As some of you may know, I originally tried out for this years Dailymix beauty bootcamp, although didn't make it into the top 5. However for me, it was more about having the confidence to upload a video in the first place rather than getting through. In retrospect, I've also enjoyed watching the other contestants take part much more than I ever would have if I was watching myself. I know for sure I would have fallen to pieces having to do make up on the Pixiwoo Sisters!
To cut a long story short, Dailymix called me up a few weeks ago to invite me to join a new network they are starting with the 5 bootcamp finalists, and around 15 others who they liked but didn't make it through (myself included). At first I needed some time to think about it, as the thought of showing my awkwardness in video form actually terrified me. Although It's not everyday Dailymix comes-a-knocking! Plus, I felt it could be a really good opportunity to expand Pale Skin Make Up and reach a whole new audience, so I said yes!
To celebrate the launch of this new network myself and all the new bloggers attended YouTube HQ in London last Saturday for the launch. We had a workshop with a camera/lighting expert as well as talks from Anchal and Mark who were contestants on last year's beauty bootcamp. We were also interviewed and photographed by the Observer. All in all, it was an amazing day and I am so glad I agreed to do it and didn't shy away from signing up.
In the long term, I'm hoping that this will be a way of putting pale skin on the map. I said from the beginning that my blog is not a pale vs tan debate - I just want to encourage self confidence and positivity in those with pale skin to recognise it's beautiful too. Oh, and to let make up companies know they don't go far enough in catering for those of us with ultra fair skin tones!
I'm hoping you will all bear with me whilst I find my feet, as you can probably tell if you watch my first video that vlogging doesn't come naturally to me, although I'm determined to try. I want to create a channel whereby pale skin is celebrated and for it to be a place where you can find products and information that genuinely suit you and make you feel better about yourself.
It's going to be one bumper week for posts on the blog this week! I was invited to YouTube HQ by Dailymix over the weekend, for a network launch event, that I will be posting about in the next few days.
I'm breaking it up into separate posts, so that I can go to town on the content and hopefully give you the best possible account of each experience. So onto the hair as it's as good a place to start, right?!
I wanted my hair to look nice for the event, and as I have mentioned before I find traveling with all my hair accessories quite troublesome... my bag is often heavy enough with make up and shoes! A few bloggers in the past have reccommended the Aveda Institute, quaintly nestled in Holborn. As the salon is literally a minutes walk from the building that is also home to YouTube, it seemed like the ideal choice!
I booked through email about two weeks in advance, and I would recommend doing this especially if you have to be somewhere and need to be guaranteed a spot. Although, with 70 members of staff at it's helm they seem to be very well organised. When you enter a new salon for the first time, it can often be quite daunting but honestly, from the moment I opened the huge sleek glass door (with "Pull" written on it for fools like me who always open doors the wrong way...doh!) I knew I had walked into somewhere special.
I was greeted by the sight of very neat shelves full of Aveda products that seemed to blend seamlessly into different sections of styling counters. I was promptly approached by a stylist with a warm smile on his face asking if I was "Julia"(nope!), and then he directed me to the tills to check in. After checking in, I was told to wait on the yellow bench and after asking where this was, the lady said "oh, are you new here?! Let me show you around!" - which I thought was so incredibly thoughtful and welcoming. After sitting down for all of thirty seconds, I was approached by a lady who would be washing my hair, who took me over to another lady would be styling my hair afterwards called Joon. This was cool as Joon decided how she was going to style my hair before washing, and asked me how I would prefer it to look, whilst also giving her expert opinion and actually ended up giving me a brand new take on my style, yet most importantly having it still feel like "me". Perhaps the most unusual thing of the process is they actually give you a scalp and neck massage prior to shampooing whilst still sat in the styling chair. The first lady took care of this, and had her hands covered in a special relaxation product placed infront of my face, telling me to breathe deeply to inhale the product (an Aveda branded one, although I am not sure what the exact name was). It smelled quite deep yet rejuvinating and definately had a spa like quality to it. She then worked this in though my hair and scalp, and the back of my neck. I was also asked if they could get me anything, such as a drink or any magazines. Onto the hair washing, and the area where this happens is enclosed in it's own little area, and it feels quite private and quiet. The interiors of this section are dark wood, but in a very calming sense and it really puts you at ease. They also have separate foot stools which are really comfy, and make a change from typical salons where your feet remain on the floor.
