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August Favorites 2015!

September 1, 2015

 

August Main

Happy September 1st everyone!  I can’t believe how fast last month zoomed by, which brings me to share with you things I’ve loved this past August.

Let’s get to it!

Estee Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Lipstick in Potent 

My first Estee Lauder lipstick purchase and the credit goes to Cos from The World of Cos. 🙂  I love a great creamy lipstick and this one is perfect for everyday, a night out-virtually any occasion.  It’s a light pink coral nude that glides on nicely over exfoliated lips and has good pigmentation.  I’m not a fan of the scent, which I’m not sure how to describe, but once you apply it, the smell disappears.  Pairing it with a lip pencil underneath extends its wear time.

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-In-Place Lip Pencil in Nude

It’s been a while since I used a lip liner but I am happy I picked this up along with the lipstick. The shade Nude is a MLBB (my lips but better) and pairs well with a lot of neutral/pink lipsticks I own.  While I don’t agree with the creamy consistency claim, it applies nicely and really extends the wear of lipstick.  A lip brush is included on the opposite side of the pencil which is a nice addition and a magnetic cap.

Tresemme Keratin Smooth Flat Iron Smoothing Spray 

I’m not a fan of Tresemme hair care products but this keratin infused heat protection spray is the exception.  I love using this when I straighten my hair as it facilitates the straightening process and smooths hair without making it feel greasy.  The style holds up very well and this product doesn’t make your hair smell burned when heat is used.

Below are swatches of the lipstick, lip liner and CC Cream.

August Swatches

A picture of me wearing the lipstick and lip pencil plus my hair after using the Tresemme spray.

EL Look

Supergoop Daily Correct CC Cream SPF 35

A sample that came in my August Birchbox, this CC Cream, housed in a convenient squeeze tube, provided good coverage without the heavy feel.  It evens out my redness while allowing skin to look like skin.

Supergoop

In the Unlikely Event by Judy Blume

A book that came in June’s PopSugar Must Have Box, In the Unlikely Event was a great summer read that was based one real life events.  The book is set in Elizabeth, New Jersey in the 1950s and follows a young woman’s memorable journey  in the aftermath of multiple plane crashes in her hometown. I was impressed at how well Judy Blume was able depict the emotions of all the characters who make up and tell the story- her writing manages to convincingly  transport you back to the 1950s and experience the tragedy that occurred, offering multiple view points from different age groups and characters that feel so real.  It made me feel nostalgic for a time period I didn’t even experience. 

What are you favorite August items?

Stephanie

 

 

CATEGORIES // Hair, Makeup, Monthly Favorites, Product Reviews, Product Reviews: Make-Up, Uncategorized

Bobbi Brown Cream Shadow Stick vs NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil!

August 27, 2015

BB NYX

Happy Thursday everyone!

I was excited when I saw Sephora had a mini Bobbi Brown Shadow Stick as part of their rewards system and with my new found appreciation for shadow sticks, I had to pick one up.

Eyeshadow sticks are a convenient item to have as they are quick and easy to apply, streamlining your makeup routine when you’re in a hurry.  You just glide the product on your eyelid and underneath your bottom lash line, with minimal to no blending required.  There’s no worry about powdery fallout and you can store these in your purse for on the go.

As you already know, NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil was included in my Summer Must Have On the Go Beauty and with great reviews, I wanted to see how it compared to the Bobbi Brown ones.  So, let’s get started.

Bobbi Brown Long Wear Cream Shadow Stick in Shadow, $29 (smokey blue grey)

Described as “a long-lasting, waterproof eye shadow that glides on easy like a stroke of genius.” It’s a smokey blue grey color that has a matte texture (i.e. no shimmer)

Pros

Long lasting and won’t crease with a primer

Glides on the eyelid easily

Rich pigmentation

Good variety of shades

Twist up container so you don’t need a sharpener

Cons

Splurge item at $29 each (I have a sample so the actual product is bigger)

It takes a little bit of effort to blend in

Heat mushes up the texture which can affect the application process

Wide rounded tip makes it difficult to apply on the waterline

Overall: I do like this product but I don’t love it.  Although the pigmentation is amazing and it doesn’t crease, I found blending out this product was difficult to do, perhaps because of the matte texture.  You are required to blend this out since it’s a darker color and if you don’t want harsh lines to show.  One thing worth mentioning is that since the weather has been hot, somehow the heat really softened it up and caused a mushy like consistency.  While it still retained its shape, when I applied it, it kind of broke off a little.

NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil in Iced Mocha 

Described as “a radiant eye liner that also doubles as an eye shadow.” It’s a bronzey, gold color that has a little bit of shimmer.

Pros

Budget friendly $4.50

Easy application + formula glides on easy

A wide range of colors

Pencil like tip makes it easy to line the waterline

Cons

Requires a larger sharpener

Does tend to crease after a while even with primer

Takes a few passes to build up the color

Overall: I love everything about the NYX Jumbo Eye Pencil except the wear time.  I get about 5 hours of wear before it starts to crease, about 3 if it is really hot an humid outside.  I then find myself needing to reapply or at least blend in the product so that the crease marks don’t show.  Applying a similar shadow underneath does help with this product staying on longer but it adds an extra step. However, this blends easily and I had no problem using it as a liner, thanks to the pencil like tip- perfect for creating a quick smokey eye look.

Swatches

Have you tried shadow sticks?  Which ones are your favorite?

Stephanie

 

CATEGORIES // Makeup, Product Reviews: Make-Up, Uncategorized

July Favorites!

July 30, 2015

July Faves

Hi everyone!

With July almost behind us, it’s that time again to share my favorite products that I’ve been loving. Let’s hop to it!

YSL Rouge Pur Couture in 23 Corail Poetique 

After trying out a couple of Chanel lipsticks that didn’t work for me, I decided to try the YSL Rouge Pur Coture lipsticks as I’m already a huge fan of their Glossy Stains.  This lipstick does not disappoint.  I was looking for a nice peachy nude color and while most of them are too sheer, this one has just enough opaque coverage to change my lip shade while still looking natural.  The formula glides smoothly and has decent staying power but wears off with drinking and eating.  Overall, a good high end lipstick to try.

Bare Minerals Marvelous Moxie in Speak Your Mind

An oldie but goodie, I’ve found myself reaching for this lipstick a lot this month.  Since I have kept this as a backup lipstick in my purse, I’ll usually be wearing this shade at the end of the day despite starting off my morning wearing a different lipstick. It’s kind of mauve pink that looks great with a lot of looks and it’s one of the very few lipsticks I can wear where I don’t feel the need to apply lipgloss on top.  It’s not a buttery lipstick but it has just enough glide to feel comfortable and a tiny bit of shine.

Swatches J

SkinMedica Age Defense TNS Eye Repair 

I have a few samples of these and have recently rediscovered them.  The fast absorbing and non-greasy texture makes this easy to work with plus the blend of peptides, retinol and vitamin C and E help firm, brighten and smooth the eye area.  I don’t have any lines around my eye area yet but it does tend to get dehydrated and this cream does an excellent job of moisturizing without irritating me and I don’t have to worry about developing milia.

Eminence Strawberry Rhubarb Masque with Hyaluronic Acid 

Lately my skin has been acting weird, sporadically breaking out and feeling dry-I blame the crazy California weather for this.  I keep this in the fridge and apply it to areas that feel tight and need moisture.  Although it’s a dense and creamy yogurt like formula, I don’t have an issue with breaking out and my skin feels moisturized and soothed afterwards.  And yes, this smells faintly of strawberries which is a nice bonus.

Nelson J Beverly Hills Argan Oil 7 Moisture Healing Mask 

A sample I received through Birchbox, I instantly fell in love with this.  Its coconut scent instantly reminds me of summer and is a great choice for summer use.  The instructions even state that it can be used before swimming to protect hair from damage.  It’s not as thick as other hair masks I have tried but that in no way affects its performance-hair instantly feels smoother and hydrated. I have curly hair and this really helps smooth out the frizz factor and makes detangling easy.  I will definitely be purchasing the full size soon!

