To red lip or not to red lip? If you ask Joyce Arias, founder and owner of Baltimore-based online beauty brand SOLSIS, it’s not even a question.

Sure, an understated lip color that flatters all skin tones is definitely a go-to. But for Arias, it’s red lipstick that really makes a statement and packs a punch. And it was a red lip—which she also sees as a nod to her Latina heritage—that propelled her beauty product journey.

Since she’s a marketing professional by trade, it didn’t take long for Arias to discover that Hispanic and Black women dominate the beauty category—in terms of spending.

“[But then] I started looking at ownership,” she says. There was a quite a gap. “We don’t see that representation. And that really drove me to say, you know what? I’m going to do this. I’m going to launch a beauty brand.”

As Arias began to research what might go into creating these products, she knew she wanted to make them right, and that meant using cruelty-free and vegan ingredients. It took a year, but by August 2019, she introduced her signature red lipstick, “Mamacita.”

For Arias, wearing makeup has always been a simple thing she does to feel empowered.

“I am not a professional makeup artist; I just happen to love makeup,” she admits. “You don’t have to be an expert, and you can experiment. I think that’s super important and is the heart of our brand because it’s for everyday women.”

To be clear, SOLSIS sells more than red lipstick. The line has expanded a lot in the past two years.

“Getting a lot of feedback fuels how I prioritize products. I’m listening to women in terms of what they like, what they want, what they can’t find, and then tailoring [my products] to that.”

This month, SOLSIS will introduce a much-requested new product line to its online shop: mascara. But it doesn’t stop there.

“I want people to feel connected to [the brand] in more ways than one,” Arias says.

She even crowd-sources her product names (a recent crowd pick was the name of her brown lipstick shade: “Spice Rum”). She also makes a point to donate portions of sales to nonprofits that are doing work that empowers and aids underserved communities. And listening to her customers extends beyond the makeup: During holidays and heritage months throughout the year, SOLSIS supports various nonprofits that the customers vote online to support.

Says Arias, “Giving back to the community is truly embedded into everything that we do.”

What began as a hobby in Charlotte, North Carolina, has now grown into a full-time business in Baltimore for Kellie Martin. Facing her own personal skincare issues, Martin knew all-natural products needed to become a bigger conversation in the world of beauty and it prompted her to start her own wellness company, Earth Elements Soapworks. We talked to Martin about skincare must-haves, her inspirations, and what she has in store for the future of her brand.

How did you first get started with natural skincare?
I’ve always been a naturalist. If I had an ailment, I’ve always gone to herbs and things. And I thought, “Well I’ll take a stab at trying to make my own soap.” So, I did it as a hobby at first, giving them as gifts to friends and coworkers and then it really started taking off with orders from friends and schools.

What inspired you to create your own brand?
I had a problem with breaking out. I’m a believer that natural is always better. So I wanted to try and solve a problem that I had not necessarily something to do. But I wanted to solve a problem and I knew in the process of me doing that, I could help someone else.

What are some of the benefits of your natural skincare?
One of the things I created was a belly butter. It’s intended for moms, but males and females can use it. You can use it all over your body but it has specific ingredients targeted to help reduce stretch marks and moisturize the skin for mothers-to-be. So I crafted that when I was expecting my first child. With all of my products, I try to have target ingredients that can help a specific skin type: mature skin, oily-combination, and eczema.

What is your favorite product that you make?
I really like my soap because that’s where I started. It’s so much of a different variety. It’s almost like I get excited with the soaps I have two or three different ones in the shower. I can use one if I did a long run and my body is aching, I can use a cool mint soap if I want to relax before I go to bed, or I can use my lavender soap.

What is the best part about owning a Baltimore-based company?
Since I’ve lived here, I think the community itself is very close-knit. It is a pretty strong group of artisans and small local businesses that stick together. They have a lot of markets and craft shows or networking events that you can learn how to grow your business. I really enjoy that aspect and I’ve never gotten or seen quite like this anywhere else. It seems that the consumers in Baltimore are really about buying local so that is a big plus here in this area. It’s almost like it’s ingrained.

What ingredients do you think are essential for our skin?
All of my ingredients that I put in my products I think are essential. Essential oils are very holistic and healing for the skin. They are plant-based, they have healing properties, and they’re all-natural. I am very specific as far as where I procure my oils from to know that they are pure and there are no toxins. So essential oils I would say are a key ingredient.

Which five beauty or skincare items you couldn’t live without?
I am a product junkie. My soap, I can’t live without. Mascara. Carmex. My body butter. And a good leave-in conditioner.

What’s your guilty pleasure?
Ice cream. I always like to treat myself.

How would you describe Earth Elements Soapworks in one sentence?
My brand is all-natural, eco-friendly, for an earth-conscious consumer.

Where do you see Earth Elements headed in the future?
For 2019, some of my goals were to launch my website. I am really working on relaunching an updated website, full e-commerce website so that’s one of my goals. Another is social media presence to ultimately bring in new customers and potentially increase sales. Right now, I am only working with various soaps, body butters, and body scrubs but I want to extend my product offerings. I am looking at bath soaks that have botanicals and dead sea salts. But one thing at a time.

Finish the sentence: No skincare routine is complete without?
It’s not complete without knowledge of what toxins are in the products that aren’t good for you skin. Skincare starts from the inside out. Staying hydrated. It’s not about what you put on, but what you are putting into your body. Your skin is the largest organ in your body so you want to take care of your skin, cleansing and moisturizing, because that’s all you got.

Adaptogens: Botanical extracts that, when ingested or applied to skin, claim to help regulate and get the body back to its baseline, as well as protect the body from the toxic effects of stress, fatigue, and anxiety.

Collagen: A naturally occurring structural protein that is already in your skin, bones, and teeth. It provides elasticity to the skin, helping it appear more vibrant and youthful. Your natural production of collagen starts to dwindle in your late 20s and early 30s.

Microblading: A tattooing technique where pigment is implanted into the top layer of skin with a handheld tool. Hair-like strokes are drawn to mimic natural hairs in your brows to help with filling and shading.