After the washing, it was back to Joon in the chair and no I was not left waiting with soaking wet hair as I have been in many salons before - she was straight there to take over and very attentive throughout. She firstly went over again what she planned to do, and made sure I was happy with it. She also asked if my hair tends to hold a style well, which I think showed real attention to detail as infact my hair doesn't hold styles all that well due to it being quite deceptively thick and heavy. For an "express blowdry" the service was not in the slightest bit rushed - at no point did I ever feel like I was just another client, or that they were on a tight schedule. Infact, Joon in particular really took her time to get to know me and ask me questions about my blog after I mentioned why I was getting my hair done. She even brought over another member of staff at one point who was also pale, and told her about my blog too! I couldn't quite believe just how lovely they all were to me, especially as they must see thousands of clients pass through their doors each week. What fascinated me from a hairdressing point of view, is that Joon blowdried my hair in a completely different way to how I or my regular hairdresser normally does. She actually dried it straight using mainly a paddle instead of a barrel brush, as I normally do so at home. She explained this was to minimise volume at the root, yet the volume would still be achieved as she planned to use flat irons to add subtle curls throughout.
At first I was unsure how this would look, as it's a completely new take on how my hair has been styled previously. I was genuinely amazed as it started to come together, and equally impressed that Joon didn't rush or use the hairdryer on a super high setting to get through my hair quickly because it's so thick (as has happened to me before with similar services and ended up burning my scalp!)
The experience did take a little longer than the 30 minutes it was supposed to, however I genuinely couldn't have cared less as I was enjoying every minute of it. I let Joon know I had to be there at 2, and she made sure that she finished my look on time and nothing seemed to much trouble for her.
When she passed me the mirror at the end, I don't think I could have felt any happier with the result. My hair felt light, bouncy and fresh yet not laden down with product either, infact she barely used more than a little hairspray on me. My hair has continued to feel nice, and smell nice too.
Whilst
in the building, I was also complemented by about 4 different staff
members on the dress I was wearing and "how nicely it worked against my skintone". I
thought this was a lovely touch, as you could tell they were being genuine with you, which unfortunately is something you don't always find in salon environments. It
also meant alot, as I was there to represent pale skin and having
people tell you that you got it right, made me feel confident in not only how I looked, but also in what I
was there to achieve on a personal level.
I guess to sum it up, a visit the Aveda Institute is something that really should be on your bucket list. Yes, I would really go that far as to say that! The whole process from start to finish was relaxing, welcoming and every member of staff you encounter genuinely treats you as a friend, not just another head to wash and style. The passion they have for their craft really shines through, and this is clear to see as they actually care about you and want to get to know you. Joon even offered to take the pictures of my hair at the end, I mean how nice can you get?! If you are reading this, thankyou so much! The one thing that leaves me gutted, is that I am from up north and The Aveda Institute is down south. But as I told the lady at reception before I had even left the building, I'll be back!!! The Aveda Express Blowdry costs £33 and can be booked through email or phone.
*A couple of the pics taken from the Aveda website.
Some of you may be aware that Liz Earle have brought out a new "Bath and Body" range, in addition to all the wonderful skincare and makeup products they currently sell (although no bases as of yet for ultra pale skin).
I was lucky enough to recieve two samples this week from their Newsletter and also from an order I placed with them, of their new body lotions in the scents "Vanilla and Saffron" and "Tiare and Jasmine". Whilst body lotions typically aren't my thang, I thought they were worth a mention as the scents are particularly uplifting and aromatic.
My favourite from the two (there is also a 3rd variety available - "Bergamot and Ginger") is Tiare and Jasmine, as it's quite soft and subtle. I am quite a fan of lavender, and the fragrance emitted from this one isn't too disimilar, yet isn't overpowering either.
Vanilla and Saffron would be ideal for all those who love the smell of pick n mix, as this is what it really reminded me off (oddly). It's a much stronger fragrance, but the initial hit of sweets does filter down and you are left with a much gentler smell.
With Mother's Day just around the corner for us Brits, this could be an ideal present in it's full size, especially as the 3 varieties are also available in shower gel form. I would personally be more inclined to go for the shower products, as I am always on the lookout for something new and special to leave my skin smelling nice throughout the day. Also can't go wrong with the packaging!
If you'd like to purchase from this range, you can find out the prices and more info here. I would also love to know your thoughts if you have tried this range, so please leave a comment below!
There's no denying that pale skin on the red carpet gives instant sophistication. Whilst there wasn't any super pale looks seen as recent awards ceremonies, I did noticed a definite steer away from super full on tans. The tans are getting increasingly fairer, almost to look natural and those who are naturally fair are getting ever more confident in showing it.