Aside from these, I’ve already shared a ton of favorites in my Summer Have Series and if you’re new or have missed a few posts, make sure you check out my beauty guide for everything hair, nails, skincare, lip products, eye and face makeup, blushes and travel.

What are your July favorites?

Stephanie

 

 

CATEGORIES // Monthly Favorites, Product Reviews, Product Reviews: Make-Up

July Birchbox Unboxing!

July 13, 2015

Birchbox July

Hi everyone!  Hope your weekend was great.  🙂  Today’s post will be a quick run through of  July’s Birchbox with my first impressions so let’s get to it!

Juara Radiance Enzyme Scrub

This milky white scrub utilizes bamboo, tiny  jojoba beads and apple enzymes to exfoliate.  Compared to the Suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser, this feels more gentle and hydrating.  According to the instructions, this can be used as a mask and left on for 1-3 minutes.  So far I like it.  Haven’t noticed any dramatic effects but it leaves skin smoother. *Note: this has cinnamon, clove and ginger extract so it may be a bit stimulating for sensitive skin.  Always conduct a patch test.

Oribe Apres Beach Wave and Shine Spray 

If you’ve followed my blog for awhile, you’ll know I really love this spray and I was excited this was featured in July’s box.  It’s a smaller sample than the purse size option but is enough to give you a feel for the product.  I love using this product when I use a curling wand to curl my hair as it sets the style, adds texture without a sticky or stiff feel and smells ah-mazing.

Supergoop! Anti-Aging City Sunscreen Serum SPF 30 

Love that a sunscreen was included in this box as it’s essential for skin health.  Like the name implies, this feels like a serum which is so light-weight and absorbs quickly into the skin.  It’s a chemical based sunscreen which you can read about here. Definitely an easy sunscreen to work with underneath makeup as it doesn’t pill.  Best part?  Toss it in your bag to carry with you on the go or if it irritates your skin, try using it as hand sunscreen protection when you’re driving. Yes, our hands and body need protection too!

Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick in Bella 

I call this lipstick my ‘sitting pretty’ lipstick.  You know how you have those high heels that are so beautiful to look at but killer to wear so you use them only when you’re not going to be walking much? Well, the same concept applies to this lipstick.  It is a gorgeous, bright pink color that provides intense (and I mean intense) color in one stroke.  It does stain lips but it tends to move and transfers so if you’re planning on going out to eat while using this or are wearing white, I’d skip this or a least, use caution. Removing it with an oil based makeup remover works best.

theBalm cosmetics Balm Desert Bronzer/Blush 

I was surprised by how tiny this  sample is-a little bigger than my thumb.  You’re still able to pick up enough product with your brush but it takes a bit more effort.  The consistency is creamy and blends nicely but I think this is more bronzer than blush.  You can use this as blush-I love using bronzer as blush- but compared to the Too Faced Pink Leopard Blushing Bronzer, which has a lot more pink undertones, this one is a dusty rose shade that leans more towards tan.  Makes a great pick for summer.

JB Swatches

L-R: Bronzer/Blush and Bella

That’s it for today!

What did you think of this month’s Birchbox? 

Stephanie 

CATEGORIES // Product Reviews, Product Reviews: Make-Up, Subscription Boxes, Sunscreen

Summer Must Have: Lip Colors!

July 9, 2015

SMH Lips

Hello readers and welcome to my second installment of my ‘Summer Must Have’ series in which I share products I think are perfect for summer.  Today, it’s all about my favorite lippies!  From neutral to bright, drugstore to high-end, you’re bound to find something you’ll like.

Bite Beauty Luminous Creme Lipstick in Palomino

Love this magenta hued lipstick as it’s richly pigmented and creamy formula applies smoothly. The color will eventually wear off after a few hours especially after drinking or eating but it’ll leave behind a stain.

