Samantha Lennon Blog of Makeup & Beauty

Updated Work From Makeup Artist Samantha Lennon

2012-01-25T10:55:00.000-08:00

Photographer Aeric MG
- makeup -
samantha lennon
- hair -
sonia castleberry

Model - Parisa

How Much Makeup Do You Really Need To Own?

2012-01-14T11:52:00.000-08:00

My adorable kit, below...

Sometimes, when I am consulting with clients on their personal makeup situations, I see a shocking pattern: Most women, especially ones that have serious trouble with applying their makeup, have so much makeup they don't even know what to do with it. Before it expires, and before you run your pockets thin, you might want to learn how to use a minimal amount, and master what you have before you choose to start adding to your collection ;)

I would like to help everyone out and give you a few tips on what you really need in your personal makeup kit. I am a makeup artist, but I have my own personal makeup that I use on myself.... of course! Little tips will be included to actually help you downsize the amount of makeup you need to own, and buy. Save that money for a house, or vacation, or a rainy day!

Now keep in mind, what looks minimal to some may seem excessive for others. I will try to find that middle ground.

Your daily moisturizer with SPF- both should be fragrance free, a mattifying lotion for oily skin, a hydrating one for dry.

Tinted Moisturizer / Foundation- No primer is needed for Tinted Moisturizer, but a primer for foundation is optional.

Concealer - Foundation bottles have a secret hidden in their caps... concealer! Liquid foundations naturally thicken in its cap, so grab a concealer brush and go for it.

Loose / Pressed powder- You can really use both with a large powder brush to set your makeup in the T-Zone area. Your preference

Eyeshadow Palettes (1-2) Quad (4 colors) - This would be between 4 - 8 colors. Try a warm palette (beige, gold, brown) & a cool palette (light blue, olive green), or 2 warm palettes for more options. I feel everyone should have a warm palette. If you make sure to add a black color, you can use that as your eyeliner with a small angled brush (if you want to remove an additional product and not need an eyeliner)

Gel eyeliner / Pencil eyeliner. Don't be afraid of the gel. If you are, just draw a rough outline with the pencil, and go over with with a brush and the gel.

Mascara- Your preference, and believe me, all women have their preference :)

Lip Palette - Some women love to try many lip colors, but realistically we are only going to wear a few most of the time. So although I am recommending a lip palette, try an emptly palette so that you can customize it yourself. Most lip palettes come with many options, so if you are ok with that then it is for you, but for me, I just need a couple. Bobbi Brown has an empty palette you can buy (here), that holds up to 6 lipstick colors. You can buy any color and brand lipstick that you love, scoop out a little and put it in the palette, and take your little retractable lip brush to go.

Blush/Bronzer are optional, but I highly encourage it. A little goes a long way to adding depth, dimension, and glow to the skin in seconds. Try getting one that has both, like Nars (click here) or one from Laura Geller (this is what it looks like) literally both all mixed into one. Dust on cheeks and temples with a powder brush and you kill 2 birds with one stone.

Blotting sheets- I don't care how dry your skin is, if you are wearing foundation or tinted moisturizer, at some point in the middle of the day, you should blot. You can get like 100 sheets for $10 at Sephora.

You are done. Seriously, what is this like 7 products? :)

Behind The Scenes Of The Multiple Sclerosis FEARLESS Campaign

2012-01-03T12:55:00.000-08:00

I had the privilege to work among some of the industry's best, (and giving) toward a very good cause, ending Multiple Sclerosis. The model was Shannon Rusbuldt Fredo and the wonderful brave young lady who inspired the whole shoot, was Suzanne. I cant wait to show you some of these images, but in the meantime, here are a few behind the scenes photos :)

Makeup Of The Past And Present

2011-12-18T11:43:00.000-08:00

Makeup of the past was much more focused on eye shadow colors and lip colors, and now I feel is more about the skin and foundation. Giving the skin different dimensions, textures, finishes, highlights and contours, its a very modern progression I am extremely happy about :) Name of the game is making it look as natural as possible!

Behind The Scenes Shoot For Gary Graham

2011-12-14T21:18:00.000-08:00

Taken by yours truly. I like photography too! :)

Just a little behind the scenes footage of a good time today. The idea came from the clothing designers process of conceptualizing his collection. Gary builds these little dollhouse-like environments, model rooms made out of cardboard and photocopies of the wallpaper prints he uses for the clothes. Aeric the photographer took a couple of photos of them to use with the shoot.

Photographer: Aeric Meredith-Goujon

Makeup: Samantha Lennon

Hair: Sonia Castleberry

Stylist:

Model: Aleksandra - Fenton Moon

RandEM Hand Bag Photo Shoot

2011-12-14T20:23:00.000-08:00

How to achieve dewy skin, not oily skin!

2011-11-30T06:19:00.001-08:00

I had a wonderful question on achieving dewy skin to my Facebook makeup consulting page, and controlling oil throughout the day while still maintaining the look. Please feel free to ask me any question and I will answer it personally to you :)

************

Ooooh the dewy look. It is so beautiful and achievable. Powder will definitely not do that for you. In the winter time, the dewy look is much more controlled since you do not have to battle the heat and humidity so here is what I suggest...first and foremost, directly after you wash your face, while your pores are still open, apply a generous amount of moisturizer, to where your skin feels really supple. If you have very dry skin, you might want to use an elixir from Makeup Forever. If you will be having a long day, add a drop of a primer as well. I'm a fan of the makeup forever HD line right now :) After your face is fully hydrated and prepped, if you see your skin got a little too much hydration, simply take a blotting sheet and blot your T-zone. Take about 2 pumps of a liquid foundation or a tinted moisturizer, put it on your hand to warm it up, take a makeup wedge and start stippling (kind of like dabbing) the foundation from the center of your face outward. When I say use the tinyest amount of foundation to start, do that. You can build later if you want. All the skin preparation will create the deweyness, and the foundation will seal the deal. Now to control an oily T-zone in the day time, maybe you cant, but there are always blotting sheets which are my best friend. They will remove the oil, but not the makeup and your skin will still look dewey. Good luck!

