· Clean and Moisturized Face

Before anything else, the face should be kept clean, and a moisturizer should be applied and allowed to absorb for no less than ten minutes. Aside from keeping the eye area hydrated, moisturizers may also decrease the likeliness of showing wrinkles and crow’s feet. In addition to this, hydrated eyelids allow a more even application of the MAC Eyeshadow on the eyelid.

· Choosing MAC Eyeshadow Combinations

For a simple daytime look, it is best to go with gorgeous, neutral hues like the MAC Cork. This is then topped with a muted golden brown or a satin finish. On the other hand, evening-related events need an eye makeup application that would stand out yet blend in with the standard night-out looks. For instance, dark eye shadows, such as Parfait Amour, which are complemented by MAC Eyeshadow finishes like shimmery frost or blue violet, are acceptable for an evening occasion.

8pc Set PRO Makeup Cosmetic Kit Zipper case Powder Eyebrow Eye Shadow Brush    US $35.99

NEW 1MAC Cosmetics Eyeshadow Eye Shadow Swiss Chocolate Reddish Brown Makeup    US $14.00

NEW 1MAC Cosmetics Eyeshadow Eye Shadow MALT Pink Beige Pinkish Taupe Makeup    US $14.00

· Start with the Base

With the help of a good eye shadow brush or even just using one’s finger, neutral base colors, which may be matte or shimmery, must be initially applied on the lids, including the eyebrow bone. A matte eye look must have a shimmery base on the brow bone and vice versa.

In addition, darker eye shadows may use light colors as a base, examples of which are Naked Lunch or Bare Study. Conversely, daytime eye shadows may need bases like the MAC Painterly Paint Pot.

· Apply the Main Eyeshadow

Dark MAC eye shadows or highlights are then applied using one’s finger or brush. They are particularly placed on the whole eyelid, starting from the lash line moving up to the crease and then blended properly.

· Playing with the Darkest Eyeshadow Color

With the chosen darkest color of MAC Eyeshadow, a contour must be made beginning at the eye’s outer corner. Using either a brush or finger, one must start sweeping the eye shadow along the crease. A semi-circle or a windshield (back and forth) motion must be performed from the outer eye corner towards the center of the lid. One must make certain that the inner portion of the crease is not totally included.

Celebrity Eye Makeup Trends in 2012

1. Smoky Eyes

Certainly one of the most sported celebrity eye makeup looks in the Hollywood industry, the smoky eyes have become the most characteristic evening eye makeup look to many girls worldwide. Just like the divine smoky eyes worn by Olivia Wilde during the Oscars 2012, the look of which was neutralized by a gentle cheek blush and pale lipstick.

Olivia Wilde

Similar dramatic effect was also presented by the Nina Dobrev’s own set of smoky eyes, which she flaunted in the Elton John AIDS Foundation Academy Awards. Meanwhile, a topaz-colored smoky eye shadow adorned the eyes of Diane Kruger during the Vanity Fair party.

Diane Kruger

2. Cat-Eye Makeup

The resurgence of the cat-eye makeup fashion that became infamous back in the 1950s has totally caught the hearts of amateur and professional makeup enthusiasts alike. Aside from them, celebrity make up looks have also filled the red carpet with Hollywood actresses like Emma Stone, Octavia Spencer and Viola Davis.

Emma Stone

Moreover, this foxy cat-eye makeup look has also graced the pretty face of Jennifer Lopez, who even dared an under-brow contour and a bold double-winged eye liner during the Oscars 2012.

Jennifer Lopez

3. Bold, Vibrant Eye Makeup

Niki Minaj

With the increasing popularity of the American musician, Nicki Minaj, more and more eye makeup looks have been created to imitate her famous dos onstage and on the red carpet.

The birth of the Nicki Minaj eye makeup trend has undoubtedly inspired the recent looks of singers like Kelly Rowland, who wore a brilliant, ultraviolet celebrity eye makeup that was paired with candy pink lips during the Billboard Music Awards last year. While electric violet eye shadows were sported by both Thandie Newton and Chanel Iman, Katerina Graham applied an electric shadow herself, but this time, sporting the color of yellow. Click here to learn how to apply a Nicki Minaj eye makeup.

See larger image MAC Brand New 21 Eyeshadow palette (Misc.)

Try Makeup Courses

Makeup courses aren't just for those who want to make a career out of it, it is for everyone who is fond of makeup products and applying makeup on themselves or their friends. This can also come in handy in emergency situations where you get invited to a last-minute party or you or your family and friends need a quick makeup fix and no time no go to a salon or call in a makeup pro to do it for you. Plus, you can also get benefits when you enroll yourself in a makeup class like MAC Cosmetics makeup courses.

