Lena Clark Beauty

Chicago Makeup Artist

Airbrush Makeup vs. Traditional Makeup

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I am a Chicago makeup artist that specializes in both airbrush makeup and traditional makeup application. I am often asked by anxious brides about the difference between the two and which one they should choose for their wedding day.

Before I get into the differences, I want to clear up a common misconception: airbrush makeup has nothing to do with models and celebrities in magazines “looking flawless because they are airbrushed.” In this context, being airbrushed refers to the digital editing of the images – often referred to as Photoshop. This is a process by which photos are edited (airbrushed) to remove flaws, imperfections, and wrinkles; smooth and soften skin, add or reduce curves, decrease body size, lengthen body parts, lighten skin tone, etc. Again, this process of airbrushing photos has nothing to do with makeup. [Read more…]

e.l.f Studio Kabuki Face Brush

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This little brush gives me life!  At only $6 it is hands down my favorite brush.  I love this brush so much I have purchased at least 6 so far (3 for my working makeup artist kit, 1 for personal use, and 1 as a gift for my mentor, who went out and purchased at least one more for herself).

e.l.f. Studio Kabuki Face Brush

WEBSITE DESCRIPTION: This anti bacterial, synthetic haired Taklon brush is softer and more absorbent and can be used with wet or dry products. Be a professional makeup artist and create a flawless look with this brush! Our handy and easy to use Kabuki Brushes provide a light to full coverage on your face or body to ensure a flawless finish. The compact brush is perfectly sized to allow for precise and controlled application of bronzer, powder, or a highlighter on your skin. *Vegan Friendly [Read more…]

Behind the Brush w/Lena @ The Natural Hair Bride

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Hey Beauties!

Remember when I blogged about my experience at my first styled bridal photo shoot? If not, you can read it here. Ro’Shunda Russell of The Natural Hair Bride worked with me to style the models in their bridal attire. We had such a blast working together with all of the amazingly talented professionals involved and it was a fabulous shoot.

black bride with romantic makeup

ROMANTIC BRIDAL MAKEUP

Anyway, I’m so excited to tell you that Ro’Shunda reached out after the shoot to give me an opportunity to write a guest blog post about the makeup look I designed for our shoot. [Read more…]

Everyday Cleansing Products

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Because I believe that overall healthy skin is essential for a flawless makeup application I speak/write a lot about skin care. I already shared my favorite products to ensure clean skin after removing my makeup.  Now I’m gonna share my favorite products for daily cleansing (when not wearing makeup).  My product list for this task is very simple: [Read more…]

BACK TO THE BASICS: Number 1 Tip for Flawless Makeup

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I’m often asked about tips and tricks for a flawless makeup application.  Since I shared my favorite makeup products for flawless skin on my FaceBook page yesterday, today I will be sharing my NUMBER 1 tip for beautiful and clean makeup application…Take care of your canvas from the inside out.  Establish a regimen that works for you, your lifestyle, and your skin type; and stay hydrated by drinking water!!!!! Cleanse, tone, and moisturize (include an SPF of at least 30 if going outdoors – especially if you, like me, are battling hyper pigmentation a.k.a those dark spots that are left behind if I even look at a pimple too long) your skin daily; and exfoliate at least once a week depending on your skin type. [Read more…]