This spring has definitely not been the warmest one on record! Just as we were preparing to show off our (very pale) ankles, Mother Nature decided to punish us with strong winds and a few centimetres of snow. But warmer days are finally back.
For this second digital-only edition of the Passion for Beauty guide, we’ve assembled a beautiful selection of colourful content. Our goal is to inspire you, make you smile, and above all, make you dream of your well-deserved vacation.
We also wanted to take advantage of the magazine’s summer launch to introduce our newest beauty expert, Virginie Vandelac. Does her face seem familiar? That’s because the beautiful brunette has been part of our television landscape for years and she’s also the professional makeup artist of some of your favourite celebrities in Quebec. In this guide, Virginie will share, among other things, her tips, top picks and what inspires her. In the meantime, discover her bio by clicking on “Welcome Virginie!”
We also want you to meet the face of our front cover, Hungarian fashion model Barbara Palvin. Discover the favourite items and universe of L’Oréal Paris’ youngest star.
Ready to have fun?
Happy reading and have a great summer!
Marie-Pier Lessard
Beauty expert
All products are available in stores. The selection may vary.
“Emphasize your beautiful traits.”
That’s the motto of makeup artist Virginie Vandelac who, starting today, is now Jean Coutu’s cosmetics beauty expert.
For the past 17 years, Virginie has worked with a variety of clients and has even taken part in advertising campaigns for Cirque du Soleil as well as renowned fashion designers. She’s also contributed to several magazines such as Châtelaine, Clin d’oeil and Loulou. And many of you know her as a beauty advisor and columnist on various platforms, but also as the makeup artist for the television show Quel âge me donnez-vous?
For Virginie, makeup is not a way to conceal or greatly transform, it’s a tool to showcase one’s natural beauty.
In this era where personal well-being is so important, we all have to take care of ourselves. Virginie’s goal is for all women to feel beautiful and achieve balance in their lives.
Virginie will share her secrets with you. She’ll also let you know about new trends and teach you some of the techniques she’s perfected during her career.
Barbara was discovered in the streets of her native Budapest when she was only 13. Recruiters were charmed by her contagious smile, her catlike eyes and her features that are the perfect combination of the girl next door and the enchanting seductress.
Since then, Barbara has made the cover of L’Officiel, Vogue Russia and Hungary’s Glamour, among others. Her first fashion show? Prada, at the Milan Fashion Week in 2010. Impressive! In 2012 she caught the attention of the giant cosmetics brand L’Oréal. Young and old alike will recognize themselves in Barbara thanks to her sweet folly, her joie de vivre and her splendid charisma. One look at her Instagram account and you’ll agree!
Her favourite products:
Cover : courtesy of L’Oréal Paris
Sunscreen :
what’s new under
Between new products and usual precautions, this summer is gearing up to be a beautiful one. Here are few sun products you’ll want to use all season long.
A cooling effect, a feeling of bare skin, a sheer formula and waterproof protection that lasts up to 40 minutes. A product that radiates sensuality while making your skin feel healthy and silky. Truly innovative.
Only available in stores
This anti-aging product is packed with fine mineral pigments and evens the complexion, fights wrinkles and protects your skin. You can wear it alone or under your makeup.
Only available in stores
Hypoallergenic, perfume-free, non-comedogenic and not tested on animals, this formula protects the face without making it shiny or greasy. A versatile product that provides 80 minutes of water resistance.
Only available in stores
A mix of mineral and organic screens with calming thermal water packed with antioxidants, this perfume-free body milk can be used by old and young alike along with those with sensitive skin… even for a day at the pool! Perfect for those who want to avoid chemicals and unnecessary ingredients.
Only available in stores
In the shower or on dry skin, it moisturizes the epidermis and evens out your tan thanks to a concoction of nourishing essential oils (apricot, grapeseed, etc.). This innovative product will please sensitive skins and those with an enhanced sense of smell.
Only available in stores
Refined, mineral sunscreens come in a variety of products (spray, powder brush, stick, solid) whereas face lotions come in different shades and are packed full of anti-aging ingredients.
State-of-the-art, the My UV Patch is an electronic skin patch designed by L’Oréal. Wear in on the back of your hand and it will track your UV exposure.
