Friday, June 17, 2011

Mac Prolong Wear Concealer




I originally went in to get the infamous Studio Fix Concealer but they recommended this one simply because my “problem areas” were dry and if I went with the pot concealer it would end up looking cakey. So when I brought it home, I was like ehhh I don’t know, I hadn’t seen any reviews on this at the time, so I figured it would just be okay. Well boy was I wrong, I love this! It is a thinner consistency but covers like a cream only without caking up. It is pretty amazing, I use it for under eyes, blemishes, some discoloration spots, it can be used to conceal anything really. It is long wearing and feels light on the skin. Now the only draw back is the dang little pump, it tends to, no matter how much little pressure u apply, squirt out too much product and it gets a little messy. Other than that, woot to Mac :)

Wednesday, June 15, 2011

Top Favorites from Elf Cosmetics






I love Elf Cosmetics so I put together some of my favorites! Enjoy :)


 Eye Lash Curler: This $1 baby works wonders, does a great job of curling my lashes. The handy little grip handle is nice as well. The only issue is the pad does need to be replaced after a few months but at 1 buck I can’t complain too much. 

 Studio Cream Blush: With its one of a kind consistency (reminds me of fluffy play dough) and great pigmentation, these cream blushes are at the top of their game. I have the color “Vixen” which is a nice berry color. The only setback is their bulky packaging.



Cream Eyeshadow: Here you get a duo of cream eye shadow for a dollar. I have “Butter Pecan” which has a nice coral shade and a bronzey dark brown. They are creamy and if applied over a primer, and lightly, they will not crease. I like to use them under powder shadow but its up to you! I have had mine for over a year and it shows no sign of drying out :)



Studio Conditioning Lip Balm: A tinted lip balm with SPF 15 just screams summer to me. I like these and they feel so smooth on the lips, I have the color “Mellow Melon” which can be described as a milky pink with a hint of coral. I did wish they came in a different form other than the pot, just because for sanitary reasons, but of course elf has answered my prayers! They just released the “Moisturizing Lip Tint with Spf 8” so when I get a chance I plan to try that out.


 Super Glossy Lip Shine: I have been an elf customer for a while and I can’t figure out why I have not tried these sooner! I found some at my local Big Lots and decided to try one and I am in love. They have great pigmentation are not too sticky and last for a while on my lips, lets not forget that they are only a $1! They come in 12 different colors, my current summer favorites are “Candlelight” and “Pink Kiss”. Next time you place and order, try these out.
 




Studio Powder Brush: This guy is my “go to” powder brush everyday. I love it because of its flat top, it lets you pat the powder into your skin without disturbing foundation or concealer. Works great and I wash it regularly and it has never shed. For 3 bucks I love using this brush instead of powder puffs to set my foundation. 

 
Smudge Eye Sponge: The name says it all! Its a smudge sponge with a handle. I use this little guy to soften my eyeliner when its too harsh, he is my best buddy especially for a dollar. :) 




Studio Blushes:  I have like 5 of these! My favorite is "Candid Coral", these are great blushes for such a low cost of 3 bucks. I want to collect them all! They wear well and are nicely pigmented, some more than others to be honest.

You can get all these awesome products at Elf Cosmetics! Sign up to get all the latest sales that elf offers. :)

Do you have any Elf favs? 

Have a GREAT day guys 

<3 Ditto 

Review: Batiste Dry Shampoo in Blush





Price: $5

I picked this up at my Sally’s Beauty Supply and so far have used it 3-4 times. It does come out white so us brunettes might have to do more to blend it in. The scent is weird, I am not really a fan and its crazy since “Blush” is supposed to be the better smelling of the three. Regardless, it works very well, absorbs yuckyness and adds a significant amount of volume and texture. Overall, it is recommended to all :)

What's your favorite dry shampoo?

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Summer Pick: Benefit Silky Finish Lipstick in I Do, I Do, I Do


Pinky coral shimmery color. I know it is not for everyone but I am loving it, it gives a nice bronzey sheen on your lips with a hint of coral that is in for this season. I usually rock this with light bronze eyes and peachy cheeks. It all seems to come together with this on my lips. The formulation is okay, very moisturizing but since it does have glittery particles it can feel a bit gritty. Small price to pay for such a beautiful color! What are you wearing on your lips this summer?

Zoya: The Touch Collection


Check it out! These colors look stunning, I am loving nudes lately so I think I need these in my collection. Are you getting these or one of them if so which one?

