Feel Sick? Look Better!

Hey everyone! 

I've always been of the mindset that makeup can make you look and FEEL better. 

I truly feel that there is a happiness/confidence boost when you enhance your features.

Call me crazy, but as much as I'd like to stay under the blankets when I have a cold--

I know darn well that my attitude will perk up a bit once I get my makeup on. 

Even though I might still have a cough or some sniffles- I get more of an "I can do this" mentality for the day when I get myself put together. 

(Granted, there are also those times when you're seriously ill and should stay in bed!)

So here are some key elements of my routine-- which can be great for ANY day--

but they really shouldn't be overlooked on a day when you're sick and still have to get up, go to work, etc. A few are some new things I'm loving right now!

1. Wake up the Eyes

Bare Minerals Stroke of Light Eye Brightener

I have this in the lightest shade- Luminous 1. I've had this for less than 2 weeks- but I'm already loving it. When I'm sick- my eyes REALLY need brightening. This shade has the slightest pink undertone that counteracts the darkness. When my eyes really need a boost- I use a dab of this on top of my Dalton Conceal It concealer. The Dalton provides the best coverage- but the brightening quality of this is awesome on top. 

2. Boost your complexion

MAC Blush in Fleur Power

I really don't think you need this exact blush shade- but this was what I wore today & it really gave life to my face. If you're sick-- do NOT skip blush. (Honestly, don't ever skip blush :) It's an instant look of health! So take a moment to buff a bright pinky/peach onto the cheeks. 

3. Pop the eyes

Too Faced "The Return of Sexy" Palette

This is a new palette I've been playing with lately. But more than recommending this specific palette... I recommend doing SOMETHING to your eyes. In my case- I chose a color family that I know enhances my eye color, like the purple section of this kit. When I'm going in front of HD cameras on a day that I'm feeling sick- I'll take advantage of all the little tricks I can! 

The whole "Return of Sexy" thing might have given me a little extra swagger too ;)

4. Add at least a little color to the lips

Revlon Colorburst Lip Gloss in Rosepearl

I've often said that a great lip color can make the whole face seem brighter. If we're sick, we can definitely use the extra help. I LOVE this Colorburst gloss in Rosepearl from Revlon. It's rosy, but not too bright. The picture might not reflect this, but it actually reminds me a bit of my beloved (and discontinued) Jordana gloss in "Lovely".  If your complexion is already a little dull, a nude lip won't do it any favors. So add a little color of some sort! 

5. The WOW Factor

Kiss 03 False Eyelashes (disregard Red Cherry packaging- I lost the original container)

Sometimes we get sick at really inopportune times. What if it's a day when you really need to "appear" to be at your best? If you're giving a presentation, going on an interview, getting your picture taken, hosting an important event, or whatever it may be-- sometimes you need to reach for the "wow factor". 

Sick or not-- false eyelashes are ALWAYS the wow factor, my friends! :) 

They're give the eyes an instant wide-awake lift. 

 This was an Instagram pic I posted today (I'm emilynoel83 on Instagram)...

And my look includes all of the products mentioned above. 

My overall message is this- we all have days when we're not feeling so hot & might skimp on makeup.

Consequently, those are the days our faces actually need a little MORE help. 

So don't be afraid to reach for some color on eyes, lips, and cheeks. 

You might find that you're looking & even feeling a little better by the time you're done! 

I also did a blog on this topic in '09, if you're interested.

♥

Daily Nuggets...

• Tomorrow is Friday!
• Darn it, I forgot to pick up toilet paper after work.
• I've pinned a bunch of recipes on Pinterest, but will need to get groceries before I can make them. 
• I have a mysterious bruise on my leg. 
• Wow... I've just been typing whatever pops into my head. This could get dangerous! Better stop now. Bye!