Accurate, some products now display a UVA symbol in a circle. This European logo means that their anti-aging UVA protection is equal to a third of their SPF, which describes its ability to protect against sunburns. You always need to choose a product that protects against both UVA and UVB.
Prohibited, dishonest marketing that leads to a false sense of security in the sun (SPF 110, sunblock, etc.).
As tart and surprising as a carbonated beverage, this shade adds instant radiance. We love it on darker or golden skins, as a touch of blush or a lip lacquer. Pale complexions can also benefit from a variant of the shade: amber.
Eyeshadow
Color Design (Hotness)
(Only available in stores)
Expert Face Brush
Only available in stores
See the video of Virginie Vandelac
Simmering Cream Eye Color
(Sudachi)
Toning Foaming
Scrub
Dramatique Intense
Liner (green)
Only available in stores
Color Stay Skinny
Liquid Liner (Green Spark)
Thanks to Clarins, you can now easily and quickly make your favourite mascara waterproof! Apply this gel on after the mascara of your choice to create a seal on your lashes that will protect it from water and sweat. You can also use it on its own to strengthen your lashes and eyebrows and tame unruly hair.
If you love liquid liners, you should definitely give this one a try this summer. Use it for its ultra-pigmented formula and easy application but also because it’s a waterproof product that will last all day. A great ally to have on hand once the days get humid!
This primer will rejuvenate your lips, increase their volume and make your favourite lipstick last even longer. Such a simple way to make your lipstick keep its shade all day. We love it!
A foundation that blends in with your skin and lasts all day… even in the hot summer days? It’s now possible with this liquid formula that provides excellent coverage and better yet, remains comfortable. And it will keep its hold until you’re ready to turn in for the night. Proof that your complexion is in good hands!
(Only available in stores)
With this product, you don’t have to worry about harsh weather. It protects your makeup against heat, sweat and even rain. A spritz of this NYX setting spray is all you need before you step out of your house. A light product that won’t weigh down the makeup you’ve applied.
We all know that we have to protect ourselves from UV rays in the summer. But that doesn’t mean you have to tolerate a dull complexion! Here are two great ways to get a beautiful golden tan.
To get a radiant, streak-free even tan, you first need to exfoliate your skin with a gentle scrub in the shower. Focus on areas with rough skin such as elbows, knees and heels. The goal is to get rid of dead cells and prepare your skin for the self-tanner.
After drying yourself off with a towel, apply a thin layer of self-tanning emulsion or milk on your entire body, from head to toes, using small circular motions. Feeling clumsy? You can use self-tanning towelettes that are small, practical and easy to use. In either case, don’t forget to wash your hands with foaming soap after application to avoid embarrassing orange stains. All that’s left is to wait a few minutes for your skin to absorb the product. Then you’re ready to get dressed and head out!
A radiance that’s accentuated by the creamy texture of the self-tanner. That and a beautiful golden complexion.
Many professional makeup artists recommend using powder if your skin is normal, combination or oily.
Good to know: powder is generally easier to apply with a big kabuki brush than creams and liquids which are applied using your fingers.
When it comes to the colour, choose one that’s one or two shades darker (brown, not orange) than your complexion. If you want to give off a beautiful glow, use a product that’s a little shimmery or iridescent. If you want a natural effect, opt for a matte powder instead.
A defined face and matte finish that remains stunning, yet subtle.
Bronzing powder
Personnelle Cosmetics
It’s worth mentioning again: teal is in this summer. It’s a beautiful way to highlight your eyes but also an outstanding shade that will make your nails stand out. You can emulate precious stones by combining emerald green with a mustard yellow that gives a nod to citrine. Who said you have to be subtle when choosing an intense colour?
Our suggestion : Revlon Colorstay nail polish (High Stakes)
(Only available in stores)
In line with Pantone’s summer palette, fuchsia is a beautiful shade that goes well with any complexion. Just like your favourite high heels, this is a colour that mixes warm and cool undertones and is beautifully enhanced when paired with khaki, beige or any other similar colour, like red. We love it!
Our suggestion: Essie nail polish (Berried Treasures)
(Only available in stores)
Many women love to decorate their toes with a deep blue nail polish in the summer. This beautiful classic shade goes wonderfully with darker skins and almost turns into a base colour in the sun. Our favourite way to wear it? Pairing royal blue with nude sandals will add some pep to your step!
