Kai Vinson, Director of Artistry and Education (Asia Pacific) for Bobbi Brown Cosmetics was in Malaysia last week just for a few days. As he has a very hectic schedule, flying from one Asian city to another in a week, he didn’t have time for a sit-down interview but I was fortunate enough to have my questions answered by Kai via email. He is based in Hong Kong.
“I’m inspired to be a make-up artist because I love to see a woman’s face after I have helped her chose a product that has addressed her concern and makes her feel great about herself.” – Kai Vinson.
What are the Spring/Summer 2013 Makeup Trends?
There are a few keys trends this season. One trend that I really like is adding Brightness and Glow to the skin. We have these Sparkle Eye Shadows (RM90 each) which look amazing on everyone they create a beautiful diamond like glow on the eye. Another hot trend this season will be Lilac shades. We have a collection called Lilac Rose which has hues from dusty grey lilac to bold intense lilac so everyone can find their perfect style.
For upcoming seasons, will the focus be on the face, eyes or lips?
I think there is some focus on all 3. For skin it’s about having Fresh Glowing Skin. Choose foundations or BB Creams that match and give coverage but still let your skin look like skin. You can dust a retouching powder or brightening powder over it to create a perfected finish. Then for color I think you can choose between either highlighting your eye or lip. If it’s lips, I love to see women in a bright pink or orange lip color. Wear them with a soft eye makeup. For eyes, it’s definitely all about lilac. Wear a brighter purple if you have a fun confident personality and if you aren’t quite ready for bold, then wear a soft lavender or grayish purple shade.
Face Blender Brush
For ladies who are concerned about adding shimmer to their faces, how would you persuade them to try out Bobbi Brown’s Shimmer Bricks?
Shimmer Brick (RM160) is great because it is subtle. It highlights and adds a glow to the skin. It’s not really a shimmer like traditional shimmery products. So I say Shimmer Brick is for all ages. For a glow effect use our Face Blender Brush (RM180) and mix all the colors together and dust on high points of cheekbone. You can also use the individual strips colors on the eyes.
What are your tips for making eyeliner stay on oily lids?
Start with a Long Wear Cream Shadow (RM95) then set a soft powder shadow on top. This combination will help the liner stay on the longest. Then use our Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner (RM85) which has a 12-hour wear.
Cream Blending Bush
Sheer Powder Brush
What are your Bobbi Brown’s essential can’t-do-without makeup brushes?
My favorite brushes are the Cream Blending Brush (RM100), Smokey Eye Brush, and Sheer Powder Brush (RM160). The Cream Blending is great for Concealer and Cream Eye Shadow. I love using the Smokey Eye Brush to blend and smudge pencil liners and the Sheer Powder Brush put on just the right amount of powder.
Are there certain eyeshadow shades or textures women over 40 should avoid and are there any shades which will be flattering for women over 40?
When you start to age it is more about adding definition than color. Eyeliner is the more important option. I usually like to stay with softer tone shadows instead of deeper colors and then play up the eye with eyeliner which opens the eye. Then lots of mascara which makes the eyes pop. Brows are also very important to add definition as we lose brow definition as we age. Women over 40 also look better with less pale lip colors. Usually pinks, roses and corals are best as they brighten up the face.
What are Bobbi’s makeup facelift tips for making women look younger?
Hydration is a must. The first key to looking younger is moisturizing and keeping the skin plumping. Next brighten under the eyes with a corrector and concealer as this helps to give a youthful appearance. Choose foundation that perfectly matches the skin. Then pop a brighter color on your cheeks. I love Bobbi’s Pot Rouge (RM90) which works on cheeks and lips. Add definition to brows and line the eyes. Finish with a lip gloss and Shimmer Brick (RM160) on cheeks.
Long-Wear Even Finish Compact Foundation & Long-Wear Even Finish Foundation SPF15
What Bobbi Brown products would you recommend for making makeup last in humid weather? Would these be the same products for women who have sebum production concerns?
Bobbi is very concerned with women having products that last all day so she created our Long Wear Collection. We make a Long-Wear Even Finish Foundation in Liquid and Compact (RM160 each) that have a 12-hour wear and lasts even through the most humidity and on oily skins. We also make Long Wear eye shadows and gel eyeliners that last for 8-12 hours depending on formulas. Then we now have a lipstick our creamy matte formula that lasts all day as well!
Bobbi Brown BB Cream SPF35
Tinted Eye Brightener
Bronzing Powder
Bobbi Brown Rich Lip Color SPF 12 in Old Hollywood
For women who have limited time to put on their makeup in the mornings, what products can they use for a fuss-free yet Pretty Powerful look?
I love BB Cream (RM150). It is one of my favorite Bobbi products. Start with BB Cream and a Tinted Eye Brightener (RM105). We have Bronzing Powders (RM135) which look amazing on all skintones. One is Maui for medium to deep skintones and Antigua for fair to medium skintones. Bust this onto the cheek for a pop of pink and glow. Use Rich Lip Color (RM85) in a brighter shade and just press it into the lips for a stained look. Then use our Long-Wear Cream Shadow Sticks (RM90). They’re very easy to apply and blend easily with your fingers. Finish up with Long-Wear Eye Pencil (RM90) for definition and mascara.
Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation Mineral Makeup SPF15
What other products would you recommend BB Creams to be applied with, e.g. mixed with moisturiser, pressed or loose powder?
Always use the moisturizer that is perfect for your skin under BB Cream. It looks better and will last longer when the skin is properly prepped. I layer BB Cream over moisturizer but not mix it together. When you mix them, it actually breaks down the formula so it will not last as long. I use BB Cream over Bobbi Brown Extra Repair Moisturizing Balm SPF25 (RM320) for myself. I personally like BB Cream with no powder or with our Skin Foundation Mineral Makeup SPF15 (RM140) on top. Use the Sheer Powder Brush to apply.
Many thanks to Bobbi Brown Malaysia for arranging this Q & A and for the images.
I love his tips for making eyeliner stay on oily lids and making makeup last in humid weather!