Gail

I have always been passionate about makeup, skincare and all things pretty to us girls. Creating Faces Beautiful has been a lifetime of work in progress. Like many women, life tends to complicate achieving my goals, but notwithstanding career changes, marriage, and raising children I continued to follow my passion. Today, I am affectionately known as the woman that helps all women look and feel just a little prettier. I have built a business of perfecting beauty for women. Stop in and see Faces Beautiful whether in Connecticut or On-Line. It’s the place to "feel prettier".

We provide great services, products and advice on your skincare, your makeup, your hair, your eyebrows and fabulous jewelry. I try every product before I decide to share it with you. Really, I do. The only products that you’ll see in our store are products that I personally believe in. And, so read my blogs and see what fabulous little tidbits of information that I discovered and then you’ll be in the know too! www.FacesBeautiful.com or in our Westport, Connecticut Studio.

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Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Great Beauty Buys $15 and under!

Who doesn’t love a bargain? Even celebrities forgo the expensive stuff when they find a less expensive product to do the job! US Weekly (Nov. 7th issue, Pg. 70) shows us some cheap tricks the stars love. As I looked over the page I found a few of my favorite things, too. I love Maybelline’s The Falsies Mascara. For only $8 you get a great volumizing mascara. I also love Sonia Kashuk’s Nail Colour in Taunting Teal. It’s a beautiful blue, which even Christy Turlington loves! And, it’s only $5 at target.com! One of my other favorite steals is the Bliss Lemon and Sage Beauty Bar. At only $15 it has exfoliating properties and makes your bathroom smell amazing. Sarah Jessica Parker loves Crème de Corps from Kiehl’s, and I can’t disagree with her. It’s an amazing all-over body moisturizer that hydrates and soothes the skin. It comes in all different sizes, making it great for travel, too. The small size is only  $10 and I leave it in my travel bag. Nothing is more exciting than great beauty products that are effective and don’t put a hole in your wallet!

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Master of the Smokey Eye!


One of the questions I get asked often is how do you do a smokey eye. While there are many variations of the smokey eye, I was saw a L’Oreal Ad (People Magazine, Nov. 14th, Pg. 21) of model, Freida , wearing their new ‘The One Sweep’ eyeshadow palette in Smokey for all eyes. The look was absolutlely stunning. We create the same look at Faces Beautiful with our Mineral Eye Shadow Quad in Muse.  You can get the professional look at home by following these simple steps for a gorgeous smokey eye.

     1.)   Line the lids with a long-lasting liquid or gel liner.
     2.)   Next perfect the line by tracing it with an angled-liner brush dipped in black shadow to ensure its staying power.
     3.)   Use a crease brush and apply the black in the outer corner of the eye and into the crease.
     4.)   Next dip a blending brush into the gray and blend over the entire lid and crease. This will create the smoked look and soften the black. 
     5.)   Add the sheer white to the brow bone.
     6.)   Use a black pencil to line underneath the eye. You can even mix the black and gray and sweep over the liner for a bold effect.
     7.)   Go over to top liner, too.       
     8.)   Finish with lots of mascara and wipe away spare shadow that may have fallen onto the face. Make sure your brows are filled in and that you complete the rest of your makeup by keeping it simple, with a natural foundation, pink/peach blush, and a nude lip. 

Tuesday, November 22, 2011

What lip to wear with a red dress!


Nothing gets more attention getting than a sexy red dress. And, with the holiday season right around the corner, what better excuse to wear one? I was flipping through the November 7th Issue of US Weekly and was inspired by the stars in red. I saw both Elizabetta Cannalis, ex-girlfriend of George Clooney, and actor, Ethan Zohn’s girlfriend looking glam in beautiful red dresses. Pippa Middleton, sister of the Princess, was wearing a long red pea-coat while running running errands. Red is flattering on any woman and gives off the vibe of strength and boldness.  So, with such a major statement making color lipstick do you go for? A nude? Match the red? I vote: go for a nude! Forget trying to match the lip to the dress- they will begin competing with each other. Here are some great nudes that will do the trick!

Vincent Longo: Baby Balm Lipstick in Soft Saturn $23.00

Chanel: Rouge Allure Lipstick in DÉLICIEUSE 80 $32.00

Bobby Brown:  Creamy Lip Color in Honeysuckle $23.00

Revlon: Super Lustrous Crème Lipstick in Fleshtone $7.99

Saturday, November 19, 2011

Dr. Dennis Gross MAJOR press!