Nars Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Cruella 

Part of the Sephora Beauty Insider birthday gift, this crimson red lip pencil soon became one of my favorites.  The pencil tip allows for a smoother and precise application and the matte formula is comfortable to wear.

NYX High Voltage Lipstick in Rags to Riches

Highly pigmented color and budget friendly, this lipstick is a beautiful pink shade that has a creamy application. Not the longest-wearing shade but it does last a solid 4 hours.

Sonia Kashuk Velvet Matte Lip Crayon in Raspberry Nude

A vibrant berry shade, this lip crayon is very similar to the Nars Matte Velvet Pencil for a fraction of the price:  easy to apply and the matte formula ensures lasting color.

Swatch 1

L-R: Palomino, Cruella, Rags to Riches, Raspberry Nude

 

Tarte LipSurgence Lip Tint in Moody 

This dark berry/plum color can be worn sheer or layered for more intensified color .  It comes in a retractable pencil like form which means you never have to worry about sharpening it and can spend those precious seconds having fun.

Too Faced Melted Liquified Long Wear Lipstick in Melted Nude 

Packaged in a squeeze tube, the soft angled tip allows for easy application and the neutral color is a forgiving shade that can be applied on the go.

Urban Decay Super Saturated High Gloss Lip Color in Punch Drunk

If you want to venture out of your comfort zone and are looking for a lovely orange hue, look no further. Rich, creamy and glossy color, all encapsulated in one pencil.

YSL Rouge Pur Couture Vernis A Levres Glossy Stain in Corail Aquatique

The most luxurious of the bunch, this gorgeous coral pink gloss is speckled with subtle gold shimmer and leaves behind a lovely stain.  The unique applicator has a wider base that deposits color on your lips while the pointed edge makes it easy to get a precise application.

Swatch 2

L-R: Moody, Melted Nude, Punch Drunk, Corail Aquatique

That does it for today!

What are your favorite lip products for summer? 

Stephanie 

P.S. In case you missed my first post in the series, click here.

 

CATEGORIES // Product Reviews: Make-Up

June Favorites!

July 2, 2015

June Faves!

Hello readers!  It’s July which means my monthly post on products I loved in June.  I have been trying a lot of products and not all of them made it on here but no worries, they will be making appearances in the next coming posts.  Now, on to the task at hand.

 AmorePacific Natural Protector SPF 30

First off is a sunscreen from the Sephora Sun Safety Kit.  There are quite a few more I need to go through but this pink-tinged sunscreen feels light-weight and silky, absorbs quickly and leaves behind a very subtle glow.  There is a very strong, flowery scent but that dissipates within a few minutes of application and this works well with my foundations and moisturizers, meaning it doesn’t pill (clump up).

Suki Exfoliate Foaming Cleanser 

A product featured in my May Birchbox, this product was something I was both excited and hesitant to try.  I loved the fact it was a skincare item but I’m not usually fond of products containing sugar designed for use on the face as I find them abrasive.  This however was a very unique experience and is different than other sugar based exfoliators I have tried.  I gathered a little bit of the product, mixed it with water and applied it in circular motions.  Immediately, the product began to foam up and the majority of the sugar seemed to melt into the skin while still leaving a few granules to exfoliate. My face felt softer albeit a bit dry but that was resolved as soon as I applied moisturizer.   The Suki skincare website states they use, ” larger, soft sugar crystals (sanding sugar),” which could be why this felt gentler though I did research sanding sugar and I couldn’t find anything on it in its use in skincare besides what’s provided on the website.  Not sure I would recommend this for sensitive skin but normal to oily skin could benefit from it.

Marcelle BB Cream Golden Glow 

I received this in my June Birchbox and wasn’t too excited at first but I ended up using it quite a bit.  I was worried the color would be too dark but it gave me a hint of color without looking orange.  According to the description, this is “gluten-free, perfume-free, and oil-free.”  The formula is light and perfect for everyday use.  I feel this would work well if you don’t have problematic skin but if you’re looking for full coverage, skip this as it functions more like a tinted moisturizer.  Unlike some BB creams this one does not contain SPF but even if it did, I still recommend layering your normal sunscreen underneath.

