Skin Magicians

For a model, a good skin care routine should not only be personal, it is important for a career move. Get your complexion ready for close-ups with these photo-ready tips, tricks and crisis solutions.


Flaky, patchy skin and acne are not a girl's bff, especially when you are a model. Okay...so, computer programs can work its magic on pimples and baggy eyes, but there's no program in the world creative enough to generate real healthy, radiant, even-toned skin. Everyone isn't lucky enough to be born with radiant skin. Some of us have to work at it but it can be achieved with proper skin care. Models who lack proper skin care regimes present a number of obstacles for makeup artists. Not only are we faced with the usual challenges of creating gorgeous makeup applications that will last and not melt under hot lights, we also have to ensure that our work doesn't show up blighted on a beautiful model who has unflattering skin.

The makeup artists who specialize in photo shoots and fashions shows have a few tricks up their sleeves for presenting neglected skin to make it look its absolute best. Their biggest tips are no secret - just your normal back-to-basics tips that are very effective and easy to promote healthy, flawless skin.

Below are a few tips to get your skin photo-ready:

Cleanse - Your face collects all kinds of particles. Besides the particles in the air, your face is also exposed to chemical substances found in makeup. Since your face takes up a lot different facial beatings everyday, let's ensure that we keep it youthful and glowing. Cleansing is one of the best ways we can keep your skin as healthy as it can be and is one of the most important processes your face must go through everyday.

Tone - Toners close and tightening pores. Since you probably wash your face with warm water, which opens the pores to cleanse them, toner helps to close them back up. It prepares the face for a smooth makeup application.

Moisturize - Normal cleansing can strip your skin of its natural oils and leave it feeling dry and flaky. A good moisturizer is essential no matter what type of skin you have. Try a light, oil-free moisturzier for oily skin. Use cream moisturizers for dry skin and apply it twice a day. Water-based moisturizers work best for combination skin types. Use a high spf during the summer and double up pn moisturizer during winter months.

Exfoliate Once a Week - Exfoliation is an excellent part of maintaining healthy, balanced skin. It prevents the skin from becoming clogged and congested. It keeps your skin looking fresh and glowing. Look for products with natural ingredients.

Get a Facial - When was the last time you treated yourself to a facial? Facials are not only a great way to relax, they give your face a deep cleaning, promoting circulation and stimulating a nice glow to your complexion.

Keep Your Climate Under Control - To ensure that your skin is hydrated, besides drinking plenty of water, invest in a humidifier. It locks in the moisture and prevents the skin from drying out. When the skin is dehydrated, lines become more visable.

Remove Makeup Before Going To Sleep. It is not okay to leave your makeup on overnight. Any makeup left on overnight clogs the pores, forms comedones and results in skin that looks and feels bumpy. Acne is not your bff. The dirt and oil stains your pillow cases and leaves behind all kinds of bacteria.

Care For Your Skin - Get back to the basics with a simple cleansing regime - cleanse, tone, moisturize. Prepare your skin for beautiful photos. You worked hard bookng the event so make sure your skin is as beautiful as it can be - naturally.

Although makeup artists are talented at finding the right foundation to fit your skin; colors that compliment your beauty; concealer to hide unevened tones; we can't magically fix what is going on inside. Beauty is definitely skin deep because it starts from within. You know the saying "you are what you eat" - this not only relates to weight, but to how your skin reacts to what you consume. The foods that we eat are processed, full of sugar and all kinds of synthetic substances. It influences hormone levels and effects the skins overall look. Eating fruits and vegetables and drinking plenty of water keeps your skin fresh and beautiful.

When it comes to skin care, some people just don't realize what affects the weather, pollution and diets have on their skin. Plenty of water and a balanced diet can help some, but a good skin care routine is essential to healthy, fresh and vibrant looking skin for everyone.

Happy Cleansing!

Elements of Success!

Success is an inside job.
"Being relaxed, at peace with yourself, confident, emotionally neutral, loose, and free-floating - these are the keys to successful performance in almost everything you do." - Dr. Wayne Dyer

The Elements of Fashion Photo Shoot Party in collaboration with HGreaves Photography Bodies of the Year Calendar Launch was a HUGE success! The high energy kept everyone going and Jerel "Goofy Jokes" Ledger kept everyone laughing. DJ KracBaby did his thing on the 1's and 2's while everyone danced to the beat of their own drum.

Here are some sneak pics of the models Mickayla Johnson and Thida Penn in action:

The amazing model that twists and bends himself to make things work: Terrell Wright and the lovely Mickayla Johnson in action.

Here are some pics of me working in the process:

The Clarke Sisters [myself and my big sisters]. We had to show our love for the camera too!

Special thanks to all of the designers that contributed their pieces in the event. Thanks to all of the vendors that came out and thanks to you who made your presence known. This event would NOT have been as successful as it was without you. If you missed us this year, no worries, we're not going anywhere. :)

Stay tuned for more details on Elements of Fashion Part 2! Next year, same time, same place. Follow The Ladies of Sweet Chic Meet on Twitter for more details to upcoming events with our amazing affiliates!

Talents on Display:

Details - For creative and unique event planning!
Girl About Town - Fashion-forward, trendy styling and she's a seamstress!
MyChoKolateKisses - For unique makeup for any special occassion. Your face, my canvas!
Legacy Apparel - For beautiful gowns with a touch of class!
Lipstick Killers - For everyday wear fashion clothing for BBW!
Ben Almonor's Designs - For unique clothing for the curvaceous woman!
Hgreaves Photography - For high energy photos. Click. Flash. Pose.
Unforgettable Occasions by Design - For exotic fashion jewelry!
Leveled Living - Great tips for living healthy from the inside out!
Sweet Love Affair - For delectable cupcakes made with LOVE. You'll be sure to fall in love with these sweet treats!
Jerel "Goofy Jokes" Ledger - He will make your stomach hurt!
Sushi King Clothing, Inc. - For unique fashion jewelry created by hand.
MyMeApparel - For ready to wear fashion.
Alec Roeser - For music for the soul.
Hair 2 Please - For unique hairstyles.
Tightworks - For on-the-go hair & makeup at any event.