Professionally done peels, either by a licensed esthetician or dermatologist, are fantastic for the skin. We offer them at Faces Beautiful and one of our most popular peels is the one from Dr. Dennis Gross, the renowned celebrity dermatologist. We love it because there is almost zero down time, and delivers effective results. Well, Dr. Gross also understands that not everyone can fit going for a professional peel into their busy schedule. There is now a take home version of his famous Alpha Beta Peel (a favorite among celebrities before they hit the red carpet). The at-home version consists of two simple steps and is available in regular strength and extra strength. The Alpha Beta Peel (whether done in-office, spa, or home) uses a combination of Alpha-Hydroxy and Beta-Hydroxy Acids to restore clarity, firmness, and radiance. And, Dr. Dennis Gross isn’t stopping there! He has created The Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Glow Pads, the FIRST anti-aging self-tanner (available in wipes) that uses high concentrations of Vitamin D, anti-oxidants, and glycolic acid. This is a self-tanner that offers natural looking color while speeding up cell renewal and collagen production. A one of a kind product, just like his extremely popular peels!
Come into Faces Beautiful where we offer not only the professional peel, but the take-home version and the self-tanning glow pads! 

Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Beauty at EVERY age!

In the Fall-Winter issue of New Beauty Magazine, Courtney Cox says, “Beauty over 40 is a slippery slope, but the life experience and knowledge we gain can make us sexier with age.” But, dig a little deeper and Courtney (age 47) is like most women on the quest for ageless beauty. Courtney, personally, has admitted to certain cosmetic procedures in the past, indulges in regular facials, 6 month visits to her dermatologist, investment in effective cosmetics and skin care products, not to mention a healthy diet and workouts with one of Hollywood’s top personal trainers. Courtney, like all woman (celebrity or not) is making her health and personal care a priority to beat the clock. Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Robert Singer, MD. Of La Jolla, California states in the same issue, “While we find beauty in all ages, it is the biological effects of aging that left unchecked damage our appearance if we don’t intervene.” His example is 66-year-old actress, Helen Mirren, who was recently voted “Body of the Year.” Basically, you don’t have to be 25 anymore to have a beautiful face or body. With the advancements in technology and increasing number of experts in the esthetics field, you can maintain your looks at any age. But, you have to make it a priority. It will require discipline and some financial obligation, but it is totally achievable.


Some tips:

 1.) Make health a priority: Exercise regularly, take vitamins, eat healthy (whole) foods, avoid cigarettes, wear sun protection, drink plenty of water, manage stress, avoid sugar, too much alcohol, and get plenty of sleep. Get plenty of anti-oxidants in your diet (just like the ones in your skincare products- internally and externally- anti-oxidants not only fight disease, but maintain beauty!) And, stay on top of all your doctor’s appointments. You know how many of us dread the dentist? Well, a healthy, white smile is actually anti-aging!

2.) Consult the experts. Have a makeup lesson customized to your needs by a professional makeup artist, get your hair cut and colored by a great stylist you can trust, follow a skin care regimen prescribed to you by either you dermatologist or esthetician, indulge in regular facials, make your dermatologist your best friend, have your brows shaped and maintained by an expert. And, don’t forget to maintain your nails and other hygiene. Even regular massages and other spa treatments can work wonders.

3.) Confidence is key. If you think you look good. You will. Don’t just throw on sweats in the morning! Take the time to put together a figure flattering wardrobe and stick with what works for your figure. If you need help you can always consult a professional wardrobe stylist or read the many books on the subject. And, have fun with fashion! That new ring, sexy shoes, or dazzling necklace can make you feel and look like a million bucks! So, pull yourself together ladies! Don’t save your “nice” clothes and accessories for special occasions. Life is just too short to not look fabulous every day.
At Faces Beautiful we are all about helping you be the best you that you can be (at any age). Our teams of experts are full of knowledge. It’s our job to stay on top of the industry trends and technology. Have a question about anything? We can answer it and if in the rare occasion we can’t we will find out for you.  We specialize in beauty, health, fashion, and making you just a little bit PRETTIER! Beauty is a LIFESTYLE. We have all heard the very famous L’Oreal slogan, “Because you’re worth it!” Well, YOU ARE! 

Monday, November 14, 2011

NEW!!! Brush-On Liquid Mineral Makeup by FACES Beautiful


MIND YOUR MINERALS
Introducing the NEW Brush-On Liquid Mineral Makeup by FACES Beautiful























New York, NY (November 14, 2011) – Mineral makeup has taken the beauty world by storm. Acclaimed as the biggest beauty trend in years by makeup artists, dermatologists and industry professionals, minerals have gone from a little known and tiny portion of the beauty market to full mainstream.  Sold at department stores, drug store beauty aisles, salons and spas, mineral-based makeup is now considered the way forward for flawless, healthy skin.   It's a wonder why every woman in the world hasn't taken to making it the staple of their makeup bag once and for all. 