Marcelle NP

Marcelle Golde Glow BB Cream + Clinique Nude Pop Blush

Clinique Nude Pop Cheek Pop Blush

If you’re in the market for a, ‘I’m not wearing any blush’, blush, this shade is a great one to try, especially if you’re fair skinned.  Although it’s a powder formula, it blends effortlessly into the skin and provides either a sheer wash of color or can be built up for more pigment. Perfect for day and/or night, and complements both a smoky or natural look.  There’s also a great variety of shades so if this one is too light for you, you’re bound to find another that better suits your skin tone or style.

Clinique Chubby Stick Sculpting Contour 

After reading countless articles on contouring sticks, I gave this one a try and am glad I did.  The color appears dark and downright scary at first but after it’s been blended out, you end up with definition that isn’t over-the-top.  Fairly simple to use, you just draw lines wherever you want to contour and then either blend it in with a sponge, your fingers or a brush.  I find that a damp sponge or synthetic brush do the best job at blending though.  This doesn’t take up too much space in your makeup arsenal either, making it easier and perfect for traveling.

June Cheeks

L-R: Clinique Nude Pop + Clinique Chubby Stick Contour

Here’s a picture of me wearing the contour shade on the hollows of my cheekbones.

Contour

e.l.f Moisturizing Lipstick in Pink Minx

Oh e.l.f.  You’re incredibly low prices make me both eager yet skeptical to try products but luckily there’s more to love with this lipstick than the $3 price tag.  The color pay-off is absolutely gorgeous where one swipe garners a creamy opaque coverage and as the name implies, it is moisturizing.  I do find that this sort of clings to dry patches so make sure lips are exfoliated.  The packaging is simple and secure and although it’s not the best, I won’t complain.

Kat Von D Studded Kiss Lipstick in Noble

The lovely Katie from Plus Beauty sent me the Kat Von D Lip Vixon Duo as a birthday gift (thank you Katie!) and I loved the Studded Kiss Lipstick.  Described as a, “matte petal pink nude,” this is a great nude color that feels so creamy when applied.  I do have to top it off with gloss so that the color doesn’t wash me out and exfoliated lips are a must again but I just love the texture.

June Lips

L-R: KVD Studded Kiss in Noble + e.l.f. Moisturizing Lipstick in Pink Minx

What were your favorite products this past month? 

Stephanie 

 

 

CATEGORIES // Monthly Favorites, Product Reviews, Product Reviews: Make-Up

May Favorites!

June 2, 2015

May Faves

Hi everyone!  Just thought to pop in and write a quick post on a few makeup items I really enjoyed in May so let’s get right to it. 🙂

Rimmel Lasting Finish 25H Foundation in 100 Ivory

Confession: I have never owned a drugstore foundation before.  When I started wearing makeup, my go to products were tinted moisturizers from brands like MAC and Merle Norman.  I could never find a good match and often felt frustrated which resulted in me seeking products from stores where I could actually be color matched.  With all the buzz surrounding this product and in need of a new foundation, my trip to Target ended with this in my cart in the shade 100 Ivory which is a near perfect match.  I am very impressed with this foundation.  It’s a full coverage foundation that feels very lightweight, lasts all day and doesn’t look cakey as it has a satin finish.  The only drawback with this one is that it does make me breakout a little and cause a few blackheads but using a primer underneath helps a bit- for this reason this is reserved for special occasions or weekends.

Nars Audacious Lipstick in Jane 

I’m late on jumping on the Nars Audacious bandwagon but better late than never, right? Seeing the countless pictures on Instagram about these lipsticks prompted me to buy one during Sephora’s VIB sale.  After swatching a few recommended shades, I settled on Jane- a terracotta rose- as it was a shade I found to be unique and unlike anything I own.  Aside from the color, I love how pigmented this is.  One swipe and your lips are saturated with color meaning this will last you a long time.  The finish is matte so I prefer to add a bit of lipgloss to add some moisture.