Minka : "Zoya Nail Polish in Minka can be best described as: A pale, milky beige nude with yellow undertones and a hint of pearly silver shimmer. An opaque, full-coverage nude, especially flattering on skin with neutral and olive tones"

Shay: "Zoya Nail Polish in Shay can be best described as: A dense, fleshy light peach with slight orange-red undertones and a hint of pearly silver shimmer. An opaque, full-coverage nude that compliments warm skin tones"

Pandora: "Zoya Nail Polish in Pandora can be best described as: A medium pink-beige nude with blue and mauve undertones and a hint of pearly silver shimmer. An opaque, full-coverage nude that works beautifully on skin with cool tones."

Get these at Zoya, for $24 for the minis or $8 each.

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Review: Sigma Sigmax Brushes






Price: $42

Available @ Sigma Beauty

When I first saw this trio of brushes, I was like "Ok new brush fad that will die down" but seriously I am starting to think its not a fad, but these brushes are here to stay. So I bought the trio, although the F80 seems to get the most love for applying liquid foundation, I love them all! They are super soft, none have ever shed and I have washed them multiple times, YAY Sigma.

F80 - Flat Top Kabuki
F82 - Round Top Kabuki
F84 - Angled Top Kabuki



The F82 is awesome for cream blushes/bronzers (like formerly known as Chanel Bronze Universal)

Sunday, May 29, 2011

Essie Nail Polish Summer Collection 2011


Oh dear, excuse me while I stare at the purdy colors. I can't decide which one to get first, if not all of them. Want to see them on some nails? Check out Temptalia


Comment! or even better, follow me :)

Favorite: YouTuber Pixiwoo


I love these ladies, I truly have learned a lot from them, they are brilliant makeup artists. If you don't know who they are you MUST! For those that do, has anyone tried out Sam's Real Technique Brushes? Comment! :)

Update on Suave Dry Shampoo!


I am so disappointed in this product! I used it TWICE and it's empty! Maybe I got a defective bottle but darn, I really liked it and now I don't. :| Has anyone experienced this with any other dry shampoo's? I want my 3 bucks back! lol. Have a great memorial day ladies and gents, don't forget your SPF!

<3 Ditto

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Spring Picks: Revlon Lilac Pastelle Super Lustrous Lip Gloss


Review: I love this color, its perfect for spring/summer but not over the top. Its subtle and pretty, I usually use this with Colorburst Lipstick in Lilac and it tones it down a bit. Next time you are at your local drugstore pick this up! You won't be disappointed.
 

What I Bought Today: Sephora Professionnel Platinum Concealer Airbrush #57


Price: 24 bucks

Get One: Sephora


I originally saw this brush mentioned from LegallyBrunette24 and it looked interesting. I finally picked it up today and came home and tried it out with my Make up forever concealer palette, so far I am loving it. It does leave a nice airbrushed finish when concealing under eyes or other areas. YAY for this purchase. Do you have this brush or use something similar? Share and Follow please!

<3 Ditto

Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Review: Mineral Mate


Price: $9.99 including shipping in the US.

Review: This little buddy is great. Even though I don't primarily use it for mineral makeup, I use it for mixing cream/liquid foundations and foiling eye shadows. I have however used it for some mineral makeup and it was easy and a lot neater and sanitary. If you're a makeup artist, this is a must have. 

Get One NOW: Mineral Mate

Spring/Summer Pick: Model In A Bottle


Price: 14-18 bux

Ok this stuff is a must have for hot, muggy summer days. I use this as a true finishing spray (after Mac Fix+) for long time wear through tough weather. It works well, helps everything stay in place, so you dont't end up melting! Give it a whirl! Check out Overstock.com where I got a deal for 2 for the price of one.

Spring Picks: Mac MSF in Porcelain Pink






I am loving this Mineralized Skinfinish in Porcelain Pink, it is limited edition but easily available on ebay. It gives a golden pink sheen that's subtle but beautiful. I am using this daily this spring with light bronzer in the contours of my cheeks and neutral eyes. Even when I use a pop of color on my eyes I can use this highlight. Check it out!

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Review: Suave Dry Shampoo



Price: couple bucks

First of all let me tell you the scent is pretty interesting, its citrus like and sort of pineappley. It lingered nicely, so make susre that you like he scent because it will stick around for a while. I am pleasantly surprised with this product, it does a good job of absorbing oils and refreshing hair, it also adds a nice bit of volume. I have tried a few other dry shampoo's so far this is a favorite, for like 3 bucks.. give it a try!