Jade Roller: A handheld mini face massager made of green jade. It is said to reduce inflammation while stimulating the lymphatic system and improving blood circulation, which helps to brighten your complexion, tighten pores, and reduce the appearance of fine lines.

Microdermabrasion: A minimally invasive procedure where a special applicator with an abrasive surface is gently sands away the outer layer of skin to rejuvenate it, resulting in skin tone and texture improvement.

Dermaplaning: A method of exfoliation that uses a 10-gauge scalpel to gently scrape away the top layer of dead skin cells and vellus hair to reveal a smoother, brighter complexion.

Botox: A drug prepared from the bacterial botulin toxin that is used cosmetically to remove wrinkles by temporarily paralyzing facial muscles. It is most often used on forehead lines, crow’s feet, and frown lines.

Hyaluronic Acid: A naturally occurring substance in our skin that works to draw in water. It decreases as we age, so using products with hyaluronic acid will prevent the skin’s tendency towards dryness.

Glycolic Acid: An alpha hydroxy acid derived from plant sugars that serves as a chemical exfoliator. It gently resurfaces the skin by removing dead layers to reveal the more luminous skin beneath.

Retinol: A derivative of vitamin A, it is most commonly used in anti-aging products. It has been shown to reduce the appearance of wrinkles, pigmentation, and acne.

Kybella: An FDA-approved injectable treatment made from deoxycholic acid that aids in destroying fat cells in the area under your chin.Salicylic Acid: A beta hydroxy acid that works well with oily skin to unclog pores and combat acne.

Microneedling: A process that uses a tool called a dermapen with tiny needles at the end of it to make little holes in the top layer of the skin. This can generate new collagen and skin tissue for smoother and firmer skin. It also allows for products to absorb into skin more easily.

Back when she was working as a financial analyst at Morgan Stanley 11 years ago, Jamaya Moore attended a friend’s modeling session and was hooked on how the makeup artist gave the models a confidence boost by simply applying a fresh face. She enrolled in local webinars and classes to learn about the cosmetics industry and has gone on to work as a makeup artist for big-name clients such as Under Armour, MTV, Dior, and NBCUniversal. (Check out her handiwork on this month’s cover.)

In 2015, after noticing that her clients and other makeup artists were coming to her with questions about building a business, Moore started Pretty Much Academy (PMA) as an online course that gives budding makeup artists a platform to learn and grow together.

“The program is bigger than just makeup,” says Moore. “It creates a strong community for women who are trying to discover or rediscover themselves.”

Since then, the customizable program has evolved into a one-month online subscription that includes one-on-one sessions with Moore as well as access to lessons such as goal-setting, developing client relationships, and contracts. Through the networking app Mighty Networks, PMA participants can access makeup trainings, get industry news, and connect with other members.

“The community fostered by Ms. Jamaya has allowed [my fellow PMA artists and me] to talk, bounce ideas off of each other, practice techniques, and discuss business plans—things that are normally taboo to discuss with other artists but essential to growing your brand,” says Perryn Morris, a former PMA participant.

Going forward, Moore says she wants to extend her reach to young women working to break into the cosmetics industry and hold PMA conferences to bring women together and utilize their power.

“PMA is a platform for us to connect, collaborate, grow, and help each other with learning about the beauty industry and enhancing your brand,” says Moore. “Whether you’re a professional or an everyday woman, these things are intertwined. It’s [more] than a makeup lesson.”

Charlotte James was a self-described “obsessive” nail biter until she was 24 years old. “I talk a lot with my hands and would see people looking at my horrendous nails,” says James, now 26. She says the decision to indulge in gel manicures led her not only to prettier, longer nails, but to the world of nail art and, eventually, her very own business.

Right around the time of James’ nail awakening—which also happened to correspond with the last presidential election—a light bulb went off for her and her friend Valentina Fiamma Ziino Colanino. The duo, who met through an exchange program in Argentina during high school, were feeling very politically engaged and wanted to find a way to express themselves. Suddenly, it occurred to them: nail art!

“We see people’s hands all of the time,” says James, “and while you can’t necessarily be in a boardroom in a T-shirt with sparkles that says something political, you can be at an office job with nails that say ‘queen’ and have wax prints on them to express your cultural pride and power as a woman.”

At first, James and Colanino discussed creating nail art featuring sayings such as “nasty woman” and “bad hombre,” and other Trumpian sound bites, but then they had a sudden change of heart. “We decided what we actually wanted to do was to celebrate and uplift women and not place focus on other people’s words,” James says. “So we designed patterns based on different textiles and amazing women through history who have inspired us. I am black, and Valentina is from Argentina, so we had a desire to create products especially for black and brown women dedicated to uplifting that cultural diversity. We wanted to make something for us.”

From there, Power Nail Decals was born. The e-commerce site launched in November and features 20-25 different colorful nail wraps or decals that sit on top of your nails and act similarly to a temporary tattoo (they are sealed with a layer of top coat).

Since Power Decals launched, the brand continues to grow through local makers’ markets, online sales, and social media. James does all of the production here in Baltimore, while Colanino creates the designs in Argentina. Yes, the two partners live far away from each other, but they get together every two years and manage to make it work.

“We hope to continue to expand our market,” says James. “We’d like to work with more nail technicians, salons, and retail shops but also have a lofty ultimate goal of one day having our own salon that could bring something more curated and focused on nail art to Baltimore. The nail game is getting crazy.”

Visit Power Nail Decal’s website and follow them on Instagram here.

The latest miracle worker in the health scene is something you probably already have in your kitchen cabinet. Turmeric, a yellow spice belonging to the ginger family, has made its way to the top of the wellness list because of its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Spice up your beauty and health regime with one of these products, guaranteed to make you feel a little bit brighter.

Latte
Made from a mixture of cold-pressed turmeric juice and your choice of milk, this warm beverage can aid in gastrointestinal health and has been linked to the prevention of cancer cell growth. Turmeric latte ($3.50) at Order & Chaos.

Face Mask
Turmeric works as an acne treatment while simultaneously protecting the skin from bacteria, stimulating blood circulation, and revitalizing the skin. Andalou Naturals turmeric and gold clay mask ($3.69) at Whole Foods.

