Makeup Tips + an Exclusive Discount from NYX Cosmetics

We like to pretend that we are natural beauties, but check in with us first thing in the morning and you might (after screaming in terror) politely observe that we could use some help.  To this end, we've enlisted the aid of the makeup experts at NYX Cosmetics -- not only have these lovely ladies offered us their expertise, but they have also generously provided a discount code for 30% off* purchases at NYX Cosmetics.  Just enter NYXLOVESBGG at checkout to stock up and do you part to save the world from seeing what truly lurks beneath your makeup-covered facade. 

BGG: If you have neither the time nor the money to spend on a ton of products, what do you think are the absolute essentials? 
NYX: You should consider spending money on foundation and a reliable compact. You need to find products that will benefit your skin in coverage and will provide the nourishment and conditioning that your skin needs with and without makeup. Eyeliner and lip gloss are also a must. With an average price point of $8, NYX offers high-end products at accessible prices for all your makeup bag necessities.

BGG: Are there any great multi-tasking products you recommend?
NYX: There are so many things that you can do with a powder compact! With a damp sponge swipe it into the product and apply it on your face as a foundation. Your powder offers medium coverage and with a wet sponge, you will be able to attain full coverage. While applying powder to your face, dab over eyelashes.  What this does is create thickness when applying mascara.  Another trick is to use your bronzer as a blush or even a tool to contour your face. You don’t need very many products to get the look that you desire!

BGG: What's the easiest, fastest way to go from day-to-night using the smallest number of products?
NYX: You can turn your daytime look to night by adding a darker shade of eyeshadow, and then adding heavier eyeliner and using a smudge brush to smudge out for a smoky effect.  Finish off with eyeliner on your water line for dramatic, popping eyes.  We recommend the Rock 'n Roll trio eyeshadow set to create a simple daytime to evening look.  The silver grey is fantastic for the smoky eye look!  Add more eyeshadow (making sure to blend), and you’re ready to go.  Another bestseller in this category is our sets -- compact but packed with a wide array of eyeshadows, blushers, bronzers, and lip shades, it's a fave for people on the go!

BGG: Similarly, what's the easiest, fastest way to look polished and ready for work?
NYX: Use another one of our kits such as the Nude on Nude palette -- the colors are great for a professional office look. Apply any of the bronze eye shadows on your lid and apply a darker shadow on your crease and blend with a blending brush. Don’t forget to add a shimmer eyeshadow underneath your brow bone to accentuate your eyebrows. This easy look is guaranteed to make you look chic and sweet for every meeting and deadline.

BGG: Could you suggest an at-home tip that makeup artists use?
NYX: One trick that you can do at home to clean your brushes is to use baby shampoo to remove all the bacteria and spare makeup; then rinse and put hair conditioner on your brushes; then rinse again to make your brushes softer.

BGG: Is it really necessary to throw out your makeup after a few months -- does it get old that quickly? 
NYX: Surprisingly, there is such a thing as expired makeup. Once you open a product, there is a given time for it to expire – for mascara, it is 3 to 6 months. Powders, is up to 3 years. If you see some spotting on your compact powders, it’s due to oil buildup which you can gently scrape off. For liquids, it is 1 to 2 years. 

*To use the coupon code, please enter NYXLOVESBGG at checkout.  This code will not be applicable towards discounted items, sale items, Starter Kits, Train Cases, Makeup Chairs, Mirrors, or Beauty Bags. All other product including S sets and Makeup Artist Tool Belts will be available for purchase at a 30% discount.  Promo code is valid through September 30, 2011.

Photo from http://www.nyxcosmetics.com.