While runway trends continue to dictate that women will be coveting a thicker brow, men tend to have the problem of maintaining and keeping their already very thick brows from growing all-out bushy. But it doesn't have to be that hard. While brows are different for men than for women, a lot of the tricks that women do to keep their brows in check can also be practiced by the guys to ensure their manly brows look clean and neat—and never feminine.
 
See a Pro. Most men wouldn't dream of setting foot into a spa or salon to get those brows under control, but seeing a pro shouldn’t intimidate them. The No.1 request of male clients is the plea to not have a “girl” brow done or, in other words, a perfectly shaped and arched brow. Men: Do your research before making that appointment. Ask to see if there's any before-and-after photos of male clients that have had their brows done so you can assess the actual work. Don't be afraid to speak up for what you want or don't want. Pros: If you’re not asking your male clients enough questions to make sure you're giving them exactly what they want, start now! As you know, badly done brows take forever to grow...

Times are not terribly great…however there is a bright and beautiful side to everything! Though you may not have the greenbacks to get you the best beauty services, products and treatments out there and often, where there’s a will, there’s always a way. My view of it all: You really don’t have to sacrifice to look your best. And you don’t want to let yourself go to pot when the going gets rough because looking good feels fabulous, whether you work in corporate America, you paint faces (like I do!) or you’re a stay at home mom. Don’t let yourself go from head to toe by adopting some of these recession-savvy beauty ideas:
 
• Sundays are fun days. The Sunday newspaper is filled with coupons and ads for beauty and/or specials on fashion! Examples of coupons: nail lacquer, hair color, body wash, mascaras, foundations and more—oh my!
 
• Sign up online or by snail mail for a spa or salon newsletter. They now more than ever offer specials on services—especially a half-day or day of beauty. Some packages are simply irresistible.
 
• Go to events. Your business-savvy local plastic...

As you’ve seen from our Spring 2012 backstage beauty coverage, next season’s makeup, hair and nail trends are coming fast and furious. The newest trends to hit your beauty vanity next spring are showing up left and right, and one area of the face that’s receiving major play is the eyebrow.

Brows are thicker than ever and the quicker you can get yours growing in, the better. Not only are brows fuller, but also backstage beauty maestros are finding new ways of showing them off. Check out this primer so your arches are on point next spring.

Brush Your Brows Up
Did you think Brooke Shield’s bushy brows were on their way out? Certainly not, especially with the continued popularity of “It” model Arizona Muse (above). As a trend, this style sticks, namely because brushed-up brows make normal arches look thicker, which is a sign of youth. But now, this look is being intensified. Get out your brow wax and brow gel: Brushed-up eyebrows are the way to go next spring.

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I travel for beauty and my work. I love the unexpected treasures and beauty I find wherever I go. In my travels in town or out, I love to watch women go about their day…you know, people watch. On an airplane, the women fascinate me; their purses are huge and, not surprisingly, so are their cosmetic bags. You’d be amazed at the state these makeup bags—and their contents—are in!I see some women using products that are dirty-looking and old; women peering at their reflection in makeup-coated, shattered mirrors (very dangerous, ladies!); women gingerly applying eyeliner pencils that are worn down to the splintered wood, on the verge of scratching the cornea of their eyes. So, I had to share with you how to de-clutter your cosmetics bag, stress less and travel beautifully!
 
As a professional makeup artist, I have to travel with many supplies, but your average beauty lover can take much less. Even when you’re taking very little makeup with you, think practically. I have a gorgeous Gucci cosmetics bag I bought in Italy, but guess what? I have a confession: I found it’s too small and so gorgeous that I don’t use it. I leave...