1940's-60's ish inspired beauty shoot!

2011-11-10T20:16:00.001-08:00

Photography- Meg Urbani

Model - Genii

Styling- Meg Urbani

MUA- Samantha Lennon

Hairstylist- Sonia C.

An old shoot resurfaced, makeup for singer - Annekei.

2011-11-05T20:17:00.000-07:00

© Angela Cappetta http://www.angelacappetta.com/
Artist : Annekei http://www.annekei.com/
Hair Stylist : Altjana Banja http://altjanastyle.com/
Makeup Artist Samantha Lennon http://www.samanthalennon.com/
Stylist: Mia Morgan www.miamorgan.com

Halloween Makeup Inspiration 2011

2011-10-29T09:47:00.000-07:00

Basically I got a piece of lace that I liked the shape of, positioned it on the area of the face she wanted, traced it lightly, then removed it and painted that part of her face in black. Then I put the lace back on her face in the same shape, and with a brush I dropped shimmer in through the lace, randomly, the blue and a little bit of the white. I blew the excess off, removed the lace and WHAM! I added an actual piece o lace in her hair as an extension-

Samantha Lennon Makeup Artist, New Work

2011-10-26T09:15:00.001-07:00

story by Seth Friedermann
photos and styling by Aeric Meredith-Goujon
makeup by Samantha Lennon
hair by Sonia Castleberry
model is Janessa from Soul Artist Management

Makeup For Headshots

2011-10-10T07:03:00.000-07:00

I do a lot of makeup for head shots, and find it is one of the most challenging types of makeup to do...why? Because as a makeup artist, at times, we may want to get a little too creative, when all we need to do is just bring out someones natural features, minimally... easier said than done. I find that most makeup artists find it challenging to do "No makeup, makeup" because it's hard to believe someone would pay for what appears to be so little makeup... but it does not have to be boring! Check out these beautiful examples I found of modern day head shot makeup :)

Enjoy!

Makeup Forever Night Time Glow Makeup

2011-10-07T15:00:00.000-07:00

Not sure how to really take this... what do you think?

Samantha Lennon MUA, New Work

2011-10-07T08:56:00.001-07:00

Brides Maid Publicity Stunt, NYC

2011-09-23T17:19:00.000-07:00

As a makeup artist, you never know exactly what you are walking into when being hired to do makeup. Sometimes its business as usual, but other times it turns out to be a good time. Even when you think it might be a drag, the dynamics of everything pull together. This particular day, I cant tell you how many people these ladies made smile :)

4 makeup artists (including myself) were hired to do makeup for 21 models to run all over NYC in tons of locations. We got to travel in a large bus where I had to do touch ups on 21 girls 2 times... that's 63 lip gloss and powder applications! :) All in all, a great time, and just another example of how cool it is to get paid for fun stuff in NYC.

1930s Inspired Makeup

2011-09-13T09:02:00.001-07:00

1920s Inspired Makeup

2011-09-13T08:48:00.000-07:00

modaCYCLE Magazine August 2011

2011-09-05T19:26:00.000-07:00

story by Seth Friedermann photos by Aeric Meredith-Goujon makeup by Samantha Lennon hair by Karima Murphi styling by Seth Friedermann models are Deborah and Laura from Q Model Management garments by Araks with shoes by A Detache

Bridal/Wedding Makeup Photo Inspiration

2011-08-08T09:49:00.000-07:00

You are getting married! You may have waited for this day since you were a little girl, or like me, you may have never imagined you would be married, either way, here you are. :)

What kind of makeup look do you want? Where do you begin to get ideas? Why the Internet of course! For my latest blog entry, I have scowered the Internet for what are some of the best/coolest (I think) makeup looks out there to get married in. There are some more classic, some non traditional, some stepped up a notch, but either way have a look and get those ideas flowing!

Some of my personal wedding makeup is seen here:

http://samanthalennon.com/bridal.html

Hope this helps!

Samantha Lennon

Best Makeup Find Of 2011

2011-08-02T07:45:00.001-07:00

Best makeup find of the summer: No joke- I am all about the best bang for your buck- and with thousands of makeup products out there, at different prices, I want the best for the least money. Behold... Wet and Wild Bronzer, the best I have ever used..and priced at a whopping $2.99 :)

New Editorial, Modacycle 2011

2011-07-27T13:47:00.000-07:00

story and styling by Seth Friedermann

photos by Aeric Meredith-Goujon

makeup by Samantha Lennon

hair by Damon Alfonso

models are Sietzka and Kristina from Fenton Moon

location is Brooklyn Motor Works

Amazing and educational read on the not so lovable topic of Blackheads.

2011-07-14T21:35:00.000-07:00

Amazing and educational read on the not so lovable topic of Blackheads. As a makeup artist working & living in NYC, I have seen & touched endless amounts of faces and I truly believe at least 85% of people get blackheads pretty regularly. I think this article can help.

http://www.cosmeticscop.com/i-have-blackheads-what-caused-them.aspx?filter=itemtype%3Acontent

DÉFILÉS COUTURE COUTURE HIVER 2011-2012 CHRISTIAN DIOR

2011-07-05T08:10:00.000-07:00

OMG! Just some of the most beautiful makeup images I have ever seen!!! Enjoy just as I have :)

My First Love Of Makeup And What Started It All

2011-07-04T08:47:00.000-07:00

Most clients I work with, or just people I meet in general always want to know "How and when did you get into makeup?" For some reason, I always have to stop and think... even though I get the question all the time.

