Global Beauty… The Brazilian Bombshell

Many things come out of Brazil—Samba, Capoeira, Brazil nut, Brazilian wax, the Bikini (ouch), Super Models… Yes, Super Models. It seems to be that beauty with world wide appeal is a constant export of the Brazilian trade. Names like Adriana Lima, Gisele Bundchen, Alessandra Ambrioso, Emmanuelle DePaula, Isabeli Fontana, Raica Oliveira, Ana Beatriz Barros, Ana Claudia Michels, and Fernanda Tavarez, to name a few, are sought after in the fashion world to be the faces of international products. We love to hate them, but there is something about their skin, their hair, their faces that make us secretly (or not secretly) yearn to be Brazilian for a day. Brazilian women are also very diverse, which provides an access to different beauty secrets that work for some and not for others. Hopefully, the following products will help us get a little bit closer to becoming a Bombshell because you do not have to be Brazilian to be one… YAYYYYY. : )

For Smooth, Shiny, Brazilian-like Skin

Vaseline Intensive Cocoa Butter Vitalizing Gel Body Oil with Brazil Nut ($6-$8):

I have been using this product on and off for 6 months. It is sooo moisturizing! When applied to the skin, the skin gives off a nice glow without looking oily. The smell is very nutty and natural. I love it! It is best to apply onto damp skin right after showering or bathing. This product can be found in stores like CVS, Rite Aid, Target, Walgreens, etc…

OR

Johnson and Johnson Baby Oil with Lavender ($3- $5): The age old classic. This product is a daily go to for me. I reach for it more than I reach for the Vaseline oil. The Lavender smell is relaxing unlike the sometimes, too poignant original baby powder smell. I apply it right after the shower unto damp skin. The application is smoother and quicker than the Vaseline Intensive Care, which is a gel. The after effect is just as smooth and glowy as the gel. You can find this pretty much anywhere.

For Amazing, Nourished Brazilian-like Hair:

Brazilian Keratin Treatment ($150- $600): The Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment naturally straightens your hair. It produces spectacular results - the hair is shiny, sleek and healthy. For the time being, no big U.S. hair or beauty company is selling it. Only small firms are importing products from Brazil or creating their own formulations. The brands include Brazilian Keratin Treatment, Brazilian Hair Straightening and Brazilian Blowout. The Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment is ideal for those with tumbleweed hair. It is great for people who can’t do a salon blowout at home or get blowout every week. It eliminates frizz and unwanted curl while giving hair added texture and control. The treatment can be used on the majority of hair types, even chemically treated hair, color treated hair, relaxed hair and on highlighted hair, without causing damage. The treatment takes 1 ½ to 4 hours; the more damaged your hair is the longer the treatment lasts. Depending on the length and thickness of your hair, it can cost between $150 and $600. Using a 450-degree iron, a solution made with active keratin is sealed onto the outer layer of the hair cuticle. It sticks to the cuticle’s naturally rough edges. In this way, the formula locks in moisture, hydrating the hair, and adds a glossy finish. The results depend upon how often you wash your hair (Lasts between 6 weeks to a few months). I want to try this out badly. My hair is relaxed and colored, so it may be a little risky. Also, I have a lot of hair and it’s lengthy, which means it is more expensive since Keratin is sold by the ounce. Ask you hair stylist about the Keratin Treatment.

OR

Olive Oil ($1- $3)- Yes, plain oil olive oil will do the trick. It is not as drastic as the keratin, but the shine it gives is irresistible. I use olive oil as a deep hot oil treatment. I heat up a small amount of oil in a cup in the microwave. I apply it to damp unwashed hair. I leave it on for 30 minutes, then I rinse and shampoo. The results are incredible: Soft, shiny manageable hair.

For a Flawless, Bronzed Face:

Bronzer ($1- $28): Bronzer should be a staple in every make up kit. It provides a natural glow if applied correctly. I use different types of bronzers (Matte, Shimmer, Liquid, Powder) depending on the weather, the day, and the look. I usually apply with a fan brush, and I focus on the contours of my cheeks, the temples, and a little on the nose. Method of application varies per person, so just practice and see what works best for you.

For Sultry, Sexy Eyes:

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide on Eye pencil in Baked ($16)- Sultry eyes does not necessarily mean black eye liner. A bronze/gold liner, like Urban Decay’s, can add the perfect emphasis to the eyes without looking harsh. I apply the eyeliner to the water line and the inner eye corner, and then I add black mascara to the top and bottom lashes. It is very natural-looking, but sexy. You don’t necessarily have to go out and buy the urban decay liner (even though it’s smooth and creamy). Any gold/bronze eye pencil or eye kohl can be used. Even gold eye shadow can do the trick. Just line the bottom lash line with eye shadow and dab into the inner corner of the eye.

(Aside from the Brazilian Keratin, I have used all of the products I have mentioned.)

That is all for this week’s Global Beauty. If you have any request just post a comment and don’t forget to become a follower and to visit youtube.com/whytheblush. Till next time. Tchau!!!!!