Tea
Turmeric tea can boost your immune system and lower inflammation throughout the body. Rishi turmeric ginger tea ($3.99) at Common Ground.

Ground Turmeric
Digesting turmeric can help with pain relief and aid in metabolism and weight management. Sprinkle it onto your veggies or mix it into your morning smoothie to reap all of the glorious benefits. Organic fair-trade ground turmeric ($4.99) at Whole Foods.

Supplements
With 400 mg of the golden spice in each bite, these support joint function and help with sore muscles. Good Day chocolate turmeric supplement ($3.49) at Whole Foods.

Essential Oils
These two essential oils, both made with turmeric, will be sure to improve mood, lower anxiety, and help with memory. Add a few drops to a warm bath or dab on a hot or cold compress to let the effects really soak in. Clarity oil ($12) at SoBotanical. Memory Lane oil ($13) at SoBotanical.

Without a business degree or cosmetology license, Jamyla Bennu began making hair products in her kitchen and shared the recipes with her online followers. It was then, in 2001, that Bennu and her husband Pierre birthed Oyin Handmade, a natural hair and body care product line, in their kitchen of their Baltimore home. 

Fast forward more than a decade later, Oyin—which is Yoruba for honey—has come a long way from kitchen concoctions and Mason jars. It is now an internationally recognized and award-winning beauty brand sold at major retailers like Target, CVS, and Whole Foods. And she credits a lot of their success to social media.

“It really just started to spread by word of mouth,” she said. “Then I looked up two years later and it’s all that I was doing. It kind of took over.”

During the early stages, Bennu realized that social media was a great way to communicate with her customers, but she had no real marketing training to do it effectively. She came across a program created by Facebook, the Small Business Boost, that involves a series of workshops that educate small business owners on the tools for how to use Facebook and other social media to benefit a business.

“Before the workshops, I had been experimenting in a haphazard sort of way,” she said. “I’m a maker, I’m not a marketer so I didn’t come into it thinking about the different technical strategies to use. That’s not my native language, so it was very useful to get access to information about how to use the tools effectively.”

After learning the best practices for branding her business (including peak times to post, using Facebook Live), she decided to continue her relationship with Facebook by becoming a member of the #SheMeansBusiness project. This online network celebrates women in business and showcases inspirational stories from those who use Facebook as a main tool for marketing and connecting with their customers. Bennu’s journey was such an inspiration that she is one of seven women profiled on the website.

“It was part intimidating and part exciting to have an outside crew come in and let me tell my story to a wider audience,” she said. “It was also exciting to see my work and my company through their eyes. I don’t get to tell my story often and take a step back to look at the impact in a larger social sense.” 

Oyin Handmade is very active on all social media platforms and Bennu says it’s become the best way to engage with their customers. Whether it’s used to promote a new product or share tips and tricks, she says that social media has changed the way she does business.

“In the realm of natural hair and beauty, there’s tons of people who are using Instagram and Facebook to share their experiences and product reviews,” she said. “Social media is vital to us.”

On a chilly Thursday morning, hairstylist Danny Elder greets his first client of the day. After the two catch up and make a game plan for today’s appointment, Elder goes to mix the client’s color, but not before calling over his wife, business partner, and fellow stylist Katie Elder to get a second opinion on the shade.

This is typical of the collaborative spirit inside the new Soul Love Salon in Roland Park. The Elders, married since 2001, have been in the hair business for more than 20 years, having worked at several salons in the Baltimore area.

“We really love our industry,” says Danny. “It’s allowed us to fall into this place where we can truly be ourselves.”

The Roland Park salon, which previously housed Balance Salon (before it moved to Remington), opened in October and not only showcases the couple’s hairstyling skills, but also their love for music, with an extensive record collection and a turntable by the front door.

The pair have been DJing at local venues for the past nine years, spinning at places like the Paradox and Red Maple—both now closed. Their most recent musical venture has been hosting a pop-up seasonal party—also called Soul Love—which they debuted at Ten Tigers Parlour in D.C. and plan to host at various venues throughout the year.

“We grew up on the dance floor,” says Katie. “We realized that the feeling you get on the dance floor, when you release and let go, is similar to when you walk out from a great haircut and you feel your best—like you’ve been lifted.”

So why not combine the two? As you get your hair cut and colored, an expertly curated playlist blasts from the speakers, and a disco ball that once dangled at Paradox spins above the hair stations. There is even a shelf displaying what record is currently playing and what music is yet to come, in case customers want to add something they hear to their personal playlists.

Soul Love specializes in cuts, color, highlights, fantasy color, and specialty styles, but it’s really all about lifestyle.

“We want to share our love of music and love of beauty but also have a safe space for all types of people,” says Katie. “We are a bunch of really creative people. Our motto is, ‘You dream it, we make it.’”

Sit back, relax, and allow yourself to be transfixed by the swirling color explosion and amazing smells of these bath bombs—guaranteed make your bath time much cuter, calmer, and cleaner.

Da Bomb Bath Fizzers Earth Bomb ($4.99) at Target

Sparkle bath bomb ($5) at Katwalk

ME! Bath Pomegranate Mini Ice Cream bath soak ($9.99/12oz package) at Target

Pink shimmer bath bomb ($6) at Brightside Boutique

 Barr Co. Lemon Verbena bath bomb ($7) at Poppy and Stella

Sex Bomb ($7.95) at Lush

ME! Bath Cucumber Melon Mini Ice Cream bath soak ($9.99/12oz package) at Target

Blue and gold bath bomb ($6) at Brightside Boutique

Intergalactic bath bomb ($7.95) at Lush

Da Bomb Bath Fizzers “F” Bomb bath soak ($4.99) at Target

There are only so many ways to keep your skin healthy and moisturized during the cold winter months. Bitter winds dry out our skin, and no matter how much we try, or reapply, we can’t help feeling, well . . . scaly. Enter essential oils. While most people associate oils with clogged pores or a greasy leftover film, the truth is that natural oils—like the ones found in the products below—are lightweight, and more easily absorbed into the skin, leading to a more even complexion and fewer breakouts.