Last night I came to the realization of how and when it exactly happened as I watched the movie inspiration since the first time it came out.

The year was 1995, the movie "Hackers" came out with Angelina Jolie and her then husband and co-star Johnny Lee Miller. Her beauty was already enough to bear! There was one scene, at a party, where Jolie is wearing a skin tight white patent leather suit, her boyish chopped short black hair, and topping it all of was a bright shimmery red shadow all over her eyelids! I think the clash with her blue eyes, black hair, white outfit, the red was just perfect. Worn so well....I fell in love with makeup.

I did my best to find a photo if the scene, there aren't many, but I did fine one. It looks way more vibrant in the movie though!

The movie is slightly cheesy but good enough to watch the whole way though.

That's it! I figured it out. 1995, Angelina Jolie.

Scarlett Johansson's makeup

2011-06-30T18:12:00.000-07:00

This seriously might be the coolest makeup I have seen in a LOOOONG time! Looks like Scarlett Johansson's eyes are on fire! it looks done a little sloppy instead of blended perfectly and even...amazing

Summer 2011 Makeup Ideas: Neon Accents

2011-06-29T13:28:00.000-07:00

Seems there is a trend for me to want to talk about! I am seeing a pattern within all of the makeup brands new collecions and what it is are neon and bold colors.

Take Makeup Forever's Aqua Eyes

YSL Creme de blush

MAC's Neon Orange Lipstick

So I say, give it a try. You only have to apply a bold or neon color in one single area, so try your cheeks or lips, or eyes... never more than one area :)

Visiting The Bobbi Brown Studio In NJ

2011-06-28T12:25:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I had the privilege to visit Bobbi Brown's studio in Montclair, New Jersey. A good friend of mine, Liz Murray, is being featured in Bobbi's new book coming out in September titled "Pretty Powerful".

I have worked for many awesome companies, and have experienced different the dynamics of people working together, but honestly this studio is very special, and genuine. Bobbi herself walks around, and it is obvious how everyone there respects her immensely, and works together under a stress free and creative environment like a family.

Ms. Brown herself is a down to earth woman, to the fullest, and I can tell you that she really, really likes people. That is what makes her an amazing makeup artist, person, and inspiration.

Samantha Lennon, candid camera

2011-06-26T20:28:00.000-07:00

Here’s a sneak peek shot with yours truly, behind the scenes of Modacycle's newest feature editorial by Aeric Meredith-Goujon Featuring Venexiana Fall 2011 on www.modacycle.com

Metropolitan Museum Of Art, NYC - Period Rooms

2011-06-25T09:51:00.000-07:00

The Period rooms at the Met are by far one of my favorite places to be. It is what I will build my future house style off of. Think I am lying? Beauty is in all forms, inspiration is everywhere...the colors, style and textures of this architecture just blows my mind. Please enjoy these images...and visualize on what kind of house you would like to live in :)

The Most Beautiful Lip Shots

2011-06-17T18:21:00.000-07:00

I saw a really beautiful photo of a lip beauty shot, so I started looking around, and found a few really creative and beautiful lip shots!

Professional Makeup Artist Kit Hygiene

2011-06-06T18:32:00.000-07:00

As a professional makeup artist, it is my number 1 priority that my makeup kit stays sanitary, organized, and constantly maintained. Dragging this thing around always ends up with eyeshadow's breaking, blushes breaking, foundation caps falling off, etc.

After a really intense couple of weeks workin, my kit had taken its toll. Now every makeup artist has their own way of organizing their kit... this way is just mine.

You may recall an article I did about Spring cleaning for your personal makeup kit (http://fashionindie.com/spring-cleaning-samantha-lennons-tips-for-cleaning-out-your-makeup-drawer/) this is just the version for your professional makeup kit

This is my kit, after taken its toll. Not that bad really, just my expectations for everything are high :)

Some of my pigment eyeshadows spill open from time to time, and even though I have everything in Zip Lock bags, it gets a little bit messy.

Now heres a little tip. I go to the 99 cents store to buy baby wipes. Instead of using expensive makeup remover wipes, I get like 80 of them for about $1.

I literally wipe down everything in my kit. Every single item...

All my little pigments cleaned off!

All repackaged with a new zip lock bag :)

I got myself a new organizer, lets see if it works...

Eyeshadow spillage!

Wipe it down

Then I change out all existing zip lock bags to new ones

Just like new :)

Summer Dews

2011-06-03T08:31:00.000-07:00

Written by Amy Sciarretto:

http://www.beautynewsnyc.com/beauty/summer-dews/

Samantha Lennon, one of our favorite New York City makeup artisans, checked in this month about Summer Dews: which makeup trends and products to attempt, rather than avoid, this summer when crafting a dewy, healthy glow – like the one sported by actress Hayden Panetierre.

Lennon is not a celebrity makeup artist; she is your artisan, working tirelessly to help the regular Manhattanite master makeup and achieve any look they’d like through her artistic eye and understanding of products, as well as her astounding technical skill.

Summer Dew Do: “For a dewy look, even if you have oily skin, use a mattifying toner and a mattifying lotion followed by an oil free tinted moisturizer (such as Laura Mercier Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer) will give you that dewy look without the excess oil. If you have dry skin, try a standard tinted moisturizer as it gives the right amount of dewiness. Carry around blotting sheets!