MAC Makeup Certification Classes

MAC cosmetics doesn't just create and sell makeup products, we all know that. They have foundations (and I'm not talking about the makeup) and charities and they also offer MAC makeup courses for professionals and students who are looking to expand their knowledge about makeup and the industry.

But where are MAC classes available and how do you get in?

MAC Cosmetics makeup courses or the MAC Cosmetics Master Class is MAC's contribution to the makeup industry. MAC Master Class is held in different areas in the United States and some parts of Canada and the United Kingdom.

MAC Makeup Course Requirements

Like all classes, MAC makeup course also needs you to pass the requirements needed before you can fully join the program and enjoy its benefits.

If you are a professional, here are some requirements that you need to know when you apply:

• A 1-year or 2-year membership fee of $35 or $45 respectively
• A completed application form found HERE.
• A copy of your identification card and professional criteria (e.g. professional license, union card, business card with name and profession)

For students who want to take up MAC makeup courses and be included in the MAC Pro Student program, here are the things you need:

• Make sure your school is eligible on MAC's list. Check here for the list. If you're school's okay, you need proof of enrollment and course.
• 6 month membership fee of $10
• A completed application form found HERE.

Visit the MAC Pro site to know more about how to apply.

NIB 1MAC Makeup Cosmetics Studio Sculpt SPF 15 Foundation 13 FL OZ NW30 NW 30    US $27.99

NIB 1MAC Makeup Cosmetics Studio Sculpt SPF 15 Foundation 13 FL OZ NW20 NW 20    US $27.99

1MAC Lip Liner Pencil Shade Hodgepodge NIB Cosmetics Makeup    US $14.00

Additional Tip

Getting into the Pro program takes more than just filling out and submitting the application form and paying the membership fee. You have to show that you have potential and that you are prepared to learn more from them.

You can do this by being prepared and have a portfolio, create your own MAC makeup book and showcase your makeup works. This may not exactly be in the requirements unless you're applying to be a professional makeup artist for MAC, but it pays to be prepared to show some of your stuff and let them know you are really into the makeup program.

What is a foundation?

Makeup should make you look clean, fresh, and most importantly -- natural. This naturally clean and fresh look first starts with a foundation. Foundation is the first thing you apply when doing your makeup, of course after your facial moisturizer or primer. This evens out the skin tone, serves as a base for concealer to coverup blemishes, fine lines, dark spots, and other skin flaws.

Most of the time, people get confused with all the names and descriptions cosmetic companies has for their foundations. We'll try to go over and explain the basics so when a saleslady approaches you and offers you all this powder-based, medium foundation or sheer, mineral-based foundation you'll understand what she's talking about and you can probably ask questions about your own preference and need.

Let us start with the coverage, there is: sheer, light, medium, and full coverage foundation. The coverage is the transparency of the foundation. The least coverage, the least it can hide skin imperfections. The most transparent is the sheer, it doesn't hide any discolorations but it helps with minimizing skin discolorations from the skin tone. Light and medium coverage can help you even out skin tone, hide skin imperfections such as freckles, fine lines, pimple marks. It works for those with oily skin too because it covers blotchiness and excess oil too. Now, if you have scars or birthmarks on your face, sheer, light, or medium might not do the trick for you, what you would need is a foundation with full coverage. Sometimes referred to as "corrective" makeup, full coverage foundation has more pigmentation therefore can hide darker skin imperfections.

Now that you have an idea about foundation coverage, let us go to the formulation of foundation. Yeah, it rhymes too. There are several formulation from all cosmetic companies that it might be overwhelming for some (including myself). So instead of going through each one's description, let's just stay with the most common formulations which are: water-based, powder-based, and mineral makeup. Powder-based foundations usually provides more coverage than other formulations because it has more pigments which is good when you have discoloration and fine lines you want to conceal and oily skin you want to matte. This formula commonly comes in a pressed pan packaging and can also be used for finishing touches. Water-based foundations come in water-based cream, water-based oil-free, and water-based transfer-resistant. It's too much, I know. Basically, they are liquid or creamy in form and can provide sheer to full coverage. Their packaging also varies from tubes or jars. Unlike the pressed powder-based or the creamy water-based, mineral makeup comes in loose powder form.

The different MAC Foundations

MAC Cosmetics has a variety of foundation for everyone to choose from. If you have dry or oily skin, no need to worry because there is definitely a MAC foundation that would work perfectly for your skin type.

Here is list of MAC foundation, both for oily and dry skin. Read and find out which ones of these products is what you need.