Rosehip
Full of vitamins and antioxidants, this oil is known to correct dark spots and hydrate dry skin while reducing fine lines and scarring. This oil also contains smokey quartz, which is said to be a clearing stone and the protector of negative emotions. Anxiety Sucks Energy gemstone infused essential oil blend ($20) at Brightside Boutique.

Coconut
Known for its hydrating properties, coconut oil is beneficial to every part of the body. Add to your skin, hair, face, or anywhere that is feeling dry. This spray also includes aloe, great for improving skin’s elasticity and strength. Anese.co Gotta Peace Out coconut neroli hydrating body and hair elixir ($26) at Brightside Boutique.

Lapis
This facial oil is a powerful anti-inflammatory tool that miraculously aids in reducing redness and balancing your complexion without clogging pores or drying out the skin. Herbivore Lapis Facial Oil ($72) at In Watermelon Sugar.

Frankincense
Frankincense oil is a powerful astringent that helps to reduce blemishes, prevent wrinkles, and tighten skin to slow the signs of aging. Use this oil wherever the skin begins to sag. Celestial face serum ($30) at celestialbodycare.com.

Orchid
Orchid extract is lightweight and draws moisture to the skin while also fighting against free radicals and premature aging. Herbivore Orchid youth preserving facial oil ($24) at In Watermelon Sugar.

Lavender
Lavender oil is known to treat acne by fighting bacteria that causes breakouts and improving the appearance of scars, cuts, and burns. Ode lavender body oil ($35) at In Watermelon Sugar.

New year, new you, new haircut? If it’s nearing that time for your next trim you may want to check out the latest salon to open in Catonsville. Ash and Oak opened last February and specializes in sustainable beauty services and products. They offer everything from haircuts and color to waxing, eyelash extensions, and organic spray tans. 

The space is bright and beautiful, offering an instant feeling of relaxation and is decked out with displays of Davines hair care products and Little Shop of Oils candles, body oils, and room sprays. You also can’t help but notice that everyone working in the salon has great hair, which I believe to be an early predictor for how your hair will turn out. (Like I said…instant relaxation.) We talked to the salon’s owner, Amanda Hancock, about the inspiration for the space, its name, and her guilty pleasure. 

What made you want to open your own salon?
I had been behind the chair for almost a decade and had sort of reached a creative plateau. When you work in a salon for someone else, even though your work is your own, you are following someone else’s vision. I wanted to have complete control over my creative vision, as well as the experience my clients had while they spent time with me. 

How did you come up with the name?
I really spent hours trying to find the right name. Ultimately, I read an article in a business magazine that helped guide me. It said that the best way to name a business in 2017 was to take two short words that described your space or your mission and put an ampersand between them. My vision for my space was always grey, white, and wood. Ash for the grey and white, and oak for the wood accents. It also worked well because my business has a very strong focus on sustainability. 

What makes Ash and Oak different from other salons?
Our dedication to the environment and our impact. I wanted to be able to have a place that delivered exceptional services that left you feeling good about your look, but that also allowed you to feel good about the impact you left on the world around you. In the 10 years I have been behind the chair, Ash and Oak is the very first salon that I’ve worked at that recycles every single scrap of paper, cardboard and plastic that we consume and we are also in the process of becoming a green circle salon. We also have programs in place that allow clients to refill their empty shampoo and conditioner for a discounted price. 

Why did you choose to open in Catonsville?
Frederick Road is such a cool little gem of an area. I think there is a definitely a demand for more upscale businesses here. 

What is your favorite hair trend currently? Least favorite hair trend?
I’m super into Balayage bobs. I know that they are kind of played out and basic, but the longer something gets played out the more time you have as a stylist to really perfect it. My least favorite trend is probably fashion tones and vivid color. I love doing them, but their longevity just kills me. 

What is your favorite hair product that you couldn’t live without?
Davines Dry Texture Spray.

What is your guilty pleasure?
Candy crush. Yes, I am still playing Candy Crush. 

Who would you say is your style icon?
Joan Jett. 

If you’re on a deserted island and could only bring three things, what would they be?
My son is a given, right? My bed, lavender essential oil, and a hair tie. 

If you could travel anywhere in the world where would it be?
Tahiti. 

When the temperatures drop, not only do we unpack our sweaters and boots, but our makeup palette gets a little darker, too. With family feasts, office soirees, and holiday parties filling up our calendar, we wanted to review bold lip colors for the season. Subscription makeup service Birchbox sent us some goodies—all available in the Baltimore locations of Ulta, Sephora, Nordstrom, and Urban Outfitters. 

1. Gnarly by Milk Makeup

Sarah: I like the applicator shape, the point gives you more precision. This is a color I would wear—reminds me of an orchid. Looks good with my hair color. I have a lot of pink undertones, so pinks with blue in them look better. Texture is smooth and doesn’t feel like it will go anywhere. Her favorite!

Lydia: It feels dreamy, goes on really nice and smooth. This is definitely too pink for me, but it feels good and I like the applicator. I think it washes me out a little bit, and I don’t like the way it makes my skin tone look.

Molly: I like the consistency of it. Feels like you’re not really wearing anything. It’s very pink, but it doesn’t make my face too rosy. I like it. I think it’s a fun color.

Michelle: The applicator shape is awesome, it goes on really smooth, but it takes a couple more swipes for me. Not as moisture-rich and almost too pink. It has more of a fuchsia look to it. If I had blush and lighter eye shadow, it would work better. Could wear to a happy hour with friends.

2. Inspiration by Smashbox

Sarah: More satin-like texture with moisturizer feeling. Feels like you could wear in the winter and your mouth wouldn’t shrivel up. I like the shine. No gloss needed! This is a going-out lipstick or a holiday party lipstick. More of a berry tone with glitter-like shine.

Lydia: This is the best texture so far. It’s more pink than I realized it was going to be. I like the plum nature to it, it’s a little bit warmer. Would wear it on a fancy night out.

Molly: Feels smooth and smells like vanilla. Yeah, there does seem to be a sheen. I like the application the best. It’s really festive and fun, probably wear it in the evening. It would look good with a black or neutral outfit.

Michelle: Effortless application—like putting on ChapStick. It’s versatile so I could make it sheer or darker if I wanted to. This is definitely not a daytime color. I love the hot pink color and the sheen on it. Perfect color for date night. Her favorite!