Go For the Gold: Gilded eyes are not reserved for anyone other than you. Try 14 karat peepers at least once this summer, like a Saturday afternoon wedding or a boat trip! “Why not play with gold shadow? Try a shimmery or cream one, since it will work with the weather, and the dewiness of your look. Try waterproof cream color from Makeup Forever in Shade 11 Gold.”

Be Cheeky: “For cheeks, try Makeup Forever HD Cream Blushes. They are gorgeous when you are going for that dewy look. Pump a small amount on your hand, smear it out, and then dip your blush brush on it to apply.”

Brooklyn Motor Works Shoot Preview

2011-05-31T21:08:00.000-07:00

Want Flawless Skin?

2011-05-25T21:15:00.000-07:00

Just like anything else in this world, to get the best you need to educate yourself and research research research! For about 99% of us, we will not just wake up in the morning with flawless skin. I was never someone with perfect skin but I did become facinated with the idea of it so I went to work on the reading.

In a nutshell I have found 2 sources that will get you the best skin you have ever had, without spending or wasting money around trying stuff out.

First, go to http://www.skintypesolutions.com/home

You will be taking a skin care test. The doctor will tell you which out of the 16 different skin types you are. From there, she will tell you from least expensive to most expensive which are the best skin care products fo you.

Then, go to this website http://www.beautypedia.com/

It is literally an encyclopedia of every makeup and skin care out there. It will tell you how good something is, based on ingrediants, and price. From the list of products the Skin Type Solution lists for you, refer to this online source and see which one is rated as being the best. Just narrow it down!

Use both sites. I actually own the books but the same information is located online. I can guarantee you this will not fail, and you will learn a hell of alot in the process!

Good luck!

Makeup For The Red Carpet

2011-05-18T10:59:00.000-07:00

This week was the Makeup Show in New York, followed by a ton of pro makeup artist classes offered by MAC as well as Makeup Forever. I did not atten the Makeup Show but I did participate in 2 Makeup Forever Classes. The one for "Makeup For The Red Carpet" was hosted by makeup artist Fabiola (http://thewallgroup.com/fabiola) and alot of great things were learned there.

When it comes to Red Carpet makeup, clients need to look beautiful in person as well as camera ready. Things need to be taken into consideration such as body makeup, covering tattoos, bruises, etc. You have to make your client glow, and almost look 3 dimentional. Ways to achieve this are by sculpting the face, contouring, hilighting etc.

One of the cool things I learned was using a waterproof black liner on the upper rim of the eye, and it adds an instant full looking lash base.

Generally with a bold red lip you want to keep the eye clean, and if the focus is on the eye, keep the lip tamed down. This is especially important for the red carpet.

To sum up essentials for a red carpet makeup look you will need:

Individual lashes

Makeup Forever HD Foundation

Sculpting kit

Bronzer

Body Makeup

and...

Shimmer!

Summer Time Is Creamy Texture Makeup Time

2011-05-13T19:01:00.000-07:00

Summer time is definitely creamy textured makeup time for me. I figure I am bound to be dewy looking anyway, so why not just go with the flow? I really require effortless makeup application in the summer since I know anything complex will not last any longer than simple. What I use are natural color cream eyeshadow's and creme blushes. On top of my tinted moisturizer I simply scrape out some creme eyeshadow with a spatula, (it prolongs the life and quality of the creme product) place the product on the back of my hand, and use my finger as the brush. It allows the product to be warmed up and melt on the lid effortlessly.

You should use the same technique for the creme blush. Again, cremes could eventually get kind of gross if you use your fingers each time, or double dip with brushes. A really inexpensive purchase I made recently was from Maybelline creme shadow trio. I really like the light one for the days when I want to look completely natural. A slight glow on the eyelid is quite flattering topped with mascara.

Skechers Sneaker Urban Tour 2011

2011-05-13T18:52:00.000-07:00

Makeup by me,

Producer and photographer: Mike Mabes

Models Chris and Casie

Video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVV0zKBoKJw

Bursts Of Color, Bronx Botanical Gardens

2011-05-09T18:51:00.000-07:00

I took a trip with my husband to my old hood in the Bronx and we stopped by the Botanical Gardens since we had one of the nicest days in NY so far this year. I snapped a few photos because the colors were truly breath taking, and really in sync with one another. Here are a few photos :)

Fragrance-Free Face Products

2011-05-01T16:59:00.000-07:00

Upon further deliberation, I have decided to no longer use any face products that contain fragrance. I did research on the active ingredients in my current products that I use and looked for similar products without any added fragrance. It can really add a nice, luxurious smell and all, but do you really need it going into your pores? Just light a candle or put on your scented body lotion. It don't believe fragrance has even one positive contribution to skin but there are many negative effects such as skin reactions, so why bother?

Black Lipstick

2011-05-01T15:20:00.000-07:00

Giorgio Armani Rouge d’Armani visual starring Megan Fox

2011-04-22T15:38:00.000-07:00

Theres nothing much to say except, WOW and enjoy these beautiful photos!

Bleached Eyebrows

2011-04-22T11:45:00.001-07:00

Photographer: Meg Urbani

Clothing Designer: Sheila Frank

Model: Sam

Makeup: Me

Exfoliate Your Hands- Free And Naturally

2011-04-20T09:00:00.000-07:00

We are all coming out of this bitter cold winter, as well as this bitter cold recession. In times of trying to save money, while maintaining our beauty has inspired me to look into past times of how women stayed soft, and beautiful, with natural resources. In the upcoming weeks I will be laying out some of this tricks.

In the meantime, a FANTASTIC exfoliator for your hands, better than any artificial scrub I know is coffee grounds. After you brew your coffee in the morning, let the grounded up beans cool down.

