palette? Absolutely!

  1. The formula is super pigmented and long-wearing

One of the things I love most about Soft Glam is the formula. The shadows are velvety smooth, so pigmented yet blendable, and also long-wearing. You don’t have to worry about your eye makeup disappearing at the end of the night because it will definitely stay on.

3. You can use it every single day

Looking at the shades, I feel that ABH really focused on wearability this time. The shades will easily complement any skin tone because there are no crazy colors. You can wear these shades to the office, during Friday brunch, when you travel for Eid break or on a night out at the Dubai Marina. I think that this palette is also perfect even for makeup beginners.

  1. You can go from soft to glam in an instant

Believe it or not, ABH president Claudia Shore even said that she created this palette with wedding makeup artists in mind. The combination of mattes, metallic shades and shimmers makes it perfect for special occasions.  That is one of the reasons I bought this palette. As a professional makeup artist, I want my Dubai brides to have only the best!

  1. Its multi-purpose

Unlike other palettes that just focus on trendy colors, this palette has essential mattes like Noir (ultra-matte black) and Tempera (ultra-matte beige) which you can also use to line your eyes. The shimmery shades Glistening, Fairy and Bronze are highlighter substitutes that work amazingly.

Want to rock a Soft Glam look for your next special event? Why don’t you get in touch with me so I can book you in my calendar! Can’t wait to show you how amazing it is!

The Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam Eyeshadow Palette is available in :

UAE : AED 242 at  Sephora Stores  , @boutiqaat,

USA:  USD 42 at Anastasia Beverly Hills online, Sephora 

PAKISTAN: RS 6,800 at Indelath , RS 6,800 at The Vault 

I am not in any way sponsored or associated  with the stores listed above, but had a personal shopping experience with them. All reviews and opinions are my own and all products are bought and paid for by myself, unless otherwise specified.