Whilst the photography is a little misleading (making her look slightly more tanned than what she is), Cate Blanchett looked truelly effortless in her nude coloured gown. Cate is a great example of a pale/pink undertone, and her skin up close is absolutely flawless, even when wearing no make up.
It was also refreshing to see pale skin paired against deep blue, as demonstrated by Amy Adams. The rest of the look was quite paired back, but again the colour although it was bold - didn't work against her fair skin, infact allowed it to be contrasted beautifully.
What is refreshing with these ladies, is they are a true example that you can be successful and equally beautiful, whilst remaining true to your natural skin tone. It's the personality and true elegance that shines through with these ladies, and not the "glow" of the bronzing products, proving that you can rock a red carpet, yes even with pale skin.
And no red carpet look would be complete without make up right?! Above are what I'd pick for an ultra glamorous look. My Oscars invite seemed to have got lost in the post this year, but if I wanted a glam look then these are the types of products I would go for. For my base, I would use Porcelain foundation in Bobbi Brown (one of the palest high end colours available), and the new lancome concealer palette which is ultra pale and mixable (hurray!). I would complete my look with a brown smokey eye, and red Tom Ford Lips.
What looks did you like from this years Oscars, and what make up would you wear for a glamorous event?! Leave me a comment below, and don't forget to follow me on twitter/instagram @paleskinmakeup
You would be forgiven for thinking this blog is turning into a skincare and not a make-up blog as of late. Well the saying"You can't have great make-up without great skincare", is definitely something I am conscious of. I have really been getting into my skincare in the last few months, and it's showing amazing benefits I never thought possible with my skin!
As I have mentioned before, my skin is quite dry/sensitive yet blemish prone. The products in my current rotation include... Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish, Hydraluron, Pixi Glow Tonic and La Roche Posay Effaclar K Moisturiser. All of these are working beautifully, although there is always room for more! The following 3 items are things I have picked up recently..... 1. Garnier Micellar Cleansing Water 400ml - £3.32(Superdrug)
Make Up remover is extremely important, particularly if you wear heavy foundation or anything capable of clogging the pores if it's not cleaned off properly. Prior to cleansing in the evening, I always remove make up beforehand and this new one from Garnier caught my eye in Superdrug the other day.
I'm still in the early days of using this, but so far it seems to remove make up quite effectively, when used in conjuction with a Muslin Cloth. It claims one bottle will give you 400 uses.... I'll keep you posted on that! ;)
2. The Body Shop Muslin Cloth - £2.50
Anyone who has seen my collection of Liz Earle cloths would know I am pretty loyal to the brand and have been using them for many years now. However, upon finding out The Body Shop also stock them, I was intrigued to compare the difference.
I have noticed so far that the Liz Earle ones are perhaps slightly softer, although I will have to see how it washes up as I have a feeling The Body Shop one feels slightly courser because it hasn't been washed yet. It does however remove make-up just as well, and isn't harsh on the skin. 3. N-spa Brightening Detox Scrub - £4.50 (or 3 for £10 at Asda)
Fancy putting amazing skincare lines on offer whilst doing your weekly shop... I have enough trouble staying away from the doughnuts on the bakery aisle!!
This is the item I am most excited to talk about, as N-spa are a brand I have wanted to try for ages now. I picked up the scrub as coming through winter is tough on skin, and I felt as if I was in need of some exfoliation to help my skin regenerate and look it's best.
I have used this a few times, in with my skincare routine after cleanser and before toner/serum/moisturiser. It is truelly heavenly when used in this order and at night before bed. It is very gentle on the skin, and the particles are quite fine so it's quite difficult to over scrub or cause irritation. It exudes a really calming, relaxing scent that *definitely* helps to make me fall asleep faster. When I wake up, my skin feels lovely and soft and it's a really effective overall product. Great for sensitive skins, and I would say use this one/twice weekly in with your skincare routine. I didn't think I would be this obsessed with this product, but I really am!
Most people make new years resolutions to quit chocolate or join the gym. Mine was to get better looking skin, and figure out exactly what I needed to do in order to achieve this. For me, I felt like investing my time into researching skincare options was the way forward, as past dietary changes and following other standard advice gave me no change in the look of my skin.
My skin is quite dry and sensitive, and so every toner I've ever used has left my skin feeling dry, tight, irritated, red etc. For many years I have skipped the toner stage of my skincare routine, simply because my skin just couldn't handle it.