Remove any rings, scoop out the beans with your hand, and over the garbage, start rubbing the back of your hand, in between your fingers, and just about all over for 30 seconds.

Wash off your hands with a moisturizing soap, and feel the difference! Add a layer of moisturizer immediately :)

Red Lips

2011-04-18T09:54:00.000-07:00

Everyone secretly wants to wear red lips, but most feel it always looks to harsh when they apply their red lipstick! How can you creep up to wearing a full on red lip? First and foremost you need to moisturize and exfoliate your lips. If you have very dry or chapped lips, first exfoliate with a brand new toothbrush and warm water or try Smashbox's Emulsion Lip Exfoliant. Afterwards, put an intense lip balm on and leave for 5-10 minutes. At this time, blot your lips with a soft tissue to remove most of the lip balm. Take your pointer finger, and rub it directly on the lipstick. Start pressing your finger into your lips, patting from the bottom lip and pressing your lips together. What you are creating is a red lip stain you are literally melting into your lips. You will have the red tint, without the intensity or dryness of the lipstick. Enjoy!

Samantha Lennon, Makeup Artist and Consultant - New Work, Updates April 2011

2011-04-14T08:45:00.000-07:00

Its finally warming up, thank God- I'm feeling good and I hope you feel the same :)

Alot of great things have been happening as a result of the personal makeup consultations I am offering. As word is spreading, the services are gaining great reviews on the web, on sites such as yelp.. If you did not know that I offer makeup consultations, you may view the page on my website here for more information:http://samanthalennon.com/packages.html . If you or anyone you know is interested at this time, just mention this blog post and receive $40 off.

On the other hand, I recently did a photo shoot with a very talented team of women and I think the photos came out just beautiful and would like to share some images with you. The photographer is Meg Urbani, the designer is Sheila Frank, and the model is Sam Folb. They are the attached photos.

More great work will be posted soon, I thank you for your interest, and if you would no longer like to hear from me, please let me know.

Happy Spring,

Samantha Lennon

2011-03-29T12:16:00.000-07:00

Photographer: Aeric Meredith-Goujon

The Ultimate Prepped And Primed Skin

2011-03-15T11:26:00.000-07:00

If you need your skin to be prepped and primed to last all day, here is my own step by step process I have created for you to follow.

Start by washing your face for no less than 30 seconds. You want to actually wash it, rub it into your skin and put all of the good ingredients in. When my husband washes his face, he literally puts in on and washes it off immediately. I get so mad at him! You are wasting all of the money you spend on your cleanser if you don't wash for 60 seconds.

Next, you want to tone it. If you have dry skin, use a moisturizing toner, if you have oily skin, use a mattifying toner, if you have normal skin, just use a refreshing toner. This clean your skin of any residue left from your wash, and take out the un-necessary oil.

After you have a perfectly clean face, you want to moisturize it ( about a dime size). Again with the same logic, if you have oily skin, dry skin, combination, your moisturizer should be targeting your specific skin type. To find that I suggest visiting http://www.skintypesolutions.com/home

Then you want to use a primer. about a dime sized. The way I feel about primers and foundations is that I like to pair the brands together. If I am using one foundation, I use that primer with it. It makes sense to me that the formulas were made to work with each other, so the outcome will be best. You absolutely don't have to though.

Here is my little touch to the whole thing. I use a blotting sheet to blot the skin after the primer. This will again take out any un-necessary moisture and grease that may have formed in the prepping process.

You are now ready for your foundation. Place foundation on the back of your hand to warm up. Apply with a brush, sponge, your fingers, whatever your preference is. Blend with a clean blending brush.

Conceal where needed, powder where needed, and proceed to your makeup look!

Samantha Lennon, Makeup Artist Consultant

More Beauty From Zink Magazine

2011-03-03T16:21:00.000-08:00

Photographed by
NEIL MOTA
Styled by
THAO

Hair and makeup: PACO PUERTAS using MAKE UP FOR EVER and TRESEMMÉ and ISABELLE LEPAGE using LIVING LIBATIONS and TRESEMMÉ.
Photographer’s assistant: ENRIQUE SANCHEZ.
Stylist’s assistant: THU-AN NGUYEN.
Retouching: LOC.
Models: FANNIE, GABRIELLE, SARAH C., JUSTINE, SANDRA B. and ERIKA for Next.

More Beauty From Zink Magazine April 2011

2011-03-03T16:09:00.001-08:00

Photographed by
WALDEMAR HANSSON
Styled by
KAWA H. POUR

Hair: Stéphane Clavier.
Makeup: Serge Hodonou .
Photographer’s assistant: Victoire Thierree.
Stylist’s assistant: Alexandra Alexi.
Model: Mariana Idzkowska for Just wm.

Zink Magazine April 2011

2011-03-03T16:03:00.000-08:00

Photographed by
DENISE BOOMKENS
Styled by
MARTINE REURINGS

Hair and Makeup: Ingrid Van Hemert for House of Orange using MAC and Bumble and bumble.
Model: ESRA for Wilma Wakker Model Management.

