Beauty & Tutorials

A Fresh-Faced Look with Luminess Air

Giving Airbrush Makeup a Whirl Beyond the Special Occasion
Filed Under > Beauty & Tutorials

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Okay, so I’m no newbie to the concept of airbrush makeup.  I’ve always read that it’s the secret to a picture-perfect look, but I figured it was only done by professionals for extra-special occasions.  I actually had my makeup airbrushed for my wedding and LOVED the result.  But then again, it was my wedding!  Could it work for every day?  When Luminess Air reached out about trying two of its new airbrush makeup systems, I’ll admit: I was skeptical.  I mean, airbrush makeup??  It seemed like a lot of work!  Here I am trying to simplify my beauty routine, and the last thing I need is something to complicate it further. But int talking with the Luminess team they assured me they wanted my honest opinion, so I was game.  

I tried out both the Epic 2 and Legend, and my adventure into airbrushing was starting off pretty easy.  I just plugged in the Legend, and was ready to start.  Luckily, the packaging for both devices was really self explanatory, and since the Legend is designed for beginners, it was incredibly easy to get started.  (Thank goodness since there really is nothing worse than reading a long user manual for something simple like makeup.)  I first tested the trigger of the stylus on my face to get a feel for how much air would come out, and how fast. Once I felt comfortable with the trigger, I began with the primer knowing it was clear so any mistakes really couldn’t be seen.  Next up I tested the color of both foundations and the extras (blush and highlighter glow) on my forearm and hands.  Feeling good about how the primer went on, I was ready to apply the foundation to my face…which I literally nailed on my first shot.  I was truly amazed by how easy it was to apply, with only 2-3 drops of foundation needed.  And Luminess was right; the makeup wasn’t cakey.  Instead it felt light on my face, and gave me a very buildable base that actually looked natural enough for everyday.  Plus the application ended up being pretty fun.

The Legend, being the starter kit, is the more affordable option ($249) over the Epic 2 system (on sale for $299).  It’s also a bit smaller, making it less cumbersome to store and travel with.  But the Epic 2, on the other hand, takes airbrushing truly to the next level.  It includes a full digital touch-screen display that shows you tutorials and tips as you apply so if you’re a beauty junkie this system is for you.  Just like the Legend, the Epic 2 gave me a really light, beautiful color, perfect for layering as I added the blush.  While I may have started out a skeptic, I’m now believer in how simple airbrush makeup is, and pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed using it.  Will I use it everyday? Probably not, but most days you won’t catch me with makeup or foundation on at all.  But on those days when I actually put the effort in to get ready, you better believe I’ll be using this system.

Tell me friends, have you considered trying airbrush makeup out?!  I personally think it would make great such a great holiday gift for anyone beauty-obsessed on your list (it’s never too early to get your holiday shopping done). I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below. Truly, MKR

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Photography, Kathryn McCrary for Waiting on Martha | This post was in collaboration with Luminess Air.  All opinions are 100% our own. 

MKR’s Favorite Summer Beauty Buys

A mix of affordable and effective beauty products that I love right now
Filed Under > Beauty & Tutorials

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I think it’s safe to say I’ve been on a bit of a beauty kick recently.  While always on the hunt for a few great, safe makeup and skincare staples, I have been especially eager to try and find the best summer beauty products that will help me get closer to that coveted dewy summer glow.  And in the past few weeks, I’ve discovered a high-low mix of beauty buys that have me looking forward to getting ready (and unwinding) more than EVER before…and yes, some can be found down the drugstore beauty aisle.  From detoxifying face masks to handmade scrubs, essential oils and all-natural (and totally affordable) lipstick, here’s what I think is the best summer beauty products  Truly, MKR

No. 1…Luxe Apothecary Coconut Flower Scrub.  Handcrafted here in Atlanta, this mixture is my go-to when I want a long soak in the tub. The coconut milk is super moisturizing, and the floral essential oils create the most heavenly smell.  Not to mention, the picture-perfect packaging had me at hello. 

 No. 2…Smith & Cult Plastic Beach Warrior Nail Polish.  While you’ve heard me gush over the entire Smith & Cult line of nail polishes and lip glosses before, I’ve turned to the punchy pink shade Plastic Beach for my summer mani. 

No. 3…Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream.  I saw this body cream and honestly just had to see what the fuss was all about (with these reviews, the stuff sounded like a miracle cream).  First of all, it smells amazing.  But most importantly, it’s a fast-absorbing moisturizer that claims to tighten and smooth skin.  I especially love how it doesn’t feel too heavy or goopy as a moisturizer on my skin…which is key during this current heat wave we’re in.  Since using it regularly on my legs, arms and torso, I can’t say I’ve noticed tighter skin, but I have noticed a more even, improved overall skin tone. 

No 4…Nude Skincare Pro Genius Rescue Oil. I recently tried a few of this natural beauty brand’s products, and I’m a new big fan.  With a focus on all of the nutrients your skin needs (omegas, minerals, probiotics and antioxidants) each product helps you regain balance and fight signs of aging and stress.  I’ve applied the Pro Genius Rescue Oil at night and seen a huge improvement in my complexion.

No. 5…Revlon Colorburst Matte Lipbalm in “Shewy”. By now you’re no stranger to my signature pink pout, and when I find the perfect pink I have to stock up.  This is probably my favorite drugstore buy because it’s the best and brightest pink.  I’ve been impressed with its great pigment and moisture, and it doesn’t move for hours.