PS - For those that freak out because it sprays white stuff onto your hair, it may not be for you. I work it in nicely and it disappears and I have dark brown hair. Just work with it people :)

Thursday, May 12, 2011

Review: mark Face Primer

Price: $10

Where to get: Mark use the code WELCOME for free shipping for first time orders

Review: This is an okay primer, it does leave your face nice and smooth for foundation and it doesn't get oilier during the day which is great. Does it help your foundation stay on longer? Ehh not really, maybe a little but nothing spectacular. Would I recommend it? Sure, helps fill some pores, and helps foundation go on smoothly. Repurchase? Probably not, just because I love trying new things. :D

Review: Kirkland Daily Facial Cleansing Towlettes


Price: $14-20

Where to get: Costco or Amazon

Review: I love these things, they are a good size and work great for taking off all my makeup on a lazy night when I just want to take it off my face and pass out. If you have a Costco nearby or anywhere else that sells Kirkland products these wipes are a great value! Plus they have that awesome plastic lid that clicks into place to keep these little guys nice and fresh, don't forget to store them upside down anyway! <3

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Review: NYX Eye Shadow Base

Retail Price: $7.00 at NYX Cosmetics

Color Selections: Skin Tone (pic above) White, White Pearl

I can only speak for the Skin Tone because its the only one I own. When I first bought this product, I wasn't in love with it, simply because it is a lot darker and very yellow toned than the above pic. So it tended to make my eyelids too yellow, but I continued to use it over and over and when sheered out it works fine. I have had it for a very long time, I am guessing over a year or so and it has not dried out or even look like its close to it. I alternate primers like crazy because of my addiction, hah, but you do get a good amount of product here and it will last you a long time. Now to the most important part of the review, I compared this to Urban Decay Primer Potion, MAC Painterly Paint Pot, Two Faced Shadow Insurance and to be quite honest, they all seemed to work the same, the only difference is price.

Rave Product: Albolene Makeup Remover


I am loving this product, now before you Mineral Oil haters yell at me I read this on Wikepedia that states the following:

"Mineral oil is a common ingredient in baby lotions, cold creams, ointments and cosmetics. It is a lightweight inexpensive oil that is odorless and tasteless. It can be used on eyelashes to prevent brittleness and breaking and, in cold cream, is also used to remove creme make-up and temporary tattoos. One of the common concerns regarding the use of mineral oil is its presence on several lists of comedogenic substances. These lists of comedogenic substances were developed many years ago and are frequently quoted in the dermatological literature.
A study reported in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2005) found that the type of highly refined and purified mineral oil found in cosmetic and skincare products is noncomedogenic (does not clog pores).[7] "


So after reading that, I gave it a whirl and I am loving it. I use this to remove all my eye makeup and occasionally my face makeup. Its ridiculously cheap at $10-12 bucks at your local drugstore and you need the smallest amount to remove any makeup. It doesn't irritate my eyes at all, leaves my eyelashes nicely conditioned and leaves my skin soft. Now this is just a personal preference but I like to wash my face with a regular cleanser if I use it to remove face makeup, but it isn't necessary.  

Check out this review from ginabinawina99 on youtube on Albolene for more info!

 

Review: The Body Shop Chamomile Eye Makeup Remover

This product retails for $14.50 at The Body Shop, and its an okay product. It does remove regular eye shadow and maybe some light mascara. Now if you put on two plus coats of lets say, Loreal Voluminous Carbon Black, this sadly is no match. What I use this for is for "light" eye makeup days. I am currently on a 2nd bottle of it because I got it on sale and got two, but sadly I don't think I will be repurchasing, just because it can't handle hardcore mascara and it occasionally makes my eyes burn but I have super sensitive eyes. However, you do get a nice amount of product for the price, so its your call folks!

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Favorite: Revlon Colorburst Lipstick in Lilac


Ahh yes, another current favorite of mine, this color is perfect for multiple reasons: Its formulation is moisturizing and feels great on lips, this mauve-like with purple undertones is perfect for spring, and the price at $6.99ish is awesome! Next time you're at Ulta, CVS, Rite-Aid, Walgreens or Walmart, Check out this gorgeous wearable color :)

Eve Pearl Salmon Concealer


OMGoodness how much do I love this concealer? Whole bunches. Eve Pearl hit it out of the park with this one when battling bad under eye circles, the "Salmon" undertone of this concealer cancels out those circles beautifully. It is creamy and easy to apply with either a brush or your ring finger, I use my finger.

