Mari Holden header

Topic: Makeup

March 5th, 2009 · 24 Responses

When I was growing up I was obsessed with sports and I did it all. I loved being outside and riding bikes, horses, rock climbing, running, the beach etc. I was into outward bound and Edward Abbey. I never wore any makeup. I thought it wasn’t natural, and I was all about being natural.

Now I’m a bit older, and while I think natural beauty is great, I’m all about helping nature whenever possible :) So instead of being a eco terrorist, I’ve decided to be mother nature’s assistant. So, I’ve been searching for the perfect combination of makeup that you can use while riding without finishing and looking like a clown.

The great thing is that a lot of makeup has sunscreen in it, so it is actually helpful to us while we are on the bike. I like to apply a normal sunscreen with 30spf all over my face before applying any makeup. Then I use a light all day foundation (I use Estee Lauder Double Wear Light) and use it in a few key spots to cover areas that might need a some blending. Normally, I put a bit on my nose, chin and under eyes…

You don’t want to get too much foundation, because when you start to sweat it tends to run a bit even though it isn’t supposed to and it tends to end up in areas like the frown lines and when mixed with dirt its not a great sight. You have to remember that you will likely sweat a lot, and that there will be dirt and salt also on your face mixing it up with your make up. Use any makeup sparingly.

I never ride with mascara. Some girls use waterproof mascara, but I don’t. I haven’t been using mascara on the bike lately. I figure my eyes are behind the glasses anyway, so its not really important. A couple years ago I did have an obsession with eyelash extensions and they were nice because you could workout and not be worried about the mascara running. But, it was a time consuming process, and I also learned that I don’t like my lashes hitting my sunglasses. I have not yet tried the new products to promote eyelash growth. Maybe that’s my next step. If you really want to do something to make your eyes stand out, than I would suggest using an eyeliner and just applying minimally.

So, now we are to my obsession. I love lip gloss. I can’t do a ride without a lipgloss in my pocket. My absolute favorite is Revlon lip gloss. Its inexpensive, has sunscreen and is a really nice consistency. Not too sticky and thick, and trust me I’ve experimented with all the expensive brands. I have a girlfriend who said it best. We were gossiping about our favorite lip gloss and she said run, don’t walk, they are 2 for 1 at the drug store. It’s the best advice and the most inexpensive thing you can do to spruce up your make up. So run, don’t walk. Stock up before the sale is over! The great thing is that Revlon goes on sale a lot, so wait for the right time and then go crazy. But, you will see, you have to be quick. The best colors are always gone almost instantly because people like me always buy in bulkJ I also think that lip stains work well. You can apply before heading out and the color will last throughout the day. I like a bit of sparkle, and that’s why lipgloss is my weapon of choice, but we all have our preferences. My word of caution about lip gloss is that if you go with a brand that is thick and sticky you will end up with all kinds of stuff sticking to your lips, and it will not be attractive. Be aware!

I have this great sunscreen that I got in Vegas one time and it was outrageously expensive, but it sparkles, and I like to use it on my legs. But, let me get this straight, I don’t start using that kind of attention getting lotion until I’m already looking pretty tan. It would not be a nice sight on these white legs right now! Give me a few more weeks…

Perfume is not really makeup, but, I keep it in my makeup bag and so I’m including it in this blog. If you have a signature scent then you should use it when you are riding too. I’m not saying that we are dressing to impress, because I really believe that you gotta do what makes you feel good, but since we’re girls, and we’re gossiping, I can say that I get more c omments on my perfume than just about anything. Its easy to stand out in a crowd when you are riding with a bunch of guys who all smell like guy (not necessarily bad, but not memorable, and if it is memorable than it’s a problem)… No explanation needed… But, to smell clean and fresh is something that will make you stand out, and I always like to know that when someone smells my perfume they think of me… Scent is a powerful tool, when used correctly.

Anyway, so maybe I want to be mother nature’s assistant. Is there anything wrong with that? I’m not saying that you need to change yourself, just use what’s out there to help you accentuate your qualities. And if it doesn’t make you feel good, than don’t do it. Being comfortable in your skin is what it’s all about. We all have different ideas of what we like, and a sexy woman has a confidence that what she is showing is a reflection of herself. It doesn’t matter what other people think. If you love it than rock it and own it. No apologies…

Tags: Training Tips · fashion

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