MAC Foundation for oily skin

One of the problems that ladies with oily skin worry about is that foundation might make their face look oily and feel so icky and uncomfortable especially if it's cream-based. That is not a problem with MAC foundation.

• Matchmaster SPF 15 Foundation - this demi-matte foundation offers medium coverage with translucent pigments. It comes in 12 shades: 1, 1.5, 2 - 6, 7, 7.5, and 8 - 10. 1 being the lightest and 10 the darkest shade.
• Mineralize Skinfinish Natural - unlike the MAC Mineralize Satinfinish foundation's coverage, this one is light and sheer enough to be a setting powder to finish your foundation.
• Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 - this foundation gives a long lasting result with medium to heavy coverage. Since it can last all day, it is good for oily skin and blotting excess oil.
• Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation - if you're skin is not that oily, studio fix powder plus will work on you. It has medium to slightly heavy coverage.

These MAC foundation for oily skin works several ways: mattes oily skin, covers skin imperfections, provides light to heavy coverage, and all these without caking or feeling uncomfortable about it. It is easy to blend and build up and finishes naturally.

MAC Foundation for dry skin

As much as it is worry-some for those with oily skin to find a good foundation, those with dry skin might also have some difficulties searching for a foundation that won't make their skin more dry. MAC foundation also has something to compliment and improve your dry skin.

• Mineralize Satinfinish Foundation SPF 15 - if you want a foundation with a seemingly pearl finish, this might be the one you'd choose. Light to medium coverage, this liquid foundation is best if you have dry to normal skin.
• Studio Sculpt SPF 15 - remember the different foundation formulations? Well, this one falls under the water-based foundation which offers medium to full coverage. Meaning, it works well with concealing those dark spots, freckles. It has that gel, water-like feel which makes it good for dry skin.
• MAC Pro Longwear SPF 10 - because it's not matte or satin in finish, this MAC foundation can blend well on normal to dry skin and since it is longwear, you can expect none to minimal touchups needed.

MAC foundations has special formulations where there is liquid-to-powder foundations that is helpful to basically all skin types. You just have to test and choose the right one among all these choices available.

190 Foundation synthetic fiber liquid black brush Cosmetic Makeup brush F001    US $4.58

NIB 1MAC Makeup Cosmetics Studio Sculpt SPF 15 Foundation 13 FL OZ NW30 NW 30    US $27.99

Mac Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation NC40 NEW Boxed    US $20.50

MAC Foundation reviews

Raves or rants aside, MAC foundation is a sure must have MAC product, and user reviews can back this up. The MAC foundations for oily skin and MAC foundations for dry skin can actually be tested and played around, sometimes those listed under the oily skin category can work pretty well for those with dry skin and vice versa. We can see this when we read reviews about MAC foundations.

To help you around, there are makeup bloggers who have first-hand experience with MAC foundations. If you are curious about what the current MAC foundation users has to say, here's a short list of some pretty good ones from makeup bloggers:

• MAC Matchmaster Foundation review - Makeup and Beauty Blog
• MAC Mineralize Satinfinish Foundation review - TotalBeauty
• MAC Mineralize Foundation review - Makeup Alley

These reviews has the most common questions we all have in mind:

• does it work?
• does it have any smell whatsoever?
• how to apply the foundation?
• are there any irritations or benefits?

The reviews we shared along with a lot more on the internet has the answers to these questions but of course, nothing beats experience, right? These MAC foundation reviews are just here to guide and familiarize us about the different MAC foundations.

See larger image MAC Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation NC20 (Misc.) List Price: $26.50 USD New From: $20.70 In Stock Release date August 15, 2011.

MAC Must Have Eyeshadows

Now headquartered in New York City, ladies could expect nothing but a wide collection of eyeshadow shades and finishes, all of which promise long-lasting effects and impressive color outputs.

1. MAC Paint Pot ($17.50)

The highly-pigmented MAC Paint Pot receives good reviews from patrons worldwide due to its initially creamy yet rich, colorful finish that impressively maintains its color without running or fading at the middle of the day. It smoothly blends on the eyelids, resulting in a seemingly flawless coverage without that annoying evidence of caking that is usually caused by many eye shadows.

Tip: Since the MAC Paint Pot is cream-based, it can be effortlessly combined with other MAC eye shadows and eyeliners, helping to hold their color and generally make these last longer. If you wish to primarily use it as a base, then a more neutral color, such as the Painterly Paint Pot, is highly recommended.

