As the expression goes, “new year, new you,” but when we think of somehow improving ourselves in 2016, thoughts of bland diets, expensive gym memberships, or time-consuming journaling come to mind. Not that we don’t appreciate some healthy lifestyle changes and self-reflection this year, but Urban Agenda figured it was time to make 2016’s resolutions a little more exciting. In order to find simple and effective ways to feel renewed this year, we turned to the experts at Muah Makeup & Lash Bar in Westwood, New Jersey. Through their intimate one-on-one makeup services and lessons, the Muah Makeup & Lash Bar team empowers the everyday woman to look and feel beautiful. Not only do they provide professional makeup and lash applications, but they also sell a line of beauty products that are 90% hypoallergenic including some vegan, kosher, and gluten-free items. With years of experience in the makeup industry, the owner of Muah Makeup & Lash Bar, Ashlee Kleinschmidt better known as Ashlee K., is a connoisseur on simple tips and tricks to help the “new” you shine through in 2016. Below, she helps us swap our hemp bars for a new lipstick or contouring trick in order to unleash a fiercer, fabulous version of ourselves this year.

To book your next appointment at Muah Makeup & Lash Bar located at 347 Broadway, Westwood, NJ call 209.448.9800 or check out their special New Year’s offer here.

Don't be afraid to outline with eyeliner: According to Ashlee K., most ladies have it all wrong when it comes to the rules of eyeliner. Many of her clients believe that lining both the upper and lower lashes will cause the eye to appear smaller. In reality, outlining the entire eye helps it stand out. Exclusively lining the lower lash is the true cause of that closed-eyed look; while applying liner exclusively to the top lash makes eyes look bigger.

Get the look: Muah Makeup Superwear Gel Pencil Liner, $10

Know the ABC's of BB Cream: If you’re anything like me, you have no idea what BB Cream is versus CC Cream - or whipped cream. Luckily, Ashlee K. has us covered, and BB Cream is the go-to for a healthy, hydrated look this year. She explains that BB Cream is a fast and easy way to freshen your look without a lot of foundation. Not only does it have SPF 30 and moisturizer, but it also gives skin a bit of color that can cover redness and fill in lines. CC Cream, on the other hand, has properties of Vitamin C that evens out and corrects skin tone and scarring, but is equally useful.

Get the look: Muah Makeup BB Cream, $16

Conceal Correctly: As its name suggest, concealer is meant to conceal, but not your entire face. Ashlee K. warns that too much concealer can lead to a caked on look, so try putting it on top of foundation. Whatever redness or blemishes left visible after your foundation is applied can be disguised with concealer.

Get the look: Muah Makeup Mineral Photo Touch Concealer, $12

Jazz it up with lashes: If you’re looking to try something new – but not something drastic - in 2016, Ashlee K. is all about the lashes. While lash extensions have become popular, Muah Makeup & Lash bar specializes in full strip lash applications that are very wearable and won’t cause harm to your lashes. Her beauty bar offers 18 different style lashes at various price points, so whether you’re looking for a subtle change or a Cher-like lash transformation, Ashlee K.’s team has you covered. Full strip lash extensions at lower price points can be disposed of after a day of use, but their more expensive options (like the mink lash) can be worn up to 20 times!

Get the look: Muah Makeup Lash Extensions at price points of $10, $15, or $25.

Re-think the red lip: A red lip is always fun, but Ashlee K. suggests mixing it up with a berry instead. It’s her favorite hue because it works on everyone for every occasion. Whether you’re sporting a smoky eye or just mascara, a berry lip will make for a perfect, fresh look.

Get the look: Muah Makeup Lip Shine Lipstick in Naked Grape, $9.

Take control of contouring: With all the YouTube videos circulating the web on extreme contour techniques, Ashlee K.’s clients can be cautious about trying it out. But according to Ashlee K., anyone can achieve the look with a mineral foundation powder that’s two shades darker than the powder you might use at home. Creams can be too heavy, but powders are easy to use and much lighter. To contour with powder, use a brush as small as a blush brush and starting at the center of the ear, blend forward toward the apple of the cheek. Ashlee promises that this will give you a subtle contour that’s natural and less time consuming than those found on intimidating YouTube tutorials.

Get the look: Muah Makeup Mineral Foundation Powder, $15.