manolobeauty.com

If you’re still holding on to the myth that black doesn’t crack, it’s time to let it go! Not only does it crack, but it can wrinkle prematurely and be susceptible to unwarranted dark spots. Let’s not forget SKIN CANCER. Although not as common as in other ethnicities, African Americans are also at risk of getting skin cancer whether we’d like to think we are or not. Don’t think just because you spend top dollar on products fighting acne and other skin care issues that you’re exempt and can achieve a flawless complexion without protection from the sun’s UV rays–SPF is a must! While you may not want to incorporate another product into your daily regimen, the benefits of SPF products—holds off wrinkles, helps you stay blemish free, and let’s not forget the big C, “Cancer” free—will definitely have you thinking twice. For clear and healthy skin, SPF sunscreens are a must.

Maybelline BB 8-in-1 Skin Perfector $8.99

For super hot days when you want to keep product usage on your face to a minimum, the latest in SPF creams where you’re able to reap the benefits of moisturizer, primer, foundation, and sunblock all in one just might be perfect for you. Maybelline’s new 8-in-1 Beauty Balm promises a combination of skincare and makeup in 1 easy step. Plus, the price will also have you sitting and feeling pretty.

This season has quickly crossed the line from fun-in-the-sun weather to scorching hot temperatures, making it almost impossible to enjoy the summer. Besides the heat and humidity making for an uncomfortable day, it also becomes difficult to preserve the look that you left home with before being attacked by the blistering heat; and yes I meant attacked.

Instead of trying to fight the heat…trust me you’ll lose…find ways to work with it in a way that your beauty won’t be compromised. Simply put,  this summer it may take a bit more work to avoid looking a hot mess when the temperature is so hot.

Here are a few tips that may help you stay cool and cute in the heat and humidity.

hauteliving.com

by R. Asmerom

When Iman spun her brand to back a make up line for women of color in 1994, the market reacted favorably. Just two years after launching Iman Cosmetics at J.C. Penney, the company registered sales of $25 million and went on to sign a deal with Proctor & Gamble to distribute her cosmetics to the mass market. But things didn’t go as planned according to the supermodel, as stores like Walgreens didn’t want to position her goods prominently.

“It was a no-go,” Iman told New York Magazine. “They wanted me to be placed at the back, which they considered, like it is, for the ethnic section, which I was totally against it for no other reason but ’cause also I never considered myself an ethnic brand.”

The reaction from the market led Iman to conduct her business primarily online, and although business is booming, the Somalian businesswoman knows it could be even better if she had a foothold in more stores.

One example that Iman shared with New York Magazine about how misled the mass market is when it comes to understanding women of color is the reaction she received to her launch of a liquid foundation last year. ”I decided to create a liquid foundation, which I have been told numerous times by the retailers, “Oh, black women don’t buy liquid foundation,” right? she recalled. Despite the nay-sayers, the liquid foundation became her top selling item.

More on Madame Noire Business!

• Behind the Click: Ashley Baxter, Digital Marketing Manager for J.C. Penney
• How She Made It: Alia Jones-Harvey, Producer of A Streetcar Named Desire
• Why African Philanthropists Are Calling For Africapitalism
• Will Scandal’s Success Pave the Way for More Diverse Images of Black Women?
• How She Made It: Jeri Lynne Johnson, Founder of Black Pearl Chamber Orchestra
• Entrepreneur Spotlight: A Sister-Run Business Brings High-End Tea Stateside

imancosmetics.com

More than a model, Somalian born beauty IMAN has made a name for herself off the runway with her eponymous cosmetic line. Many of the products exude the same style and grace as her and capture the very essence of pure beauty.

Check out some of my favorites…

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hellobeautiful.com

Who said women of color can’t wear blush?

Blush is an essential part of wearing makeup. The addition of shimmer and shades of color to your gorgeous face can transform your appearance instantly! Plus wearing blush gives you an opportunity to show off those amazing cheekbones and showoff your smile.

Here are a few of my favorite blush palettes….

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There is nothing worse than looking at a Facebook friend’s wedding pictures and thinking “her makeup looks a HOT MESS!” I cringe every time I see the cardinal makeup sins committed on one of the most special days of a woman’s life. Here is my guide to beautiful wedding makeup that will turn heads not illicit whispers.

Have you ever dreaded the moment you realize that soon your makeup will be all over your guy’s pillowcase? Here’s a few tips and tricks to keep your glam factor up when it’s about to go down.