3. King by Lipstick Queen

Sarah: Nice point on the applicator. Texture is good and creamy. This is pushing the edge of how dark a color I can wear. Because it has red and blue, it’s better than something brown and dark. Would maybe want lip liner because it’s so dark.

Lydia: Smooth application. It’s heavily pigmented so you don’t need to use a lot. This one is deeper, more purple. I think it compliments the olive colors of my skin. But it feels like my lips might be drying beneath it.

Molly: This goes on really easy and smooth, but you might need a lip liner because it didn’t go well over my cupid’s bow. I like the color because it’s not so pink. Berry colors look good with my skin, and brings out the golden tones. Would be a fun party shade. Her favorite!

Michelle: I like the applicator point on this one. It’s a little velvety. The precision point helps even if you don’t have a lip liner. Closer to a color I would typically wear. If it had more blue in it and was a little darker, I would love it.

4. Adoring by The Balm Cosmetics

Sarah: Smells like a thin mint and tingles a little bit. Don’t like these kind of applicators—I have to clean up as I go. Really need a liner with these. Like I said, dark stuff goes very quickly from cute to vampire. This does not work for me.

Lydia: The smell reminds me of LipSmackers and the application is like a slip and slide. This is the best, color-wise. The brick-red and brown undertones really work well with my skin. Would wear this out, especially in winter. Her favorite!

Molly: It’s messy and it just wants to not go in a straight line. It globs at the top, so you have to scrape off the excess. Takes several layers of application. It’s a bold lip, but it goes well with my skin tone. It has more purple undertones so it compliments a redhead.

Michelle: Cookie overload when you smell it! You really need a steady hand to put this on. I do like the brick-red color. Looks better with people who have fuller lips. It’s hard to get an even coat—and stays a little sticky. But it does last a while and won’t come off on a wine glass.

As fun as Halloween is, it can also be stressful. Thinking of that perfectly spooky yet witty costume to simultaneously impress and terrify your friends can be a challenge. Whether you’re a Party City groupie or an avid DIY crafter, your makeup choice can make or break your costume. We asked local beauty experts Hannah Walker and Emily Boulin to give us four step-by-step makeup tutorials that will leave you feeling ghoulishly glamorous.

Scar Face

What You’ll Need:

• Mehron Makeup Rigid Collodion
• Mac Cosmetics Pink Lip Pencil—any light pink color will do
• Ben Nye Neutral Set Colorless Setting Powder
• Mac Cosmetics Concealer—any concealer will work as long as it matches your skin tone

Step 1: Draw your scar with a light pink lip pencil.  You can make this line a little thicker and darker, by going over it a second time. Gently “smudge” the line with your finger so that the pink isn’t too bold. 

Step 2: Apply one layer of rigid collodion to the line you have created.  Repeat this step 5-10 times until you have reached your desired scar depth. Make sure to allow time for the rigid collodion to dry in between applications. 

Step 3: Apply translucent setting powder with a brush onto your scar.

Step 4: Using a brush, apply a tiny amount of concealer to the outside of the scar and begin to blend the concealer into your skin to camouflage the edges by using your finger or a brush. 

Final Cut

What You’ll Need:

• Ben Nye Nose and Scar Wax
• Vaseline
• Makeup Spatula
• Ben Nye Zombie Wheel
• Ben Nye Coagulated Blood (prefer to use scab blood) 

Step 1: Scoop out a small amount of product—a little goes a long way. Before applying the wax to your skin, dip your fingers in a little bit of Vaseline.

Step 2:  Begin smoothing out wax on skin carefully.  Overtime you will need to reapply a small amount of Vaseline to your fingers.  Don’t worry too much about the mound in the middle, as you smooth out the edges you’ll take some of that mound away.  However, if you feel that you have applied too much modeling wax, you can use a spatula to remove excess product from the edges.

Step 3:  Apply a small amount of Vaseline to a flat spatula and begin to create a cut in the middle of the mound of modeling wax.  Wiggle the spatula back and forth to create more of an opening, if necessary. Flatten out edges of cut with fingers.

Step 4: Use a red cream paint to paint your cut to add some depth. You can use some translucent powder to take away shine from the modeling wax. This will make the wax look more like skin. For added effect, you can add coagulated blood.

’80s Cartoon

What You’ll Need:

• Urban Decay Electric Palette
• NYX Cosmetics glitter glue
• NYX Cosmetics gold pigment
• Pink glitter from Michael’s
• Lime Crime Mermaid Palette Highlighter
• Sticker sheet from Michael’s 

Step 1: Take a pink liner and draw a geometric inspired by ’80s cartoon Jem and the Holograms shape on each side of your face and fill in each shape with neon pink eyeshadow.

Step 2: Marry your geometric shapes into your previous eye makeup by connecting them with the neon pink eyeshadow and blending.

Step 3: Apply glitter glue on top of your geometric shapes and plink glitter on top. 

Step 4: Apply gold pigment beneath your bottom lid to add dimension and shine and use a fashion-toned highlighter wand swipe through cheek bone area.

Step 5: To embellish, add stickers to make any of your added designs easily applied, unique, and removable.

Burn Out

What You’ll Need:

• Liquid latex
• Skin Illustrator Starter Palette
• Ben Nye Zombie Wheel
• Ground Coffee
• Toilet Paper (1 ply)—can use tissue paper
• Vaseline
• Mehron Coagulated Blood Gel

Step 1: Prep hair that may come into contact with liquid latex by applying a thin layer of vaseline, in this case eyebrows and hairline.

Step 2: Apply liquid latex in thin layers and allow time to dry in between each. Once the final layer is applied, use a makeup spatula and fingers to tear holes into the latex.

Step 3: To give my burn some texture, add a few different mediums into the latex. Add a layer of liquid latex wherever you want to add your medium. While that latex is wet, add your medium (in this case, it’s coffee beans).Then add later of latex on top of beans.

Step 4: While this layer of latex is still tacky, begin to pull the latex apart to get holes and depth of the wound. Use toilet paper to give the illusion of charred skin. Repeating the steps you did for the coffee beans: Apply a layer of latex where you want to add toilet or tissue paper. Apply the paper and then a layer of latex over top. Before the latex and paper dries completely, begin to use your spatula or finger to rip holes in the latex.