Zink Magazine April 2011

Some Of My Latest Work

2011-03-01T08:32:00.000-08:00

Photographer: Aeric Meredith-Goujon

Model: Heather Fey

Stylist: Rowshana Jackson

Sheila Frank F/W 2011 Campaign By Meg Urbani Photography

2011-02-17T22:25:00.000-08:00

Sheila Frank F/W 2011 Campaign By Meg Urbani Photography

Makeup Artist Samantha Lennon

My Part In New York Fashion Week

2011-02-17T22:20:00.000-08:00

I was hired by the lovely Shayla Cox to create the looks to partner with her wonderful ceramic Jewelry while she took part in the fashion week madness. Here are a few photos of her work, and the makeup looks I did. www.shaylacox.com

Bobbi Brown Mini Brights Palette

2011-02-11T15:41:00.000-08:00

Wow! I don't know weather this would be really worth it for how much it cost. I think it's around $95 plus its really mini from what I hear! But its reaaaaaaally nice to look at :)

Best Winter Lip Balm I Every Found

2011-01-27T09:06:00.000-08:00

Honestly. I am a compulsive lip balm user, and think I have been scouring the world for the best kinds. After a while your lips get used to something if you use it over and over, but for real - this stuff is no joke. I even bought one for my makeup kit, because If anyone NEEDS to have smooth lips, its someone being photographed for a living :)

http://www.neolips.com/products

You can buy it Duane Reade and drugstores, but if you can get to Target, you will save like $2.50

Your 10 Essential Brushes, For Real

2011-01-19T10:08:00.000-08:00

Yes these are my 10 personal, essential brushes I could not live without. And yes, I had to decorate them with my kitchen table cloth and a border. Below you can find out more information about them.

I find that 80% of women I do consultations with do not have the ideal set up of brushes to work with. 10 may sound like alot, but keep in mind, they do not have to be expensive brushes. If taken care of properly, they can last an average of 20 years. If 10 is too many for you, I will narrow it down to 5 below.

From left to right:

Blush brush - the shape of this brush allows me to place product down perfectly on the apple of the cheek

Contour brush - the shape of this brush allows to create a contour under your cheek bone, to enhance or bring out your shape (For example, click Here).

Powder brush - Yes my powder brush is this small. I only powder my face where needed. I do not use a large one because if I do, I will basically be ruining all the work put into prepping, and placing my foundation. If I used the correct moisturizer, toner, primer etc, there will be no need to powder everything. Usually just under the eye, or T-Zone area.

Blending brush - That is what I call it. My small half synthetic, half hair brush allows for blending the foundation around the nose area, hair line in the most perfect way. I use my fingers to put on and blend the foundation where needed, then finish it off by blending with this brush.

Oval eyeshadow brush - #1 in my book. This brush does everything- holds the right amount of product, gets in the crease, highlights the brow bone. An all in 1 brush.

Small round eyeshadow brush - perfect for getting in the corners of the eye to brighten up, add shimmer, you name it!

Flat lip brush - I like this shape for really feeling grounded while applying lipstick. It travels around the lip line really nicely.

Eyebrow spoolie - To brush those brows!

Gel liner brush - My new best friend. Its shape and firmness make it easy enough for anyone to put gel eyeliner on. Trust me. This is how you get this specific brush : (Click here)

Last but certainly not least,

Small angled brush - great for correcting eyebrows, adding definition on top of the lid and under the eye

If you would prefer to have only half this amount, I recommend:

Blush brush

Blending brush

Oval eyeshadow brush

Gel liner brush

Small angled brush

Shiseido Spring 2011 Color Collection

2011-01-13T13:25:00.000-08:00

A Wedding Party I Recently Did Makeup For.

2011-01-10T15:17:00.001-08:00

Sometimes in your travels, you just meet some of the nicest people in the world. Truly good people with wonderful vibes. This was the case at Tawanna's wedding. All of her family and the brides maids were so supportive for her, and really standing by her side. It was a beautiful thing. :)

My Latest Work

2011-01-10T15:11:00.001-08:00

Photographer: Abdul Smith

Model: Ashley

Makeup Artist: Samantha Lennon

The Most Beautifully Packaged Makeup Brand

2011-01-01T22:00:00.000-08:00

It's enough for me that it is golden shimmer in a bottle, but the function and look of this elegant product really makes me want to look at this on my dresser daily :)

Guerlain Imperial Sublime Radiant Powder Face And Body-

Chanel Spring 2011 Beauty Images And Product Images

2011-01-01T21:42:00.000-08:00

New Favorite Eyeshadow Color!

2011-01-01T21:35:00.001-08:00

Behold! It is a blush from Chanel... Orchid Rose!

Dream Vanity

2010-12-29T16:37:00.000-08:00

My absolute dream vanity. This is just the ultimate place to put on makeup :)

New Zink Holiday Issue December 2010

2010-12-12T10:22:00.001-08:00

Some of my favorite beauty featured in this issue of Zink!

My Latest Work

2010-11-29T15:10:00.000-08:00

Photographer: Abdul Smith

Model: Robin Buss

Makeup: Samantha Lennon

Sneak Peak At Latest Photo Shoot

2010-11-12T08:31:00.002-08:00

Photographer Abdul Smith

Model Robin Buss

Makeup Samantha Lennon

The Best Makeup Books In Existence

2010-11-08T21:26:00.000-08:00

MAKEUP LOOKS AT THE SPRING 2011 GUCCI RUNWAY SHOW

2010-11-08T20:58:00.000-08:00

Read below for a "how to" on achieving this look

Once again, Makeup artist Pat Mc Grath creates a flawless glamorous face with the perfect balance of reserved, sophisticated makeup that anyone can wear to feel like a million bucks.

To achieve the skin, I recommend mixing a luminous fluid like Lorac (click here)with your liquid foundation to create that intense glowing skin.

Dust a light brown shimmer shadow sweeping out of the lids, apply a ton of mascara, and use an orange red lipstick on the lips. If you would like the lips glossy, add a clear gloss only to the center of the bottom lip.

MAKEUP LOOKS AT THE SPRING 2011 LOUIS VUITTON RUNWAY SHOW

2010-11-02T06:39:00.000-07:00

The 20's and 30's were the obvious inspiration here. The color story for eyes was gold and amethyst shadows on the eyes, concealed eyebrows with a pencil creating a thin line, and burgundy lips with a center bottom lip of gloss. My suggestions to achieve this look are below:

First line the entire eye with a black eyeliner, the inside rim, the top rim and on top of the lash line.