No. 6…Revive Bath & Body Peppermint, Rosemary & Lemon Loofah Soap.  This handmade loofah soap has become one of my favorite ways to exfoliate and keep my skin fresh this summer.  It’s made of plant-based oils, without all of those harmful chemicals, preservatives, parabens, or synthetics found in a lot of store-made soap. And I’ve found that it’s gentle enough for my sensitive skin.  My favorite part?  The soap is handmade by Atlanta small business Revive Bath & Body, and a portion of sales are donated to women exiting the trafficking trade here in Atlanta. 

No. 7…Luxe Apothecary Good Night Essential Oil. Another must-have from the small Atlanta shop, this roll-on essential oil uses a soothing mix of sweet almond oil, lavender and chamomile to help you unwind.  I apply the Good Night oil to my temples and neck before bed to help quiet my busy, busy mind once I hit the pillow.

No. 8…Burt’s Bees Lipstick.  I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical about trying a lipstick by Burt’s Bees.  I felt like all-natural lipstick would lack the pigment and lasting power of typical lipstick.  But the price was right, and I remembered that most of the brand’s products score relatively low on the Think Dirty toxicity scale. To my pleasant surprise, the lipstick held color and didn’t feel dry or cakey at all.  And in “Iced Iris”, it’s lightweight and subtle enough for everyday wear. 

No. 9…L’Oreal Paris Detox & Brighten Pure Clay Mask.  I am always, always on the hunt for a mask that claims to even my skin tone, and I was intrigued by this drugstore buy.  It left my face feeling super-clean and refreshed. 

No. 10…Caudalie Divine Oil. My favorite product to put on after a long day in the sun, Divine Oil is simply luxury in a bottle.  It smells amazing, has a subtle shimmer, and it absorbs quickly into sun-kissed skin.  It’s made up of grapeseed antioxidant polyphenols and it leaves my skin sooooo soft. 

No. 11…L’Oreal Paris Exfoliate and Refine Pores Pure Clay Mask.  Well to be honest, I’m always on the hunt for any mask that exfoliates and improves my skin’s texture, too!  This mask got my attention in the drugstore aisle because it addresses large pores, while and improving the overall look and feel of the skin.  Yes please to all of the above.  xo

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Photography, Rustic White for Waiting on Martha

5 Products to Combat Eye Fatigue

Effective Beauty Buys for My #1 Sign of Aging
Filed Under > Beauty & Tutorials

The best eye masks for dark circles, Waiting On Martha

My eyes have really begun starting to show my age.  Dark circles, puffy, under-eye bags; I’m not a fan.  So naturally, fighting signs of eye fatigue is a top priority for me in my beauty routine.  Over the past few years, I’ve found a few key products that put up a fight when I need it the most. Below, you’ll find my go-to’s, and hopefully others who also struggle with signs of eye fatigue—no matter what age—will find this post helpful.  Let me know in the comments below!  Truly, MKR

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Essential Oils, The Well Code

Essential Oils

The Well Code, $160

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Sleep.  It sounds like a no brainer, but sleep really is the best way to fight eye fatigue.  Being a light sleeper I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve for getting a few more z’s, they go something like this: silk pillow case, eye mask and most importantly my essential oils diffusing through the night.  Oh and no electronics at least 30 minutes before bed always makes shut eye come a lot easier.

P.S. Learn all about our love of essential oils and how they changed our routines for the better HERE.

One Love Organics Vitamin E Eye Balm

Waiting on Martha, $49

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A good eye balm or cream is key to fighting the signs of eye aging, and trust me when I say I’ve tried them all.  From the $200+ jars to the $5 drugstore buys and after years of searching I’ve finally settled on One Love Organics Vitamin E Eye Balm.  A powerful blend of Vitamin E, Organic Shea Butter, Pomegranate, and Sea Kelp make this balm my absolute favorite!  Not to mention is wallet friendly and will last you at least 6 months if not more…that’s how little you need to use! Plus 100% of it’s ingredients are from a natural source, no chemicals for us please!  Pair it with Morning Glory Caffeinated Serum and I promise you’ll see a dramatic difference!

Eye Mask

SK-II, $115

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I’ve tried MANY eye masks, both expensive and inexpensive, but I still keep coming back to my tried-and-true favorite SK-II. This is the best eye mask for dark circles and under-eye bags, hands down.  Everything SK-II is remarkable and yes, it’s a pretty penny, but if you do want to splurge, I’d suggest going this route.  

Touch Eclat

Yves Saint Laurent, $42

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I’ve worn this illuminator (in its lightest shade, #1) for years; it’s the final step in erasing under my eye circles and dark spots.  When buying, be sure to one color lighter than you would normally go; you need this to illuminate as well as blend.  While this has always been my go-to for years, I admit I recently tried beautycounter’s similar Touchup Skin Concealer Pen (and it may give YSL a run for its money!). 

All About Eyes De-Puffing Eye Roller

Clinique, $30

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Talk about a tried and true product, I’ve been using this for at least 6 years now, and I can’t imagine my morning routine without it.  Roll this on before your moisturizer, serums, oils and/or eye creams to help specifically with the puffiness.

Photography, Kathryn McCrary for Waiting on Martha

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