2. MAC Pigment ($20)

Another MAC best seller is the loose-powdered MAC Pigment, which is known to produce intensely colored eyes with that much desired smoky effect. Although this MAC must have eyeshadow comes in a highly-concentrated loose powder, it is made of components that makes it blend more effectively and last longer on the skin. Just like the Paint Pot, it does not cake or streak.

Note: Do not be surprised when the MAC Pigment container looks half-filled as the powder is known to settle at the bottom.

3. MAC Vanilla Eye Shadow ($15)

The MAC Vanilla Eye Shadow is definitely included in the MAC must have eyeshadows of all time. With its faint peachy-ivory shade that is infused with shimmers, girls can now achieve a virtually flawless velvet eye finish, thanks to the pigmented ingredients that evenly blend and cover.

Tip: The MAC Vanilla Eye Shadow is also perfect to use as a brow or inner eye highlighter.

Must Have MAC Brushes

One of the must have MAC products on the market are brushes, and the excellent reviews they got are not the only reason why. Their high quality is what sets them apart from the rest. Many think that just about any brush will do in completing makeup procedures, yet most of them are not aware that using fitting tools makes the job a lot easier and leads to results that are starkly stunning.

1. MAC 217 Blending Brush ($22.50)

Making it to the number one spot for the must have MAC brushes is the 217 Blending Brush. The closely arranged, fluffy, oval-shaped bristles of this hand-sculpted brush are just perfect for blending and shading both creamy and powder eye products. Ladies who want their eyes to look like a work of a professional makeup artist may want to consider this brush, which particularly promises ease of use with its nickel-plated brass ferrules and wood handles.

Tip: The 217 Blending Brush has multiple purposes. It may not only be used in the application of a concealer around the nose’s contour and under the eye region but also to subtle down crease colors, to apply pigment or powder shadow at the center of the lips and to highlight using pigments.

2. MAC 168 Large Angled Contour Brush ($34)

Achieving a professional cheek contour is made more possible with this soft, tightly bundled brush with bristles that feature a buffed edge. The MAC 168 is also sculpted by hand, and it comes in nickel-plated brass ferrules and wood handles as well. A lot of ladies would definitely fall in love with this must have MAC brush as contouring the cheekbones does not only get more attention to their eyes but also allow their face to look thinner—as if they have lost weight.

Tip: Select a matte powder that is one to two shades darker than your own skin tone, and make sure that you hold the brush with the longer fibers facing the ground.

3. MAC 188 Small Duo Fibre Face Brush

For girls who just love to add textures and make soft layers, then the 188 Small Duo Fibre Face Brush should be included in their collection of must have MAC brushes. Flexible with pigment, fluid, powder and cream formula colors, the circular, flat-topped bristle is suitable for most faces, especially those ladies with small facial features.

Tip: Since 188 is a round brush, ladies need to follow round movements when using it. Versatile is this piece of makeup tool that it could conveniently color, bronze, prime, buff, prep, highlight, gleam, contour and gloss.

Must Have MAC Lipsticks

Lipsticks are undoubtedly the most indispensable component of any makeup kit, and if you are just like any cosmetic junkie, you should own at least one of the must have MAC lipsticks below:

1. MAC Myth Lipstick ($14.50)

Without a doubt the ultimate nude lipstick that is absolutely perfect for spring, the MAC Myth Lipstick makes it possible to get that Kim Kardashian lip trend. Polish with a satin finish to achieve a fuller lip color yet attaining that silky feel. This soft muted peachy-beige lip product lasts long enough that you may still notice its fresh color even after eating a light meal.

Tips: The MAC Myth Lipstick is best for fair to medium skin types.

2. MAC Brick-O-La Lipstick ($14.50)

One of the must have MAC lipsticks is the mid tone berry Brick-O-La. Guaranteeing a pigmented lip product for a fuller color and a creamy texture for a more effortless glide on the lips, this lip product produces a soft berry pink shade with a hint of luster as well as an opaque coverage of color. The long-lasting and non-drying combination of berry, plum and pink makes this lip color flexible to just about any ensemble.

Tips: The MAC Brick-O-La Lipstick is best for medium to dark skin types.

MAC NICKI Viva Glam Lipstick Nicki Minaj Bright Yellow Pink BNIB    US $24.99

MAC VIVA GLAM NICKI LipstickRicky Martin Nicki Minaj for MAC Viva Glam    US $19.99

Mac NIB New Full Size Lustre Lipstick Viva Glam Gaga Pink Lady Gaga    US $24.99

3. MAC Viva Glam I Lipstick

Every girl just needs to own a red lipstick, and while different shades of reds flatter various types of skin tones, the deep brownish blue-red Viva Glam I lipstick by MAC stands out from the rest with its ability to complement all kinds of skin colors. Using a matte finish, this non-drying and colorfast lip product is neither too bright when put on nor transforms its color to pink or orange once applied.