Our suggestion: Essie nail polish (Lot the Booty)
(Only available in stores)
Turquoise reminds us of a beautiful, exotic summer day. We love it paired with a neutral sandal, either white, nude or black. A colour that’s so radiant and even, you’ll want to apply a second layer. The colour adds a festive touch thanks to microglitter that makes us dream of sun and hot sand.
Our suggestion: Vitry nail polish (Lagon)
Caudalie Divine Legs tinted body lotion
The last thing we want is a cloudy summer, but we do want to wear grey on our nails. At first glance, it might seem like a gloomy colour, but it’s an incredibly versatile shade that you can show off at the beach or spa.
Our tip: because you can wear grey on any occasion, you can get a two-step gel manicure that will last several days. The colour will stay bright and flawless!
Personnelle Cosmetics gel nail polish (Amsterdam) and
Personnelle Cosmetics Gel Nail Lacquer Top Coat
(Only available in stores)
Now that summer is just around the corner, you need to adapt your beauty routine. Here are 4 tips to survive the hot weather.
If you have brown spots on your body and face, choose a self-tanner that does not contain DHA (an ingredient that can intensify brown spots). Other than caramel self-tanners, opt for tinted creams and bronzing powders.
Creams with AHA, a scrub containing acid fruit, can increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun. So you’ll want to choose a product that contains AHA and SPF.
Self-tanners create the illusion of thinner arms, legs and thighs and can diminish the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks. After you apply the self-tanner, you can enhance the colour with a sparkling dry oil.
Trade in your thick cleansing cream for a no-rinse gel or micellar water.
During heat waves, you can use a spray bottle to spritz some thermal water on your face. But remember to dab the excess water because letting it evaporate will dry your skin.
At night, replace your thick moisturizer with a gel cream. During the day you can use a BB cream, preferably one with SPF. If you want more coverage, you can add a dab of foundation.
In the city, many moisturizers can be used as daily sunscreen protection for your face, neck and hands.
Uriage Hyséac 3-Regul Global Skincare
(Only available in stores)
Shiseido Oil-Free SPF 42
(Only available in stores)
Lise Watier BB Hydraforce
Buy
Heat accentuates heavy scents so you’ll want to use cologne, flowery fragrances that are exotic or fruity, herb scents and citrus aromas. Simply spray a little on your hair (which will naturally absorb the fragrance) as well as on your nape, behind your ears and inside your wrists.
It’s an accumulation of fatty cells under the skin on the buttocks, thighs and stomach. These cells, called adipocytes, swell when they store fat, which causes cellulite to appear. When they become bigger, these cells compress the blood veins and hinder their capacity to eliminate toxins and get rid of water: the skin then appears coarser and dimpled.
It’s almost impossible to get rid of cellulite, but certain treatments combined with healthy lifestyle habits can greatly diminish its appearance. Anti-cellulite products act on several levels. By targeting the adipocytes under the epidermis and stimulating blood flow, they can naturally get rid of the fat cells. They also restore the skin’s collagen elasticity to make it smooth once again.
To catalyze the effects of these products, you need to adopt healthy lifestyle habits. You should avoid refined sugars and salt which can lead to the accumulation of fatty tissue and water retention. And for its part, regular physical exercise improves blood flow which in turn can make it easier for the body to get rid of toxins and fat.
Three ingredients, three actions: Salacia, an herb originating in India, firms the skin while targeting the collagen fibres, the ivy eliminates water to make the skin elastic again, and caffeine reduces the appearance of cellulite by getting rid of the fat cells accumulated under the skin.
(Only available in stores)
This non-sticky oil rapidly penetrates into the skin to smooth and firm it. Its extracts of astaxanthin, a micro-algae antioxidant, stimulates the production of molecules that are essential for maintaining tissue elasticity and firmness.
(Only available in stores)
Thanks to its plant extracts and caffeine, this milk reduces and prevents cellulite: it eliminates the lipids stored in adipocytes and prevents new adipocyte cells from appearing, which prevents the accumulation of fatty tissue.
Salicylic acid, which eliminates dead cells, to smooth the skin; hyaluronic acid to restore its suppleness; caffeine to destroy and get rid of the fat cells that forms the dimples; and special molecules to improve light reflection and make the skin radiant.