Step 5: Wait for latex to completely dry before painting. Take your paint palette and fill in holes and edges of latex with dark brown color. Smudge colors around to make the wound splotchy and uneven by using fingers sponges or brushes for the edges of the latex.

Step 6: Take a red color and paint over everything—again the color can be splotchy and uneven (that’s what we are going for). Begin to fill in holes with darker colors: purples, blacks and browns. Be sure to use a cream paint in a red color around your eye area since alcohol activated paints can sting. You can also use your red cream paint on the wound itself to make areas brighter than others.

Step 7: Real burns have a lot of moisture. You can achieve this look by adding Vaseline or lubricant to the wound. Feel free to add some scab or coagulated blood for extra effect. 

When you think of charcoal—yes, the stuff you grill with—the last thing that comes to mind is “I’d like to rub that on my face.” But charcoal has been making quite the impression on the beauty scene as of late, showing up in everything from cleansers and facemasks to soaps and scrubs.

This isn’t the first time this gritty, black substance has proven beneficial. It has been used for decades in hospitals to treat alcohol poisoning and drug overdoses, as well as in Brita filters to purify drinking water. Activated charcoal, which is carbon that has been treated to increase absorbency, is a skin miracle worker. It is said to work as a magnet to draw out and absorb toxins and impurities, which prevents breakouts, minimizes the appearance of pores, and alleviates some skin irritation.

The coarse texture of charcoal also works as a gentle natural exfoliator, leaving your skin baby soft. And it doesn’t stop at skin; activated charcoal apparently also is used to rid hair of toxins and even whiten teeth. With its many benefits, we can’t help but wonder if activated charcoal is the new beauty MVP. The jury is still out, but it’s safe to say this is a trend we will definitely be adding to our beauty arsenal.

It’s time to put down the cakey foundation and black liner. The barely-there makeup trend is on the rise. But how to get the minimalist stripped-down look? Here are the items you need to pull off the effortless “I woke up like this” appearance.

LASHES
Maybelline Great Lash Clear Mascara Avoid “raccoon eyes” with this mascara from Maybelline. The gel lifts and separates lashes without the clumping effects that can come along with heavier formulas. ($5.99) at Ulta.

BROWS
Benefit Cosmetics Ready, Set, Brow! 24-Hour Setting Gel Easy to apply—no having to match your brow color!—and quick to dry, this invisible gel will shape and set brows for 24 hours, keeping all stray hairs in place without looking too bold. ($24) at Sephora.

FACE
Glossier Priming Moisturizer Primer helps balance the skin, allowing you to wear less foundation. What’s special about Glossier’s priming moisturizer is that it’s full of antioxidants that help reduce redness and minimize pores, all while being cruelty- and fragrance-free.($25) at glossier.com.

LIPS
Lipstick Queen Frog Prince Lipstick This exclusive green shade, fittingly called “Frog Prince” will adapt to your skin’s natural pH level to create the most flattering shade of pink for your complexion. ($25) at birchbox.com.

SKIN
Dr. Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm SPF 45 Lightweight and full of SPF, this BB cream—or “beauty balm”—minimizes the appearance of imperfections and evens out the skin tone. With a hint of color, it is the perfect substitution for a foundation or concealer.($39) at birchbox.com.

EYES
Tarte Lights, Camera, Lashes Inner Rim Brightener This liner not only helps you achieve a wide-awake look by lining your water line, but can also be used for shaping your brows to give you larger, rounder, and brighter-seeming eyes. ($20) at Ulta.

Beauty headlines have been laden with the terms “strobing” and “highlighter,” but what do those words actually mean? Strobing is a technique that uses highlighter—usually a light, iridescent color—to accentuate facial features. Applying it can be tricky, though, so we’ve broken it all down for you. Here’s why it’s a must in your makeup routine.

The Tools

Pencil: This is used most often on the eyes and allows for a precise application that can be easily blended.
Our pick: NYX Hydra Touch Brightener ($8.99) at Target.

Powder: For a novice, powder is the most manageable way to strobe. Apply product with a brush and build color using thin layers.
Our pick: The Balm Cosmetics Mary-Lou Manizer ($24) at Birchbox.

Cream: Found in a stick or a palette, this should be warmed on your fingertips before applying.
Our pick: Benefit Cosmetics Watt’s Up! Cream-to-Powder Highlighter ($30) at Ulta Beauty.

Liquid: This provides a more natural look but requires a knack for blending, if you’re up for the challenge.
Our pick: Benefit Cosmetics High Beam Liquid Face Highlighter ($26) at Sephora.

Eyes

Covergirl Bombshell Volume by LashBlast Mascara
Why: Volume and intensity come together in this mascara. Side one allows you to volumize, while side two intensifies and seals for an all-day finish. ($8.99) at Target.

Skin

Fresh Lotus Youth Preserve Face Cream
Why: This lightweight moisturizer is formulated with Fresh’s Super 7 Complex; it defends against wrinkles, improves elasticity, and seals in moisture for that 24/7 glow. ($65) at Sephora.

Lips

Cynthia Rowley Beauty Creamy Lip Stain in Heartthrob
Why: Perfect for everyday wear, this stain from Cynthia Rowley, offered exclusively through Birchbox, is the perfect amount of hue without being sticky. It combines moisture with the ultra-long wear of a stain. ($20) at Birchbox.

Brows

Anastasia Dipbrow
Why: Brows take a lot of maintenance, so that’s why we love this all-in-one product from Anastasia Beverly Hills. This waterproof pomade provides pigment, sculpture, and shading magic all day long. ($18) at Ulta.

Hair

Tresemmé Fresh Start Volumizing Dry Shampoo
Why: Second-day hair has never looked better than with the help of this dry shampoo. Made with mineral clay and citrus, it revives limp hair by removing excess oil and adding volume and texture. ($4.99) at Target.

Bag

LuRu Home Snow Cone Pouch. ($22) In Watermelon Sugar.