Tip: The MAC Viva Glam I lipstick is the ideal red to be worn during fall and winter to look pretty yet classy. Works best if matched with a neutral eye look. A softer shade could also be achieved if a lip balm is applied first.

See larger image MAC Eye Pigment - Naked 4.5g/0.15oz (Misc.) New From: $25.95 In Stock

Your Last Chance with MAC Goodbye Products

Leading makeup brand, MAC Cosmetics, is a go-to brand for most girls because of their wide product offerings and color selection. They have numerous shades of foundations to accommodate all skin tones and skin types. They also have a wide selection of eyeshadows and blushes to ensure that everyone finds the appropriate shade for their skin. And let's face it, there are some colors that you wear over and over and would still want to wear even if you turn old and wrinkly.

However, MAC does not carry all colors forever an that's the reason why they made a "Going, Going, Gone Collection". These are soon-to-be-discontinued items and MAC is giving us all a chance to get our hands on our favorite items before it goes.

Eyeshadows

Eye Shadow (US$15.00)

These are highly pigmented powder that applies evenly when blend well.

• Sparkle Neely, Sparkle! - deep rusty brown with champagne glitter
• Parisian Skies - subdued grey-blue
• Hocus Pocus - dark sooty grey with silver pearl
• Jealousy Wakes - emerald green with teal and gold pearl

Jeanius Eye Shadow (US$19.50)

Looks like denim in pots, these are limited-edition, denim-inspired eyeshadows from the MAC Jeanius Collection. These colorfully shapes the eyes and easy to wear. You can even match these with your jeans.

• Stovepipe Black - black with copper pearl
• Diva in Distress - midtone grey with silver
• Motorhead - midtone dirty blue with copper pearl

Big Bounce Shadow

This spongy, mousse-like eyeshadows feels oh-so-light on the lids, you'll forget that you have eyeshadows on! It lasts for hours and imparts a cooling sensation upon application. The vibrant colors will truly freshen your look.

• Free As Air - Sky blue with silver pearl
• My Next Indulgence - forest green with blue and gold pearl
• Extra Charged - bright green with multi-color pearl

Eye and Eyebrow Pencils

Powerpoint Eye Pencil in Tealo (US$15.00)

A waterproof, long-wearing eye pencil. It easily applies but won't smudge and budge.

Eye Brow Pencil in Velvetone (US$15.00)

A retractable pencil that confidently adds shape, color, and density to your arches.

Mascara

Zoomlash (US$15.00)

Have a vavaoom lashes with this mascara. Its creamy, velvety formula makes application easy and gives you a light, supple feeling. The ultra-sculpted brush of the Zoomlash has three-sided fibers to embrace and separate each lash, giving you a dramatic look.

• Green is Green - jade green
• High Esteem - mid tone grey with silver pearl

Mascara X (US$15.00)

This mascara has a creamy formula that coats the lashes from root to tip. Mascara
X will give your lashes glossy, natural-looking volume. Available in Black X.

Lip Colors

Lipstick (US$14.50)

Color + texture = Stand out on the runway. Simmers on the street! Takes the credit for making MAC a prestigious brand.

• Offshoot - mid-tone neutral pink
• Oh, Oh, Oh - plum bronze with pearl
• X-S - dirty red chestnut

Mattene Lipstick (US$14.50)

These matte lipsticks have intense color and semi-matte finish while offering a creamier, softer, easy-to-glide on application. Moisturizing and incredibly wearable despite being matte. Housed in a slim, sleek lipstick tube.

• Deliciously Forbidden - mid-tone berry
• Unknown Pleasures - deep red blue
• Seeds of Desire - deep brown plum
• Eden Rouge - bright blue-red

MAC Cosmetics Posh Paradise Deliciously Forbidden Mattene Lipstick NIB    US $22.99

MAC COSMETICS MATTENE LIPSTICK IMMODEST NWOB F S    US $24.95

MAC COSMETICS MATTENE LIPSTICK SEMI MAT SEEDS OF DESIRE NIB LE    US $26.50

Tinted Lipglass (US$14.50)

Gives you that high-wattage gloss, glass-like finish or immaculate subtly sheen. these glosses are designed to be worn alone or on top of a lipstick to create shine that lasts. It is pigmented, very shiny and impart dramatic or subtle color.

• Evolution Revolution - warm peachy pink
• Caqui - persimmon orange
• Sonoran Rain - deep coral-red with gold and silver pearl
• Nitro:licious2046

Visit www.maccosmetics.com to get your hands on these favorites at the curtain call. Think, ponder, decide.. you don’t know what you’ve got until its gone!