(Only available in stores)
The 18 essential oils with firming properties and caffeine contained in this cream act together to tone the skin and smooth lumps. The formula is active for 24 hours after application to maximize its effect. A bonus? It contains a plethora of organic ingredients.
(Only available in stores)
This is a designer that keeps charming our senses. Once again, both the fragrance’s bottle and the scent itself will enchant you. Notes of vetiver, associated with violet leaf, rose, and lily of the valley, make this an intense perfume. We promise that if you love Marc Jacobs fragrances, you’ll love this one as well.
Buy
From the oriental family of perfumes, Olympéa will transport you far away. Better yet, it will make you feel like a Greek goddess. Its fresh, floral notes of salty vanilla, green tangerine and jasmine combine to deliver both sensuality and radiance. As a bonus, the perfume’s bottle is as delicate and sophisticated as the liquid it contains.
Buy
The younger sibling of La Vie Est Belle, this latest creation by Lancôme is more indulgent than its predecessors. It also features hints of osmanthus, a flower symbolizing wisdom. This pink elixir is a noble, delicate and natural scent that will seduce those who love fruity notes (a combination of pear and blackcurrant buds) and floral notes (iris, jasmine sambac absolute).
Buy
Since 2008, Chloé has seduced us with fragrances that are gentle and charming. With its suggestive name, Roses will surprise you with its modern aroma of freshly cut roses. A scent that’s gentle and romantic, you’ll also find notes of white musk, amber and bergamot essence to accompany a wood and Damask rose essence pairing.
Buy
The brand’s fragrant waters have already charmed many. They make heads turn and Fleur d’Osmanthus is no exception. Wearing the perfume will take you away to a Garden of Eden in China! Fresh and floral, it will soothe anyone who gets a wisp of its beautiful notes.
Buy
A logical follow-up to Black Opium, Nuit Blanche goes even further and surpasses our expectations. Its deep notes and invigorating effects are perfect for the sophisticated, spontaneous woman who’s ready to stay out all night. As spicy as it is floral, this is a fragrance that combines intensity and delicacy, with scents of rice steam, orange blossom absolute and coffee.
Buy
A balayage is a great way to add a sun-kissed look to your hair. It’s a dye technique that lightens your hair by creating a few highlights. In addition to making your hair radiant without changing your entire colour, it’s a way to look like you’ve just returned from a sunny vacation.
With natural-looking and subtle results, the goal of balayage is to blend a few highlights into your locks. To do so, choose a few thin strands on top of your head and around your face, apply some bleach on them and then use a gloss to seal the hair cuticle. In order to get long-lasting colour, protect yourself from UV rays, sea salt and chlorine by using the right adapted products.
To highlight your balayage, curl a few strands with a large barrel curling iron then spray on a veil of texturizing product over your entire head.
Keratin Color, shade 7.5
(Only available in stores)
Not sure to have the skills required for a DIY balayage? Then you can opt for enriching your natural colour with a warm shade that is both indulgent and feminine, like caramel blonde.
In addition to softening your facial features and boosting your complexion, this colour enhances curly hair and makes straight hair appear more voluminous. Halfway between a golden chestnut and dark blonde, warm shades look especially great on brunettes with a tanned complexion.
Choose a dye kit to colour your entire head and, most importantly, don’t forget to stock up on moisturizing products such as nourishing masks to maintain and soften your new lightened locks.
To highlight your warm shades, , straighten your hair as much as you can with a flat iron and use a veil of shine spray.
High Voltage Classic Cream Formula, Cotton Candy Pink
(Only available in stores)
Soft pink, powder blue, mint green, juicy peach… Pastel colours are in this season, for both clothing and hair! Many celebrities here and abroad have already adopted these rainbow colours. So what are you waiting for to try it out for yourself?
Good to know: if you want to dye your hair in these radiant colours, you need to lighten your locks before applying the temporary colour cream. Pastel dyes tend to fade more quickly in the shower, so you’ll have to reapply the product nearly every week. You might also want to get a colour protecting shampoo and conditioner to make your bright shade last as long as possible.
To highlight pastel colours, put your hair in a chic bun low on your neck, or a bun on the top of your head.
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