Experiencing FACE atelier at IMATS

By now you know I’m a big fan of both Canadian businesses and cosmetics. So, when I had the opportunity to meet Debbie Bondar, CEO of FACE atelier, I jumped at the chance. FACE atelier has developed a cult following with celebrity make-up artists and can be seen on many famous faces including Madonna and Lady Gaga.

To be honest, I’m not sure what I was more excited about – meeting an inspiring and successful woman behind a cult cosmetics firm on the verge of greatness or checking out some of the unique products in the FACE atelier line. 


Thanks to FACE atelier. I had a press pass to the recent IMATS show in Toronto. So did my friend, Anita Clarke so we decided to check it out together. We spent most of the time having our make-up applied by a make-up artist at the FACE atelier booth.

What we heard was true, the foundation is fantastic – we each got to take some Ultra Foundation Pro home – and I’ve been using mine faithfully ever since. Sorry Bobbi Brown I really liked using Skin Foundation SPF 15 but FACE atelier is a bit easier to apply, feels just as light but seems to really enhance my appearance. I’m not ready to hand over my Bobbi Brown Pot Rouge just yet but I have been alternating with FACE atelier’s powder blush that comes in an easy-open, one-piece compact for easier handling.

Two products I’ve tried and will be adding to my make-up bag soon are the lip glaze (it’s not gummy or sticky like other products I’ve tried) and the transforming gel – it turns any powder into a paint – perfect for turning regular eye shadow into gel liners – I’ve either been using other gel liners but have been disappointed in the lack of colour options or mixing contact lens solution with my eye shadow with so-so results. I also came to the realizing that make-up brushes really do make a difference and it’s worth investing in the best quality ones you can afford.

Find FACE atelier online or in select locations.

Tip of the Week: Canadian Beauty knows her stuff

Okay, so I bought the dress last weekend but now I’ve been told I need to ditch my daytime make-up for a sultry evening look. Apparently, I need to balance my face with the dramatic red sash. What does that mean? Red lipstick and black eyeliner.

I haven’t worn red lipstick in years and as a contact lens wearer, I need to find an eyeliner that won’t smudge. You may also have guessed from the infrequency of my posts, life has been a bit hectic recently. And, with only one week to go before the party, I don’t have a lot of time to hang out at the cosmetics counter searching for just the right products and shades. I’m going to check them out this weekend and will let you know how it goes.

So what did I do? I asked my friend Canadian Beauty for help. She recommended I try MAC’s Russian Red lipstick (I can even get it for free because I’ve saved up 6 old MAC containers. Sweet!) and technakohl eyeliner in brown border. I know, it’s not black but it’s pretty darn close and I’d rather go for a look that’s a bit softer than the full vamp effect. ;)

How can Canadian Beauty help you?

Canadian Beauty reviews all kinds of cosmetics, toiletries, skin care and other beauty products with balanced critiques and advice for women with different skin types and complexions. Just to spice things up a bit, her informative blog also gives you the inside look at the fashion industry with particular attention paid to what goes on behind the scenes of the biggest shows in Toronto and New York. And then there are the contests. Lots of them! There are all kinds of giveaways--everything from lipgloss to large baskets of great products.

What’s your favorite beauty blog? Why?

Beauty Confidential - how to look like a million bucks for less

One of my favourite holiday surprises was receiving a copy of Beauty Confidential, a new book by former magazine beauty editor, Nadine Haobsh (aka blogger Jolie in NYC).

Nadine is big on developing personal style and doesn’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to beauty even if it’s the mantra espoused by her peers.

Although I read beauty mags at the hairdresser, I’ve never paid much attention to beauty books. Until now that is.

Beauty Confidential is written in a light conversational style and chalk full of valuable tips about every beauty concern under the sun. The format is useful too. Each chapter includes a “product guide” listing each product mentioned in the chapter, along with it’s website address and price range. How handy.

If you’re like me and find yourself collecting cosmetics, hair care and skin care goodies, this handy little beauty book is a must read. You’ll learn when to save your money and what products are splurge-worthy in order to look your best.

Good haircuts and colour are worth the big bucks but you can follow Nadine’s illustrated step-by-step instructions and learn to blow-dry your own hair like a pro. Learn how to groom and trim your eyebrows properly, give your self a professional manicure and lots more. Why throw money away on expensive nail polish when you don’t have to when the less-expensive brands will do. Did you know lots of drugstore skincare products are formulated the same way as others costing megabucks?

You’ll get lists of all the best beauty products (i.e. shampoo, mascara, skin cream, blush, foundation, sunscreen, etc.) and why those products have earned their stripes. Even some of my personal favourites including Lancôme Definicils mascara, Essie nail polish and Cetaphil were list-worthy. ; )

So, if you’re like most women I know and have a stockpile of make-up, skin creams, hair care, body lotions and potions, Beauty Confidential is a smart investment.