Below is a picture of me wearing the Rimmel foundation and the Nars Jane.

May Faves 2

Colour Pop Super Shock Cheek Highlighters (Pearlized)

After loving the blushes from Colour Pop, I was thrilled when they launched their highlighters and immediately purchased three shades: Highly Waisted, Most Necessary and Teasecake.   Highly Waisted is described as a “soft golden peach with pink and gold duo chrome finishes”; Most Necessary is described as, “soft copper with rosy gold highlights”; and Teasecake is described as “pale pink with a gold and pink duo chrome finish”.  The formula on these is creamy but they don’t have that mousse like texture as the blushes and these also rub off rather easy. Highly Waisted and Most Necessary have noticeable glitter chunks but once you apply them, they disappear or aren’t visible.  I love the overall effect of these since they give you a nice glow and they have a great selection of shades to choose from, so regardless of your skin tone, you’re bound to find a shade you like.

The swatches below are as follows: Highly Waisted, Most Necessary and Teasecake.

CP Highlight

 

Have you tired any of these products?  What are your thoughts?

Stephanie  

CATEGORIES // Makeup, Makeup Looks, Monthly Favorites, Product Reviews: Make-Up

April Faves!

April 30, 2015

AprilFaves

Hi everyone!  Can you believe another month has practically flown by?

With today being the last day of April, here are a few products I have been enjoying this month.

Dermalogica Sebum Clearing Masque

With the weather warming up, I’ve had a few breakouts here and there and this cooling clay masque always helps clear up pimples since it’s formulated with salicylic acid, while kaolin and bentonite mop up excess oil.  I use this mainly on my T-zone or as an overnight spot treatment.

Renee Rouleau Triple Berry Smoothing Peel

A great exfoliating treatment that consists of enzymes and several fruit acids such as mandelic, lactic, salicylic, tartaric and malic for a sweet skin treat that will leave skin soft and glowing.  Smells like and has the consistency of jam complete with berry seeds.  One word of advice: Since the color of this mask is red, if you decide to walk around with other people in the house, let them know so they won’t freak out. 🙂

The Honest Co Lavender Mint Lip Balm

I received a trio of lip balms as part of a gift bag when I attended a film festival and I instantly fell in love with this one.  I get my calming lavender scent fix-yes, I love aromatherapy and this type of lavender is my favorite- as well as moisturized lips that feel light.

Colour Pop Super Shock Cheek Blush in Trickery

Mousse like texture and  long-lasting peach color that’s wallet friendly.  Need I say more? Click here for a complete review.

Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution in Birkin Brown 

My first Charlotte Tilbury purchase. From the gorgeous, sophisticated packaging to the product itself, I can see what all the hype is about.  This matte lipstick feels creamy on application, delivers a chocolate cream opaque coverage in one swipe (but can be sheered out) and stays that way for a few hours.  It’s similar to the new Maybelline Mattes but in my opinion stays a bit more hydrating than those.  Exfoliating your lips prior to use is a must and layering a lip liner underneath helps the wear time.    Below is a picture of me wearing Birkin Brown.

P.S. According to the Charlotte Tilbury website, there is one day left in the U.S. to purchase the Modern Matte lipstick so if you’re interested head on over there to check them out. 🙂

I still have a few new items I received that I haven’t tried out but this is it for this month.

 

Birkin Brown

What are your April faves? 

Stephanie

 

 

CATEGORIES // Makeup, Monthly Favorites, Product Reviews: Make-Up, Skin Care

Colour Pop Blushes + Eyeshadows Review!

April 28, 2015

 

 

Colour Pop

 

Happy Tuesday everyone!  I’m back with some reviews on Colour Pop Cosmetics! If you haven’t heard of them, they’re a company centered in Los Angeles that specializes in “making killer makeup in every shade imaginable at prices everyone can afford.”  They carry lip products, eyeshadows and pigments, blushes and more recently, have added highlighters to their collection.