See larger image MAC Tinted Lipglass -- Viva Glam V (Boxed) 4.8g/.17oz (Misc.) New From: $13.99 In Stock

Makeup plays a crucial part in your traveling -- hide the evidence of jet lag with your mighty concealer, brighten up our complexion with a bright brush and hydrate your lips with moisturizing balms. However, makeup could be quite bulky and could consume some space or even be quite messy. For these concerns, stash your favorite make up in small containers to keep them all handy!

MAC Makeup Containers

photos from: MAC

MAC Cosmetics definitely understands the needs of women, including those who on-the-go! They include "kit essentials" in their product range, knowing that these products are important to your kit. These essentials include containers such as stackable travel jars and travel bottles which are ideal for taking your makeup collection with you.

MAC Stackable Travel Jars

(US$7.00)

For those who love mineral makeup, MAC Stackable Travel Jars should be a staple to your makeup travel kit. Keep your mineral foundation and blush in these stackable jars which can be stacked up to four. You can take with you two foundations in different colors, one that exactly matches your skin tone and another in darker tone and keep two blushes as well, one in your natural skin tone and another in a bright shade to add a pop color on your cheeks. You can also store your bejeweled eyeshadows in these jars to add sparkle to your eyes.

The best part about these jars is that they can also be used to salvage broken makeup. Do not throw your broken makeups just yet as you can strategically store them in these jars!

MAC Travel Bottles

(US$7.00)

At the end of the day, you need to wash off all the dirt your face collected from all the tours you did. But it would be such as hassle to travel with your big bottles of makeup remover. Decant your makeup remover and other fluids or emulsions in these MAC travel bottles. These essentials come in a pack of two small bottles which are squeezable.

NIB 1MAC Makeup Cosmetics Studio Sculpt SPF 15 Foundation 13 FL OZ NW30 NW 30    US $27.99

NIB 1MAC Makeup Cosmetics Studio Sculpt SPF 15 Foundation 13 FL OZ NW20 NW 20    US $27.99

1MAC Lip Liner Pencil Shade Hodgepodge NIB Cosmetics Makeup    US $14.00

With these containers, you do not need to take with you your huge make up kits. You can easily transfer them in these little containers and the best part, they look oh-so-tidy! Run to your nearest MAC counters to purchase these or log on to their website www.maccosmetics.com.

MAC Kit Essentials

Renowned cosmetics company, MAC, sure knows what its business is all about. Instead of merely introducing a line of makeup and tools, they also offer empty palettes to keep your makeup organized and well kept. We know that makeup should be take cared of with utmost care as bacteria can live on these beauties and of course, no one wants bacteria touching, more so being applied on our face. With these kits, you will never have to rummage through your makeup kits to look for that brown eyeshadow as you can de-pot and fix them in palettes.

MAC Pro Palettes

Although the name says pro, these palettes are not exclusive for professional use only. Makeup mavens and those who suffer obsessive compulsiveness can get ahold of these to organize their makeup and simplify their routines. All the palettes are ultra-slim, stackable, and easy-to-use, a perfect solution to keep your dresser and your makeup kit tidy.

MAC Pro Palette Eye Shadow X2

(US$7.00)

This palette fits 2 shadows, perfect for your makeup kit. Buy or de-pot your favorite eyeshadows, one in light shade and another in dark shade, but in same color hues. You should be able to get by with these shadows, use the light shade to highlight and dark shade to define the eyes.

MAC Pro Palette Eye Shadow X4

(US$7.00)

This palette fits 4 shadows, something you can leave in your bag for emergency transformations or touchups. Buy or de-pot your favorite shadows in complementing shades with colors in graduating hues. Keep a light one to highlight your brows and inner corners of your lids, another not-so-light shade for all over wash on your eyelids, a darker shade to contour your eyes and a really dark one to define your eyes.

MAC Pro Palette Eye Shadow X15

(US$16.00)

This palette fits 15 shadows, a perfect palette to house all your shadows. It would be best if you organize the colors in a graduating order -- lightest to darkest -- in each hue. A great suggestion would be keeping browns for daytime, dark metallics for nighttime and something colorful if you want to be playful!

MAC Pro Palette Blush X6

(US$16.00)

This palette fits 6 blushes, perfect to house your beautiful cheek colors. Did you know that applying blush is one of the easiest ways to brighten your face? To keep this palette truly handy, include a luminescent color for highlighting, a dark color for contouring, a bronzer, and three blushes -- one in a natural color, a "just-came-from-a-workout" color, and a pink blush.

