Time is a Factor...

As if losing Polaroid and KodaChrome this past year wasn't bad enough, the sad time has finally come for another great brand. It's the end of the lip line for one of the first names in makeup. Max Factor is ceasing production and distribution here in the US this month.

I first heard this "rumor" during Nolan Robert's demo at last year's IMATS and then shockingly found it to be true. For you non-pro's out there, Nolan was the winner of Lifetime's 1st and only makeup artist reality show, BLUSH where he received a $100,000 contract with Max Factor. The IMATS, well... let's just call it Disneyland for makeup artists. It's the International Makeup Artist Trade Show. But that kids, is a whole other blog, come June when it hits LA again...

This Max Factor thing saddens me for a number of reasons but one in general is that the 2000 Calorie Mascara was one of my very first when I started my makeup obsession. I feel partially responsible for not buying more over the years as maybe I could have helped save this iconic brand.

So many products have come and gone in my personal arsenal but never in a million years did I think that a great brand like Max Factor would join the cosmetic dump bin.

Right now you can find Max Factor products at 50-75% off at some retailers. Stock up while you can... before you can't and make tribute to the man who started it all...

R.I.P. Mr. Factor. You taught us well.

Makeup: Expert Tips, Advice And Products At MAX Factor.com

www.maxfactor.com

Find professional-quality makeup products and expert advice at MAX Factor.com.

"Show Dick Some Respect!"

Oh, how my lips are singing to the news that red is going to be huge for Spring!

I wasn't quite ready to retire the holiday red just yet - but it looks like I can bring it out again soon enough! Makeup master, Dick Page - the amazing head makeup artist for "NINE", tells his tricks for the best red lips! (See link below).

I recently had a friend ask me for advice on picking out a red lipstick for the holidays as she was not sure she could wear it, weary of looking like a hooker with her bold, red lips.

I gave her the confidence, telling her that ANYONE can wear red, just as long as it is right shade for your skin tone and of course remembering to go light on your eye makeup.

One of my favorite looks is the one that Taylor Swift rocks so beautifully with just a neutral shimmery shade and a classic, black winged eyeliner. If you're fair like Taylor (and me!) you want to stick to the blueish tones of red (think ruby reds) and if you're on the darker, olive side you can go with the more orangey reds or even more brick reds.

But my #1 suggestion for trying out a new color such as a bold red, take a trip to the drugstore or other retailer like Walmart or Target first and test out the cheap brands (no pun intended) like NYC or Covergirl. This way if you just can't commit, you've only spent $5 and not $15. Besides, you can always return it without getting a dirty look from the counter girl...

Happy playing!

Xoxo

Jen

Dick Page's Best Red Lip Tips: Daily Beauty Reporter: Beauty Reporter Blog: allure.com

www.allure.com

Daily beauty news and product reviews from the editors of Allure.