CP Products

I ordered three blushes and two eyeshadows and it took about a week to receive these goodies.  I must say that the personal note card they include adds a special touch.  A company who thinks I am awesome? It’s about time a company got it right. 😉

Curious to see what I got and my thoughts?  Keep reading!

Blushes 

Between the Sheets– Mid-tone beige pink (matte)

CP Btwn the Sheets

Quarters– Mid-tone dusty coral (satin)

CP Quarters

Trickery– Soft pastel true peach (satin)

CP Trickery

Swatches of the blushes: L-R Between the Sheets, Quarters and Trickery

Blushes

Pros

Price: $8

Great selection of shades for every skin tone

Long-lasting

Excellent color payoff

Mousse/gel like texture that blends easily

Cons

Matte shades blend unevenly

Best applied with fingertips or a synthetic brush

Must be closed tightly to prevent the product from drying out

Overall: I love these blushes a lot and if you follow my Instagram, you’ll see that Trickery is by far my favorite shade followed by Quarters and Between the Sheets.  Using your fingertips is the best method to apply. I found that Between the Sheets applied unevenly with my fingertips but I was able to buff it out later with my Sonia Kashuk Synthetic Buffing Brush No 130.

Eyeshadows 

Get Lucky– Liquid-like true gold (metallic)

CP Get Lucky

Sequin– Copper penny like shade with silver and gold glitter (metallic)

CP Seq

Swatches of the eyeshadows: L-R Get Lucky and Sequin

Eyeshadows

 

Pros

Price: $5

Great shade selection

Excellent color payoff

Cons

Crease without a good primer

Can be a bit difficult to blend with other shadows at times because of the mousse/gel like consistency

Fingers or synthetic brushes provide best results

Must be closed tightly to prevent the product from drying out

Overall: The colors are amazing and the overall effect is gorgeous.  My only complaints are a) you must wear a really good eye primer underneath because they will crease and fade if you don’t and b) I find these hard to blend with other shadows and use them mainly as lid colors.  Perhaps the fact that they are metallic finishes could be a reason why.

Colour Pop Cosmetics is definitely a brand to explore!  Have you tried Colour Pop Cosmetics?  What was your experience and what’s your favorite item?

Have a great day,

Stephanie

 

 

CATEGORIES // Makeup, Product Reviews: Make-Up

Real Techniques Blush Brush Review!

April 9, 2015

 

RT Main

 

Hi readers! It’s almost Friday again.  This week kind of flew by right?

A little over a month ago I asked you guys which blush brush (a bit of a tongue twister there) you recommended and Real Techniques received the majority of votes. So, I went out to purchase it and here are my thoughts.

RT

Described as : “The final step is a perfect finish. Contour and define cheeks for flawlessly blended, high-definition results with this blush brush by Real Techniques; ultra-plush, synthetic taklon bristles are hand-cut and 100% cruelty-free; self-standing for easy storage; extended aluminum handle is light and easy to use.”

Pros

Affordable price $8.99

As of now, it hasn’t shed

Soft bristles

Self-standing

Works for blush, bronzer and powder

Blends most powder formulas easily

Cons

Takes a few passes to build up color

Sometimes matte formulas apply uneven/patchy

Not as travel friendly as my small MAC blush brush

Bottom Line: Aside from the few cons, I absolutely love this brush.  It took me a while to get used to how light and fluffy the brush is compared to the denser bristles from my MAC one but I learned what works best for me.  For bronzer and blush, I have to hold the base of the brush to get a better color concentration and for powder, gripping the top of the brush allows for a light dusting to set makeup. As long as the colors aren’t too matte, I find this brush blends powder formulas easily and doesn’t tug the skin. Storing it is also easy as it is not dependent on a brush holder; it can stand on top of a vanity, table, etc.

Thanks for stopping by and make sure to tune in tomorrow for my weekly skin tip!

Best,

Stephanie

 

 

 

CATEGORIES // Makeup, Product Reviews: Make-Up

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