15 Self Adhesive Round Magnets 4 Mac Pro empty Palettes    US $5.99

30 Self Adhesive Round Magnets 4 Mac Pro empty Palettes    US $10.99

100 self adhesive magnets 4 MAC PRO EYE SHADOW PALETTES    US $11.99

If you are one of the many girls with unkempt makeup, go to a MAC counter and pick up these palettes. You will never have to panic in the morning to look for that eyeshadow as these palettes will give your streamlined mornings.

MAC Mineralize Foundation

The advancements in technologies have helped beauty companies to find a better approach in developing makeup products. These days, we see makeup companies going green, incorporating natural ingredients that are advantageous and beneficial to skin. Lately, a number of makeup brands have introduced mineral makeup line -- a line that claims health benefits for the skin while doing the job of a traditional makeup. A lot of people are now converts to mineral makeup, claiming that it feels like a second skin and wears better than traditional makeup.

MAC Cosmetics, the number one choice of makeup artists and makeup mavens, is not one to get behind in introducing mineral makeup. While MAC has made a name for itself for its skin-friendly formula, the brand even made things better by bringing in mineral makeup into their wide array of products.

MAC offers two kinds of formulation for foundation from their Mineralize line: MAC Mineralize SatinFinish SPF 15 and Mineralize Foundation SPF 15.

MAC Mineralize SatinFinish SPF 15 (US$29.50)

A liquid foundation that blends the natural light-reflecting properties of micro-minerals with a smooth satin finish. It glides a light to medium coverage, with a slightly luminous look. Aside from a sheer coverage, the skin will also benefit from Vitamins C and E ingredients plus sun protection. This is suitable for normal to dry skin. 16 available shades.

MAC Mineralize Foundation SPF 15 (US$32.50)

A rich, creamy formulation for a flawless, medium buildable and fully dimensional finish. This feels heavenly on the skin as this is lightweight and silky to apply. This suits all skin types but those who suffer from dryness and dullness will benefit from this formulation. At the same time, this also gives you protection from the sun's damaging UV rays as this contains SPF 15. If you cannot find the right shade in the liquid versional, you may opt for this creamy formulation as this is available in 23 shades.

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Natural Powder MEDIUM Authentic New in Box    US $22.99

MAC Mineralize Skinfinish NaturalMedium DarkNEW    US $21.99

MAC Mineralize Eyeshadow Duo Its A Miracle Unboxed Magic Mirth Mischi    US $15.50

Choose the right shade

Foundation, as the word implies, the first makeup that you apply on your face. In choosing a foundation, you have to evaluate your skin type and color. In finding the right color, you should test the color on your jaw line on natural light. If the color disappears, then you have successfully found the right color for you. But if not, then the search for the right foundation shade is still on!

While makeup remain a thriving business, most beauty companies have included tools in their product offerings. Shu Uemura has been known for its eyelash curlers, promising to reach even the small hair strand and open up your eyes. Tweezerman has made a name for itself through tweezers, claiming to the best thing to remove stray hair, particularly in the eyebrow area. While the list continues, leading makeup brand, MAC, also has something to brag about.

MAC Blush and Brush

Known for its extensive product array, MAC has been a choice of most makeup artists as well as makeup enthusiasts in terms of makeup brushes. Although a bit expensive compared to other brands, these brushes remain a staple as the beauties are considered investments, almost withstanding wear and tear situations if take cared of properly.

Blush is considered as a staple item in most makeup kits. It was made to mimic just-got-out-of-the-gym glow and brightens one's face if applied properly. However, blusher application could be a little tricky. The outcome should give you a serene, peaceful glow and not a red streak on your face. And for these concerns, MAC offers you their beautiful blush brushes. Made from a combination of natural and synthetic hair, these brushes glide smoothly on your skin. Whether your choice of blush is powder or cream, MAC has definitely something for you!

What MAC brush to use for MAC Powder Blush

The most common blush to wear is the powder blush. This is used after applying foundation, to bring back the glow on your face. However, powder blushes can be tricky, blending is the key to achieve that youthful glow! To make blending an ease, below are the brushes for powder blushes.