“I have been using mineral makeup for years,” says Gail Sagel, founder of FACES Beautiful and creator of the Brush-On Liquid Mineral Makeup.  “As a makeup artist, I am always in search of the perfect foundation, the perfect moisturizer, the perfect lip gloss, the perfect mascara.  And while there are many options out there, my list of requirements as to what constitutes a great product seems to be growing.  So, I decided to do something about it and create a product by a makeup artist for everyday women.” 

FACES Beautiful’s Brush-On Liquid Mineral Makeup: The look of real skin, without any imperfections
This mineral-based foundation is formulated from natural minerals and botanical components which provides natural sun protection to your skin.  FACES Beautiful liquid mineral makeup feels feather-light and silky-smooth, while providing ample coverage.  Designed with a revolutionary skin-matching technology, the foundation is available in two gorgeous shades, Healthy Nude and Radiant Beige.  The innovative, no mess "brush-on" applicator makes it so easy to apply and ensures that you're spreading the liquid foundation properly. No fingers or sponges needed. The air-tight tube with its attached brush makes it convenient to carry and gives you a water-resistant, all-day finish.

What are the Benefits of Mineral Makeup?
According to Gail, “Mineral makeup allows the skin to breathe. It is also known to offer maximum sun protection that won't feel heavy on the skin, and won't melt in the sun.  It contains no fillers, or powders so it will not settle into fine lines on the face. The minerals work with the natural warmth of the skin and make your complexion look flawless and radiant. It is hypoallergenic, is less allergy producing, and works well on all skin types, particularly sensitive skin.” 

Product Description:
Ø  Available in two colors: Healthy Nude & Radiant Beige
Ø  Revolutionary, easy-to-apply "brush-on" applicator prevents streaking and helps evenly spread the foundation
Ø  No fingers or sponges needed
Ø  Retail Cost: $29.95



About Gail Sagel, Makeup Artist, President & CEO of FACES Beautiful & Creator of the Brush-On Liquid Mineral Makeup
Gail Sagel believes that beauty is not defined by the trends of the moment, but rather by the personal understanding of what works best for each woman.  She creates looks to satisfy the needs of her clients, based on a classic and always-current palette, rather than seasonal trends only. For Gail, it’s never been just about the makeup; it’s about lifestyles.   She sees the entire picture from head-to-toe, from function to aesthetic.  A modern system of makeup application, Gail’s concept is based on simple steps, where a handful of interchangeable colors work together to create an entire look that goes from day to evening, week day to weekend, season to season.

After graduating from the University of Maryland’s School of Business, Gail began her career as a trader on Wall Street.   Although she was considerably successful, she found that her life lacked creativity and she often felt stifled in her work environment.   Gail soon realized the world of beauty was her true calling. 

In 1999, Gail’s enthusiasm for beauty resulted in the opening of FACES Beautiful, a luxury makeup studio, upscale salon and beauty boutique.  Gail aims to provide each of her clients with the skills to enhance their own natural beauty, by using her expert training to create a flawless and effortless look.  Her hope is that women will walk away with the confidence to recreate the looks, armed with the knowledge of a seasoned professional. 

“I wake up every day and my work is my passion. I put smiles on women’s faces, and I make a living doing it.”

More than ever, consumers want to know what the experts know; and buy the products professionals buy – and create.  Consumers desire high-performance products developed by makeup artists and industry professionals.  Working closely with customers and professional makeup artists enabled Gail to better understand the needs and wants of the most demanding consumers.  This fall, Gail’s success continues to grow with the launch of her own mineral makeup line, Brush-On Liquid Mineral Makeup. 

Gail’s lifetime passion became her occupation through hard work and dedication, but it has always lived in her fondest thoughts.

“My best memories from childhood involved me doing my friends’ makeup before we would go out for a night on the town. I wanted to bring that feeling back into my life; the feeling where helping another woman to realize her beauty, made her feel more beautiful, and in turn, made me feel happy. Women helping women has always been a concept that I cherish and value above all else.”


Kara DePaola
KMR Communications, Inc.
(212) 213-6444
Kara@kmrpr.com

  

Friday, November 11, 2011

Mitchells of Westport Pink Aid Fashion Event

Faces Beautiful was honored to provide the hair and makeup services for the models at Mitchells of Westport’s Pink Aid Fashion Event. Mitchells and founding partner, CT. Cottages and Gardens Magazine, hosted the first annual Pink Chair Luncheon and Fashion Show to raise money for Pink Aid. Along with a silent auction, guests enjoyed a fashion show with clothing provided by Escada, food catered by Marcia Selden Catering, and dozens of beautiful pink chairs for purchase created especially for the event. The event was a major success and raised $300,000 for Pink Aid, which helps provide services for women battling breast cancer. It was great fun and we were beyond happy to take part in an event of such a great cause. 