Price: $35.00 @ evepearl.com

But I bought mine off Hautelook and shes been on there a few times so keep your eye out!

 I heart you eve pearl!

Check Eve Pearl on Youtube:




Foundation Currently Using: MAC Studio Fix Fluid

Ah yes, spring is here and summer is around the corner so right now I switched back to Studio Fix from MAC. Why you ask? It doesn't melt! Weeeee. The last two I was rotating was Neutrogena Healthy Skin or Rimmel Lasting Finish and for some reason these two kept moving around. I am loving this foundation all over again, medium to full coverage, slides on beautifully with my F80 from Sigma and it lasts all day long, even in warm weather! I am NW20, and matches me okay, I am currently a little lighter but am almost the perfect match again. 

Wearable Coral Lip Stick: Revlon Matte in Smoked Peach


Want to jump in the coral trend this spring, but not look insane? Smoked Peach is nice, wearable and won't make you feel like you've been chewing on an orange crayon. Now, granted the color is beautiful, keep in mind that it is the "matte" formula. 
My experience with Revlon Mattes: Well I am the lip balm queen, put it on before makeup, during sometimes and after, and even when I do that I tend to still look whack in these matte formula lip stick. By "whack" I mean, crusty lips, sinking into lines etc. So this is what I do, I put this puppy on my lips and then put a glossy lip balm on top, such as Nivea Kiss Of Shine Natural Glossy Lip Care. Yes I suppose it takes away from the Matte experience but meh, ill get over it. If your lips can handle it, rock on!

Take Care hot stuff

Monday, May 2, 2011

Boo Product: Palladio Herbal Foundation Primer


I "boo" at this product every time I see it, it sucks. Okay, so word has gone around for sometime now that this is supposed to be a dupe for Smashbox primer, erm, well if it is then I BOO both products. Since I have not tried Smashbox primer lets trash this one only. :)

Price: $10-12
Where to get it? Sally Beauty Supply, Ulta, anywhere else Palladio is sold.

Boo Review: So you put it on and the texture is nice, builds like this smooth canvas feeling etc. Cool. It doesn't fill in pores or things like that for me, also after apply foundation I am oily already after about an hour, then maybe 4-5 hours I look greaseballish, not to mention my makeup is fading at a ridiculous rate. :( No likey.

What experiences have you had with this primer?

Favorite: Youtube MakeupbyAlli

Most recent collection and room tour by Alli :)



My current favorite beauty vlogger is MakeupbyAlli, I love this girl, she is very personable and articulate. Super sweet and I love watching her vids, she is beautiful and good at what she does but still manages to be humble. Check her out and tell me what you think :D


Favorite: Evolution Of Smooth Lip Balm


EOS Balm! YAY! Okay I know these are not "new" in the beauty community but I love these little egg shaped suckers, so much so that I collect them, yes im aware I need to find better things to do. But I mean come on, look at it, its the most adorable thing ever, and its lip balm for lazy folks like me, you don't even have to make that silly "applying lip balm" face, you can just smile, well if you want to and apply! teehee!
Anywhoo, Where I have seen these available, Walmart, Rite-Aid, Walgreens and of course Official EOS Website . What flavor is your fav? Mine is Honeysuckle/Honeydew :)

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Sally Hansen Complete Salon Manicure: Cafe Au Lait


Yay! Jackpot! I finally found the perfect nude nail polish! Sally Hansen's Cafe Au Lait truly makes your nails look chic, polished and classy, without looking like a corpse. I love the formula, it is long lasting (lasted 10 days without chipping along with Seche Vite), the brush is bigger than normal so its easier to apply. I would recommend this as an all year round "polished" look. :) Also while searching for a picture I found this article on Glamour on "Perfect Nail Polish Colors For Showing Off A New Engagement Ring" where Cafe Au Lait is featured. Run out to your local drugstore and get this ASAP if you love that classic nude look.

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Missha Perfect Cover BB Cream


Product Claim:
M Perfect Cover BB Cream SPF 42 PA++
Blemish Balm, also called BB Cream, is known to have been formulated as an after-treatment cream to help patients who have gone through laser skin surgery to soothe and regenerate the skin.

The M Perfect Cover BB Cream gives an even and natural-looking coverage with the soothing, moisturising properties of a cream. It is suitable for all skin types including acne-prone skin, and can be used as a makeup base or foundation.