• 129 Powder/Blush Brush (US$34.00) - made of soft natural fiber and form a full, round shape, this brush is particularly good for blush application.
• 129SH Powder/Blush Brush (US$34.00) - exactly the same as the 129 brush, this one has shorter handle, ideal for traveling. This includes a travel pouch to keep your brush squeaky clean.
• 109 Small Contour Brush (US$34.00) - if you want to emphasize the apples of your cheeks, this soft, rounded dome tip brush promise to deliver just enough color on your cheeks.
• 168 Large Angled Contour Brush (US$34.00) - this brush is a bit tricky to use, mostly used by makeup professionals. This brush is a large angled contour, with buffed edge. This is used to contour your cheeks, giving you that chiseled, beautifully formed cheek bones.
• 182 Buffer Brush (US$49.50) - this tiny brush has a full, dome shape with extra goat hair, making it extra soft. This is created to flawlessly blend powder onto the skin to give you that immaculate, "poreless" finish.

These brushes are hand-sculpted and assembled using the finest quality materials. They feature wood handles and nickel-plated brass ferrules.

What MAC brush to use for MAC Creme Blush

Cream blushes are the best choice if you want to mimic a glowing-from-within look. These are moisture-rich blushes, providing a smooth, silky color for naturally luminous skin. This kind of blush is best for those with dry skin. Though commonly applied with fingers, using brushes help you control application, help you with the blending and give you just the right amount of blush.

• 130 Short Duo Fibre Brush (US$42.00) - short, round, flat-topped shaped, this brush is ideal for smooth, easy applications of foundations, creams and emulsions.
• 188 Small Duo Fibre Face Brush (US$34.00) - this brush is flat-topped, full circular in form, ideally used for lightweight application and blending of any formula color. This is used to create layers or add textures.
• 187 Duo Fibre Brush (US$42.00) - a large full circular brush used for lightweight application and blending of any formula color, this is used to create layers or add textures.

These brushes are made from a soft blend of goat and synthetic fibers.

BRAND NEW 32 PIECE MAC PROFESSIONAL Brush Set IN BLACK CASE    US $85.99

8pc Set PRO Makeup Cosmetic Kit Zipper case Powder Eyebrow Eye Shadow Brush    US $35.99

MAC COSMETICS EYESHADOWBRUSH SET MAKEUP BAG ETC BRAND NEW 100 AUTHENTIC    US $250.00

Go to the nearest department stores or log on to the MAC Website to purchase that perfect blush brush and blush for you!

But whether your New Year's Eve party is with friends - and probably with strangers in a bar - or for a cause, a party is still a party and I'm sure we all like to welcome the New Year with a good look. Style yourself with a pretty dress and add a dramatic look using MAC Ice Parade Collection makeup.

MAC Ice Parade: Exclusives

(US$59.50)

Like the tradition of celebrating the holidays every year, MAC Cosmetics also joins in in this tradition by coming out with Holiday Collections too. Indulge yourself with this year's MAC Ice Parade Collection's wide variety of limited edition products. You can also have this sent out as a gift since all the Ice Parade Collection, including this MAC Ice Parade: Exclusives already comes in a snowglobe bag.

MAC Ice Parade: Exclusives is one, if not the most, complete kit collection from the Ice Parade. It already includes makeup for the lips (lipstick and lipglass), eyes (eyeshadow), cheeks (blush) and brushes for application. Choose Wintercool kit for a strong yet sophisticated shades or Warm kit for that simple, muted look.

Fabulously Festive Face Kit - Wintercool

• Hot Gossip - medium pink (frost); lipstick
• Emancipation - creamy light pink; lipglass
• Mocha - soft plum-pink (matte); blush
• Phloof! - frosted off-white (frost); eyeshadow
• Quarry - soft muted plum brown (matte); eyeshadow
• Dance in the Dark - dark brown (matte); eyeshadow
• Brun - muted blackish-brown (satin); eyeshadow
• 129SE, 275SE, 266SE - brushes

Fabulously Festive Face Kit - Warm

• Mellowarm - medium peach (frost); lipstick
• Join the Party - creamy pale peach; lipglass
• Seasonal Appeal - adobe clay (matte); blush
• Golden Flurry - nude sparkle (lustre); eyeshadow
• Omega - soft muted beige-taupe (matte); eyeshadow
• Soft Brown - soft golden peachy-brown (matte); eyeshadow
• Carbon - intense black (matte); eyeshadow
• 129SE, 275SE, 266SE - brushes

MAC Holiday 2011 IT MAKES PERFECT BRUSH KITS YOU CHOOSE FREE US SHIP    US $65.00

MAC LIPSTICK CHOOSE RARE PRO DISCONTINUED LIMITED BNIB AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED    US $29.90

MAC HOLIDAY ADORING CARMINE 4 Face Brush Set 2 Bags Travel Kit    US $46.64

Grab it while it's "Icy"

Get your hands on these Exclusives for yourself or as a gift, hurry because most are already running out of stock of these items.

Get these face kits at US$59.50.