The day I found out I was, for sure, pregnant, I took the doctor’s call from the ladies room at the Four Seasons spa. My husband and I had booked a codependent couple’s massage, which was followed by some independent hot tub soaking and sauna-ing. We weren’t big spa people, but it was a Valentine’s Day/winter sucks/let’s take a personal day indulgence, and, had it not ended in me panicking about what a horrible mother I already was for exposing my three week old cell cluster to five minutes in a 90-degree pool, it would have been very relaxing.

I spooked myself enough to swear off spa treatments, but then some kind people gave me a gift card for a prenatal massage as a thank you present, and my interest was reignited.

Because this is my first pregnancy and I’m nervous about almost everything, I wanted to find out more about the safety, benefits, and red flags of spa-ing. And because I now write this blog, I had the perfect, non-crazy-sounding excuse to ask some experts to sit down with me and explain a few things. Two lovely women at Hampden’s Charm City Skin, Shannon and Camille, took some time to walk me through the prenatal waxing and massage experience.

First up is waxing. I have shied away from booking an appointment because, frankly, having my hair ripped out with hot wax while also uncomfortably pregnant sounded terrible, but I’ve since changed my tune. Shannon, an esthetician, admits waxing will be slightly more painful due to increased blood volume and sensitivity, but letting a professional handle your hair removal is the safer option. The bigger the bump gets, the harder it becomes to shave. Women are at a higher risk of slipping (I almost bit it in the shower trying to reach my ankle recently) and of cutting themselves. And if the pain is keeping you from tidying things up below the belt, consider a modified wax. There’s no shame in putting a hold on the Brazilian and opting for the bikini for now.

Shannon also stressed the importance of both sanity and sanitation when considering spa treatments during pregnancy. Women tend to see these treatments strictly as an indulgence, but making the time to take care of yourself and your appearance can have a great effect on mood and outlook. She also advises relying on common sense and feeling comfortable speaking up if you have concerns. If you see the esthetician “double dip” the stick, then you should leave. And this doesn’t just apply to pregnant women. Incubating a human shouldn’t be the only reason you feel comfortable advocating for yourself if you see something fishy.

Armed with a degree in Wax Safety 101, I headed upstairs for a prenatal massage with Camille. I feel I should disclose that my chat with her took place after my 70-minute massage, so there’s a chance that she didn’t actually say any of the things I’m about to share. I was a loose, gooey, vaguely human form, capable only of taking sips of lemon water and realizing I’d made my voice match the low lighting. (I believe this liquidity is the standard to which all people should hold their post-massage experience.)

According to my notes, which I appear to have scrawled with my left hand while blindfolded, Camille’s expertise is assisting women through pregnancy, childbirth, and post partum. She’s not only a massage therapist—she’s also a doula who can massage you while you’re in labor. (I recall being blown away by this. In fact, I wrote, “How can this be real?”) Her prenatal massage advice mirrored that of Shannon’s: Use common sense, speak up if you’re uncomfortable with anything, and treat the experience less as an indulgence and more as an investment in sanity.

What interested me most was her post-natal advice. Women spend their pregnancies gearing up for the big event, and, once the baby arrives, they tend to forget about themselves. Obviously, the eight-pound human you just birthed needs as much attention and love as you can give, but moms need to remember to take care of themselves, too. Massage can have incredible benefits for post-partum women. It can help with pain management, reduce swelling, encourage milk production, promote better sleeping patterns, and, obviously, provide overall relaxation. Plus, I have to imagine that getting out of the house for an hour does wonders for your sanity. It won’t be easy, but mamas have to keep their head above water somehow.

Pregnancy spa experiences can be expensive, but are worth consideration as you’re budgeting. My rationalization—other than the benefits for the baby and me—is that I’m re-energizing Baltimore’s economy. The money we used to spend at bars and restaurants has been burning a hole in our savings account, and it’s time we released it back into the wild. And if that means I have to lie in a bed of pillows while someone forces me to relax, so be it.

To help us channel the “I just woke up this way” look (think dewy skin and soft hair), we asked Linthicum-based hair and makeup stylist Audrey Bethards—whose styling has appeared on the pages of
Teen Vogue and on the runway for Louis Vuitton—for advice for the coming season.

What are some casual, quick hair-styling trends?
For this spring-summer season, softness is the key, from beautiful and romantic braids to girly ponytails, high messy buns, and French twists. Keep it simple and carefree.

What’s the next big thing in hair color?
Balayage is a less dramatic, more subtle form of the ombre trend. It requires less lift of color (lightening of the hair), which will create less damage.. It’s a wonderful option for a very modern, soft, and delicate look.

Any tips for natural-looking hair color?
Don’t go more than two shades lighter or darker than your natural color to avoid a drastic change in your appearance and the hassle of retouching new growth. To add dimension, it’s always good to add slightly different tones of the same hair color, like very subtle highlights or low-lights.

How can we achieve great skin for the natural makeup look?
The key to glowing and radiant skin is to cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate. Skin renews itself constantly, and it is essential to remove any impurities and makeup, then exfoliate the dead skin cells that lie on top of our skin that make it look dull, lifeless, and dry. Moisturizing your skin is extremely important. You will need to clean your skin and use a good moisturizer in the morning and, yes, before you go to sleep. And stay hydrated.

How can we reduce any harmful effects of makeup on the complexion?
In addition to moisturizing, do not apply powder on top of oily skin. Remove excess oil from your skin with blotting sheets before you apply any facial powder. And after washing your face at night, use a facial toner to remove any traces of soap and makeup remover. This will balance the pH of your skin, help activate your blood circulation, and prepare your skin to receive a moisturizer.

What You’ll Need

Try these products for glowing skin and hair.

Clarity

Incorporate a facial toner or clarifying shampoo into your routine.

Shine
This season’s styles are soft and wispy, so embrace flyaways.

Cream
Try a wax-based product for foundation, cheeks, and lips.

NEUTROGENA ULTRA SHEER DRY-TOUCH BROAD SPECTRUM

What We Love: Lightweight, leaves your skin smooth and soft, sans that greasy feeling. Available in SPF 30 to 100+. 

Price: $7.99. 

Where to Buy: Target, several locations, including 3559 Boston St., 410-246-8515.