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

BOUDOIR BEAUTY - Elle Magazine!

I was flipping through Elle Magazine's November 2011 issue and came across pages 193-208 about all things Boudoir. I was mesmerized by all the sexy lingerie and shoes. Lace, silk, leather, chiffon, mesh, sky high heels... It doesn't get any sexier than that! But, one thing was missing- sexy bedroom makeup to go with the sexy bedroom wear! It got me thinking, what is appropriate makeup for a special night in bed? Hey, us girls have fun dressing up pretty and sexy! One of our esthetician's and makeup artist's, Erica, summed it up perfectly. "I do a smokey eye, with black winged liner, a sexy pink blush with shimmer, and pink lips. Basically, a gorgeous, glamourous 1940s movie star." As I researched "Bedroom makeup" I kept coming across the same things from other women. It's all about the sexy bedroom eye! The eyes have it -  they express so much emotion. So, on your next romantic evening make sure you play up your beautiful eyes! Smokey shadows, black eye liner, and lots of mascara create the Boudoir Fantasy. Look to the original bombshells for inspiration, too, like Sophia Loren, Brigitte Bardot, and Elizabeth Taylor! Sexy eyes were there trademark and it will never lose it's appeal. It's a timeless classic and a sure fire way to seduction!

Monday, November 7, 2011

Getting That Glam Look This Holiday Season

PUBLISHED BY PARENTGUIDENEWS.COM 
By Gail Sagel
Busy moms can use all of the help they can get, especially in the world of beautifying themselves. Since moms spend much of their time caring for others, they tend to put themselves on the back burner. This selflessness is even truer during the holiday season, when moms cater to various house guests, friends, family members and children, while hurrying to fit in every cocktail party and holiday event in between the carpooling, soccer games and dance classes.
Fortunately, busy moms, you can look fabulous while you are entertaining. With the help of my beauty tips, looks don’t have to be compromised!
For starters, while you are out holiday shopping, stop at your favorite makeup counter and buy a new berry-colored blush and lip gloss. This is called pre-makeup. It’s sort of like the pre-game for football— time to get ready. Also buy something shimmery, such as a highlighter, glistening bronzer or a sparkly eye shadow. A makeup accent that goes on gold, silver or glittery does the trick.
While you’re at it, treat yourself to a fresh tube of mascara. Then stop at the drugstore to get OPI or Essie polish in red or orange— something bright for the holidays. Doing these few things helps women enter the holiday season the right way: with festive, celebratory makeup.
One of the biggest beauty blunders women make this time of year is thinking their daily muted earth tones work for holiday makeup. They don’t. Such drab and boring makeup merely makes you look and feel tired. Instead, to prepare for the holiday mood, add a color brighter than what you normally wear. And use shimmer to allow your look to pop.
Think you won’t have time to apply your new makeup? Busy ladies, here are the essential steps to put your best face forward in record time. Keep reading for a makeup application you can achieve in less than three minutes (or, if you have some extra time and want to get glam, makeup in six minutes).
To wrap it up, here are a few quick pointers to stay spruced up no matter what unfolds during the holidays. When entertaining at home, put lip gloss and blush in a small makeup bag and hide it somewhere in your kitchen. This way, even when you’re entertaining, nibbling on hors d’oeuvres and sipping wine while catering to guests, you’ll have your resources close by for freshening up. When no one is looking, quietly reapply.
Another idea is to make an essential makeup bag just for holiday nights. Keeping your everyday beauty items separate, put berry colored blush, red lipstick or berry glosses in the seasonal bag, along with anything shimmery. Then, the next time you’re sitting in the carpool line waiting to pick up your kids, you’re able to transform your day mommy makeup into your glamorous holiday look in about five minutes. Enjoy looking and feeling your best.

Makeup 1, 2, 3

Get it together in less than three minutes.
Step 1: Apply a pretty colored lip gloss.
Step 2: Apply mascara to both top and bottom lashes.
Step 3: Apply blush. Choose a gel, cream or powder
formula and be sure you have a good blush brush.

Makeup 4, 5, 6

Get it together in less than six minutes.
Step 1: Apply foundation and blend well.
Step 2: Apply concealer, if you need it.
Step 3: Apply blush, bronzer and/or a highlighter. Add color to your cheekbones.
Step 4: Apply eyeliner. Use an eyeliner with an attached smudge brush for making a smoky line. Apply liner on top and a little bit underneath the eye, too.
Step 5: Apply lots of mascara to both top and bottom lashes.
Step 6: Apply a pretty colored lip gloss.
Gail Sagel is a makeup artist, president and CEO of FACES Beautiful, and creator of the Brush-On Liquid Mineral Makeup. Sagel believes that beauty is not defined by the trends of the moment, but rather by the personal understanding of what works best for each woman.