For the eyes I am going to suggest this eye palette as they have all the colors (and more) needed to achieve this look. The Dior artist palette (click here).

Use the perfect shade of a pinkish beige on the lid, in corner of eyes, and just slightly under the corner of the eye with a small angled brush. Use the mauve color on crease of eye and smudged outward and under the remaining part under the eye and outward to connect with the outward sweep of the top.

Again since we are dealing with the 20's and 30's we would like a thing eyebrow so either bleach yours, or conceal them and create a thin shape with a pencil.

Contour your cheekbones, try makeup forever sculpting kit. My favorite brush to sculpt is MAC #168 or click here

you need a burgundy lip color suitable to your skin type, but definitely a darker shade for everyone than usual. Try to point the top of your lip a little for the look. That was the look back then. Top off with a clear gloss just on the center of the bottom lip for that extra added shine!

MAKEUP LOOKS AT THE MARC JACOBS SPRING 2011 SHOW

2010-11-02T05:45:00.000-07:00

This look was Inspired by models from the '70s with makeup done by Francois Nars. The look was dark wet eyes, bleached eyebrows (to really make the eyes stand out) and matte lipstick. Suggestions by me to achieve this look are below.

Try colors like hunter green, dark grey, navy blue all over the lid and smudged under the eye. Then take a completely clear lip gloss or Vaseline and dab on the lid to create that wet look. I definitely do not recommend this look for just any occasion, this is definitely a special occasion night time look.

Use a maximum volumizing mascara. Try Nars larger than life mascara.

To really make this look, the eyebrows would need to be bleached. If you are blond great, if not, try an eyebrow gel (try MAC brow set's) a color or 2 lighter than yours.

For blush, try Nars creme color in Pennylane for fair skin and Lokoum for a darker complexion.

Follow off with a matte lipstick, Nars has a great new collection here

Productive Day

2010-10-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was such a wonderful and productive day. My best friend was assisting me, and we just met alot of great people and the day was filled with great energy. We started by going to a good friend of mine's office (Daniel Saynt of Fashion Indie) to help him out with makeup for celebrity stylist Mia Morgan. What an honor it was to work with the likes of her, the photographer Tom Mendes and the rest of the team. More photos will be coming soon :)

Every Makeup Artist Should Have Their Lipstick In A Palette!

2010-10-28T15:49:00.000-07:00

Soooo much easier! This is the second lipstick palette I put together, and it took me a half of day (not as easy as it looks) but you must update it before the lipsticks expire of course!

Makeup Looks At The Spring 2011 DKNY Runway Show, And How To Achieve The Look

2010-10-28T08:24:00.000-07:00

On the eyes this year for Donna Karen she wanted light to reflect the eyelids when the models blinked. Copper eyeshadow was applied to the crease of the eye, a little lash glue was applied to the center of the eyelid, and loose glitter in a gun metal color was adhered. You can see all of the photos from the show at Allure. Below is my suggestion on how to achieve this look.

Use a tinted moisturizer on the skin for a very natural finish. Try Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer. It is a favorite of mine and almost everyone out there :)

Comb eyebrows and just add a little powder in spaces of brow where needed. A very natural finish

Use a natural creme blush. For a flattering color on a lot of shades, try Nars Pennylane creme blush

In center of eyes, dab a bit of duo eyelash glue (available at all drugstores) and then take a little eyeshadow brush, dip into glitter, and place right on glue in center of eye. Try Makeup Forever artistic glitters

Use a very light coat of mascara, don't even bother to curl lashes.

Use a lip balm to finish, keep lips a natural healthy color.

Makeup Looks At The Spring 2011 Dior Runway Show, And Hot To Achieve That Look

2010-10-28T07:23:00.000-07:00

With a mix of Pin up hair with vivid makeup shades, Pat McGrath called this "Technicolor Betty Page". I love it!!! Every model's eyelids were a different color. John Galliano picked which girls would wear which color on the eyes." The colors he chose from were blue, fuchsia, orange, lime green, purple, and red.

You can see all the photos of makeup and hair at Allure

The way I would recommend to achieve this look is as follows:

A velvet foundation one shade lighter than your skin tone to create a really clean, fair, or bright complextion.

Concealer where needed

Loose powder to set

Fill eyebrows in to your own nice, natural, and full shape

Contour your cheek bones, try sculpting kit from Makeup Forever

Use a very light peachy/pinky matte blush just on apples of cheeks

Use either a creme shadow winged out (how thick your preference) or a colored pencil. Try either Nars creme shadow for some natural colors or Makeup Forever aqua eyeliners in bolder colors

Use a very light coat of mascara

Dust some shimmer on your cheekbones, try Laura Mercier mineral illuminating powder

Apply lip balm to lips for 5 minutes, blot off, line your lips with a red lip liner, fill in lip completely, add a dab of lip balm, and fill in lips with a red lipstick

Foundation Tips For African American Women

2010-10-26T10:19:00.000-07:00

Foundation:

For dark spots or acne scars, a stick foundation is best. It perfectly camouflages discoloration and blends so well that you may not need any concealer.

For skin in good condition, try just a tinted moisturizer or sheer foundation.

Oily or acne prone skin, use an oil free foundation that prevents mid day grease, and leaves you with a beautiful matte finish.

Combination skin, there are balancing foundations which mattifies the T-zone and hydrates the dry areas.

Now the biggest tip for African American women when it comes to foundation... rarely should you use just one foundation. You should really use 2. Lighter in the center of the face, and darker around the outside of the face (by the hairline, jawline etc) Makeup sure you then blend WELL!