SHISEIDO SUN PROTECTION EYE CREAM BROAD SPECTRUM SUNSCREEN

What We Love: A water-and-perspiration-resistant daily eye cream that does all of the wrinkle prevention, while also protecting from UVA/UVB rays. 

Price: $35.50. 

Where to Buy: Sephora, 825 Dulaney Valley Rd., 410-337-7494.

COPPERTONE SPORT CONTINUOUS SPRAY

What We Love: Great for any athlete who wants to protect his or her skin during even the sweatiest of activities or while swimming. The spray-on application makes it easy to apply evenly. 

Price: $10.99. 

Where to Buy: Harris Teeter, two locations, including 3779 Boston St., 410-522-0270.

LA ROCHE-POSAY ANTHELIOS TINTED MINERAL ULTRA LIGHT SUNSCREEN FLUID

What We Love: Provides sheer coverage for the face and evens out skin complexion with its slight tint, while providing a SPF of 50. 

Price: $33.50. 

Where to Buy: Ulta Beauty, 3541 Boston St., 410-327-0891.

MYCHELLE DAILY DEFENSE CREAM

What We Love: This unscented organic zinc oxide formula is sheer for daily use, and safe enough to use on those with sensitive skin. 

Price: $17.99. 

Where to Buy: Whole Foods Market, 1001 Fleet St., 410-528-1640.

If the eyes are the window to the soul, is the skin the window to the . . . kidney? Yes, according to health expert Wendy Kurtz, who says our skin can tell us a lot about our internal health.

“The skin gives you a good sense of what’s going on in the body,” she explains. “In fact, if your organs of elimination——like your colon, kidney, or liver—are too overwhelmed, the body tries to get rid of these toxins through the skin. That can mean bacteria and toxins come out on the surface of the skin and can clog the pores, as well as create areas of inflammation and redness.”

It was Kurtz’s own lifelong struggle with Type I diabetes that led her on a quest for good nutrition and overall wellness.

“I was on a search to be as healthy as I could despite my issue,” she says. “I had to learn through trial and error.”

The end result? She left her job in the corporate world to start a health-coaching business, Well with Wendy.

These days, Kurtz shares what she’s learned with others, from how to reduce your blood pressure, to how to control weight and blood sugar, and even how to attain complexion perfection. “I often get compliments on how good my skin looks,” she says. “I believe the cleaner the body is, the cleaner the skin is. So eating clean—which means avoiding food additives, preservatives, dyes, and other chemicals added to processed foods—is important.” 

What foods promote healthy skin? One of the top things to do is to drink a lot water. Water helps nutrients to move into the cells and helps toxins flush out. If skin is dry, it can appear wrinkly. Eating fiber is also so important and is another way of detoxifying the body. Fiber is the scrubbing brush of the colon and keeps the body healthy.

Anything else we should be eating in the name of a “good skin diet”? Having enough healthy fats in the diet is very important. Avocados, cold-pressed olive oil, certain nuts and seeds, and fatty fish like salmon all have essential fatty acids to keep the skin looking healthy. Nutrient-dense foods with a lot of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such as vitamin A, vitamin E, zinc, and selenium found in foods such as broccoli, carrots, Brazil nuts, and pumpkin seeds are tied to the health of the skin.

What should we avoid? The biggest thing you should avoid is sugar in all of its forms. Sugar hurts your skin by converting to glucose, requiring you to produce insulin. The glucose attaches to the collagen in your skin to produce wrinkles. It has also been shown that a carb-rich meal can cause inflammation in the body, which can lead to dry skin.

What You Need

Use these tips to achieve better skin.

H20
Water helps with flushing out toxins and keeping your skin hydrated.

Good Fats
Fats in avocados and certain nuts can help to moisturize your skin.

Sugar Free
Consumption of sugar can produce wrinkles and dry skin.

(from left to right)

Blue Lids.
Guaranteed to make your eyes pop. Don’t go overboard—apply only up to the crease. Urban Decay Radium peacock-blue shimmer eye shadow ($18) at Sephora.

Orange Lips.
Try a new shade for the bold lip statement. We suggest a matte finish. Vivid bright coral-red (matte) Lady Danger lipstick ($16) at MAC Cosmetics.

Radiant Skin. 
Use tinted moisturizer and other illuminating products to create a glow. Laura Mercier tinted moisturizer SPF 20 ($43) at Nordstrom.

Glittery Nails.
Wear alone or apply as a topcoat to give any nail color a shimmery finish. Ciaté Paint Pots nail polish ($15) at Sephora.

Gold Details. 
Even a hint of gold on your face will add richness to any look. Lancôme Artliner 24H bold color precision eyeliner ($30.50) at Nordstrom.

Loose Updo. 
Using natural wave and texture, pin your hair in a tousled yet chic look with an effortless updo. Pure Abundance Style-Prep spray ($24) at Aveda.

Recently, blow-dry bars—salons specializing exclusively in blowouts
and hair styling—are popping up everywhere in the area. For about 45
minutes and 40 bucks, you can leave the salon with a professional look
that lasts for days. So why is the trend so popular?

“There’s
something really fantastic about stylists [who] specialize in blow
dries,” says Kate Taylor, co-owner of Owings Mills’s Hot Air Dry Bar.

Jenny
McGee, a regular at Haute Blow Dry Bar in Towson, explains why she uses
both a salon and a blow-dry bar. “At my normal [salon], I depend more
on highlights and a cut, but at Haute, they specialize in blowouts. When
you specialize in something, I think you’ll get a better end product,”
she says.

Abi Frederick, the owner of Haute Blow Dry Bar, says the
relaxed atmosphere is a plus. “You can have a glass of wine, watch a
movie, talk to your friends,” she notes.

Of course, you can do all
of that at a regular salon/spa, too. “Most salon prices do not differ
greatly from blow-dry bars. However, the allure is the convenience,”
says Judy Sulisufaj-Kelly, co-owner of Locust Point’s Studio 921 Salon
& Day Spa.

Is the trend here to stay? “I definitely don’t
think it’s a fad,” Taylor says. “It’ll become a routine maintenance
thing to make our lives easier and to make us look great.”