Price n' Stuff: Well if you purchase it from Missha directly you will be spending $29.99 plus shipping. Now I got it from Amazon for $17.50 plus shipping, but limited on color choices.

Mini Review: I am NW20 (Mac) and I own the color Light Beige and it matches me very well. When I first tried it, I was skeptical because it normally looks very grey coming out of the tube, but when it oxidizes it matches beautifully. I like this product because its lighter than regular foundation, it has all those neat extras like SPF, whitening properties etc. It smooths on nice, smells nice and covers light to medium. Now what I don't like about this product is that its very sticky on the skin, it doesn't last very long (on me), it slides around on my face (even if using a primer and of course setting it with powder). Because of the fact that it moves around, I have a feeling that in the summer it will melt, which sucks because I wanted to use this instead of a tinted moisturizer because it has more converage and its not super oily. I still enjoy this product though, I will probably continue trying BB Creams since theres a bunch out there, but as a first one to try I would recommend it if you feel like it might work for you :)

Below I have posted a video from xsparkage trying out this specific BB Cream and first impressions :)

mark Mist Opportunity Multi-tasking Refresher


Product Claims: "If your skin needs a pick-me-up and your makeup needs a touch up then try this alcohol-free, all-around skin revitalizer pumped with grapefruit, kiwi and lemongrass extracts that delivers a burst of antioxidant benefits to purify, rejuvenate and replenish skin.
6.7 fl. oz.
oil-free • non-comedogenic • fragrance-free"

Price n' stuff: $8, which is pretty affordable and I bought it from http://cproveaux.mymarkstore.com/ (use the code WELCOME for free shipping for first time buyers)

Mini Review: I like this product, I usually use it before my moisturizer for days when I wear makeup and even for the days I don't. This actually reminds me a lot of Mac Fix+ Spray. I like that its refreshing and smells pleasant but not over bearing but also doesn't contain artificial frangrance that might irritate. I have even used this over my makeup when im done, it is NOT a setting spray (neither is Mac Fix+). I use it to give a little moisture back to my face after applying powders etc to avoid any "cakey" look. I would recommend it if you'd like a nice alternative to Fixx+. What do you think?

Garnier Refreshing Gel-Cream Moisture Rescue

Product Claims: Locks in moisture for 24 Hours, Blocks out dryness, Oil Free

Sold at most drugstores.

Mini Review: I have combination oily skin, im not acne prone. I have been trying this for over 3 weeks thus far everyday, mostly at night because it does not contain SPF. I originally tried this from a sample in a magazine and thought it was indeed refreshing and made my skin soft, but after purchasing it, I find that it does not "lock in moisture". I feel like it doesn't do much but smell good to be honest, although it does smell good there is a downside to that perk as well. As we most know frangance can be irritating to the skin, so yes after I apply this my skin tends to burn, which is not too refreshing :\ Boo @ this product, I will not be repurchasing :|

What I Bought Today: LA Colors At Dollar Tree

So the other day I was on YouTube as always and a girl I watch named xoxoamandakisses and she is a frequent Dollar Tree shopper, which is awesome because its a REAL dollar store, where everything is really just a buck. (Yes there are fake dollar stores hah)

Well she mentioned LA Colors coming out with these new trios with pretty vibrant springy like colors. Here is the video where she mentions them maybe half way into the video.




I picked up "Shooting Star" which consisted of a trio of a vibrant purple, teal and pink. I of course can't find a picture but as soon as I do I will post it below.


Mini Review: Now for a buck I was excited to try this trio out, so today I put the teal on my lid and worked the purple lightly in my crease with a fluffy Mac 217. I put it over the NYX eyeshadow base in "ESB03" which is a skin tone color. After about hmm, an hour and a half that once vibrant teal is now fading. Not super upset about it but it does kinda suck, but for a buck I cannot complain too much. Have you tried this? If so what do you think?








Introduction :)

Greetings!

I love beauty related items, there. I said it. Haha Now that I have confessed, lets talk about what the point of this blog is. Well I am not entirely sure yet, I like buying makeup, finding deals, watching "gurus" on YouTube and learning about new things. So I figured I would blog about stuff. I am not a makeup artist, I am not any kind of professional, just a regular girl that got into beauty, thanks to the YouTube Beauty community. Anywhoo, chances are, ill rant about more than beauty stuff hehe, but lets find out together! Thanks for Visiting :D