Concealer:

Concealer would normally tend to be one shade lighter than your natural skin tone, and you would need to apply it AFTER your foundation. You may find that you don't even need it. Also yellow based is the most flattering.

Powder:

As far as a powder goes (to set everything) a yellow toned is most flattering and natural.

Evening Beauty Tip: Eyebrow Shaping

2010-10-25T22:07:00.001-07:00

Evening beauty tip: After washing your face and moisturizing it, brush your eyebrows with a clean mascara spoolie into the ideal shape you would like it to lay. The moisturizer helps to almost gel it down and keep it in place, and allow your brows to grow in the direction you would like :)

Spring 2011 Beauty Forecast

2010-10-24T12:00:00.000-07:00

I am very happy to see the change in Spring makeup trends! To me, the makeup is played more on the safe side, with colors keeping neutral, or just simple. Check out some of the trends on the runway for this Spring. Seems like a very colorful version on punk rock! I like it :) When I started doing makeup, 6 colors on the eye was a minimum for me!

Zac Posen

Makeup Forever

Marc Jacobs

Christian Dior

Chanel Holiday 2010 Beauty

2010-10-23T21:00:00.000-07:00

Gone With The Wind Dresses Restored :)

2010-10-22T11:08:00.000-07:00

THANK YOU

Thanks to the tremendous support for this initiative, we have reached our goal of raising funds to restore five original costumes from Gone With The Wind. If you wish to make a donation to help support the Ransom Center'sGone With The Wind 2014 exhibition, which coincides with the film's 75th anniversary, we are currently raising funds for this purpose.

No movie costume has captured the imagination of film goers more than Scarlett O'Hara's Green Velvet Curtain Dress from Gone With The Wind. The Harry Ransom Center is home to five dresses worn by the actress Vivien Leigh in this Hollywood masterpiece. The costumes are from the collection of David O. Selznick, the legendary filmmaker who produced Gone With The Wind and other classics including A Star Is Born, Rebecca, and Duel in the Sun.

The costumes are in fragile condition and cannot currently be exhibited. The Center would like to display the costumes in 2014 as part of a major exhibition celebrating the 75th anniversary of Gone With The Wind. The Center also wants to be able to loan the dresses to other museums around the world.

We are currently raising funds to restore the dresses, to purchase protective housing suitable for shipping them to other institutions, and to purchase custom-fitted mannequins that will allow them to be properly displayed.

Gone With The Wind Costumes at the Ransom Center

Dressing Gown

Ball Gown

Curtain Dress

Wedding Dress

Blue Velvet Peignoir

Will public donations save the 'Gone with the Wind' gowns?

2010-10-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

It seems unthinkable that the costumes from one of Hollywood's most legendary films,"Gone with the Wind," aren't displayed securely at the Metropolitan Museum of Art or some other venerable house of history.

But alas, the key costumes worn by actress Vivien Leigh as the tempestuous Scarlett O'Hara in that 1939 opus are actually in peril.

The famous green "curtain dress," among others, have been languishing for years in a back room of the Harry Ransom Center, a humanities research library and museum at the University of Texas at Austin -- lacking the funds to be restored to exhibition-ready condition.

But now the center has launched a public initiative to raise $30,000 to restore and preserve five original costumes from the film.

The dresses were part of the collection of David O. Selznick, a well-known Hollywood producer in the 1930s and 1940s, which included over 5,000 boxes of Hollywood memorabilia.

All five sweeping gowns -- most of which are currently too fragile to be exhibited -- were worn by Leigh.

There's the green curtain dress, which O'Hara made to fool Rhett Butler into thinking she was still well-off after the war; the green velvet dressing gown; the burgundy ball gown; the blue velvet peignoir and the wedding dress she wore when she married Charles Hamilton to spite her true love, Ashley Wilkes.

Donations, which can be made online, will allow for the restoration of the original dresses and the purchase of protective housing and custom-fitted mannequins to allow for proper exhibition.

The center hopes to display the costumes in 2014 as part of an exhibition celebrating the 75th anniversary of "Gone With The Wind," and to be able to loan the dresses to museums internationally.

Shiseido Holiday 2010 Collector's Edition Makeup Palette

2010-10-21T22:51:00.000-07:00

Shiseido's forthcoming holiday 2010 release is a beautiful day-to-night makeup palette called Collector's Edition Makeup Palette. Created by Shiseido Makeup Artistic Director Dick Page, this limited-edition makeup palette is themed with "Essential Elegance," and offers an array of sophisticated, wearable colors for eyes, cheeks and lips.

The palette includes:

Lip & Cheek Tint: 1 shade
Eye Color Base: 1 shade
Eye Color: 2 shades
Cream Liner: 1 shade
Cheek Color: 2 shades

The brand has partnered with Velnica to create a makeup pouch for Collector's Edition Makeup Palette. The palette is set to be launched on November 1st in Japan.

Dior Holiday 2010 Minaudiere Palette

2010-10-21T22:49:00.001-07:00

How beautiful is this huh???

New iPhone App Targets Make-up Application : Make-Up Artist Magazine

2010-10-21T22:23:00.000-07:00

New iPhone App Targets Make-up Application : Make-Up Artist Magazine

Nars Holiday Collection 2010

2010-10-21T20:00:00.000-07:00

Sneak Peak :)

Geisha Makeup (Halloween Inspiration)

2010-10-21T19:30:00.000-07:00

Geisha Makeup, might be some of my favorite Theatrical makeup out there...

Day Of The Dead - Spanish Style Makeup

2010-10-21T19:12:00.000-07:00