It was Caroline Hiron's blog that led me to discover Pixi
Glow Tonic - a product that has been talked about almost to death by bloggers and
skincare experts alike. Infact, it's only made in relatively small
batches and when it's announced as being in stock - it very quickly
sells out.
I was dubious to try glow tonic because as we all know, products are easily over-hyped in the beauty world. However, it helped reassure me when Caroline (an actual skincare expert) mentioned it on her blog, stating it was a dupe of a more expensive product called P50.
As I have mentioned before, I now use use La Roche Posay Effaclar K moisturiser, as well as my Liz Earle Cleanse and Polish. I feel both of these products have been working great, however I wanted a product that would improve my skins texture and reduce the look of my pores.
The beauty of Glow Tonic, is that it is actually an exfoliating toner as it contains Glycolic Acid. This ingredient helps the skin to renew itself, in a way that is different from using a scrub that contains exfoliating particles. Frankly, exfoliating is something I rarely do because of how red and irrated even the gentlest of exfoliators leaves my skin feeling.
I added Glow Tonic as my second step after Cleanse & Polish, using a large cotton pad and sweeping the Glow Tonic all over the face. The smell is not what you would expect, and I liken it to the smell of soaps in posh hotel bathrooms. It's an odd one to explain, but definitely is a little strange, although not in any way unbearable. I left my judgement at the door though, because what's important is how well and if it works.
The first thing I looked out for was if it made my skin red, itchy or uncomfortable. I was worried this could be an issue as it contains Ginseng. I was relieved and surprised to find my skin felt completely normal and even somewhat refreshed after applying Glow Tonic. I of course followed up with Effaclar K, so I can't comment on how it would leave the skin feeling without moisturiser.
I have been using Glow Tonic for about 4 weeks now, twice a day as part of my skincare routine. My skin is honestly looking the best it has ever looked, and the most noticeable thing is how smooth to the touch it feels, especially when I wake up in the morning after it's had time to work it's magic overnight. The look and feel is comparable to how my skin felt as a child, just pure smoothness. This is especially noticeable around the chin which has always been my most self concious area, and always where I apply the most make up!
Glow Tonic has also been really effective in getting rid of those pesky little bumps that aren't blemishes as such, but just annoying blips in the texture which prevent the skin from looking smooth. I have also found I am needing increasingly less make-up, and have simply been using my Bobbi Brown tinted moisturiser, and a little concealer here and there.
There still is a way to go before I have the skin I want - completely free of marks etc, however for me *any* improvement is greatly welcomed, and for once I feel as if my money hasn't been wasted (Glow Tonic is £16 + postage unless you live in London and can pop into a Pixi store). If like me you have to be extremely careful with what you use on your skin, yet want to improve the texture and appearance then from my experience, Pixi Glow Tonic is something I would recommend. I really can't think of anything negative to say, other than it can be a difficult product to get hold of. However, I feel this in itself speaks volumes about the quality of the product and it's obviously working wonders for alot of people!
A little while ago, I saw a video posted on into the gloss featuring MUA Robert Jones, discussing colour theory in make up in relation to skin tone. I found it incredibly useful, so thought I would write this post summarising the advice given to those of us with pale skin.
It's important to remember that a product can look very different depending on the skin tone. If you really like the look of a product on a model with tanned/darker skin... remember it may not suit you if you have very fair skin, and vice versa. Also, don't just go for colours that you like as colours, i.e you'd love it as a wall or dress colour - always keep your skin tone in mind and what it can and cannot handle.
Never be afraid to experiment with make up choices, although I feel Robert's advice could save you money in the long run, and make sure you are getting the most out of the products you buy and they don't end up unloved and unused! Blusher
"It's not to contour or re-shape your face with, it's to add life and colour to your face. A great rule of thumb, is if you were to run around the block, you don't want to use a shade of blush any darker than what you would flush to".
DO: Go for softer colours such as pinks, peaches and apricot.
DON'T: Try to pull off something that's too dark for your skin tone.
Lips
"Keep a few things in mind. Your lip size - that's always the most important to me because you never want to wear a shade that's dark if your lips are thin. A lighter shade will make them look fuller if they are thin. Secondly it is your skin tone - you want to choose something that is very complimentary to your skin tone. If you want to play it safe, you can always choose a shade a couple of shades darker than your natural skin tone. That will give you definition without it being too much".
DO: Although you can wear both, go for warm tones over cool tones, as these will make you look younger and add life to the face.
DON'T: Wear brown toned lipsticks, as these do not suit extremely pale skin tones. I hope the above advice from Robert helped! If you have any recommendations of products you use, then feel free to leave a comment below!
