Q&A with Shannon Elaine: Clean Beauty
Q: How often should I wash my makeup brushes?
A: Ideally, after every use to remove product buildup and bacteria that we all naturally carry on our skin. Wash them once a week with a proper cleanser at the minimum. A proper cleanser would be one designed for cleansing a makeup brush because it’s formulated to remove different varieties of makeup like liquids and creams. However, if you’re in a pinch dish soap will also work. Our favorite natural makeup brush cleaner is the Sigma Liquid Brushshampoo. You'll be amazed at how clean your brushes get!
Q: Why do I get breakouts on the sides of my face?
A: This could be for a number of reasons. Cleansing your face before bed is a huge step in keeping your skin clear. I recommend using janegee Fresh Eyes to remove your makeup, and then your favorite janegee cleanser to cleanse the skin; I use Clear Skin. The reason for this double cleanse is to remove the makeup first, and then remove toxins and rebalance the pH of the skin. A second reason could be how often you wash your pillowcase. We all naturally sweat and lose dead skin in the night, so cleansing your pillowcase is important so your skin is resting on a clean surface. A third reason could be if you’re a smoker. Smoke coming back at the face puts the toxins and pollutants into the skin, clogging the pores and causing breakouts.
Q: Why doesn’t my makeup last or stay on?
A: Our skin naturally regulates our bodies temperature by perspiring and because of this, it can move the makeup. A setting powder can help prevent this, but lifestyle factors such as being outside in humid temperature, working a physical job, or frequently touching your face would result in your makeup not lasting. I recommend the RMS Un Powder to set your makeup and Aisling Organics Eco-Set Green Tea and Rice Setting Powder for on the go touch-ups.
Q: Why does my eyeliner smudge?
A: Like my previous answer, we sweat! To keep your eyeliner lasting all day, be sure to prep your lid with an eye primer or a concealer & powder combo. Another tip would be to layer your eyeliner. Start with a pencil and then layer a liquid on top. *Be sure to let the liquid eyeliner dry! For this I recommend Kjaer Weis eye pencil + Ilia Clean Line liquid liner.
Q: Should I use a primer under my makeup?
A: I believe the best way to prime your skin is a proper skin care routine. Skin that is balanced and hydrated will look best under any foundation choice. Your cleanser and moisturizer is the number one step.
Q: How do I found the right foundation shade?
A: The best way to find your foundation shade is by shade matching against your jaw with at least three shades or book a makeup consultation with me and I can assist in finding that just-right shade.
Q: Do I need more than one eye shadow brush?
A: For a simple eye look, you need a flat brush and a fluffy brush. Aisling Organics makes a double-ended brush that I love! The flat end is perfect for shading the lid, or creating a crease for my hooded-lid ladies! Book a makeup lesson with me and I can teach you that trick! The fluffy end diffuses eye shadows to blend into the skin so there are no harsh lines and the shades flow together.
Q: How can I get my lipstick to stay on?
A: Line the lips with a lip liner in a similar shade, and fill in the lips before applying lipstick. This will make your pout seamless and last longer.
